Catalog Description: Introduction to computer security. Cryptography, including encryption, authentication, hash functions, cryptographic protocols, and applications. Operating system security, access control. Network security, firewalls, viruses, and worms. Software security, defensive programming, and language-based security. Case studies from real-world systems.

Units: 4

Related Areas:

• Security (SEC)

Prerequisites: COMPSCI 61B, COMPSCI 61C, and COMPSCI 70.

Formats:
Summer: 6.0-6.0 hours of lecture and 2.0-3.0 hours of discussion per week
Spring: 3.0-3.0 hours of lecture and 1.0-1.5 hours of discussion per week
Fall: 3.0-3.0 hours of lecture and 1.0-1.5 hours of discussion per week

Grading Basis: letter

Final Exam Status: Written final exam conducted during the scheduled final exam period

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Class Schedule (Spring 2025):
CS 161 – MoWeFr 15:00-15:59, Dwinelle 155 – Peyrin Kao

Class Notes
* Time conflicts ARE allowed

* Lecture WILL be recorded for playback later

* One in-person alternate final exam will be offered immediately after the regular final exam time.

Questions? Email: cs161-staff@berkeley.edu

Class Schedule (Fall 2025):
CS 161 – Mo 14:00-16:59, North Gate 105 – David Wagner

Class Notes
* Time conflicts ARE allowed but no alternate final exam will be offered.

* Lecture will be recorded for playback later.

* Questions? email: cs161-staff@berkeley.edu

Class homepage on inst.eecs

Links:

• CS enrollment policies
• EE enrollment policies
• HKN course maps