English

Network Security

Network Security Essentials: Applications and Standards

By William Stallings

About This Book

This book provides a comprehensive overview of network security, focusing on the practical applications and standards that govern secure communication in modern computing environments. It covers key areas including cryptography, message authentication, digital signatures, and network security protocols such as Kerberos, S/MIME, IPsec, and SSL/TLS.
Book Review | Amerbach
Network Security Essentials: Applications and Standards serves as a foundational resource for understanding the mechanisms and protocols that secure modern network communications. This book is structured to guide the reader through the complexities of network security by first establishing the core principles of cryptography and then applying these concepts to real-world standards and applications. The scope of the work is broad, covering essential topics such as symmetric and asymmetric encryption, message authentication, and digital signatures, before transitioning into the practical implementation of security protocols including Kerberos, S/MIME, IPsec, and SSL/TLS. A notable characteristic of this book is its emphasis on the standards that define the field, providing students with a clear view of how theoretical security concepts are translated into industry-recognized protocols. The organization of the material is logical, moving from fundamental concepts to specific application areas, which facilitates a structured learning path. The book utilizes clear explanations and illustrative examples to demystify complex technical standards, making it an accessible entry point for those new to the subject. By focusing on both the 'why' and the 'how' of network security, the book bridges the gap between abstract cryptographic theory and the practical requirements of securing networked systems. The intended audience includes undergraduate students in computer science and related technical disciplines, as well as practitioners who require a concise reference for security standards. From an Amerbach perspective, this book occupies a vital space in the academic curriculum by providing a balanced, standard-focused introduction to the field. It is particularly effective for courses that aim to provide a comprehensive overview of security protocols without becoming overly bogged down in the mathematical intricacies of cryptographic algorithms. By grounding its discussion in established standards, the book ensures that readers gain knowledge that is both relevant and applicable to contemporary professional environments. It remains a reliable and well-regarded text for those seeking to build a solid foundation in the essential applications and standards of network security.

Academic Use

Introductory courses in network security or information security.

Who Is It For?

Students pursuing degrees in computer science, computer engineering, or information technology, as well as professionals seeking a foundational understanding of security standards.

Table of Contents

  1. 1. Introduction
  2. 2. Symmetric Ciphers and Message Authentication
  3. 3. Public-Key Cryptography and Message Authentication
  4. 4. Internet Security Protocols and Standards
  5. 5. Internet Authentication Applications
  6. 6. Wireless Network Security
  7. 7. Linux Security
  8. 8. Cloud Security and IoT Security
  9. 9. IT Security Management and Risk Assessment
  10. 10. IT Security Controls, Plans, and Procedures
  11. 11. Legal and Ethical Issues.