The course provides an in-depth study of cryptographic techniques and their role in practical computer systems and applications. It covers the algorithms for symmetric and asymmetric encryption, hash functions, and pseudo random number generation; and the protocols to achieve practical security objectives such as confidentiality, authentication, data integrity, non-repudiation. Associated protocols such as key distribution and public key infrastructure systems will also be dealt with.

For a student to pass the course, at least 30% of the maximum mark for the examination must be obtained.