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Hands-on Linux Security: Practical Tools and Methods - Merit Network, Inc.


Master the skills of securing Linux-based devices

Merit Network is pleased to present "Hands-on Linux Security: Practical Tools and Methods," a workshop on the essentials of securing Linux-based workstations and servers. The workshop will be offered in Ann Arbor on October 12-14, 2009, beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, October 12.

The workshop, taught over 2-1/2 days, is designed as an intensive, hands-on learning experience in how to assess and secure your Linux platform infrastructure using current open-source tools, techniques, and best practices. The focus will be on studying current attack methodologies, examining your platform for vulnerabilities, presenting recommended solutions and best practices for mitigation, and assessing the effectiveness of the tools and methods used.
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The course is based on ITS101, Theory and Practice of Campus Computer Security, a course offered to computer administrators at the University of Michigan for the past three years. Over 100 administrators were trained in security essentials during this period, providing a core set of security competencies across campus units. Instructor Charles Antonelli developed and coordinated the teaching of ITS101 and is pleased to present its key Linux platform security contents to a broader audience to benefit other organizations.

The course will be taught in a hands-on environment, emphasizing practical application of security principles and tools. It is appropriate for system administrators, advanced users, and others who need expertise in Linux platform security fundamentals and best practices. The course can serve either as a basic primer for novices or as a refresher course for experienced administrators.

Topics to be covered include:
  • Linux Architecture Review
  • Authentication, Authorization & Audit Review
  • Reconnaissance Tool Review
  • File Systems (Linux ext4, NFS/NFSv4)
  • Introduction to SELinux
  • Logging Infrastructures
  • Viruses & Worms
  • Phishing, Pharming, Users & URLs
  • Arbitrary Code Execution: Threats & Countermeasures
  • Application Security (sshd, SSL, IPsec & VPNs)
  • Platform Security (TripWire & Bastille Unix)
  • Introduction to Forensics

Course Prerequisites

Students should possess a working knowledge of Linux or UNIX , internetworking fundamentals, and the command line. Specific detailed topics will be covered in the course.

Laptop Requirement

Students should bring an Intel-based laptop to class to participate in virtualized Live Linux experiments. The laptop may run a Windows or Linux/UNIX operating system and should be brought to class loaded with VMware Player, Server, or Fusion as well as the class virtual laboratory environment. The laptop should support wireless network connectivity.

Dates and times

The workshop will be taught from 1:00-5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 12; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, and 8:00 to noon on Wednesday, October 14. The workshop will conclude with a lab session from 1:00-5:00 p.m. on Wednesday. The Monday afternoon session will cover Linux review and fundamentals; students proficient in these topics may skip the review session and attend beginning on Tuesday morning. The Wednesday afternoon lab session is encouraged for an optimal learning experience.

Location

The workshop will be hosted at Merit's offices at the Michigan Information Technology Center (MITC), 1000 Oakbrook Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Get directions.

Please note that some older map resources and GPS databases may not have correct information for the Oakbrook Drive address; please check directions from other sources against the page linked above. You may park in front or in back of the MITC building, and parking is free.

Course cost and registration

Registration for individuals from Merit Member organizations is $749 per attendee. Attendees from non-profit organizations that are not Merit Members may attend for $799. Others may register for $849. Registration includes continental breakfast, beverages and snacks.

Registration is available now.
Register for Hands-on Linux Security Course
Payment may be made by credit card, check or purchase order. Registration may be canceled up to 5:00 p.m. EST on Friday, September 25, 2009, minus a processing fee of $35. Cancellations are not available after September 25; substitutions are allowed if necessary.

About the instructor

Charles Antonelli, Ph.D. is a research computing specialist, affiliated with Civil and Environmental Engineering and the School of Information at the University of Michigan. Charles created and taught the popular ITS 101 Campus Computer Security training course, and teaches regular courses and graduate seminars in the School of Information and the College of Engineering at U-M. His previous research efforts include the secure packet vault and a secure distributed network testing and performance tool based on Globus and GARA. He received his doctorate in Computer, Information, and Control Engineering from the University of Michigan, and has been a Member of Technical staff at Bell Laboratories.

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