Information Assurance

1.1. Introduction

Recent advances in computer networks and information technology (IT) and the advent and growth of the Internet have created unprecedented levels of opportunities for the connectivity and interaction of information systems at a global level. This has provided significant new possibilities for advancing knowledge and societal interactions across the spectrum of human endeavors, including fundamental scientific research, education, engineering design and manufacturing, environmental systems, health care, business, entertainment, and government operations. As a result, our society has already become intrinsically dependent on IT. In fact, networked information systems have been recognized as one of the basic critical infrastructures ...