Computer Security Fundamentals, Fourth Edition

Good security begins with understanding what you are protecting—and how it can be put at risk. Chuck Easttom’s Computer Security Fundamentals, Fourth Edition builds that foundation, moving from core terminology and network basics to common attacks, defensive technologies, and the principles behind a layered security approach.

Understand the Threats Behind the Headlines

The book examines a broad range of risks, including online fraud, identity theft, cyberstalking, denial-of-service attacks, viruses, spyware, worms, and other malware. Its attention to both attacker techniques and countermeasures helps readers connect the mechanics of an attack with the practical questions of prevention and response.

From Network Basics to Defensive Practice

After establishing the fundamentals of networks and the internet, Easttom turns to encryption, security appliances, VPNs, security policies, and vulnerability scanning. The progression gives newcomers context for evaluating security choices rather than treating tools as isolated solutions.

Explore Less-Discussed Areas of Security

Beyond familiar network defenses, the coverage reaches industrial espionage, cyberterrorism, information warfare, and computer forensics. These topics widen the view from technical safeguards to the broader ways information systems can be targeted, investigated, and protected.

Learn by Checking Your Understanding

Chapter-end review questions, exercises, projects, and skill checks provide opportunities to revisit key ideas as you read. Appendices include additional resources and answers to the multiple-choice questions.

A Foundation for Students and Security-Minded Readers

This fourth edition is suited to readers seeking a structured introduction to computer and network security, including students and professionals who want to strengthen their grasp of foundational concepts. Since it was published in 2019, readers should pair its principles with current sources when evaluating today’s tools and threats.