Espionage 101 - Modern Cryptography
Requirements: Laptop Computer will be provided for all lab related work.
Learn the art and science of code breaking, and code making. We will start at the beginning, from the simplest Caesar's Cipher dating back to 50 BC, and work through the most complicated RSA algorithms currently used in electronic commerce over the Internet. The remarkable discipline of Cryptography is a cornerstone of computer and communications security, with end products that are eminently practical. This course will focus on a branch of mathematics that has long been considered esoteric, and brings together fields like number theory and probability theory.
Modern cryptography addresses a wide range of problems. But the most basic problem remains the classical one - ensuring security of communication across an insecure medium. This fascinating course covers varied mathematical topics including probability, prime numbers and factorization, modular arithmetic, modular inverses, fast exponentiation techniques and Euclidean algorithms to encrypt and analyze codes. Finally, you’ll learn to create your own secure Private and Public Keys, using PGP (Pretty Good Privacy).
Instructor: Poonam Gupta
Starting her 6th year at Brunswick this fall, Poonam Gupta teaches Math and AP Computer Science in the Upper School; she has over 20 years of teaching experience. Mrs. Gupta has taught Cryptography at the Center for Talented Youth at Johns Hopkins University (JHU-CTY) for several years.
Technology Boot Camp: This is I.T.
Required: All classes will include hands-on work in a PC/Mac Lab.
Ever wondered how to make your home network hacker-proof, especially from the brainy teen next door? Did you know you could build a hi-speed A/V media server using free software tools and an obsolete PC for pennies? How about designing a ‘killer' web site and hosting it for free? Or, streaming your personal iTunes music collection for instant access from across the room, or across the world!? The Technology Boot Camp does all that - bringing the world of exotic technology to "normal" people. Not just geeks and nerds who understand all that technical jargon. Sure, we'll talk about technical stuff, but in a REAL fashion, from the practical perspective of a real-world user.
The Technology Boot Camp will demonstrate exciting possibilities of how technology can enhance and enrich your life, providing you with information, tools, and advice that help you get the most out of technology. Most of all, you'll learn how to be self-sufficient in the world of technology, and have fun while doing it.
Instructor: Sunil Gupta
Mr. Gupta is Brunswick's Director of Technology and Chair of the Computer Science Department. He brings to the table 20+ years of rich and varied experience in deploying and managing enterprise networks and cutting-edge technology. A true geek, with a vast knowledge of hardware, platforms and technology, Mr. Gupta is Brunswick’s all-round tech guru. If he doesn't know how it works, it probably ain't worth knowing.