MIS Program Algorithms Chapter 5

Chapter 5: The MIS Program Algorithms

Introduction to MIS Program Algorithms

• MIS programs can be developed from scratch to fulfill specific requirements
• Algorithms are essential for developing optimal MIS programs
• Avoiding immediate coding and using algorithms helps to avoid errors and increase program efficiency

Importance of Program Algorithms

• Algorithms serve as a solution to the "Rush to Code" problem
• They provide a blueprint for writing code, enabling developers to implement solutions in diverse programming languages and environments
• Effective program algorithms are clear, concise, and efficient, leading to better code readability, maintainability, and performance
• Algorithms help programmers in:
  • Clarity and readability
  • Algorithm design
  • Portability and flexibility

Creating Program Algorithms

• Steps to create program algorithms:
  1. Understand the problem
  2. Break down the problem into smaller, manageable sub-problems
  3. Design the algorithm
  4. Choose an algorithmic approach (Pseudocode or Flowchart)
• Pseudocode:
  • A simplified, informal language that describes the coding process
  • Uses a simple way to understand and implement
  • Includes the structure and sequential steps for the coding
• Flowchart:
  • Graphical representation of algorithms or processes
  • Uses symbols and connectors to illustrate the flow of control within a program
  • Provides a visual roadmap for understanding the logical sequence of operations

Chapter 6: The Cybersecurity of MIS Programs

Introduction to Cybersecurity

• Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital threats and attacks
• Cybersecurity attacks have various types, including:
  • Malware
  • Phishing
  • Ransomware
  • Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks
  • Denial of Service (DoS) attacks
  • SQL injection
  • Zero-Day exploits

Cybersecurity Strategies

• Strategies for having MIS with a high level of cybersecurity:
  1. Risk assessment
  2. Security policies
  3. Encryption
  4. Regular updates and patch management
  5. Monitoring and detection
• Security policies:
  • Creating strong passwords
  • Using up-to-date antiviruses
  • Using firewalls
• Creating strong passwords:
  • Length: at least 8 characters
  • Complexity: mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
  • Unpredictability: avoid easily guessable information
• Using up-to-date antiviruses:
  • Essential to protect against a wide range of cyber threats
  • Examples of antivirus software: Norton Antivirus, McAfee Total Protection, Kaspersky Anti-Virus, Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, Windows Defender
• Using firewalls:
  • Act as strong antivirus for individual PCs, servers, and computer networks
  • Have two types: software firewalls and hardware firewalls
  • Examples of software firewalls: Windows Defender Firewall, Zone Alarm, Norton Personal Firewall
  • Examples of hardware firewalls: Cisco ASA, Fortinet FortiGate, Palo Alto Networks

Encryption

• Encryption is a method of converting plaintext into ciphertext to ensure confidentiality, secure communication, and data protection
• Encryption involves two main processes: encryption (ciphering) and decryption (deciphering)
• There are two primary types of encryptions:
  • Symmetric encryption: uses the same key for both encryption and decryption
  • Asymmetric encryption: uses a pair of keys—one public key for encryption and one private key for decryption
• Examples of symmetric encryption algorithms: Substitution method, Transposition method
• Examples of asymmetric encryption algorithms: RSA method, Diffie-Hellman method

This chapter focuses on developing Management Information Systems (MIS) programs from scratch using a programming language. It covers professional methods for constructing MIS programs to meet specific requirements.