MIS Program Algorithms Chapter 5

Study Notes

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

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

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

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

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 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