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The Open University

Information security

The Open University via OpenLearn

Overview

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Information security underpins the commercial viability and profitability of enterprises of all sizes and the effectiveness of public sector organisations. This free course begins by explaining why information security and its management are important for any modern organisation and to every individual. You need to be familiar with an organisation, such as your employer, to study this course.

Syllabus

  • Introduction
  • Learning outcomes
  • 1 Information: the heart of everything with value
  • 1 Information: the heart of everything with value
  • 1.1 Social networks
  • 1.2 What is information?
  • 2 Information security
  • 2 Information security
  • 2.1 Other things to think about
  • 3 Tracking the leading edge
  • 3 Tracking the leading edge
  • 3.1 Which podcasts and blogs?
  • 4 Conclusion
  • 4 Conclusion
  • References
  • Acknowledgements

Reviews

4.8 rating, based on 18 Class Central reviews

4.6 rating at OpenLearn based on 88 ratings

Start your review of Information security

  • The Information Security course by The Open University offers a clear, practical introduction to one of the most important topics in the digital world. The materials are well-organized and easy to follow, even for beginners. I appreciated how the course explains key concepts like confidentiality, integrity, and availability with real-life examples. It also highlights current cybersecurity challenges and the importance of personal responsibility in protecting information. Overall, it’s an excellent free course for anyone interested in understanding the foundations of information security.
  • The Information Security course was an excellent learning experience that provided me with a strong foundation in protecting digital assets and understanding cybersecurity principles. The course content was well-structured and covered essential topics,
  • "Exceptional course! Comprehensive content, engaging delivery. Enhanced my skills significantly. Grateful for the valuable insights and practical knowledge gained. Highly recommend to anyone seeking professional growth."
  • Profile image for Mikhail Argel Tandog
    Mikhail Argel Tandog
    2
    Overall, taking information security at The Open University via OpenLearn is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in the field. It provides high-quality, flexible, and free access to foundational knowledge. While it lacks the formal qualification and direct support of a paid degree, it's an invaluable resource for self-learners, career changers, or those looking to expand their general knowledge of cybersecurity. If you're disciplined and motivated, OpenLearn can be a powerful tool for building your understanding of information security.
  • Anonymous
    Given that information security is critical in organisations, this course assumes that you
    have an organisation that you can study. This could, for instance, be your employer, a
    professional body, a local shop, a library or even your doctors’ surgery.
  • Profile image for Thabo Galeboe
    Thabo Galeboe
    It has opened my mind on the values of the information and on its security and confidentiality.
    Information is not to be left in the open where it can be easy accessible by everyone, it has to be fairly secured at all times.
  • Profile image for Nitheesha Reddyboina
    Nitheesha Reddyboina
    The content is clear, well-structured, and easy to follow. Concepts are explained step by step with practical examples, which really helps with understanding and retention. The pace feels right for learners, and the material is relevant and useful. Overall, it’s a solid course that delivers what it promises and is definitely worth taking 👍
  • Profile image for George
    George
    Essential for all tech professionals. Transforms basics into actionable defense skills. Covers threats, encryption, CIA triad—no fluff, pure value. Strong recommend!
  • Profile image for Domingos João Pego
    Domingos João Pego
    2
    Super Bom,

    recomendo.

    Sub temas actuais e praticos com a realidade actual.
    Bastante eficaz, muito directo na sua explanacao.
  • Alven Luague
    The Information Security course from The Open University via OpenLearn provides a clear and practical introduction to key security concepts. It explains fundamental principles such as confidentiality, integrity, and availability, while also addressing real-world issues like phishing, malware, and password protection. The material is well-structured, accessible to beginners, and encourages learners to think critically about risks in digital environments. Case examples and interactive elements make the lessons engaging, while the emphasis on personal and organizational responsibility adds depth. Overall, it is an excellent free resource for anyone looking to strengthen their understanding of cybersecurity essentials.
  • Giacomo Terranova
    ottimo corso argomenti interessanti e spiegati in modo facile. strutturato in modo comprensibile ed intuitivo.
  • Profile image for JUSAH PETRO
    JUSAH PETRO

    I completed the OpenLearn course on information security and found it informative and engaging. The course covered key topics like threat analysis, cryptography, and security protocols. Interactive quizzes and real-world examples enhanced the learning experience. I appreciated the broad scope, but some topics could be explored further. I learned about common security threats and mitigation strategies, which has been valuable professionally. I'd recommend this course to anyone seeking a foundational understanding of information security.

  • Anonymous
    The Open University's OpenLearn online training certificate on Information Security provides a valuable opportunity to enhance your knowledge and understanding in this crucial field. The course offers accessible and comprehensive content, covering k…
  • Mark Macapagal
    I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the information security course. Today, I feel more confident and equipped with the skills and knowledge I gained from this course. The course was really helpful, and I have learned a lot from the engaging lessons, interactive activities, and valuable resources provided.
  • Gana Latoui
    TOP! Intéressant d'apprendre avec vous, mille merci à toute votre équipe. C'est un cours important et on a beaucoup appris sur ce thème, merci encore.
    Gana Latoui
  • Profile image for Sepideh Zarei
    Sepideh Zarei
    Simply and clearly, it explained the three essential factors of Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability in maintaining information security and utilizing them for achieving higher value, without wasting much time. Excellent!
  • Anonymous
    learning about information security has made it more clear for me to understand the basics of why organisations hold the sharing of information very very dear to their hearts.
    The world is ruled by information and what is said about something in an organisation can be the failure or success of that organisation.
    with information making the world spin, it is important to be very vigilant on the type of information that is shared into the world.
  • Laís Cabral Betini
    Curso muito bom, superou minhas expectativas.
    Agregou muito conhecimento com informações importantes

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