Hands-on computer security with a Raspberry Pi

Abstract

Computer security is a popular topic in today's world, whether it appears in the form of a newspaper headline or a job posting. The need for students to have hands-on experience with computer security topics and software is paramount. Employers are increasingly interested in hiring students with security knowledge, especially those familiar with popular security software packages and low-level security tools. This paper details the use of a small, portable computer called a Raspberry Pi for instructing real-world computer security concepts via hands-on laboratory assignments. The benefits of using these small computers in lieu of a dedicated computer lab include: decreased expenses, isolated sandbox environments, greater flexibility in designing assignments, and utilizing existing classroom spaces.