Computer network security: Then and now

Abstract

In 1986, this author presented a paper at a conference, giving a sampling of computer and network security issues, and the tools of the day to address them. The purpose of this current paper is to revisit the topic of computer and network security, and see what changes, especially in types of attacks, have been brought about in 30 years. This paper starts by presenting a review of the state of computer and network security in 1986, along with how certain facets of it have changed. Next, it talks about today's security environment, and finally discusses some of today's many computer and network attack methods that are new or greatly updated since 1986. Many references for further study are provided. The classes of attacks that are known today are the same as the ones known in 1986, but many new methods of implementing the attacks have been enabled by new technologies and the increased pervasiveness of computers and networks in today's society. The threats and specific types of attacks faced by the computer community 30 years ago have not gone away. New threat methods and attack vectors have opened due to advancing technology, supplementing and enhancing, rather than replacing the long-standing threat methods.