In this course students learn the key concepts of embedded systems hardware design. Gaining an inside look at some of the most common embedded systems and the functional blocks within those systems, students in this course examine hardware components and their interfaces as well as important design considerations. They learn embedded systems design considerations and several approaches to system building common in the industry. Other key concepts in embedded hardware design include memories used in embedded systems and their interfaces, basic concepts in microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSP), and the typical buses used at the system level.After completing the course, you will see how the key concepts in embedded hardware design fit together, including the interaction of these hardware components as well as important design considerations.

In this course students explore hardware hacking on embedded devices. Different types of embedded systems are analyzed: revealing the designs, components, security limits, and reverse-engineering challenges required to execute a hardware attack. Next the class explores hardware interfaces, ports and communication protocols, electrical signaling, tips for analyzing firmware images, and more. In the labs the student takes the role of the hacker, performing fault-injection, side-channel (SCA), and simple and differential power analysis (SPA/DPA) attacks on real devices.

In this course, students learn to deploy cryptographic tools to secure their applications and services. Students will create secure communications in public channels using public-key cryptography. They will also explore methods of authenticating messages to ensure that they haven’t been tampered with in transit. And lastly, they will learn how to use digital signatures and zero-knowledge proofs to let others verify the messages sent through your services.