Teaching Objectives of a Simulation Game for Computer Security

This paper describes a computer simulation game being developed to teach computer security principles. The player of the game constructs computer networks and makes choices affecting the ability of these networks and the game’s virtual users to protect valuable assets from attack by both vandals and well-motivated professionals. The game introduces the player to the need for well formed information security policies, allowing the player to deploy a variety of means to enforce security policies, including authentication, audit and access controls. The game will depict a number of vulnerabilities ranging from trivial passwords to trap doors planted by highly skilled, well-funded adversaries.