My column this week is devoted to one of computer security’s greatest institutions, SANS. Based out of Bethesda, Maryland, SANS (SysAdmin, Audit, Networking and Security) is the largest provider of information security training, certification and research in the world. In efforts to bring their world-class training to as many locations as possible, SANS offers a program called Community SANS. This program allows students in smaller markets like Kelowna the opportunity to take part in one of their renowned courses, normally offered in large cities.

Having SANS bring their training to Kelowna is a wonderful opportunity for anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of computer security. The offering for Kelowna is Security 401: SANS Security Essentials, which is taught in their signature boot camp style, taking place April 21-26, 2008 at the Coast Hotel.  This is SANS first event in the Okanagan with the SANS Security Essentials course taught by Western Canada's own Kenton Smith.

I was lucky enough to attend a SANS course a few years ago. Although I did not take the Security Essentials course, most of my colleagues were in that class. When SANS says boot camp, they mean it. Each and every person I talked to who took this class told me what an incredible learning experience it was. The course I took was also a six-day affair, and I was amazed at how much information they could cram into such a short period of time. Despite the time crunch, the quality of the course materials, the lab work, and especially the instruction, was remarkable. If you are at all interested in learning about computer security, there has never been a better time to get a great start.

I am not at all trying to take away from the strong network security offerings at our local institutions. UBC Okanagan, Okanagan College and the Centre for Arts and Technology in particular all have very good courses in computer security. SANS offering is much different, as it is presented boot camp style. It provides a great jump-start, or even complements one’s knowledge of computer security. I’m always impressed by how many computer security professionals who take the course end up coming out of it not realizing how much more there was to learn.

For complete course description, event details, and to register, you can visit:

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To get more information, the following link, which features the course’s founder Eric Cole, is quite helpful:

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I realize that my column may come across like an advertisement for SANS, but that is not my intention. I have no affiliation with them whatsoever. They truly are a world-class organization, and I have nothing but great things to say about them. I am thrilled that they are bringing their “show” to Kelowna. Yes, the course is expensive, but it’s worth every penny. Anyone who has gone through the SANS experience would agree. Their evening events are always tremendous fun and great lengths are taken to ensure the attendees’ enjoyment. Some even say that the SANS evening events are what keeps them coming back! But their true reputation is based on the training, which can’t be beat.