This chapter introduces fundamental mechanisms for controlling a computer’s operation, and it further develops the process of solving security problems. The chapter focuses on the following topics:

• ■   Overview of the general strategies for controlling access

• ■   Buffer overflow: a well-known technique for subverting computer software

• ■   Introduction to attack scenarios and case studies

• ■   Mechanisms typically used to control access within a computer

• ■   Security planning: describing the protections needed and how to implement them