APUS Richard G. Trefry Archives | Home: Information Technology

Matthew J. Dodaro
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2025
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Mistyjean Brown
Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) has developed into a tool that business owners, leaders, and decision-makers use to optimize profitability, efficiency, and success. The purpose of this thesis research is to determine what tools are available to these decision-maker and if the technological power is beneficial to an organization. The study will show the history of AI, various leadership styles, organizational decision-making techniques, how AI and humans collaborate, and then provide case studies with examples of successful AI-human interaction. This thesis was conducted electronically with both quantitative and qualitative methodology and determined that there are many variables that impact the effectiveness of AI on organizational success and decision-making. Results showed that AI was generally accepted amongst large-scale organizations and adopted to make businesses better. Results also showed that there is a need for further investigation and research into this topic. The reason being, is that AI technology continues to grow at a rapid pace around the globe and literature needs to be updated continuously. Scholars and consumers will benefit from the advancement of AI and continued research on the topic.

Adjimon Kouatonou
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2025
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Mistyjean Brown
Abstract: The study will seek to determine the applicability and effect of Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) in the enhancement of cyber security in modern organizations. Since earlier traditional security models that focused on the perimeter are weak in dealing with emerging threats, the Zero Trust model elevates access while following principles like the principal of least privilege, demanding verification of all actions, and compartmentalization. Therefore, it is fundamental to identify advantages, potential challenges, as well as viable consequences of adopting Zero Trust, following the information from scientific journals, academics database, scholarly articles, government reports, and cases studies. From the analysis of ZTA, it is clear that it reduces the possibility of unauthorized access and lateral movement in a network thus making it more secure for an organization. However, some of the disadvantages include compatibility with other systems, implementation cost, and organizational change considerations. They undertake research to demonstrate the viability of the Zero Trust model as it pertains to cybersecurity threats like cases that illustrate a considerable decrease in the efficiency of threats such as security breaches and insider threats among organizations that practice the use of the model. It also outlines a process of incremental adoption and focuses on the need to address certain issues that could be unique to small firms. Hence, this research contributes to the understanding of the Zero Trust benefits and drawbacks in the cybersecurity sphere and offers insights for organizations willing to strengthen their security stance because of the constant appearance of cyber threats these days.

Jonathan Meade
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2025
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Mistyjean Brown
Abstract: The rapid evolution of technology in modern organizations has introduced unprecedented efficiencies and operational capabilities but simultaneously opened the doors to ever-sophisticated cyber threats and vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities—ranging from software misconfigurations to human factors such as social engineering susceptibility—pose severe risks to organizations’ economic stability, operational integrity, and reputational standing. This literature review critically examines the complex interplay between these vulnerabilities and the diverse range of threats exploiting them, including ransomware, data breaches, and phishing attacks. Furthermore, the study highlights evolving cyber threats such as adversarial artificial intelligence (AI) and the misuse of quantum technologies, reflecting an ongoing arms race between attackers and defenders in the digital landscape. The primary goal of this study is to analyze how cybersecurity threats impact organizations and evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation strategies employed across different industries. Using a multi-faceted approach, this paper synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed academic research, government publications, and industry reports to uncover prevailing trends and gaps in the field of information security. Through detailed case studies—spanning healthcare, financial services, critical infrastructure, and technology sectors—the paper illustrates real-world exploit scenarios, their impacts, and the lessons they provide for improving defense strategies. Key findings reveal that while technological measures such as zero-trust architecture and AI-driven threat detection systems play a vital role, human factors remain a persistent challenge. Employee training, continuous awareness programs, and behavioral change are highlighted as indispensable for combating social engineering tactics. Furthermore, the paper underscores the economic and regulatory repercussions of cybersecurity incidents, emphasizing the need for organizations to adopt a holistic risk management approach that integrates technical solutions and strong governance practices. This review concludes by proposing a comprehensive, interdisciplinary cybersecurity framework that integrates technical defenses, organizational policies, and human-centric strategies to achieve resilience. Recommendations also highlight emerging technologies—such as blockchain for secure transactional systems and the development of post-quantum cryptography—as potential game changers in the future of cybersecurity. By combining current research and actionable insights, the study aims to serve as a foundational resource for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers seeking to fortify information systems against evolving cyber threats.

Larry E. Parrotte Jr.
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2025
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Mistyjean Brown
Abstract: This dissertation investigates methods for the U.S. military to improve its maintenance procedures by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies, specifically emphasizing predictive maintenance (PdM). Maintenance plays an essential role in military activities, significantly influencing asset readiness, operational capability, and cost-effectiveness. Conventional maintenance strategies, although successful in various instances, tend to be resource-heavy and reactive. In contrast, AI-enhanced PdM provides a forward-thinking solution by utilizing data analysis and predictive models to foresee and mitigate failures ahead of time. The study explores the advantages of AI-enabled predictive maintenance (PdM), such as increased operational effectiveness, decreased maintenance expenses, and better asset accessibility. It also examines the technical and operational hurdles associated with adopting these technologies, including data protection, system compatibility, and the requirement for specialized training. The research utilizes case studies, existing literature, and comparative analysis to assess practical implementations of PdM in both the U.S. military and comparable civilian sectors. Results indicate that AI-based predictive maintenance could transform military upkeep by minimizing downtime, enhancing resource distribution, and boosting mission preparedness. Nonetheless, effective execution necessitates addressing considerable challenges, such as data integration and infrastructure constraints. This thesis emphasizes the significant influence of AI-powered maintenance on military readiness and resilience, offering a foundation for forthcoming studies and advancements in this vital field.

Wilda L. Duncan
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS) CONC Enterprise Software Development
Awarded: August 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. James Marion
Abstract: Health and fitness applications are popular in our society today. Many people track health and fitness affects on these apps on a regular basis. This research determines what the popular health and fitness apps are and the prevalent characteristics of health and fitness apps. Further, as part of the research, a survey using an electronically distributed survey instrument was conducted to determine what the favorite features are of health and fitness apps from the perspective of the user. Additionally, user input verified what kinds of improvements or enhancements they would like to see in future developments of health and fitness apps. This research was done electronically using qualitative methodology.

Kenneth L. Bernstein
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Creative Project: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: May 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Novadean Watson-Stone
Abstract: The proliferation of wireless access to privileged networks in the enterprise introduces a potentially large attack surface and a unique set of security concerns. Using wireless technologies, attacks against the network are based on proximity rather than physical access. Currently, the monitoring of an organization’s wireless access points, including security auditing, is performed by IT security professionals in a time-consuming process, if performed at all. This project addresses the need for an efficient system to monitor a campus’ wireless landscape by developing an autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle containing wireless monitoring components. This vehicle will be constructed using commercial off-the-shelf hardware and software, and will be capable of automatically traversing a preset course while monitoring and logging data from all 802.11 wireless access points within range, including malicious access points. Ultimately, this unmanned aerial vehicle was constructed and tested successfully, but sustained damage during testing, placing the project in an out-of-scope condition for both time and financial resources. Therefore, this project can be considered a partial success.

Brian T. Collins
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: November 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Denise D. Eggersman
Abstract: The age of technology and the advent of the systems that support it have expanded the capabilities of numerous organizations throughout the world, however, IT projects continue to fail at an alarming rate. The purpose of this study is to determine why IT projects are failing focusing on three key variables that include project leadership, team dynamics, and the processes and procedures that support the project. This study will analyze all three variables to determine which variable has the most significant impact on IT project failure. Understanding the impact leadership, team dynamics, and the processes and procedures that support the project have on a project’s final outcome is critical to the success of future IT related projects. This study will also incorporate theories, concepts, and case studies from a combination of scholarly, peer reviewed articles and other online sources to ultimately draw a viable conclusion as to why IT projects continue to fail even with the monumental advancements in technology over the last ten years.

James R. Fitzer
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Creative Project: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Novadean Watson-Stone
Abstract: The increased importance of information protection, coupled with rapidly changing security landscape, has led to information security professionals finding it difficult to stay ahead of emerging threats. This problem has been compounded by the increased prevalence of agile software development methodologies, which ensure a rapidly changing system. This project unifies the principles of Agile software development, particularly Scrum, with established security best practices in the form of a technical book for mass-market publication. The book provides a guidance and framework for using the Scrum method to construct an information security program, conduct risk assessments, and implement policies and controls. This is accomplished through a review of existing knowledge on the topics of agile development and information security, and the author’s work to unify the two. Additionally, it provides guidance on leading such a team, and lessons and anecdotes from the author’s experience conducting security management on the Northern Border Integration Demonstration (NBID), an agile project. The book will be published through mainstream retail outlets and presented at conferences and events.

Paul B. Hanton
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Novadean Watson-Stone
Abstract: The technology industry is huge and will only grow as the world’s reliance on technology expands at an ever increasing rate. This ends up generating a large amount of profit along with a large number of jobs that need to be filled by qualified individuals. It is no secret that right now women are vastly underrepresented in the technology industry with no concrete explanation why. Some common theories are that women are not naturally good or interested in technology, the education system is failing young women, or there are not enough role models. This paper seeks another explanation that it is the technology culture and sexism that keeps women out of technology, or subtly forces them out. This study uses qualitative analysis and looks at two case studies which highlight the type of culture in the technology industry that keeps women out. The case studies, and the accompanying figures, show that in the short term, the culture needs to change in before more women will go into the technology industry. At the end of the paper, some recommendations for future research are given along with some recommendations on how to address the issue of the lack of women in technology.

Karen M. Littlewood
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: May 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Miriam Masullo
Abstract: The Department of Defense (DOD) is continuously seeking to find new technologies that further the security posture of its information systems. Often these technologies surround the protection of its network infrastructure and the software that is utilized on the network, but this suggests that the underlying platform is inherently secure. It is possible to find a proprietary OS platform stack that is more secure than the current standard being utilized today. The benefits of a proprietary OS platform stack are numerous: enabling compatibility within DOD branches and agencies in accordance to DOD 8330.01 and 8100.04 Unified Capabilities and on the Joint Information Environment (JIE); a more cost-efficient method of testing, implementation, and maintenance conducted centrally through DISA and the JITC; a standard OS platform utilized on the JIE can be fully compliant with DOD IA requirements; compatibility simplifies the creation of policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on a local level because all local commands can share documents as they are created or updated.

Alex Munoz
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Beverly JN Bowen
Abstract: Credit and debit cards have become the preferred method of payment for many, thanks to their low cost, convenience, and limited liability. As acceptance of these payment methods has become commonplace, criminals likewise increasingly target these accounts to commit fraud. Although various initiatives over the years have aimed at reducing credit card theft by hardening, or implementing additional security features, the overall system of processing these transactions is based on outdated technology. This study examines current technologies, their vulnerabilities, known exploits, and alternatives to existing processes, for the purpose of securing credit card information and transaction processing. Various countermeasures are evaluated in a three level probability impact matrix in order to compare their effectiveness in preventing credit card theft. The researcher concludes that by implementing established technologies and extending the standards currently used for credit card transactions, backward compatibility is ensured, while also allowing the deployment of more secure systems at low cost.

Derrick B. Rumer
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Creative Project: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Novadean Watson-Stone
Abstract: Anonymous networks provide users the opportunity to navigate the internet anonymously by adding additional connections between client and server that mask the users IP address and provide other layers of security that protect user identities while navigating the web. With this technology also come ramifications when criminals use the technology to cover their tracks. This paper will provide insight to digital anonymity as well as review previous research conducted on the subject. The United Stated Government and law enforcement agencies have made great strides in combatting crimes conducted over anonymous networks. The purpose of this study is to determine if the United States Government and law enforcement agencies are adequately prepared to combat crimes conducted over anonymous networks. This research also contains a survey polling willing participants on topics of digital anonymity to include personal experiences and opinions on issues surrounding this topic. The survey will be used to determine if U.S. citizens believe that anonymizing technologies should be federally regulated. It will also determine if the participants feel that regulating such a technology infringes on their constitutional right to privacy.

Ann H. Ziluck
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2012
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Novadean Watson-Stone
Abstract: E-Discovery poses many challenges to legal and information technology teams who must quickly produce information required for litigation. The extraordinary volumes, types, electronic and manual formats, and repositories of data produced by even small organizations must be quickly searched and analyzed as part of the E-Discovery process. Data created and stored in cloud computing, social media and mobile computing environments intensify the typical complexities of e-discovery since traditional advanced search analytics, digital forensics and E-Discovery techniques are more difficult or in some cases impossible with these technologies. Cloud computing and social media environments often prevent extraction of metadata required for defensible production of information. Digital forensics is impossible in some cloud computing environments, preventing experts from obtaining defensible and reproducible data sets. Legal and information technology teams must carefully consider the use of cloud computing and social media environments and ensure their corporate constituents that they are empowered to perform structured, effective, and scientific e-discovery practices for regulatory and legal compliance.

Joshua D. Brandt
Program: Information Technology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS) CONC Digital Forensics
Awarded: August 2014
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Novadean Watson-Stone
Abstract: Biometrics technology has the potential to improve security, protect privacy, and increase accessibility. However, the technology has not been utilized to its full potential. This paper will review existing literature and past studies to highlight existing biometrics, biometrics usage, privacy concerns, and actions that can be taken to mitigate those concerns. The purpose of this literature review is to identify potential uses for biometrics in the United States and steps that can be taken to implement that technology. Additionally, this paper will discuss a study conducted to determine the current attitudes of American citizens towards biometrics. The study was conducted electronically using both quantitative and qualitative methodology and determined that there are several factors that influence acceptance of biometrics by Americans including the security of the information, the age of the participant, and the education level of the individual. The study also determined that Americans are generally accepting of biometrics use, but there are some concerns about the technology, how it is used, and its accuracy.