The term cybersecurity is frequently used, but what does it actually mean? Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting your computer networks and user data from unauthorized access or theft. There are many different types of cybersecurity, and each one is important to understand. Critical infrastructure security is a term used to describe the security of systems and networks that are essential to the functioning of a society or economy. These include energy, water, transportation, communications, and finance. Critical Infrastructure Security is important because if these systems are compromised, it can lead to chaos and disruption.Critical infrastructure security.
There are many different types of cybersecurity threats that target critical infrastructure. Some of the most common threats include malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks. To protect against these threats, it is important to have strong cybersecurity defenses in place. This includes things like firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems.
In Early September 2022, the Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency released its 2023–2025 CISA Strategic Plan, the first comprehensive strategy since the agency was established in 2018. The Strategic Plan is set against a risk landscape encompassing an increasingly interconnected, global cyberspace in which the United States faces 24/7/365 asymmetric cyber threats with large-scale, real-world impacts.
The plan outlines how organizations can focus their cybersecurity efforts in four key areas: the defense and resilience of cyberspace, critical infrastructure, information sharing, and the workforce. This unique strategy shows how important critical infrastructure cybersecurity is, especially with today’s uncertain geopolitical landscape.
Application security.
Application security, or APPSEC, involves using software, hardware, techniques, best practices, and procedures to protect computer applications from external security threats. APPSEC depends on security controls, which are defined by the National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST) as "a safeguard or countermeasure prescribed for an information system or an organization designed to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of its information and to meet a set of defined security requirements."
More than just a set of best practices, APPSEC involves a complete shift in mindset regarding application development. Application security testing tools are the primary way to apply application security in the development process. Many security concerns in the application need attention, such as authentication, authorization, availability, confidentiality, integrity, and more. Each application security tool has its specialty.
Today, application security involves safeguarding automation technologies, a focus on all applications and their flaws, and elevating this type of security consideration to the highest level of cybersecurity strategy development. There is more to lose when it comes to APPSEC than ever before, but with a high-grade application security strategy, together with a trusted team of cybersecurity professionals, your organization can stay ahead of the APPSEC threat curve.
Network security.
There are many types of network security, but the three most common are firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and antivirus software. Firewalls are designed to stop unauthorized access to your network. They inspect all traffic coming in and out of your network and block anything that doesn't meet specific criteria. Intrusion detection systems are designed to detect unauthorized activity on your network. They work by monitoring all traffic on your network for patterns that indicate an attack is taking place. Antivirus software is designed to protect your computers from malware and other viruses. It works by scanning all files coming into or leaving your computer for signs of infection.
Some best practices to consider when dealing with network security include conducting frequent network audits to check security controls, revisiting and communicating security policies, backing up data, and encrypting data. You will also want to update all network antimalware software regularly and be sure to set appropriate access controls, including multifactor authentication when available as you implement your network cybersecurity strategy.
Cloud security.
Another aspect of cybersecurity is ensuring that data and networks are secure in the cloud. While critical infrastructure and network safeguards may be in place, when networks migrate to the cloud, there is another risk to consider.
Because most businesses are moving to the cloud, it has become a prime target for hackers who want to steal sensitive information. Businesses need to be aware of the different types of cloud security and take the necessary precautions to protect their data.
Cloud security is the process of protecting data, applications, or services that are housed on cloud platforms. There are three main types of cloud security: physical security, logical security, and operational security. Each type of cloud security is important to protect your data and applications. Let's take a closer look at each type of cloud security.
There are three types of cloud security: software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and infrastructure as a service (IaaS). In each case, the provider manages security for the entire cloud platform. Customers can still implement their own security measures, but the responsibility for protecting the cloud environment falls to the provider.
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Internet of Things (IoT) security.
The term "Internet of Things" (IoT) describes a network of physical objects or devices connected to the internet. These devices include home appliances, cars, and even medical implants.
While the IoT offers many benefits, it also poses a number of security risks. For example, if a hacker could gain access to your home's IoT devices, they could steal your personal information or even disable your appliances.
To protect yourself from these risks, it is important to take steps to secure your IoT devices. This includes using strong passwords, regularly updating your devices' software, and being careful about which apps to install. You should also be aware of the potential risks posed by "smart" devices such as TVs and home assistants. These devices are often connected to the internet and can be exploited by hackers if not properly secured.
Compuquip has been helping organizations safeguard their networks from cyber attacks since 1980. We are here to help answer any questions about safeguarding your organization from all types of cyber attacks. We are here to help educate and equip businesses of any size and industry to manage cybersecurity risks efficiently
Contact us to set up a consultation and ensure your organization’s cybersecurity strategy is ready for the new year!
