Cyber security is the practice of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks. It is also known as information technology security or electronic information security.
The scope of cybersecurity covers diverse domains, including business environments and mobile computing. Its main goal is to ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of critical information and systems, protecting them from potential threats.
Types of Cyber Security
Cybersecurity can be broadly categorized into various types, each focused on addressing specific aspects of protecting digital systems and information. Some of the main types of cybersecurity are:
Network Security
The majority of cyber attacks take place over computer networks, and to counter these threats, network security solutions are specifically developed to detect and thwart such attacks. These solutions encompass various data and access controls, such as Data Loss Prevention (DLP), Identity Access Management (IAM), Network Access Control (NAC), and Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) application controls, which work together to enforce secure web usage policies.
In addition to these fundamental measures, advanced and multi-layered network threat prevention technologies play a vital role. These technologies include Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV), Sandboxing, and Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR). Their collective function is to bolster the security defenses by identifying and neutralizing sophisticated threats that may attempt to breach the network.
To enhance network security further, the deployment of network analytics, threat hunting, and automated Security Orchestration and Response (SOAR) technologies is essential. These tools provide real-time insights, proactive threat detection, and automated responses to streamline incident handling and strengthen the overall network security posture.
Endpoint Security
The zero-trust security model advocates establishing micro-segments around data, regardless of its location. To achieve this in a mobile workforce scenario, endpoint security comes into play. By implementing endpoint security, organizations can effectively protect end-user devices like desktops and laptops.
This is accomplished through a combination of data and network security controls, advanced threat prevention mechanisms like anti-phishing and anti-ransomware, and the incorporation of technologies like endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, which enable effective forensics. This holistic approach ensures a higher level of security for data and devices in a mobile working environment.
Application Security
Web applications, like any other system directly connected to the Internet, are susceptible to attacks from threat actors. OWASP has been monitoring the top 10 threats to critical web application security since 2007, which include vulnerabilities like injection flaws, broken authentication, misconfiguration, and cross-site scripting, among others.
By implementing application security measures, organizations can effectively mitigate the OWASP Top 10 attacks. Application security also serves as a defense against bot attacks and halts any malicious interactions with applications and APIs.
Through continuous learning and adaptation, web applications remain protected even as DevOps releases new content.
Cloud Security
As cloud computing gains widespread adoption among organizations, ensuring cloud security becomes a top-level concern. Developing a comprehensive cloud security strategy involves implementing a range of cyber security solutions, controls, policies, and services. These measures are designed to safeguard an organization’s entire cloud deployment, including applications, data, and infrastructure, from potential cyber-attacks.
Despite the security offerings provided by cloud providers, they may not always be sufficient to meet the high standards required for enterprise-grade security in the cloud. As a result, additional third-party solutions become indispensable in fortifying cloud environments against data breaches and targeted attacks.
Augmenting the existing security measures with these supplementary tools helps to create a robust and resilient defense posture in the cloud.
Internet of Things (IoT) Security
The utilization of Internet of Things (IoT) devices undoubtedly enhances productivity, but it also opens up organizations to novel cyber threats. Malicious actors actively target vulnerable devices inadvertently connected to the Internet, exploiting them as entry points into corporate networks or adding them to vast bot networks.
To safeguard against these risks, IoT security provides essential protection for such devices through discovery and classification of connected devices. It also implements auto-segmentation to regulate network activities and utilizes Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) as a virtual patch to thwart exploits targeting vulnerable IoT devices.
Additionally, in certain cases, the firmware of the devices can be augmented with small agents to proactively prevent exploits and runtime attacks. This multi-layered approach ensures enhanced security for IoT deployments and reduces the potential for unauthorized access and malicious activities.
Critical Infrastructure Security
Critical infrastructure security refers to the protection of systems and networks that are vital for the proper functioning of a society or economy. These critical systems encompass sectors like energy, water, transportation, communications, and finance.
The significance of Critical Infrastructure Security lies in preventing any compromise to these systems, as such disruptions can lead to chaos and widespread disruption.
Numerous cybersecurity threats target critical infrastructure, and among the most common are malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks. Robust cybersecurity defenses are essential to counter these threats effectively.
Implementing measures like firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems plays a critical role in bolstering the security posture and safeguarding these essential infrastructures from potential breaches and attacks.
Cybersecurity Vendors and Tools
In cyber security, vendors offer a diverse array of security products and services. Some common security tools and systems include:
- Identity and Access Management (IAM)
- Firewalls
- Endpoint Protection
- Antimalware/Antivirus
- Intrusion Prevention/Detection Systems (IPS/IDS)
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
- Endpoint Detection and Response
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
- Encryption Tools
- Vulnerability Scanners
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
- Cloud Workload Protection Platform (CWPP)
- Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
Well-known cybersecurity vendors consist a wide range of industry leaders, including Check Point, Cisco, Code42, CrowdStrike, FireEye, Fortinet, IBM, Imperva, KnowBe4, McAfee, Microsoft, Palo Alto Networks, Rapid7, Splunk, Symantec by Broadcom, Trend Micro, and Trustwave. These vendors provide essential tools and solutions to bolster organizations’ defenses against cyber threats and protect their valuable assets and data.