Computer imaging definition
In terms of cybersecurity, computer imaging can be explained as creating and storing complete backups or various snapshots of a computer's hard drive. These snapshots include the operating system, settings, data, and installed software. The advantage of computer imaging is that these images are used to restore the computer to its original state or even clone setup for further use on other machines and computers.
See also: Backup as a Service
Common computer imaging applications in cybersecurity:
- Consistent environment deployment: A consistent and secure network environment across multiple devices and device systems is crucial in large organizations. Due to that, organizations use computer images to have standardized setups with predetermined security software for various applications and crisis management.
- Rapid system recovery: If a cyberattack occurs, resulting in an organization's system compromisation, computer imaging allows administrators to initiate a quick system recovery and restore machines to a pre-compromised state without hard manual work and the need to reconfigure everything using more human resources.
- Forensic analysis: Computer imaging lets cybersecurity professionals analyze the image of the affected system during a cyber attack or other security incident. This advantage enables professionals to better grasp the attack, identify compromised units, implement an effective restoration plan, and set up more robust systems for the future.
