What is cybersecurity?

Network security focuses on defending an organization’s network infrastructure from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and disruptions. Network security measures include firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), virtual private networks (VPNs), and network segmentation to isolate and protect sections of a network.

Application security (AppSec) involves protecting software applications and APIs from threats throughout their development and use. Different types of application security include various techniques such as secure coding practices, regular penetration testing, the use of web application firewalls (WAFs), and prompt software patching/updating to fix vulnerabilities.

Cloud security focuses on protecting data, applications, and infrastructure in cloud environments – whether public, private, or hybrid. Key cloud security solutions include tools like cloud access security brokers (CASBs) that enforce security policies between cloud users and providers, Cloud Workload Protection Platforms (CWPPs) that safeguard workloads running in the cloud, and strong identity and access management (IAM) controls for cloud services.

While closely related to cybersecurity (see the differences between information security and cybersecurity), information security (InfoSec) is concerned with protecting information – both digital and physical – from unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction. Common InfoSec measures include data encryption, strict access controls, and data classification and handling policies to ensure sensitive information is stored and managed safely.

Endpoint security focuses on securing end-user devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets that serve as entry points to a network. If an endpoint is compromised by malware, it can put the entire network at risk. Endpoint security means the use of anti-malware and anti-virus software, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools, and mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies on smartphones and other mobile devices.

Critical infrastructure security involves protecting the systems that are vital to society, such as power grids, water supply systems, transportation networks, and telecommunications. Often referred to as operational technology (OT) security, this area focuses on industrial control systems (ICS) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. Measures include securing these control systems against cyber sabotage and fostering government-private sector collaboration to guard key assets.

IoT security focuses on safeguarding the growing network of “smart” devices connected to the internet – everything from smart home gadgets and wearables to industrial sensors. These devices often have less built-in protection, making them potential weak links. Important IoT security practices include keeping device firmware updated (to patch vulnerabilities), using device authentication to prevent unauthorized access, and network isolation for IoT devices.

AI security is an emerging branch of cybersecurity dedicated to protecting artificial intelligence and machine learning systems from attacks or misuse. As AI becomes more integral in decision-making systems, ensuring its security is critical. For instance, adversaries might try to feed malicious inputs to trick an AI (requiring adversarial training to defend against such attacks) or steal sensitive training data (mitigated by techniques like differential privacy). Artificial intelligence in cybersecurity is a newer, niche area, but it’s growing as AI is increasingly integrated into both cyber defenses and cyberattacks.