Cyber security protects digital infrastructure, prevents data breaches and restores electronic systems and services in the event of a cyber threat or attack. With cyber attacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, having cyber security steps in place is key to ensure your business is safeguarded against existing and evolving threats.
IT security vs. cyber security
IT security and cyber security share common goals of shielding people, devices and data from malicious activities or breaches. IT security is more generally focused on fortifying the systems that store and transmit digital information. Cyber security, though similar, focuses more specifically on protecting the data and information stored within those systems. IT security and cyber security work cohesively to protect the physical and digital aspects of your business; they will likely have shared security practices that ensure confidentiality and data integrity. Though the terms can often be used interchangeably, it’s important to understand that cyber security focuses on digital weaknesses and how to respond to them.
What are the different types of cyber security?
Different modes of cyber security are used to protect digital systems from all manner of threats. Cyber security risks can include accidental loss or damage of data, or malicious attacks from hackers. Whilst there are extensive systems in place to defend businesses against cyber security breaches, listed below are some of the most common security solutions.
Network security
The majority of cyber attacks begin over a network, so network security solutions are designed to detect and respond to network-based threats. Network security works by mediating the impact of unauthorised access to a network or network service disruptions. This typically involves the monitoring of risks that could impact network software such as operating systems, and hardware such as servers, hubs and connecting devices. Network solutions can include Data Loss Prevention (DLP) and Network Access Control (NAC) which both serve to control and enforce safe web use practice.
Cloud security
Designed to protect cloud-based assets, cloud security works to defend a business’ entire cloud infrastructure, including data and applications. Typically cloud security is implemented through a shared security model, in which a cloud service provider and the organisation itself work together to secure the cloud. Cloud providers do offer their own cloud security solutions. However, they are often not built to provide the level of security businesses need when handling large volumes of cloud-based data. Dedicated cloud IT services are better equipped to defend against data breaches in the cloud, as they are tailored to meet the needs of private, public and hybrid cloud solutions to suit your business.
IoT security
The goal of Internet of Things (IoT) security is to address the vulnerabilities that devices can bring to businesses and organisations. IoT devices connect wirelessly to a network or hub that have the ability to receive and transmit data. These can include “smart” devices such as thermostats, kitchen appliances and security systems, all of which are often present in business environments. IoT devices leave businesses vulnerable to attacks as they often have limited security capabilities that are unable to sufficiently react to cyber threats. IoT security works to detect and classify these devices, limiting their network exposure by segmenting them and monitoring security weaknesses.
Endpoint security
Endpoint security seeks to minimise the risk of cyber attacks or leaks on end-user devices, such as desktops or laptops. Commonly referred to as Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), it’s designed to detect and mitigate cyber threats on these devices, using data analytics to identify suspicious activities. These prevention systems are designed to reduce the potential impact of cyber threats targeted at individual users, such as anti-phishing and anti-ransomware.
Mobile security
Mobile security is the specific section of cyber security that secures mobile devices -such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops- from cyber threats. The goal of mobile device management is not only to protect the mobile devices from unauthorised access, but also to avoid them becoming attack vectors for more extensive damage. An attack vector is when access into an individual device is used to gain access into other networks. For example, cyber attackers may hack a specific device, like a work laptop, to gain access to business logins stored on that device. If successful, cyber attackers can gain access to an entire network of data, simply by accessing one device.
IT infrastructure security
IT infrastructure security aims to safeguard systems and assets against both physical and cyber threats. This includes a variety of hardware and software assets, incorporating end-user devices, data centre resources, network systems and cloud systems. IT infrastructure security can encompass physical security of assets (including security guards and surveillance systems) as well as digital prevention by implementing firewalls, monitoring networks, penetration testing and implementing virtual private networks (VPNs).
If you want to ensure that your business is equipped to respond to cyber security threats, Cheeky Munkey can help you. Find out more about how our managed IT security solutions can help protect your business from cyber threats, or contact us today and our team will be happy to answer your questions.
