Cyber security relates to the protection of digital dataUnits of information. In computing there can be different data types, including integers, characters and Boolean. Data is often acted on by instructions. on networkA group of interconnected computers/devices., including the internet. Security measures are important with regard to three main areas:
people
processes
technology
People
Making sure that people understand how to protect their data is an important first step to protecting a network. Encouraging people to use strong passwords, not to open emails from unknown addresses, and to back up their data all helps.
Processes
An organisation is likely to have a plan in place for what to do if a cyberattack should happen. This could be as simple as ensuring data backupA copy of important files that is kept separately in case the original files are lost or damaged. are available to rebuild the system, or having technical advisers on hand to help.
Technology
Additional network hardwareThe physical parts of a computer system, eg a graphics card, hard disk drive or CD drive. such as firewallAn application that prevents unauthorised connections to and from the Internet. to prevent unauthorised access from outside the network, and softwareThe programs, applications and data in a computer system. Any parts of a computer system that aren't physical. such as an intrusion detection system Monitors the network for suspicious traffic and issues alerts to the network manager. are both examples of using technology to improve the security of a network.