The Different Types of Cybersecurity

The primary types of cybersecurity are critical infrastructure, network, application, cloud, internet of things (IoT), endpoint, and mobile security. 

Cybersecurity has progressively moved toward the forefront of public thought since the 1980s. In the initial days, the primary threats were viruses. However, bad actors have become increasingly sophisticated as technology and defense mechanisms have continued to evolve.

Fast-forward to the modern era, the latest generation of cyber threats now use what CheckPoint calls “large-scale, multi-vectors attacks,” which require extremely complex, advanced, and comprehensive solutions. 

This article provides a detailed explanation of the 7 types of cybersecurity and additional factors that must be considered. Read on and start building a strong foundation of defense against modern-day threats. 

7 Types of Cybersecurity

There are seven primary types of cybersecurity. The following list outlines each aspect and specific details to help guide and inform.‍

1. Critical Infrastructure Security

This entails implementing security safeguards and protocols to protect your critical infrastructure. 

Critical infrastructure security involves a company's physical and cyber systems and assets. Three main ways to protect essential infrastructure include implementing access controls, firewalls, and various forms of application security. 

2. Network Security

Network security is another critical layer of the security onion. While it’s essential to protect your critical infrastructure, such safeguards alone do not account for or address potential vulnerabilities to one’s network. 

Network security protects the network(s) on which infrastructure, applications, hardware, software, and various devices run and connect others.‍

3. Application Security

Application security focuses on the applications used within cyber systems. Developing, implementing, and testing security features to mitigate the risk of threats is the primary focus of application security.

An easy way to understand this is to think of your at-home setup. Your physical computer is essentially your critical infrastructure. The network it communicates and runs through would be your internet service provider (ISP), and your applications are your “apps” – programs such as Microsoft, Zoom, Adobe, etc.‍

4. Cloud Security

While most people rely on their computer’s storage for critical and sensitive files and information, many also rely on the cloud. 

Example: If you have an Apple account, you may also have a decent chunk of data stored on iCloud. Many Apple users choose iCloud over another solution because of our innate trust in the brand and for convenience. 

Just as everyday people often require the cloud for their personal needs, companies and organizations also require a cloud solution. However, these solutions must be tailored to fit the unique needs of businesses, and part of this entails having robust enterprise-grade security.

5. Internet of Things (IoT) security

The IoT refers to the network of devices worldwide that connect to the internet. IoT security is critical because, as amazing as the Internet of Things is, it represents a well-known vulnerability.

IoT security refers to methods put in place to protect IoT devices against various threats. 

This involves processes such as “the discovery and classification” of devices, auto-segmentation “to control network activities,” and the use of an intrusion prevention solution (IPS). IoT security can also involve the augmentation of firmware on various devices to enhance security. 

6. Endpoint security

Endpoint security involves setting up measures and protocols to secure end-user devices (i.e., laptops, and mobile phones) with various controls. 

This involves using technologies such as endpoint detection and response tools (EDRs), which are used to alert security teams to potential threats and breaches.

‍7. Mobile Security

Advancements in technology, coupled with the widespread use of cell phones, have prompted a need for additional security measures regarding mobile devices. 

If you have a mobile phone, chances are you can access everything from your work emails to your calendar and various forms of sensitive information and documents. As a result, mobile security and mobile device management (MDM) solutions are critical to protect employee devices and ensure that only such authorized devices can access corporate systems. This is also a form of end-point security.

The Human Factor in Cybersecurity

This article wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t mention the human factor's important role in cybersecurity. It’s uncommon for companies to find themselves compromised due to something as simple as human error.

There needs to be more than a well-documented framework and set of protocols and processes. Your entire company will only be at risk if you adequately educate and train your staff. 

As a result, it’s essential to establish proper, consistent, ongoing training on the various threats out there. Here’s a quick list of different types of threats businesses encounter daily:

• Malware
• Phishing
• Spyware
• Ransomware
• IP Spoofing
• Social Engineering

Educate your staff on the importance of email security, password security, physical security of devices, and best practices for protecting sensitive data and personally identifiable information (PII). 

Also, ensure that every employee has knowledge of and access to protocols to fully understand the appropriate plan of action to take in the event of a security threat and/or breach.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity threats will always continue to progress with technology, and methods that are widespread today will seem elementary in comparison to those which will evolve a decade from now. 

As a result, your responsibility is to continually remain well-versed on best practices in protecting your business, staff, and end customers. 

VisioneerIT is here to help guide your cyber security protection. We provide expert guidance on your journey and help develop a sustainable solution tailored to your unique needs. For more information, contact us today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 3 Major Aspects of Cyber Security?

Network security, cloud security, and physical security are the three major types of cyber security.

What Software do Hackers Prefer to Use?

Invicti, Fortify WebInspect, Nmap, and Nessus are primary software tools that hackers use to disrupt and infiltrate cyber systems.

What Can Hackers See Once They Have Infiltrated Your System?

If a hacker has breached your cyber security protective measures, they will have access to email accounts, passwords, and potentially financial information.

Reference

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NIST. (2019, July 8). Cybersecurity Framework. NIST. https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework

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CISA. (2015). INFRASTRUCTURE SECURITY | CISA. Cisa.gov. https://www.cisa.gov/infrastructure-security

CYDEF. (2021, May 19). The Human Factor: The Hidden Problem of Cybersecurity. CYDEF. https://cydef.ca/blog/the-human-factor-the-hidden-problem-of-cybersecurity/‌

‍What is Network Infrastructure Security? | VMware Glossary. (2022, January 12). VMware. https://www.vmware.com/topics/glossary/content/network-infrastructure-security.html

What is Cloud Security And Why It’s Important? (n.d.). Box. https://www.box.com/resources/what-is-cloud-security

IBM. (n.d.). What is mobile security? | IBM. Www.ibm.com. https://www.ibm.com/topics/mobile-security