Cybersecurity is a broad field focused on protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, damage, or unauthorized access. Criminals will utilize any form manipulation or vulnerabilities to Cybersecurity is a broad field focused on protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, damage, or unauthorized access. Criminals will utilize any form manipulation or vulnerabilities to gain access to your organization’s data and information. A zero-trust environment is necessary in today’s world. By implementing Zero-Trust, you ensure that every user, device, and application is authenticated and authorized, regardless of their location, and minimize the risk of data breaches with granular access controls and continuous monitoring. Cybersecurity software also plays a key role in securing your data and information.

Common threats include malware (viruses, worms, ransomware), phishing attacks, insider threats, and denial-of-service attacks. Anitvirus/Malware software used to be the gold standard and is still a necessity, but more advanced software is needed to help protect in a proactive manner instead of being reactive to an attack. Here enters the latest in security software, EDR (Endpoint Detection Response) and XDR (Extended Detection and Response).

EDR software is used to protect a team member on a personal level. It is installed on their desktop, laptop, and mobile device. It is real-time detection that uses machine learning technology to identify certain behaviors in how a piece of software interacts with your device. It can then notify and in some cases begin mitigation tactics to protect your team member and organization’s data and information.

XDR software is similar to EDR software, but it takes a holistic approach. Think of it as cybersecurity software for your organization. It correlates data and information from multiple different sources, i.e. Azure, Microsoft365, firewalls, endpoint devices, etc. The data is then used for mitigation tactics and incident management.

Other important cybersecurity measures include encryption, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), access controls, identity and access management (IAM), and many others. Cybersecurity is a continually evolving field, requiring constant vigilance, adaptation to new threats, and updates to technology and practices to protect against emerging risks.