Computer security: what it is, types and characteristics

IT security is the protective shield that guards the information we share on the vast internet. In an increasingly digitised world, our private data is constantly at risk, making IT security the last bastion that defends our data from unauthorised access. This essential yet highly complex discipline is responsible for protecting the computer infrastructure and all that it encompasses.

What is computer security?

Computer security comprises a set of techniques and practices designed to protect data and computer systems from malicious attacks, technical failures and any other intrusion that could compromise sensitive data. Its importance is more crucial than ever in a world where professional and personal lives are intrinsically linked to connected devices, making information one of the most valuable assets.

With the unstoppable growth of the internet and the reliance on the web for new business ventures, IT security has become a fundamental pillar of all aspects of modern society. It protects our privacy, preserves the integrity of our personal and corporate data, as well as that of our customers and visitors, and ensures the continued operation of essential systems. And we cannot forget that it is the foundation of trust in any business. IT security has emerged as the linchpin for maintaining our increasingly digitised lifestyles.

Types of IT security

Computer security encompasses various aspects and can be classified into different types, each focused on protecting specific aspects of computer systems. In the following, we will look at the main types of computer security:

1. Network security:

Network security focuses on protecting an organisation's communications infrastructure, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs) and internet connectivity. This includes the implementation of firewalls, intrusion detection, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), data loss prevention systems (DLP) and VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to ensure that information transmitted over the network is protected against unauthorised access and external attacks.

Information or data security:

Information security refers to the protection of data stored on computer systems against unauthorised access, theft, loss or damage. This includes the implementation of access controls, data encryption, password management policies, regular backups, and identity and access management (IAM) systems to ensure that only authorised users have access to sensitive information.

3. Operating system security

Operating system security focuses on protecting computer and server operating systems against vulnerabilities, malware and targeted attacks. This includes applying security patches, securely configuring operating systems, installing anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and implementing system security policies to mitigate risks and protect the integrity of operating systems.

4. Application security:

Application security refers to the protection of software applications against vulnerabilities, code injection attacks, denial of service (DDoS) attacks and other threats. This includes the implementation of application security testing (AST), the use of security frameworks, secure coding and the application of security patches to ensure that applications are secure and resistant to attacks.

5. Identity security:

Identity security is a critical component of cyber security strategies in modern organisations. It focuses on securing and managing digital identities within an enterprise, including both human users and machine entities (such as applications and devices). The goal is to ensure that only authorised users have access to critical technology resources, and that this access is appropriate and in accordance with existing security policies.

Characteristics of computer security

In addition to the different types of IT security, there are certaincharacteristics that are essential to ensure the effectiveness of the security measures implemented. The following are some of the most important characteristics of computer security:

1. Confidentiality:

Confidentiality refers to the protection of sensitive information from unauthorised access. This involves ensuring that only authorised users have access to confidential information and that information is encrypted during storage and transmission to prevent its exposure to unauthorised persons.

2. Integrity:

Confidentiality refers to the protection of sensitive information from unauthorised access. This involves ensuring that only authorised users have access to confidential information and that information is encrypted during storage and transmission to prevent exposure to unauthorised persons.

3. Availability:

Availability refers to ensuring that information is available when needed. This involves ensuring that IT systems are operational and accessible at all times and that redundancy and backup measures are in place to ensure business continuity in the event of failure or attack.

4. Authentication:

Authentication refers to the verification of the identity of users attempting to access systems or information. This involves implementing strong authentication methods, such as passwords, biometrics, security tokens and two-factor authentication systems, to ensure that only authorised users have access to information.

5. Non-repudiation:

Non-repudiation refers to the ability to verify the authenticity of a transaction or communication and prevent a party from denying its participation in it. This implies the implementation of logging and auditing systems to ensure the traceability of transactions and communications and to prevent any attempt at repudiation.

What are the IT security risks?

IT security risks are varied and constantly evolving, posing an ongoing threat to individuals and organisations. Cyber-attacks, such as phishing and ransomware, seek to trick users into gaining unauthorised access to sensitive data or systems, which can result in the loss or theft of critical information, damage to business reputation and costly operational disruptions.

Lack of adequate IT security can expose vulnerabilities in software that can be exploited by hackers to infiltrate systems, while hardware can be physically tampered with or damaged, compromising the security of the data stored on it. In addition, human error can also result in the accidental exposure of sensitive data.

As technology advances, so do the tactics of attackers, requiring IT security to constantly evolve to stay one step ahead and ensure resilience against these pervasive threats.

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