Cyber-attacks are becoming more frequent and advanced. Information security (IS) is important for organisations of all sizes and industries. As a result, there is a growing demand for professionals who can work in this field. Thus, a career as a cybersecurity analyst is rewarding.
What is Information Security?
IS refers to the practices used to protect digital data. There are many ways to protect digital data. The most important is to have a system in place that can prevent data loss. One way to do this is by using a backup system. Another way to protect data is to encrypt it. Finally, security measures should be in place. This will allow data access only to authorised users.
Principles of Information Security
The principles of IS provide a framework for protecting digital data. The three main principles of IS are:
1. Confidentiality
It ensures that sensitive details are only accessible to authorised individuals or entities. Confidentiality measures include password protection, encryption and access controls.
Password protection limits data access using unique passwords or passphrases
Encryption transforms data into an unreadable format for authorised users only.
Access controls can be physical (e.g., biometric scanners) or digital (e.g., passwords)
2. Integrity
It refers to ensuring that data remains accurate and complete throughout its lifecycle. Measures to ensure data integrity include backups, version control and checksums.
Backups restore lost data.
Version control tracks file changes and enables reversion to previous versions.
Checksums ensure data integrity by generating a unique value based on content.
3. Availability
This ensures access to data only to authorised individuals when needed. Measures to ensure data availability include redundant systems, backups and disaster recovery planning.
Redundant systems are backups that can replace the primary system if it fails.
Disaster recovery planning involves restoring data and systems after an unexpected event like a natural disaster or cyber-attack.
Types of Information Security
IS is a vast field that includes many practices and techniques to protect digital data. There are several types of IS. Some of the most common types include:
1. Network Security
Network security is the practice of securing a computer network from unauthorised access, attacks or misuse.
This includes the implementation of firewalls, intrusion detection systems and virtual private networks. It provides protection against cyber-attacks and other malicious activities.
2. Application Security
It is the practice of securing software applications and computer programmes from unauthorised access, misuse or modification.
This type of security includes authentication and authorisation measures, encryption and secure coding practices to prevent cyber-attacks.
3. Cloud Security
It is the practice of securing data, applications and infrastructure hosted on cloud-based platforms.
This type of security includes the implementation of access controls, data encryption and network security measures. This secures and protects cloud-based services from cyber threats.
4. Physical Security
It includes securing physical assets, including computer systems, data centres and other critical infrastructure.
This type of security includes the use of physical access controls to prevent unauthorised access to sensitive areas. Examples include locks, security cameras and biometric scanners.
5. Operational Security
Operational security is the practice of managing security risks in daily operations.
It includes the development of security policies and procedures, employee training and incident response planning. It minimises and addresses security risks on time.
6. Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity
These practices minimise the impact of unexpected events, such as natural disasters or cyber-attacks, on business operations.
This type of security includes the development of contingency plans, backup systems and other measures. It ensures the recovery of critical data and systems in the event of a disaster.
Career as a Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analysts identify and mitigate cyber threats. They conduct risk assessments and apply security measures. To pursue a career as a cybersecurity analyst, you should have a degree in computer science, information technology or a related field. You can also pursue training options, including IIT information security courses or cybersecurity courses with placement.
Take the Next Step
Information security is crucial for protecting digital data from theft and damage. The principles of confidentiality, integrity and availability provide a framework for protecting digital data.
Pursuing a career as a cybersecurity analyst is a promising career option due to the increasing demand for IS professionals. The IIT information security courses offered by Imarticus Learning can provide you necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career in IS.
CEC, IIT Roorkee and industry leaders have designed the curriculum of these cybersecurity courses with placement. The programme will teach you the most popular security tools and skills.
Imarticus Learning is a leading ed-tech platform for upskilling young professionals. We have several courses in subjects such as finance, analytics, technology and business administration.
