The world faces an average of 4,000–5,000 new malware sites each day. And with 76% of organizations experiencing an attempted exploit of existing vulnerabilities, cybersecurity is more important than ever.
So what exactly does cybersecurity do? And what are the benefits of cybersecurity? Check out our guide to learn more about this growing industry.
Cybersecurity protects computer data, networks, and systems from the threat of cyberattacks, which are meant to disrupt, steal, or extort data from users. Also known as computer security, this trade requires increasing skill and problem-solving abilities, especially as cybercriminals become more innovative in their hacking approach.
There are four fundamental aspects of cybersecurity, including:
A cybersecurity specialist or engineer is in charge of planning and managing security measures for a company’s computer systems. This requires daily maintenance and monitoring to prevent attacks. Cybersecurity specialists spend their days:
Not only do these specialists protect systems from cyber threats—but they also educate employees about cybersecurity, create a system of best practices, and build contingency plans to put in place after a potential attack occurs.
Cybersecurity engineers must understand information systems, network security, cryptography, and cybersecurity technology like Linux and Python.
Cybersecurity requires many layers of protection to ward off cyberattacks. Successful security also requires seamless integration of computer systems, processes, business structures, staff, and technology. The practice involves both cyber and physical security of systems.
Antivirus software, firewalls, encryption, and staff training are all important parts of cybersecurity. Engineers in this field also secure networks by backing up data, creating secure passwords and user login systems, building cloud security systems, and more.
Specialists in this field are trained to protect systems from a wide range of threats, including:
The importance of cybersecurity grows with every passing year. As technology advances, cybercriminals become even more sophisticated in their approach. Cyberattacks aren’t just limited to unprepared, small, or midsize organizations—they affect large corporations, banks, and even F-35 jets. These cyberattacks can disrupt systems, destroy customer trust, and ultimately devastate organizations.
Cyberattacks cost the U.S. economy $57–109 billion in 2016, and those figures continue to grow each year. Unsurprisingly then, the cybersecurity market is expected to reach a value of $403 billion by 2027—a compound annual growth rate of 12.5%.
The need for cybersecurity is higher than ever. Nearly 80% of senior IT security specialists believe their organizations are insufficiently prepared for cyberattacks, and 91% of organizations planned to increase cybersecurity budgets in 2021.
There are countless benefits to investing in cybersecurity. After all, cybersecurity is what helps protect data from unauthorized access, improve customer and stakeholder confidence, and increase competitiveness in the industry. And if a data breach does occur, organizations that have invested in high-quality cybersecurity are likely to recover more quickly and be more prepared in the case of another attack.
Outsourced cybersecurity is when an organization hires a third-party vendor to externally handle cybersecurity responsibilities (rather than hiring in-house cybersecurity engineers). This is a preferred option for companies that lack the knowledge and resources to build strong cybersecurity systems internally. Outsourcing cybersecurity is often more affordable and effective, giving organizations greater coverage, sustainability, and reliability.
What does cybersecurity do? It plays a crucial role in protecting computer networks, upholding the trust of customers and stakeholders, and keeping sensitive data protected from cybercriminals.
If you’re looking for reliable outsourced cybersecurity, BlackPoint IT is the ideal choice. We deliver on our promises 100% of the time. Our crazy-good customer service and passion for cybersecurity ensure you receive the advanced security solutions you’re seeking. We’re your source for all cybersecurity services—from dark web scanning to end-user training and annual security audits.
