Get started

Get started

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content.

• Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol (PEAP)

  Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol (PEAP) is a security protocol commonly used to protect wireless networks. Continue Reading

• principle of least privilege (POLP)

  The principle of least privilege (POLP) is a concept in computer security that limits users' access rights to only what is strictly required to do their jobs. Continue Reading

• How to create a SOAR playbook in Microsoft Sentinel

  Using automation through tools such as SOAR and SIEM can improve incident response alert efficiency. One automated feature analysts can use is the SOAR playbook. Continue Reading

• DNS over HTTPS (DoH)

  DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a relatively new protocol that encrypts domain name system traffic by passing DNS queries through a Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure encrypted session. Continue Reading

• governance, risk and compliance (GRC)

  Governance, risk and compliance (GRC) refers to an organization's strategy for handling the interdependencies among the following three components: corporate governance policies, enterprise risk management programs, and regulatory and company ... Continue Reading

• Definitions to Get Started

  • What is a rootkit?
  • What is a copyright?
  • What is Kerberos and how does it work?
  • What is a certificate authority (CA)?

  • What is promiscuous mode in networking?
  • What is the Twofish encryption algorithm?
  • What is cyberstalking and how to prevent it?
  • What is a watering hole attack?

  View All Definitions

• total risk

  Total risk is an assessment that identifies all the risk factors associated with pursuing a specific course of action.Continue Reading

• steganography

  Steganography is the technique of hiding data within an ordinary, nonsecret file or message to avoid detection; the hidden data is then extracted at its destination.Continue Reading

• triple extortion ransomware

  Triple extortion ransomware is a type of ransomware attack where a cybercriminal extorts their victim multiple times, namely by encrypting data, exfiltrating data to expose and threatening a third attack vector.Continue Reading

• double extortion ransomware

  Double extortion ransomware is a novel form of malware that combines ransomware with elements of extortionware to maximize the victim's potential payout.Continue Reading

• The 10 biggest ransomware attacks in history

  From private organizations and manufacturers to healthcare organizations and entire countries, read up on 10 of the most famous ransomware attacks of all time.Continue Reading

• risk avoidance

  Risk avoidance is the elimination of hazards, activities and exposures that can negatively affect an organization and its assets.Continue Reading

• 6 stages of the ransomware lifecycle

  Know thy enemy. By understanding the nuances of the ransomware lifecycle, enterprise security teams can best protect their organizations from attacks.Continue Reading

• pure risk

  Pure risk refers to risks that are beyond human control and result in a loss or no loss with no possibility of financial gain.Continue Reading

• risk exposure

  Risk exposure is the quantified potential loss from business activities currently underway or planned.Continue Reading

• risk profile

  A risk profile is a quantitative analysis of the types of threats an organization, asset, project or individual faces.Continue Reading

• residual risk

  Residual risk is the risk that remains after efforts to identify and eliminate some or all types of risk have been made.Continue Reading

• risk map (risk heat map)

  A risk map (risk heat map) is a data visualization tool for communicating specific risks an organization faces.Continue Reading

• email security

  Email security is the process of ensuring the availability, integrity and authenticity of email communications by protecting against unauthorized access and email threats.Continue Reading

• Types of ransomware and a timeline of attack examples

  There are eight main types of ransomware but hundreds of examples of ransomware strains. Learn how the ransomware types work, and review notable ransomware attacks and variants.Continue Reading

• biometric authentication

  Biometric authentication is a security process that relies on the unique biological characteristics of individuals to verify they are who they say they are.Continue Reading

• network vulnerability scanning

  Network vulnerability scanning is the process of inspecting and reporting potential vulnerabilities and security loopholes on a computer, network, web application or other device, including firewalls, switches, routers and wireless access points.Continue Reading

• BYOI (bring your own identity)

  BYOI (bring your own identity) is an approach to digital authentication in which an end user's username and password are managed by a third party. BYOI is increasingly being used for website authentication.Continue Reading

• risk analysis

  Risk analysis is the process of identifying and analyzing potential issues that could negatively impact key business initiatives or projects.Continue Reading

• Google Play Protect

  Google Play Protect is a malware protection and detection service built into Android devices that use Google Mobile Services.Continue Reading

• insecure deserialization

  Insecure deserialization is a vulnerability in which untrusted or unknown data is used to inflict a denial-of-service attack, execute code, bypass authentication or otherwise abuse the logic behind an application.Continue Reading

• orphan account

  An orphan account, also referred to as an orphaned account, is a user account that can provide access to corporate systems, services and applications but does not have a valid owner.Continue Reading

• cryptosystem

  A cryptosystem is a structure or scheme consisting of a set of algorithms that converts plaintext to ciphertext to encode or decode messages securely.Continue Reading

• SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2)

  SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2), pronounced "sock two," is a voluntary compliance standard for ensuring that service providers properly manage and protect the sensitive data in their care.Continue Reading

• Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA)

  The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) of 1986 is United States legislation that imposes criminal penalties on individuals who intentionally access a protected computer without proper authorization or whose access exceeds their authorization.Continue Reading

• national identity card

  A national identity card is a portable document, typically a plasticized card with digitally embedded information, that is used to verify aspects of a person's identity.Continue Reading

• cyber extortion

  Cyber extortion is a crime involving an attack or threat of an attack coupled with a demand for money or some other response in return for stopping or remediating the attack.Continue Reading

• The history and evolution of ransomware

  Ransomware has evolved from a malicious floppy disk demanding $189 in ransom to a multibillion-dollar industry with ransom for rent, sophisticated techniques and big-name victims.Continue Reading

• The history, evolution and current state of SIEM

  SIEM met the need for a security tool that could pinpoint threats in real time. But new threats mean that the next evolution of SIEM will offer even more firepower.Continue Reading

• How to map security gaps to the Mitre ATT&CK framework

  Mapping security gaps to the Mitre ATT&CK framework enables SOC teams to prioritize, remediate and eliminate vulnerabilities before malicious actors exploit them.Continue Reading

• Get started: Threat modeling with the Mitre ATT&CK framework

  The Mitre ATT&CK framework may seem daunting at first, but it is a key tool that helps SOC teams conduct threat modeling. Learn how to get started.Continue Reading

• bridge

  A bridge is a class of network device designed to connect networks at OSI Level 2, which is the data link layer of a local area network.Continue Reading

• mobile authentication

  Mobile authentication is the verification of a user's identity via a mobile device using one or more authentication methods for secure access.Continue Reading

• cloud security architecture

  Cloud security architecture is a security strategy designed around securing an organization's data and applications in the cloud.Continue Reading

• single-factor authentication (SFA)

  Single-factor authentication (SFA) is a process for securing access to a given system, such as a network or website, that identifies the party requesting access through only one category of credentials.Continue Reading

• knowledge-based authentication

  Knowledge-based authentication (KBA) is an authentication method in which users are asked to answer at least one secret question.Continue Reading

• WannaCry ransomware

  WannaCry ransomware is a cyber attack that spreads by exploiting vulnerabilities in the Windows operating system.Continue Reading

• security token

  A security token is a physical or wireless device that provides two-factor authentication (2FA) for users to prove their identity in a login process.Continue Reading

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

  The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for protecting worker health and safety in the United States.Continue Reading

• Blockchain security: Everything you should know for safe use

  Despite its reputation, blockchain is subject to many of the same vulnerabilities as other software. It helps to have a clear idea of its inherent strengths and weaknesses.Continue Reading

• PCI compliance

  PCI compliance is adherence to the set of policies and procedures developed to protect credit, debit and cash card transactions and prevent the misuse of cardholders' personal information.Continue Reading

• Use IoT hardening to secure vulnerable connected devices

  IoT and industrial IoT innovation continue to thrive, but IoT device security continues to be an afterthought. Companies should harden connected devices to remain protected.Continue Reading

• How to calculate cybersecurity ROI with concrete metrics

  Calculating and communicating cybersecurity ROI can help persuade top management to invest. Here's how to use meaningful, concrete metrics.Continue Reading

• logon (or login)

  In computing, a logon is a procedure that enables an entity to access a secure system such as an operating system, application, service, website or other resource.Continue Reading

• security analytics

  Security analytics is a cybersecurity approach that uses data collection, data aggregation and analysis tools for threat detection and security monitoring.Continue Reading

• NICE Framework (National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Cybersecurity Workforce Framework)

  The NICE Framework (National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Cybersecurity Workforce Framework) is a reference resource that classifies the typical skill requirements and duties of cybersecurity workers.Continue Reading

• Smart contract benefits and best practices for security

  While smart contracts promise enormous benefits in the enterprise, they also present opportunities for cybercriminals. Explore best practices to keep them secure.Continue Reading

• How to use Wfuzz to find web application vulnerabilities

  By learning how to use Wfuzz for web application fuzz testing, bug bounty hunters can automate vulnerability discovery. Learn more in this excerpt from 'Bug Bounty Bootcamp.'Continue Reading

• How to become a bug bounty hunter: Getting started

  Finding, exploiting and reporting vulnerabilities can be both lucrative and educational. Security researcher Vickie Li explains how to become a bug bounty hunter.Continue Reading

• application blacklisting (application blocklisting)

  Application blacklisting --increasingly called application blocklisting -- is a network or computer administration practice used to prevent the execution of undesirable software programs.Continue Reading

• juice jacking

  Juice jacking is a security exploit in which an infected USB charging station is used to compromise devices that connect to it.Continue Reading

• hypervisor security

  Hypervisor security is the process of ensuring the hypervisor -- the software that enables virtualization -- is secure throughout its lifecycle.Continue Reading

• claims-based identity

  Claims-based identity is a means of authenticating an end user, application or device to another system in a way that abstracts the entity's specific information while providing data that authorizes it for appropriate and relevant interactions.Continue Reading

• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

  Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is an International Information System Security Certification Consortium, or (ISC)2, certification that covers cloud-based cybersecurity best practices.Continue Reading

• How to implement principle of least privilege in Azure AD

  Restricting users' permissions in Microsoft Azure AD to only what they need to complete their job helps secure and reduce the cloud attack surface.Continue Reading

• password manager

  A password manager is a technology tool that helps internet users create, save, manage and use passwords across different online services.Continue Reading

• Hash-based Message Authentication Code (HMAC)

  Hash-based Message Authentication Code (HMAC) is a message encryption method that uses a cryptographic key in conjunction with a hash function.Continue Reading

• Web application firewall (WAF)

  A web application firewall (WAF) is a firewall that monitors, filters and blocks Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) traffic as it travels to and from a website or web application.Continue Reading

• cloaking

  Cloaking is a technique where a different version of web content is returned to users than to the search engine crawlers.Continue Reading

• TrickBot malware

  TrickBot is sophisticated modular malware that started as a banking Trojan but has evolved to support many different types of attacks, including ransomware.Continue Reading

• How to create an SBOM, with example and template

  SBOMs help organizations inventory every component in their software. This free template, which includes an SBOM example, can help you secure your own software supply chain.Continue Reading

• cloud workload protection

  Cloud workload protection is the safeguarding of workloads spread out across multiple cloud environments. Businesses that use public and private clouds can use cloud workload protection platforms to help defend themselves against cyber attacks.Continue Reading

• firewall

  A firewall is a network security device that prevents unauthorized access to a network. It inspects incoming and outgoing traffic using a set of security rules to identify and block threats.Continue Reading

• How to build a cybersecurity deception program

  In 'The Art of War,' Sun Tzu declared, 'All warfare is based on deception.' Learn how to apply this principle in the enterprise by building a cybersecurity deception program.Continue Reading

• International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2

  (ISC)2, short for International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, is a nonprofit organization that provides security training and certificates.Continue Reading

• two-step verification

  Two-step verification is a process that involves two authentication steps performed one after the other to verify that someone or something requesting access is who or what they say they are.Continue Reading

• How to use the John the Ripper password cracker

  Password crackers are essential tools in any pen tester's toolbox. This step-by-step tutorial explains how to use John the Ripper, an open source offline password-cracking tool.Continue Reading

• private CA (private PKI)

  A private CA is an enterprise-specific certificate authority that functions like a publicly trusted CA.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (formerly Windows Defender ATP)

  Microsoft Defender for Endpoint -- formerly Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection or Windows Defender ATP -- is an endpoint security platform designed to help enterprise-class organizations prevent, detect and respond to security threats.Continue Reading

• How to create fine-grained password policy in AD

  Fine-grained password policies are a simple and effective way of ensuring password settings meet business requirements.Continue Reading

• How to enable Active Directory fine-grained password policies

  Specifying multiple password policies customized to specific account types adds another layer to an organization's security posture. Using PSOs instead of Group Policy can help.Continue Reading

• How to use a public key and private key in digital signatures

  Ensuring authenticity of online communications is critical to conduct business. Learn how to use a public key and private key in digital signatures to manage electronic documents.Continue Reading

• AWS CloudTrail

  AWS CloudTrail is an application program interface (API) call-recording and log-monitoring service offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS).Continue Reading

• Practice Microsoft SC-100 exam questions with answers

  Use these practice multiple-choice questions, with answers, to assess your knowledge of the Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect exam.Continue Reading

• intrusion prevention system (IPS)

  An intrusion prevention system (IPS) is a cybersecurity tool that examines network traffic to identify potential threats and automatically take action against them.Continue Reading

• How to prepare for the Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect exam

  Before taking the Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect exam, learn about the knowledge areas covered on the SC-100 test, studying recommendations, prerequisites and more.Continue Reading

• Defining policy vs. standard vs. procedure vs. control

  Infosec pros may have -- incorrectly -- heard the terms 'standard' and 'policy' used interchangeably. Examine the differences among a policy, standard, procedure and technical control.Continue Reading

• post-quantum cryptography

  Post-quantum cryptography, also known as quantum encryption, is the development of cryptographic systems for classical computers that can prevent attacks launched by quantum computers.Continue Reading

• deprovisioning

  Deprovisioning is the part of the employee lifecycle in which access rights to software and network services are taken away.Continue Reading

• An intro to the IDMZ, the demilitarized zone for ICSes

  Setting up an IDMZ -- a demilitarized zone between enterprise and industrial networks -- can prevent operational environments from becoming compromised by IT threats.Continue Reading

• cardholder data (CD)

  Cardholder data (CD) is any personally identifiable information (PII) associated with a person who has a credit or debit card.Continue Reading

• PCI DSS merchant levels

  Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) merchant levels rank merchants based on their number of transactions per year to outline compliance verification requirements.Continue Reading

• CSR (Certificate Signing Request)

  A Certificate Signing Request (CSR) is a specially formatted encrypted message sent from a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) digital certificate applicant to a certificate authority (CA).Continue Reading

• authentication factor

  An authentication factor is a category of credential that is intended to verify, sometimes in combination with other factors, that an entity involved in some kind of communication or requesting access to some system is who, or what, they are ...Continue Reading

• Vulnerability management vs. risk management, compared

  Vulnerability management seeks out security weaknesses in an organization, while risk management involves looking holistically at how the company is running.Continue Reading

• three-factor authentication (3FA)

  Three-factor authentication (3FA) is the use of identity-confirming credentials from three separate categories of authentication factors -- typically, the knowledge, possession and inherence categories.Continue Reading

• cyber espionage

  Cyber espionage (cyberespionage) is a type of cyber attack that malicious hackers carry out against a business or government entity.Continue Reading

• FIDO (Fast Identity Online)

  FIDO (Fast Identity Online) is a set of technology-agnostic security specifications for strong authentication.Continue Reading

• quantum supremacy

  Quantum supremacy is the experimental demonstration of a quantum computer's dominance and advantage over classical computers by performing calculations previously impossible at unmatched speeds.Continue Reading

• antivirus software (antivirus program)

  Antivirus software (antivirus program) is a security program designed to prevent, detect, search and remove viruses and other types of malware from computers, networks and other devices.Continue Reading

• YubiKey

  YubiKey is a security token that enables users to add a second authentication factor to online services from tier 1 vendor partners, including Google, Amazon, Microsoft and Salesforce.Continue Reading

• information security (infosec)

  Information security (infosec) is a set of policies, procedures and principles for safeguarding digital data and other kinds of information.Continue Reading

• cyberwarfare

  The generally accepted definition of cyberwarfare is a series of cyber attacks against a nation-state, causing it significant harm.Continue Reading

• fuzz testing (fuzzing)

  Fuzz testing (fuzzing) is a quality assurance technique used to discover coding errors or bugs and security loopholes in software, operating systems and networks.Continue Reading

• sudo (su 'do')

  Sudo is a command-line utility for Unix and Unix-based operating systems such as Linux and macOS.Continue Reading

• E-Sign Act (Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act)

  The E-Sign Act (Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act) is a U.S. federal law that specifies that, in the United States, the use of an electronic signature (e-signature) is as legally valid as a traditional signature written in ...Continue Reading