Unit 2 AoS2 - Cyber Security: Key Knowledge

Cyber Security Trends

emerging cyber security measures and trends such as multi-factor authentication, regulatory compliance, AI-based threat detection, Zero Trust Architecture and cryptography

functions and characteristics of key hardware and software components:
routers
switches
firewalls
data storage and backup systems
network security software
intrusion detection and intrusion prevention systems
strengths and limitations of wired, wireless and mobile communication technologies in terms of cost, storage, reliability and security
technical underpinnings of intranets, the internet and virtual private networks
applications and capabilities of LANs, WANs and WPANs

risks of using networks in a global environment, including cyber security threats, privacy issues, legal compliance and unauthorised access
technical underpinnings of malware such as spyware, viruses, worms and ransomware
security threats to data and information on networks, including denial of service attacks, improper credential management, malicious software, outdated software and weak passwords

practices for reducing risks and mitigating threats:
firmware and operating system updates
software malware updates
multifactor authentication
backup strategies
staff procedures
cryptographic techniques to protect data and networks:
ciphers
symmetric encryption
asymmetric encryption
the emergence of AI in network security, including traffic analysis, monitoring and notification
the role of ethical hacking in identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses