What does the concept of “defense in depth” refer to?

Prepare for the FedVTE Cyber Risk Management Test. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Be ready for your exam!

The concept of “defense in depth” refers to a layered security approach to protect information systems. This strategy involves implementing multiple layers of security measures throughout an IT environment to ensure that if one layer is breached, other layers continue to provide protection against potential threats. The rationale behind this approach is that no single security control is foolproof; therefore, relying on a combination of preventive, detective, and responsive measures increases the overall security posture of the organization.

In practice, defense in depth might include various controls such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, encryption, access controls, and user training, all designed to work together to mitigate risks and defend against attacks. The layered approach not only enhances security but also provides redundancy, making it more challenging for attackers to successfully penetrate the entire system.

This methodology contrasts with a single point of security for critical systems, which would create vulnerabilities if that point fails, or a focus solely on system performance evaluation or financial risk management, which do not directly address security measures aimed at thwarting unauthorized access and data breaches. By employing defense in depth, organizations can create a more resilient security environment capable of adapting to evolving threats.

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