Technology
Definition
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, damage, and attacks — an increasingly critical function for every organization that operates digitally.
Cybersecurity operates across multiple layers of an organization's technology stack. Network security protects the infrastructure that transmits data (firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection systems). Endpoint security protects individual devices — laptops, phones, servers — from malware and unauthorized access (antivirus, EDR platforms, device management). Application security ensures that software is built and configured without exploitable vulnerabilities (code reviews, penetration testing, secure development practices, OWASP Top 10 compliance). Identity and access management (IAM) controls who can access what systems and data (multi-factor authentication, single sign-on, privileged access management). Data security governs how sensitive data is stored, transmitted, and protected (encryption at rest and in transit, data loss prevention).
Common threat vectors include phishing attacks (tricking employees into revealing credentials or installing malware), ransomware (malware that encrypts your data and demands payment for the decryption key), supply chain attacks (compromising a vendor whose software or services you use), credential stuffing (automated testing of stolen username/password pairs against your systems), and social engineering (manipulating people rather than systems). The most common entry point for successful attacks is human error — employees clicking phishing links or using weak passwords — making security awareness training a critical control alongside technical defenses.
Compliance frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS create structured requirements for organizations handling sensitive data — and are increasingly demanded by enterprise customers as a condition of doing business. Achieving and maintaining compliance requires both technical controls and documented policies and procedures.
Cybersecurity is no longer optional for any business that handles customer data, processes payments, or operates online. A single successful ransomware attack or data breach can result in operational downtime, regulatory fines, customer notification obligations, lawsuits, and permanent reputational damage — costs that regularly exceed the entire value of the business for small and mid-market companies. Yet many businesses continue to operate without basic security hygiene: no MFA on critical accounts, unpatched systems, no employee security training, and no incident response plan.
A cybersecurity consultant can conduct a risk assessment that identifies your most critical vulnerabilities, prioritize the highest-impact controls, implement the technical safeguards appropriate for your threat profile, and help you understand your obligations under applicable regulations. For companies pursuing SOC 2 compliance or handling healthcare or financial data, a specialist who has navigated the compliance process before is essential — the requirements are complex and the consequences of getting them wrong are significant.