What is Security?

Abstract

The central role of computer security for the working of the economy, the defense of the country, and the protection of the individual privacy is universally acknowledged today. Secure information systems must work reliably despite random errors, disturbances, and malicious attacks. This chapter examines a number of general ways of discussing security, including the common body of knowledge (CBK), by-function, and then systems engineering approaches. CBK is the critical body of knowledge that serves as a framework of security concepts, definitions, and principles that foster understanding of best practices among those engaged in activities related to information assurance/security. Confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA) are the core tenets of information security and are widespread over all the domains of the CBK. The chapter considers the many general security concepts and complexities associated with issues of safety, and information availability, and enterprise infrastructures. It also discusses some basic perspectives on information security.