What is IT security?

IT security is about protecting information technology - computers, networks, software and data - from unauthorised access, misuse, loss and destruction. This applies to private users, businesses and public institutions.

The purpose of IT security is to ensure that:

• Confidentiality: Only the right people have access to sensitive data.
• Integrity: Data remains correct and unchanged unless an authorised person makes changes.
• Availability: Systems and data are available when needed.

Technology, people and processes

IT security includes both technical solutions such as firewalls, antivirus and encryption - and human and organisational measures such as access control, updated guidelines and awareness training.

An IT security breach can lead to data leaks, crashes, financial losses and, in the worst case, reputational damage. That's why IT security is not just a technical discipline - it's a business-critical task.

Multiple layers of protection

IT security covers multiple layers of protection. It can be anything from making sure software and operating systems are up to date, to monitoring network traffic and responding quickly to threats. It also includes securing physical devices to prevent unauthorised access to, for example, server rooms or employee workstations.

Threats and preparedness

There are different types of threats that IT security must protect against, such as hackers, phishing, ransomware and internal errors. That's why many organisations work with prevention, monitoring and preparedness, so they not only try to avoid attacks, but are also ready to handle them professionally if they do occur.

Legislation and compliance

An important part of IT security is complying with applicable legislation and standards. For example, the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which sets requirements for how personal data is stored and processed. Many industries also have their own requirements and certifications that companies must comply with in order to do business.

The human factor

Even the best technical systems can't protect your organisation if your employees aren't properly trained. Phishing attacks and social engineering often exploit human error, such as clicking on a link in a fake email. That's why awareness training and clear internal guidelines are crucial.

Continuous improvements

IT security is not a one-off task. The threat landscape is constantly evolving, and so should security efforts. Organisations should regularly review their security policies, test their contingency plans and keep their technologies and employees up to date. That way, they can be better equipped to protect themselves - both today and tomorrow.