Understanding Core Security Principles
Welcome to the foundational week of our Security and Risk Management module, focusing on the bedrock principles of information security. These principles are not just theoretical concepts; they are the guiding lights for designing, implementing, and maintaining secure systems. Understanding them is crucial for any professional in the field, especially for certifications like CISSP.
The CIA Triad: Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability
The most fundamental model in information security is the CIA Triad. It represents the three core objectives that security measures aim to achieve. Let's break down each component.
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability.
Beyond the CIA Triad: Additional Security Principles
While the CIA Triad is foundational, several other principles are critical for a comprehensive security posture. These principles often support or extend the goals of the CIA Triad.
Visualizing the relationship between Authentication, Authorization, and Accountability. Authentication is the gatekeeper, verifying identity. Authorization is the rulebook, defining access rights. Accountability is the ledger, recording who did what. Together, they form a robust framework for secure access control and operational integrity.
Text-based content
Library pages focus on text content
Defense in Depth and Least Privilege
Two strategic principles that enhance security by layering defenses and minimizing risk are Defense in Depth and the Principle of Least Privilege.
Granting only the minimum necessary permissions to users, programs, or processes.
Separation of Duties
Finally, Separation of Duties is a critical control for preventing fraud and errors.
Think of Separation of Duties like having two keys to open a safe. One person has one key, and another has the second. Both are needed to access the contents, preventing a single person from acting alone.
Summary and Next Steps
You've now covered the fundamental security principles: the CIA Triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability), Non-repudiation, Authentication, Authorization, Accountability, Defense in Depth, Least Privilege, and Separation of Duties. These principles form the backbone of any effective security program. In the coming weeks, we will explore how these principles are applied in practice and how to manage risks associated with them.
Learning Resources
The official study guide for CISSP certification, providing in-depth coverage of all domains, including security principles.
A comprehensive catalog of security and privacy controls for federal information systems, offering detailed guidance on implementing security principles.
A free video series covering essential cybersecurity concepts, including core security principles, suitable for foundational learning.
A concise video explaining the fundamental CIA Triad with practical examples.
While focused on web applications, the OWASP Top 10 highlights common vulnerabilities that underscore the importance of core security principles.
A learning module from Cybrary focusing on the first domain of CISSP, which covers security principles and risk management.
A white paper from SANS Institute detailing the importance and implementation of least privilege and separation of duties.
Wikipedia's overview of the Principle of Least Privilege, providing a broad understanding and historical context.
An article explaining the concept of Defense in Depth and its role in building a robust cybersecurity strategy.
The official page for the CISSP certification, outlining the domains and objectives, including the foundational security principles.