Introduction to the course

Why do we need cybersecurity?

• The need for cybersecurity arose when the first mainframe computers were developed. Multiple levels of security were implemented to protect these devices and the missions they served.
• The growing need to maintain national security eventually led to more complex and technologically sophisticated security safeguards.
• In today’s connected world, everyone benefits from advanced cyberdefense programs. At an individual level, a cybersecurity attack can result in everything from identity theft, to extortion attempts, to the loss of important data like family photos. Everyone relies on critical infrastructure like power plants, hospitals, and financial service companies. Securing these and other organizations is essential to keeping our society functioning.