Theoretical Foundations for Developing Cybersecurity Training

Cybersecurity is a computer term regarding the detection, anticipation, and prevention of computer technologies and peripherals from damage, attack, or unauthorized access. These technologies include the monitoring of networks, programs, applications, and personnel. Cybersecurity can be viewed from both an offensive or defensive posture involving maintaining and proactively assessing security vulnerabilities. In 2013, Edward Snowden used his position as an infrastructure analyst to leak thousands of top-secret classified documents detailing the U.S. Government’s global covert surveillance and eavesdropping undertakings to the public. This incident identified the human threat as a contributing factor that highlighted several weaknesses in the present state of U.S. cybersecurity affairs. In efforts to strengthen cyber defenses, a solid theoretical research foundation regarding cyber vulnerabilities is warranted. Building upon that foundation, training and experimentation can provide insight into current cybersecurity training methods and how they can be transitioned and implemented into future training regimens.