Cyber Security

What is Cyber Security?

Cyber Security (also cybersecurity or IT security) encompasses all technologies, processes and measures that protect digital systems, networks and data from unauthorized access, manipulation and destruction.

The terms are often used interchangeably, but differ in focus:

• Cyber Security: Protection of all internet-connected systems from cyber attacks — including hardware, software and data
• IT Security: Broader in scope, also covers offline systems and physical infrastructure
• Information Security: Protection of information in any form — digital, physical, verbal. Frameworks like ISO 27001 formalize this approach

In practice, these disciplines increasingly converge. When people talk about cyber security, they typically mean the comprehensive protection of a company's digital assets — from the network and cloud to employee endpoints.

Top Threats in 2025/2026

The threat landscape is evolving rapidly. These attack vectors currently dominate:

Ransomware

Ransomware remains the most financially devastating threat to businesses. Attackers encrypt corporate data and demand ransom — often in the millions. Modern variants combine encryption with data exfiltration (Double Extortion): even organizations with backups face pressure through the threat of public data disclosure.

Phishing and Social Engineering

Phishing continues to be the most common entry point for cyber attacks. Over 90% of all successful attacks begin with a manipulative email or message. Spear-phishing campaigns targeting executives (CEO Fraud) cause the highest financial damage.

Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day vulnerabilities are security flaws for which no patch exists at the time of exploitation. They are traded on the black market for hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. Effective vulnerability management reduces risk, but against true zero-days, only defense-in-depth strategies help.

Supply Chain Attacks

Instead of attacking a company directly, adversaries compromise a supplier or software vendor — reaching thousands of victims simultaneously through this detour. The SolarWinds hack (2020) and the Log4Shell vulnerability (2021) demonstrated how vulnerable global software supply chains are.

Cyber Security for Businesses

Effective cybersecurity is not about a single product but about a layered approach. Three pillars are critical:

1. Frameworks and Standards

Recognized frameworks provide structure and guidance:

• ISO 27001: International standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). Certifiable, globally recognized
• NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Practical guide with five core functions (Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover)
• BSI IT-Grundschutz: German framework, particularly relevant for critical infrastructure operators and NIS2-affected organizations

2. Technical Measures

Key technical protection measures include:

• Penetration Testing: Simulated attacks identify vulnerabilities before real attackers find them
• Vulnerability Management: Continuous scanning and prioritization of vulnerabilities
• Network Segmentation: Limiting lateral movement by replacing flat network architectures
• Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR): Real-time monitoring of all endpoints
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Additional security layer for access control

3. The Human Factor

Technology alone is not enough. Over 80% of all security incidents have a human component. Security awareness training for employees is therefore not optional — it is essential. Regular training and simulated phishing campaigns sharpen awareness of threats.

Cyber Security as a Career

The skills gap in cybersecurity is severe. According to (ISC)², over 3.4 million professionals are needed worldwide. In Germany alone, tens of thousands of positions remain unfilled — and the trend is growing.

Salaries

Cybersecurity professionals are among the highest-paid IT specialists:

Position	Salary Range (gross/year, EUR)
Junior Security Analyst	42,000 – 55,000 €
Penetration Tester	55,000 – 80,000 €
Security Engineer	60,000 – 90,000 €
Security Architect	75,000 – 110,000 €
CISO	100,000 – 180,000 €

Freelancers and consultants with specializations (Cloud Security, OT Security, Red Teaming) command daily rates of 800 to 1,800 euros.

Getting Started

There are multiple paths into cybersecurity:

• University: Computer Science, IT Security or Cyber Security (B.Sc./M.Sc.). Specialized programs are available at institutions such as TU Darmstadt, Ruhr University Bochum and ETH Zurich
• Apprenticeship: IT specialist for system integration with a focus on IT security, or dual study programs
• Career Change: Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH or OSCP enable entry even without a traditional IT degree
• Continuing Education: Part-time courses from SANS Institute, Offensive Security or professional associations

Cyber Security Trends

The cybersecurity market is growing rapidly. Analysts project a global market volume of over 300 billion USD by 2028. This creates opportunities for investors:

• Cyber Security ETFs: Index funds like the L&G Cyber Security UCITS ETF bundle stocks of leading security companies (CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, Zscaler)
• Individual Stocks: Companies with strong growth in Cloud Security, Zero Trust and Managed Detection & Response
• Drivers: NIS2 regulation in the EU, rising cyber attacks, cloud migration and AI-powered threats ensure sustained demand

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Cyber Security and IT Security?

Cyber Security focuses on protecting internet-connected systems from cyber attacks. IT Security is broader and also covers physical security and offline systems. In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably.

How much does Cyber Security cost for a business?

This depends heavily on size and industry. Industry recommendations suggest 5–15% of the IT budget. For SMEs, basic measures (firewall, endpoint protection, awareness training) start at a few thousand euros per year. Comprehensive programs with regular penetration tests, SIEM and SOC can reach six-figure amounts.

Does my company need a CISO?

Beyond a certain size, yes — particularly critical infrastructure operators and NIS2-affected companies are required to designate an information security officer. Smaller organizations can cover this role through external security consultants (Virtual CISO).

What is the best certification to get started?

For beginners, CompTIA Security+ is the most common entry-level certification. Those aiming for penetration testing should target the OSCP. For management positions, the CISSP is the gold standard.