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A Guide to Fundamental Security Control Types

A comprehensive approach to security is required to ensure that all aspects of an organization's defenses are protected. This involves implementing a variety of security controls that work together to create a robust security posture. Security controls can be categorized into five fundamental types: administrative, technical, physical, operational, and management controls. 

By understanding these fundamental types of security controls, organizations can effectively manage risks and enhance their overall security resilience since each type has different benefits and limitations. In this article we will review all the aforementioned types of security controls by defining them, and providing common examples.

The Fundamental Types of Security Controls

Through a combination of administrative, technical, physical, operational, and management controls, security leaders can plan the most comprehensive security program to defend their organizations. Here is a summary of each fundamental type of security control:

Administrative Controls

Administrative controls are the policies, and formal procedures established by an organization to manage its security framework and enforce compliance with security regulations, internal governance goals, and cybersecurity standards. Administrative controls provide the governance needed to guide the behavior of individuals and the operation of systems within the organization. The primary purpose of administrative controls is to provide a framework for the organization’s overall security strategy. They ensure that security measures are well-documented, communicated, and enforced throughout the organization.

Here are some example of common administrative controls:

  • Policies and Procedures: Establish guidelines for acceptable use, security policies, and incident response.

  • Security Training and Awareness: Educate employees about security best practices and protocols.

  • Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate risks to the organization’s assets.

  • Background Checks: Perform pre-employment screenings to verify the trustworthiness of new hires.

  • Audit and Monitoring: Regularly review and assess security measures and compliance with policies.

  • Separation of Duties: Prevent conflict of interest, misuse of power, fraud, and errors by dividing tasks and responsibilities among multiple individuals.

Technical Controls

Technical controls, also known as logical controls, are implemented through hardware and software to protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability (CIA) of information systems. Technical controls are designed to prevent, detect, and respond to security threats at the system level.

Here are some example of common technical controls:

  • Access Controls: Implement authentication and authorization mechanisms to restrict access to resources.

  • Encryption: Use cryptographic techniques to protect data in transit and at rest.

  • Firewalls: Deploy hardware or software solutions to control incoming and outgoing network traffic.

  • Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS): Monitor and respond to potential security breaches.

  • Antivirus and Anti-Malware: Protect systems from malicious software through detection and removal tools.

  • Patch Management: Regularly update software to fix vulnerabilities and improve security.

Physical Controls

Physical controls are security measures designed to prevent unauthorized physical access to facilities, equipment, and resources. Physical controls are focused on an organization's security infrastructure, ensuring that areas with access to sensitive assets are protected from intrusions, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. This includes protecting against unauthorized access from an organization's own insiders. Physical controls are imperative for enforcing security concepts such as the principle of least privilege and separation of duties

Here are some example of common physical controls:

  • Locks and Access Cards: Use physical security measures to control entry to buildings and sensitive areas.

  • Surveillance Cameras: Monitor and record activities in and around secure facilities.

  • Security Guards: Employ personnel to protect assets and enforce security policies.

  • Environmental Controls: Implement measures to protect against natural disasters, such as fire suppression systems and climate controls.

Operational Controls

Operational controls are procedures and practices implemented to ensure the effective management and execution of security processes within an organization. Operational controls are procedures and mechanisms that are implemented and executed by people to ensure the proper functioning of security measures. They are day-to-day activities that are put in place to manage and protect an organization's assets. Fundamentally, operational controls ensure that the policies and procedures specified by Administrative controls are carried out effectively.

Here are some example of common operational controls:

  • Incident Response Plans: Prepare procedures for responding to and recovering from security incidents.

  • Change Management: Ensure changes to systems and applications are documented, tested, and approved.

  • Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plans: Establish strategies to maintain and restore business operations during disruptions.

  • Configuration Management: Maintain the consistency and security of systems and applications through standardized settings.

Management Controls

Management controls are the overarching strategies, policies, and procedures implemented by an organization's leadership to guide and oversee the security program. Management controls are designed to ensure that security objectives align with the organization's goals and that resources are effectively allocated to maintain and enhance security. These controls focus on the strategic oversight and allocation of resources for a security program, while administrative controls are concerned with the implementation of policies, procedures, and day-to-day security operations.

Here are some example of common management controls:

  • Security Assessments and Audits: Conduct evaluations to ensure security measures are effective and compliant with policies.

  • Risk Assessments: Identify and evaluate potential threats and vulnerabilities to the organization.

  • Resource Allocation: Ensure adequate funding and resources are dedicated to maintaining security measures.

  • Strategic Planning: Develop long-term plans to address security goals and objectives.

Conclusion

This guide outlines the fundamental types of security controls necessary for a comprehensive cybersecurity program. It covers administrative controls, such as policies and procedures; technical controls, like encryption and access controls; physical controls to secure physical spaces; operational controls for effective security processes; and management controls to align security with organizational goals. 

By understanding and implementing these controls, organizations can effectively manage risks and enhance their overall security posture. A comprehensive approach is essential to ensure that all aspects of an organization's defenses are protected against potential threats.

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