How do you secure system functionality?

1 Assess system risks

The first step to secure system functionality is to identify and evaluate the potential risks that could affect the system and its operations. These risks could include external threats, such as cyberattacks, natural disasters, or human errors, as well as internal vulnerabilities, such as outdated software, misconfigured settings, or weak passwords. You can use various tools and methods, such as risk matrices, SWOT analysis, or threat modeling, to assess the likelihood and impact of each risk and prioritize the most critical ones.

2 Implement security controls

The second step to secure system functionality is to implement appropriate security controls to mitigate the risks and protect the system and its data. Security controls are measures that aim to prevent, detect, or respond to security incidents. They can be classified into three categories: physical, technical, and administrative. Physical controls are the ones that limit access to the system hardware and infrastructure, such as locks, alarms, or cameras. Technical controls are the ones that protect the system software and network, such as firewalls, encryption, or antivirus. Administrative controls are the ones that define the policies and procedures for the system management and users, such as authentication, authorization, or auditing.

3 Monitor system performance

The third step to secure system functionality is to monitor the system performance and behavior on a regular basis. Monitoring system performance helps you to identify and resolve any issues that could affect the system functionality, such as bottlenecks, errors, or failures. You can use various tools and methods, such as dashboards, logs, or metrics, to collect and analyze the system data and performance indicators, such as availability, response time, or throughput. You can also use alerts and notifications to inform you of any anomalies or deviations from the expected norms.

4 Evaluate system outcomes

The fourth step to secure system functionality is to evaluate the system outcomes and results against the predefined objectives and standards. Evaluating system outcomes helps you to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of the system and its security controls, as well as to identify any gaps or opportunities for improvement. You can use various tools and methods, such as audits, reviews, or feedback, to assess the system quality, compliance, and satisfaction, as well as to compare the system performance with the best practices or benchmarks.

5 Update system components

The fifth step to secure system functionality is to update the system components and security controls on a regular basis. Updating system components helps you to maintain the system functionality and security, as well as to adapt to the changing needs and expectations of the system users and stakeholders. You can use various tools and methods, such as patches, upgrades, or configuration management, to update the system software, hardware, and settings, as well as to test and verify the system functionality and security after each update.

6 Educate system users

The sixth step to secure system functionality is to educate the system users and stakeholders about the system functionality and security. Educating system users helps you to increase the awareness and understanding of the system and its security controls, as well as to promote the best practices and behaviors for the system use and management. You can use various tools and methods, such as training, guidelines, or awareness campaigns, to educate the system users and stakeholders about the system features, functions, and benefits, as well as the system risks, threats, and responsibilities.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?