Cybersecurity

Password requirements vary widely depending on the system, website, or application setting the rules. However, I can provide a summary of common practices and recommendations:

• Length: Typically, a minimum length of 8 characters is recommended, but many systems now require 12 characters or more. Longer passwords are generally more secure.
• Digits: Many systems require at least one or more numerical digits (0-9).
• Special Characters: A special character requirement often includes symbols such as ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ) _ + - = [ ] { } \ | ; : ' " , < . > / ?.
• Uppercase Letters: Most systems require at least one or more uppercase letters (A-Z).

General Recommendations:

• Complexity: Aim for a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Avoid Personal Information: Do not use easily guessable information such as your name, birthday, or pet's name.
• Password Managers: Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Whenever possible, enable 2FA for an added layer of security.

For more information you can consult:

• CISA - Creating Strong Passwords
• Microsoft - Password tips: How to create strong passwords and keep them safe

Here's a breakdown of the password requirements you've described:

• Minimum Length: At least 8 characters.
• Digit: At least 1 numerical digit (0-9).
• Lowercase Letter: At least 1 lowercase letter (a-z).
• Uppercase Letter: At least 1 uppercase letter (A-Z).
• Non-alphanumeric Character: At least 1 special character (e.g., !, @, #, $, %, ^, &, *, (, ), -, _, +, =, [, ], {, }, ;, :, ', ", <, >, ?, /, \, |). These are also often referred to as "symbols".

Example of a Valid Password:

P@sswOrd1

Hacking generally refers to unauthorized access to or control over computer systems or networks.

Some key aspects of hacking include:

• Unauthorized Access: Gaining entry to a system or network without permission.

• Exploitation of Vulnerabilities: Taking advantage of weaknesses in software or hardware.

• Malicious Intent: Often, but not always, hacking involves harmful activities like data theft, system damage, or disruption of services. However, ethical hacking exists to test and improve security.

More information can be found at:

• IBM - What is hacking?
• Forcepoint - What is Hacking?

Network information security, often shortened to network security or cybersecurity, refers to the processes, practices and technologies designed to protect computer networks and the data traversing them from unauthorized access, misuse, modification, destruction, or disclosure.

It encompasses a wide range of measures to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information assets within a network.

Key aspects of network information security include:

• Confidentiality: Ensuring that sensitive information is accessible only to authorized individuals or systems.
• Integrity: Maintaining the accuracy and completeness of data, preventing unauthorized modifications or corruption.
• Availability: Guaranteeing that authorized users have timely and reliable access to network resources and data when needed.

Network security involves implementing various hardware and software tools, policies, and procedures to mitigate risks and vulnerabilities. These can include firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, encryption, access controls, virtual private networks (VPNs), security audits, and employee training.

Essentially, network information security is about creating a secure environment where data can be transmitted, stored, and accessed with confidence, minimizing the potential for security breaches and protecting valuable assets from cyber threats.