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Many individuals and businesses often see IT and cyber security as the same thing, however this is far from the case. In fact, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recognises IT and cyber security as separate career areas. While cybersecurity is a subset of IT (Information Technology), it requires a different set of discipline and skills. As a Cyber led IT & Telecoms company, we can give an accurate insight into the differences and importance of the two.
IT vs Cyber Security - The Definition
Think back to when you started a new role and were given a company laptop, phone or computer at your desk. When logging on, your emails were set up, Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge there on your desktop and more. Additionally, your phone has the exact same apps you needed for working on the go. That's the work of an IT specialist. IT encompasses the broad spectrum of technology used to manage and process information. This includes the development, implementation and maintenance of hardware, software and networks. Additionally, the role of IT specialists is to ensure system efficiency, reliability and connectivity.
Conversely, cyber security is a specialised part of IT focused on protecting systems, networks and data from online threats. You may have come across the odd email that made you suspicious, but because it was from your manager you sent over the information they wanted. Queue an all users email discussing the upcoming cyber training for phishing emails. That is only one part of cyber security. Cyber security experts act as digital guards, preventing unauthorised access, cyberattacks, and data breaches.
What Is The Role of IT (Information Technology)?
Above all, IT infrastructure and operations are designed to enhance productivity and business efficiency. Regardless of your business size, having a reliable IT infrastructure provides the ability to work effectively and increase productivity.
Therefore, IT professionals fine0tune hardware and software to boost speed and keep operations running smoothly. At the same time, managing your data bases is a crucial component of any IT service provider. Both the storage and organisation of important data in databases are a top priority, along with ensuring employees can connect to the systems and networks in order to do their jobs. And of course, the IT specialists are to provide technical support and troubleshoot an issues that arrive for a business.
What Is The Role of Cyber Security?
The equally important subset of IT, cyber security works in a variety of ways all with the same end goal; protecting your data. In fact, in 2023 alone it was estimated that across all UK businesses, there were approximately 2.39 million instances of cyber crime. Therefore, implementing cyber security to your business ASAP is crucial to mitigate the risk of cyber attacks. But what does cyber security actually do?
Cyber security is used to protect all digital aspects of your business from potential threats. From systems to networks and data, various methods are put into place to keep hackers and malicious software from accessing sensitive information and disrupting operations. Additionally, cyber security specialists establish and enforce security rules and guidelines through regular assessments. Finding these vulnerabilities in systems before hackers allows for proactive steps to be made before your business can be exploited.
Does My IT Department Also Cover Cyber Security?
If you are one of our clients then the answer is yes! As a Cyber led IT & Telecoms company, providing your business with the best possible service is our goal. In terms of other IT companies and specialists, this is not always the case. For example, if your IT department consists of one person, their knowledge and expertise is all you have to go off. Another key point a one man-band IT specialist may be suited for a company of 2-3 people, but once a company starts to grow beyond 5-10 people, we find businesses need a different kind of help.
While the growth of cyber specialists are on the rise, the demand for cyber security is higher. Again, the same applies with your cyber security specialist as it does with your IT - the bigger your business, the larger you cyber security team needs to be.
Bringing IT & Cyber Security Together
In conclusion, while IT and cyber security have there differences, it's important for businesses to have both. This is where AdaptiveComms are here to help! To discuss your IT & cyber security roadmap, or look over your existing contracts, contact us today on 01704540547. Alternatively, email us at info@adaptivecomms.co.uk.
