How Do Computer Forensics and Cyber Security Differ?


In today’s world where so many people are reliant on their digital devices, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of cyber security and may even be diligent when it comes to protecting your own data. In fact, in the business world, one of the biggest concerns facing companies nowadays is their cyber security efforts. So, what about computer forensics? This is another high-tech term that many people often confuse with cyber security, assuming that they are one and the same. Here we’ll take a look at what the differences are between computer forensics and cyber security.

Security is the Top Priority for Both

For all their differences, there is one very big thing cyber security and computer forensics have in common and that is the fact that they both are meant to protect all your digital data and assets. In order to guarantee this protection, both use high-tech tools and software, which is another similarity. There are also no restrictions on who would be interested in cyber security and computer forensics, meaning it is just as important for businesses to be wary of as it is for people with their personal devices.

What is Cyber Security?

Looking at cyber security more closely, it involves protecting your computer, programs, networks, and your data. You can see how that would apply to both individuals and companies. Because cyber-attacks happen every single day around the world, you can never be too safe and cautious. Some of the most common cyber security threats include phishing, malware, and ransomware.
Now in terms of protecting yourself, there are all kinds of steps that should be used as part of cyber security. Steps include such things as, choosing strong passwords and then changing them on a regular basis; deleting any unused accounts; making sure you perform all software updates when offered; only visiting safe and secure websites; not opening sites or emails that you aren’t familiar with; and using secure networks.

Where Do Computer Forensics Come in?

On the other side of things, we have computer forensics. There’s a really simple way to think of computer forensics; it is the response you take when you have a breach. So, while cyber security is about protecting your device and your data, computer forensics addresses what you will do once you have been compromised, including identifying the breach, recovering data, and restoring the system.
Secure Forensics is a company that specializes in computer forensics services helping both businesses and individuals deal with data breaches. The company asks all the important questions in computer forensics which are who accessed the program, network, or data, where did this access happen, and what device or computer was used. As the word “forensics” implies, there is an investigation involved in solving the questions.

Both Serve Important Purposes

So, while there are similarities between the two, there are also key differences that set computer forensics and cyber security apart from each other. Think of them as working together, complementing one another, and each being incredibly important.


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