Best Cybersecurity Platform: Essential Features And Considerations For Modern Businesses

Best cybersecurity platform takes center stage as businesses navigate the complex landscape of digital security. With a focus on essential features and key considerations, this overview delves into the crucial aspects of choosing the right cybersecurity solution.

From understanding the importance of regular software updates to exploring the role of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, the journey to finding the best cybersecurity platform is filled with critical insights and practical advice.

Overview of Cybersecurity Platforms

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity platforms play a crucial role in safeguarding organizations from cyber threats and attacks. These platforms provide a comprehensive approach to managing and protecting sensitive data, systems, and networks, ensuring the security and integrity of business operations.

Key Features of Effective Cybersecurity Platforms:

Real-time Threat Detection and Response

• Utilization of advanced algorithms and AI technology to detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time.
• Immediate alerts and notifications to security teams for prompt action against potential security breaches.
• Continuous monitoring of network traffic and behavior for anomaly detection.

Multi-layered Defense Mechanisms

• Implementation of multiple security layers such as firewalls, encryption, access control, and endpoint security.
• Defense against various types of cyber attacks including malware, phishing, ransomware, and DDoS attacks.
• Integration of threat intelligence feeds and security information and event management (SIEM) systems.

Compliance and Regulatory Support

• Adherence to industry regulations and compliance standards to protect sensitive data and ensure legal compliance.
• Regular audits and reporting features to demonstrate compliance with regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS.
• Customizable policies and controls to meet specific compliance requirements of different industries.

Industries Relying Heavily on Cybersecurity Platforms:

Finance and Banking

• Protection of financial transactions, customer data, and online banking services from cyber threats.
• Prevention of fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized access to banking systems.
• Compliance with strict regulations such as PCI DSS and FFIEC guidelines.

Healthcare

• Safeguarding electronic health records, patient information, and medical devices from cyber attacks.
• Ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of healthcare data for patient care.
• Compliance with HIPAA regulations for protecting patient privacy and data security.

Types of Cybersecurity Platforms

When it comes to cybersecurity platforms, there are various types that organizations can choose from based on their specific needs and requirements. In this section, we will explore the different types of cybersecurity platforms and their key features.

Cloud-based vs. On-premise Cybersecurity Platforms

Cloud-based cybersecurity platforms and on-premise solutions are two common options for organizations looking to secure their systems. Let’s compare and contrast these two types:

• Cloud-based Cybersecurity Platforms: These platforms are hosted in the cloud and offer scalability, flexibility, and ease of access. They are suitable for organizations with limited resources and technical expertise.
• On-premise Cybersecurity Solutions: On-premise solutions are installed and managed within the organization’s infrastructure. They provide more control and customization but require dedicated resources for maintenance and updates.

Endpoint Security Platforms

Endpoint security platforms focus on protecting individual devices such as laptops, smartphones, and desktops from cyber threats. Key features of endpoint security platforms include:

• Antivirus and anti-malware protection
• Data encryption
• Device control and management

Network Security Platforms

Network security platforms play a crucial role in safeguarding data transmitted over networks. Some of the features of network security platforms include:

• Firewalls to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic
• Intrusion detection and prevention systems
• Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for secure remote access

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Platforms

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) platforms help organizations centralize and analyze security data from various sources. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of using SIEM platforms:

• Advantages:
  • Real-time threat detection
  • Log management and correlation
  • Compliance reporting
• Disadvantages:
  • Complex implementation and configuration
  • High cost of deployment
  • Need for skilled personnel for maintenance

Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) Platforms

Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) platforms streamline security operations by automating repetitive tasks and orchestrating incident response. Some key functionalities of SOAR platforms include:

• Incident response automation
• Playbook creation for standardized procedures
• Integration with other security tools for enhanced efficiency

Key Components of the Best Cybersecurity Platform

Cybersecurity platforms are made up of various key components that work together to protect systems and data from cyber threats. These components play a crucial role in enhancing the overall security posture of an organization.

Firewalls, Antivirus Software, and Intrusion Detection Systems

Firewalls act as a barrier between your internal network and external threats, monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic. Antivirus software helps detect and remove malicious software, while intrusion detection systems identify and respond to potential security breaches.

Importance of Regular Software Updates

Regular software updates are essential for cybersecurity platforms as they often include patches to fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cyber attackers. Failing to update software leaves systems exposed to potential threats.

Role of Encryption in Securing Sensitive Information

Encryption is crucial for protecting sensitive information by transforming data into a coded format that can only be accessed by authorized users with the decryption key. This helps prevent unauthorized access and ensures data confidentiality.

Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification before granting access. This helps prevent unauthorized access even if login credentials are compromised.

Common Cyber Threats

Cybersecurity platforms aim to protect against various cyber threats such as malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, DDoS attacks, and insider threats. By implementing robust security measures, organizations can mitigate the risks associated with these threats.

Cloud-Based vs. On-Premise Security Systems

Cloud-based cybersecurity solutions offer flexibility and scalability, allowing organizations to easily scale their security infrastructure based on their needs. On the other hand, traditional on-premise security systems provide greater control and visibility over security measures but may require more resources for maintenance.

Regular Security Audits

Conducting regular security audits is essential to assess the effectiveness of a cybersecurity platform. These audits help identify vulnerabilities, gaps in security controls, and areas for improvement, allowing organizations to enhance their security posture and better protect against cyber threats.

Considerations for Choosing a Cybersecurity Platform

When selecting a cybersecurity platform, there are several crucial factors to take into account to ensure the effectiveness and compatibility of the solution with your organization’s needs.

Scalability, Compatibility, and Integration Capabilities

• Scalability: It is essential to choose a cybersecurity platform that can grow with your organization. Ensure that the platform can handle increasing data volumes and user numbers without compromising performance.
• Compatibility with Existing Systems: The cybersecurity platform should seamlessly integrate with your current IT infrastructure and applications to avoid disruptions and ensure smooth operations.
• Integration Capabilities with Cloud Services: With the increasing adoption of cloud services, it is crucial to select a cybersecurity platform that can easily integrate with cloud environments to provide comprehensive protection across all platforms.

User-Friendliness and Support Options

• User-Friendliness: Look for a cybersecurity platform that is user-friendly and intuitive to use. Consider the availability of training resources and user documentation to ensure easy adoption by your team.
• Customer Support Options: Evaluate the customer support options provided by the cybersecurity platform vendor. Ensure that there are support resources available in case of any issues or queries.

Reputation and Track Record Evaluation

• Case Studies: Review case studies of the cybersecurity platform in action to understand its effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
• Customer Reviews: Check customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the satisfaction levels of existing users with the platform.
• Industry Certifications: Look for cybersecurity platform providers with industry certifications and accreditations to ensure the highest standards of security and compliance.

Comparison Table and Testing

Consider creating a comparison table highlighting key features, pricing structures, and deployment options of different cybersecurity platforms to make an informed decision.

It is advisable to conduct a pilot program or request a demo from cybersecurity platform providers to test the platform’s performance in a real-world scenario before making a final decision.

Emerging Technologies in Cybersecurity Platforms

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionizing cybersecurity platforms by enhancing their ability to detect and respond to threats in real-time. These technologies enable platforms to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, identifying patterns and anomalies that may indicate a potential security breach.

Impact of Automation and Orchestration

Automation and orchestration play a crucial role in improving incident response within cybersecurity platforms. By automating repetitive tasks and orchestrating the response to security incidents, organizations can reduce response times and minimize the impact of cyberattacks.

Role of Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics leverages historical data and machine learning algorithms to forecast future trends and identify potential security threats before they occur. By analyzing patterns and anomalies in data, cybersecurity platforms can proactively strengthen their defenses against emerging threats.

Signature-based vs. Behavior-based Detection Methods

Signature-based detection methods rely on known patterns or signatures of malicious activity, while behavior-based detection methods focus on identifying unusual behavior that may indicate a security threat. By combining both approaches, cybersecurity platforms can enhance their ability to detect and respond to a wide range of threats effectively.

Importance of Threat Intelligence Feeds

Threat intelligence feeds provide cybersecurity platforms with real-time information about emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques. By integrating threat intelligence feeds into their defenses, organizations can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and strengthen their security posture.

Integration with Other IT Systems

Establishing seamless integration with existing IT infrastructure is crucial for ensuring the smooth operation of cybersecurity platforms within an organization. This integration allows for effective monitoring, threat detection, and incident response across all systems.

Configuring Cybersecurity Platforms with SIEM and SOAR Tools

When configuring cybersecurity platforms to integrate with popular tools such as SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) and SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) platforms, follow these steps:

• Ensure compatibility between the cybersecurity platform and the SIEM or SOAR tool.
• Set up secure communication channels between the systems to exchange data.
• Configure the cybersecurity platform to send relevant alerts and data to the SIEM or SOAR tool.
• Test the integration thoroughly to validate proper functionality.

Benefits of Integrating Cybersecurity Platforms with SIEM and SOAR Tools

Integrating cybersecurity platforms with SIEM and SOAR tools offers several benefits, including:

• Enhanced threat detection capabilities through centralized monitoring and analysis of security events.
• Automated incident response, enabling faster mitigation of security incidents.
• Improved visibility and correlation of security data for better decision-making.

Risks and Security Implications of Integration

Integrating cybersecurity platforms with legacy systems poses potential risks, such as:

• Increased attack surface due to vulnerabilities in legacy systems.
• Potential data breaches if the integration is not properly secured.
• Compatibility issues that could disrupt operations or lead to false positives in threat detection.

Thorough testing and continuous monitoring are essential to mitigate these risks and ensure the security of integrated systems.

Compliance and Regulatory Considerations

Cybersecurity platforms play a crucial role in helping organizations comply with various regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA. These platforms provide the necessary tools and features to ensure that sensitive data is protected and that organizations meet the requirements set forth by these regulations.

Role of Auditing and Reporting Features

• Auditing and reporting features in cybersecurity platforms help organizations track and monitor access to data, detect any unauthorized activities, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• These features generate detailed reports that can be used to demonstrate compliance during audits and investigations.

Addressing Industry-Specific Regulations

• Cybersecurity platforms are designed to address industry-specific regulations by offering specialized tools and configurations to meet the unique compliance requirements of different sectors.
• For example, healthcare organizations require cybersecurity platforms that are HIPAA-compliant, while financial institutions need solutions that adhere to regulations like PCI DSS.

Steps for Conducting a Compliance Audit

• Conducting a compliance audit using cybersecurity platforms involves assessing the organization’s security controls, policies, and procedures to ensure alignment with regulatory standards.
• It includes identifying vulnerabilities, reviewing access controls, monitoring data encryption practices, and verifying compliance with specific regulations.

Importance of Data Encryption

• Data encryption is essential for ensuring compliance with various regulations as it protects sensitive information from unauthorized access and helps organizations maintain data integrity.
• Cybersecurity platforms use encryption technologies to secure data both at rest and in transit, ensuring that data remains confidential and meets regulatory requirements.

Monitoring and Enforcing Compliance

• Cybersecurity platforms employ continuous monitoring tools to track compliance with regulatory standards in real-time.
• These platforms use automated alerts, threat detection mechanisms, and policy enforcement features to ensure that organizations adhere to compliance requirements and mitigate risks effectively.

Cost and ROI Analysis

When it comes to implementing a cybersecurity platform, there are several factors that contribute to the overall cost. These can include initial setup costs, ongoing maintenance expenses, training for personnel, and any additional features or services required to enhance security.

However, the potential return on investment (ROI) of a cybersecurity platform is invaluable in terms of preventing data breaches and cyberattacks. By investing in a robust cybersecurity solution, businesses can avoid costly breaches that could damage their reputation, incur fines, and lead to loss of sensitive data.

Factors Affecting Cost of Implementing a Cybersecurity Platform

• Initial setup costs
• Ongoing maintenance expenses
• Training for personnel
• Additional features or services

Tips for Conducting a Cost-Benefit Analysis

• Identify all costs associated with each cybersecurity platform
• Estimate potential savings from breach prevention
• Consider the scalability and future upgrades of the platform

Comparison of Cybersecurity Platforms

Cybersecurity Platform	Initial Setup Costs	Ongoing Maintenance Expenses	Potential Savings from Breach Prevention
Platform A	$XX,XXX	$X,XXX/month	$X,XXX,XXX/year
Platform B	$XX,XXX	$X,XXX/month	$X,XXX,XXX/year
Platform C	$XX,XXX	$X,XXX/month	$X,XXX,XXX/year

Calculating Payback Period

Payback Period = Initial Investment / Projected Annual Savings

Importance of Scalability and Future Upgrades

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of a cybersecurity platform, it is crucial to consider scalability and future upgrades. A platform that can grow with your business and adapt to emerging threats will provide long-term value and ensure ongoing protection against cyber threats.

Training and Support for Cybersecurity Platforms

User training and ongoing support are crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of cybersecurity platforms. Without proper training, users may not fully understand how to utilize the platform’s features, leaving vulnerabilities in the system. Ongoing support ensures that users have access to help when needed and can stay up-to-date on the latest security protocols and best practices.

Importance of User Training

Training resources and certifications play a vital role in enhancing the knowledge and skills of cybersecurity professionals. Some examples of training resources include online courses, workshops, webinars, and hands-on training sessions. Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) validate the expertise of professionals in the field.

• Online courses provide flexibility for professionals to enhance their skills at their own pace.
• Workshops and webinars offer interactive learning experiences and opportunities for networking with industry experts.
• Hands-on training sessions allow professionals to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Creating a Robust Cybersecurity Awareness Program

To create a robust cybersecurity awareness program within an organization, it is essential to educate employees about potential cyber threats and how to mitigate risks. This can be achieved through regular training sessions, simulated phishing exercises, and informative resources on cybersecurity best practices.

• Regular training sessions can cover topics such as password security, phishing awareness, and data protection protocols.
• Simulated phishing exercises help employees recognize phishing attempts and understand the importance of staying vigilant online.
• Informative resources, such as posters, newsletters, and intranet articles, can reinforce cybersecurity awareness and encourage best practices.

Case Studies of Successful Cybersecurity Platform Implementations

Implementing a cybersecurity platform is crucial for organizations to safeguard their digital assets and sensitive information. Let’s explore some real-world examples of successful cybersecurity platform implementations, along with the outcomes and key strategies that led to their success.

Financial Institution A

Financial Institution A, a leading bank, implemented a comprehensive cybersecurity platform to enhance their security posture. By integrating advanced threat detection capabilities and real-time monitoring, the bank was able to proactively identify and mitigate cyber threats. As a result, they experienced a significant reduction in security incidents and data breaches, ensuring customer trust and regulatory compliance.

Technology Company B

Technology Company B, a multinational corporation, deployed a cloud-based cybersecurity platform to secure their global network and data centers. The platform enabled automated threat response and incident management, improving their overall cybersecurity resilience. This proactive approach not only enhanced their cybersecurity posture but also resulted in cost savings and operational efficiency.

Healthcare Provider C

Healthcare Provider C implemented a tailored cybersecurity platform designed specifically for the healthcare industry. With features such as data encryption, access control, and compliance monitoring, the provider successfully protected patient data and confidential information. The cybersecurity platform not only ensured regulatory compliance but also elevated the organization’s reputation for prioritizing patient privacy and security.

Key Strategies for Success

• Collaboration between IT and security teams to align cybersecurity goals with overall business objectives.
• Regular security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities and prioritize risk mitigation efforts.
• Ongoing employee training and awareness programs to promote a culture of cybersecurity within the organization.
• Continuous monitoring and threat intelligence integration to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.

Cybersecurity Platform Testing and Evaluation

Penetration testing and vulnerability assessments play a crucial role in evaluating cybersecurity platforms. These tests simulate real-world cyber attacks to identify potential weaknesses and vulnerabilities in the system’s defenses. By conducting penetration testing, organizations can proactively address security gaps and strengthen their overall cybersecurity posture.

Importance of Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Assessments

• Penetration testing helps organizations identify and prioritize security risks by simulating attacks from malicious actors.
• Vulnerability assessments provide insights into known vulnerabilities within the cybersecurity platform, allowing teams to patch and mitigate these weaknesses.
• Regular testing helps organizations stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and ensure that their cybersecurity measures remain effective.

Role of Red Teaming Exercises

Red teaming exercises involve simulated attacks by an internal or external team to identify weaknesses in a cybersecurity platform’s defenses. These exercises provide a comprehensive assessment of an organization’s security posture by testing detection and response capabilities, as well as the effectiveness of security controls.

Continuous Monitoring and Assessment

Continuous monitoring is essential to assess the effectiveness of cybersecurity platforms over time. By monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and security metrics, organizations can identify trends, anomalies, and potential security incidents. Regular assessments help in adapting security measures to address emerging threats and changing business requirements.

Best Practices for Securing Cybersecurity Platforms

Securing cybersecurity platforms is crucial in protecting sensitive data and preventing cyber threats. Implementing security best practices is essential to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of information.

Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication

One of the fundamental security measures is implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of protection. By requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification, such as a password and a unique code sent to their mobile device, the risk of unauthorized access is significantly reduced.

Regular Security Audits

Conducting regular security audits helps identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the cybersecurity platform. By assessing the system’s security controls, organizations can proactively address any potential threats before they are exploited by malicious actors.

Establishing Incident Response Plans

Having well-defined incident response plans is crucial for effectively managing and mitigating security incidents. These plans outline the steps to be taken in the event of a breach, ensuring a coordinated and efficient response to minimize the impact on the organization.

Conducting Tabletop Exercises

Tabletop exercises simulate real-world cyber incidents and allow organizations to test their incident response plans in a controlled environment. By practicing different scenarios, teams can identify areas for improvement and enhance their readiness to handle security incidents effectively.

Ensuring Ongoing Security Hygiene

Maintaining ongoing security hygiene involves regularly updating software, patching vulnerabilities, and educating users on best security practices. By staying vigilant and proactive, organizations can reduce the risk of cyber threats and ensure the overall security of their cybersecurity platform.

Scalability and Future-Proofing Cybersecurity Platforms

Scalability and future-proofing are crucial elements in ensuring that cybersecurity platforms can effectively adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Organizations need to be prepared to scale their defenses and implement strategies that will keep their cybersecurity platforms relevant and effective in the long term.

Importance of Scalability

Scalability is essential for cybersecurity platforms as it allows organizations to expand their defenses as their business grows or as new threats emerge. Without scalability, a cybersecurity platform may become inadequate and unable to protect against sophisticated cyber attacks.

• Scalability enables organizations to handle increased data volumes and traffic without compromising security.
• It helps in accommodating new technologies and devices that are added to the network.
• Scalability ensures that the cybersecurity platform can adapt to changing compliance requirements and regulations.
• It allows for the integration of new security tools and technologies to enhance overall protection.

Future-Proofing Strategies

Future-proofing cybersecurity platforms involves implementing measures to anticipate and mitigate emerging cyber threats before they become major risks to the organization. By proactively planning for the future, organizations can stay ahead of potential security challenges.

• Regularly updating and patching security software to address vulnerabilities and improve defense mechanisms.
• Investing in AI and machine learning technologies to enhance threat detection and response capabilities.
• Implementing multi-factor authentication and encryption protocols to secure data and prevent unauthorized access.
• Participating in threat intelligence sharing networks to stay informed about new cyber threats and attack trends.

Technologies for Effective Scaling

There are several technologies that organizations can leverage to scale their cybersecurity defenses effectively and ensure the future-proofing of their security platforms.

• Cloud-based security solutions that offer flexibility and scalability to adapt to changing security needs.
• Software-defined networking (SDN) for dynamic and automated security policy enforcement across the network.
• Containerization technology for isolating applications and services to contain security breaches and minimize impact.
• Zero-trust security architecture that verifies every user and device attempting to access the network, regardless of their location.

User Experience and Interface Design in Cybersecurity Platforms

User experience design plays a crucial role in enhancing the usability of cybersecurity platforms. By focusing on creating intuitive interfaces and user-centric design principles, cybersecurity platforms can simplify complex processes and improve user engagement and productivity.

Role of User Experience Design

• Intuitive interfaces such as interactive dashboards and clear navigation menus can make it easier for users to access and manage security features.
• Personalized user experiences tailored to different roles within an organization can help streamline workflows and enhance overall efficiency.
• Visual cues and feedback mechanisms can guide users through security protocols and alert them to potential threats effectively.

Impact of Visual Hierarchy

• Visual hierarchy in cybersecurity platform interfaces helps prioritize important information, such as security alerts, to ensure quick and informed decision-making.
• By using visual elements like color coding and size variations, users can easily identify critical data and actions needed to address security issues promptly.
• Consistent design elements across different sections of the platform maintain a cohesive user experience and facilitate seamless navigation.

Importance of Accessibility Features

• Accessibility features such as screen reader compatibility and keyboard navigation are essential for users with disabilities to access and use cybersecurity platforms effectively.
• Designing interfaces with accessibility in mind ensures inclusivity and compliance with accessibility standards, benefiting all users regardless of their abilities.
• Providing alternative text for images and clear, concise content helps users with visual impairments navigate the platform with ease.

Responsive Design for Seamless Experience

• Responsive design enables cybersecurity platforms to adapt to various screen sizes and devices, ensuring a consistent and user-friendly experience across desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones.
• Mobile-responsive interfaces allow users to access security alerts and monitoring tools on the go, enhancing flexibility and responsiveness in addressing cybersecurity threats.
• Optimizing layouts and functionalities for different devices optimizes user interaction and engagement, promoting efficient security management practices.

Industry Trends and Innovations in Cybersecurity Platforms

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, staying abreast of industry trends and innovations is crucial for organizations to protect their sensitive data and systems. Let’s delve into some of the current trends and innovations shaping the realm of cybersecurity platforms.

Zero Trust Architecture and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) is gaining momentum as a cybersecurity framework that challenges the traditional perimeter-based security model. By assuming that threats exist both inside and outside the network, ZTA advocates for continuous verification of users and devices accessing the network. On the other hand, Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) combines network security functions with wide-area networking capabilities to provide secure access to applications and data from any location. This convergence of networking and security in the cloud is revolutionizing how organizations secure their distributed workforce and resources.

Quantum-Safe Cryptography

As quantum computing advances, the threat it poses to traditional encryption algorithms grows. Quantum-safe cryptography, also known as post-quantum cryptography, is designed to withstand attacks from quantum computers. By leveraging mathematical principles that are resilient to quantum attacks, organizations can future-proof their cybersecurity defenses. Implementing quantum-safe cryptography is becoming increasingly important as quantum computing matures and becomes more accessible to malicious actors.

Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats

To stay ahead of cyber threats, organizations must embrace cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies such as ZTA, SASE, and quantum-safe cryptography. By adopting these innovative solutions, businesses can enhance their security posture and mitigate the risks posed by evolving cyber threats. It’s essential for organizations to continuously assess their cybersecurity strategies and invest in technologies that offer robust protection against sophisticated attacks.

Final Wrap-Up

In conclusion, the quest for the best cybersecurity platform is not just about technology; it’s about strategic decision-making and proactive risk management. By staying informed and adopting a holistic approach to cybersecurity, businesses can safeguard their digital assets and thrive in an increasingly connected world.