CIA TRIAD - DETAILED

Let's dive deeper into each pillar. Understanding real-world examples helps us see how these principles apply to actual security scenarios. Note how each pillar requires different protection mechanisms.
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Confidentiality

Definition: Only authorized users and processes should be able to access or modify data. Data privacy through encryption.

Example: Encrypting sensitive files so that only users with the decryption key can read them. Using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access.
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Integrity

Definition: Data should be maintained in a correct state and nobody should be able to improperly modify it, either accidentally or maliciously.

Example: Using checksums or digital signatures to verify that files haven't been tampered with. Implementing version control and audit trails to track changes.
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Availability

Definition: Authorized users should be able to access data whenever they need to do so. Systems must be reliable and resilient.

Example: Implementing redundant systems, backup power, and disaster recovery plans. Protecting against DDoS attacks that could make services unavailable.
📌 Key Insight: All three pillars must be balanced. Too much focus on confidentiality can hurt availability. Too much availability can compromise confidentiality.
© 2026 Simeon AJUMOBI - CyberSecurity Training Module 1: Introduction to Ethical Hacking
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