Technical controls are the hardware and software components that protect a system against cyberattacks. Firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), encryption, and identification and authentication mechanisms are examples of technical controls (Harris and Maymi 2016).
Definition(s): The security controls (i.e., safeguards or countermeasures) for an information system that are primarily implemented and executed by the information system through mechanisms contained in the hardware, software, or firmware components of the system.
There are three main types of IT security controls including technical, administrative, and physical. The primary goal for implementing a security control can be preventative, detective, corrective, compensatory, or act as a deterrent.
Technical access controls include any software-based mechanism for controlling access, such as passwords, encryption, ACLs, firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPSs), and others. Identity and access management (IAM) solutions are also a technical control.
NIST controls are generally used to enhance the cybersecurity framework, risk posture, information protection, and security standards of organizations. While NIST 800-53 is mandatory for federal agencies, commercial entities have a choice in leveraging the risk management framework in their security program.
Security controls are classified as technical (implemented with technology), management (using administrative methods), and operational (for day-to-day operations).
5 Domains of the NIST Security Framework. The five domains in the NIST framework are the pillars support the creation of a holistic and successful cybersecurity plan. They include identify, protect, detect, respond, and recover.
A control structure is a codebase portion that supports decisions based on analysis of variables. These functional components are eminently useful in computer science and computer programming.
A technical control is one that uses technology to reduce vulnerabilities. An administrator installs and configures a technical control, and the technical control then provides the protection automatically.
For information systems, there are two main types of control activities: general and application control activities. 11.07 Information system general controls (at the entity-wide, system, and application levels) are the policies and procedures that apply to all or a large segment of an entity's information systems.
The six ITGC audit controls include physical and environmental security, logical security, change management, backup and recovery, incident management and information security.
Types of Risk Control
There are three major types. They are detective, preventative, and corrective.
Technical controls are also referred to as: logical controls.
Technical controls (also known as logical controls) include hardware or software mechanisms used to protect assets.
Firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), encryption, and identification and authentication mechanisms are examples of technical controls.
Technical Structure gathers together all activities leaders. They will be responsible for the implementation of the activities and they will submit the results to further analysis.
NIST CSF and ISO 27001 Differences
NIST was created to help US federal agencies and organizations better manage their risk. At the same time, ISO 27001 is an internationally recognized approach for establishing and maintaining an ISMS. ISO 27001 involves auditors and certifying bodies, while NIST CSF is voluntary.
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
Some operational controls are the steering wheel, which turns the front wheels, the shift level, which is used to select a gear, and the brake pedal, which stops or slows down the car.
“operational definition” = “working definition,” one that is practical, and adequate for everyday use. “technical definition” = “a definition that is absolutely correct in all instances.”