What is a Data Security Platform?

The term data security platform (DSP) refers to a solution that combines the functions of an array of tools that have traditionally been sold as separate solutions. Data on internal servers and in the cloud can be complex and daunting to protect against the wide range of threats putting it at risk. A DSP puts together several capabilities to reduce the number of solutions organizations need to fulfill their security needs.

There are many different facets of data security that go into a DSP solution. The typical functions of a DSP can include:

• Data discovery: Identifying and classifying data for visibility into location, context, and other insights and analysis.
• Access managementWhat is Access Management? Typically delivered as part of an Identity and Access Management (IAM) solution, access management ensures that organizations allow users the necessary resources when needed, while restricting…: Managing which users are authorized to access which areas and data, keeping track of changes in permissions.
• EncryptionWhat is Encryption? Encryption converts readable data (plaintext) into a scrambled and unreadable format (ciphertext) using an algorithm and a key. The primary purpose of encryption is to ensure the…: Encrypting data in transit and at rest to protect against the damages of data leaks or breaches.
• Behavioral analysis: Examining user behavior to detect anomalous or suspicious changes to data that could put it at risk.
• Identity analysis: Performing analytics to detect identity-based threats.
• Compliance monitoring: Monitoring data for compliance rules to reduce risk and prevent penalties for noncompliance.
• Environmental change auditing: examining changes in the data’s environment, including devices, systems, and facilities.
• Audit trails: Tracing and keeping a record of activity and changes over time for compliance, organization, and administrative purposes.

Benefits of a Data Security Platform

Organizations can benefit greatly from the use of a DSP, as it simplifies and integrates a variety of tools into one platform. By monitoring and managing data from many different sources, a DSP offers a holistic view of the data and its environment. Consolidating these various functions and data sources in one place makes it easier to identify areas of risk and vulnerabilities and provides insight into the context and environment of the data and any potential security events.

Other advantages of utilizing a DSP include:

• Full visibility into all aspects and details of data and the security environment, from user permissions to system logs.
• Tracking and monitoring for quicker detection and remediation of security events and anomalies.
• Central administration platform for data management and security.
• Consistent classification and organization of data across all systems and devices.

A DSP helps to reduce the risks associated with data in the cloud and on premises, in transit and at rest. Data leaks and data breaches can cause catastrophic damage, and protecting data against attacks and other security events is often complex, but having a DSP helps an organization simplify the many processes and tools necessary to secure their data.

The Future of Data Security Platforms

With the increase in popularity of technology like cloud storage, Artificial Intelligence (AIWhat is AI? Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by computers in an aim to mimic or exceed human cognitive abilities across a range of domains….), and Machine LearningWhat is Machine Learning? Machine learning is a subset of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that involves the development of algorithms and models that enable computers to make predictions or decisions based… (ML), the security functions combined in a DSP can prove to be a significant boon for organizations. By centralizing data security management in one platform, a DSP can allow an organization to consolidate data from many sources, such as the cloud and others, mitigating the risks of having data spread out over a large attack surface.

One of the most pressing developing challenges to data security is the growth of quantum computingWhat is Quantum Computing? Quantum computing is a cutting-edge field that leverages the principles of modern physics to perform operations significantly faster than classical computers. Classical computers, including the laptops,…, which can be used to decrypt even the most advanced encryption algorithms. Using quantum computing for encryption purposes or other post-quantum encryption methods may help DSPs enhance their encryption capabilities to fortify data security.

The use of AI and ML can also empower DSPs to more effectively and efficiently identify, classify, and protect sensitive data. With new technologies complicating the threat landscape and empowering attackers, those same technologies can be used to protect against evolving threats.

For more definitions of important cybersecurity terms, visit our blog: 50+ Essential Cybersecurity Acronyms & Definitions.