Primary Goals of Network Security - Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability

Three primary goals of Network Security are

• Confidentiality

• Integrity

• Availability

These three pillars of Network Security are often represented as CIA Triangle, as shown below.

Confidentiality: The first goal of Network Security is "Confidentiality". The function of "Confidentiality" is in protecting precious business data (in storage or in motion) from unauthorized persons. Confidentiality part of Network Security makes sure that the data is available OLNY to intended and authorized persons. Access to business data should be only for those individuals who are permitted to use that data.

Integrity: The second goal of Network Security is "Integrity". Integrity aims at maintaining and assuring the accuracy and consistency of data. The function of Integrity is to make sure that the date is accurate and reliable and is not changed by unauthorized persons or hackers. The data received by the recipient must be exactly same as the data sent from the sender, without change in even single bit of data.

Availability: The third goal of network security is "Availability". The function of "Availability" in Network Security is to make sure that the Data, Network Resources or Network Services are continuously available to the legitimate users, whenever they require it.