Functional Security And Virtual Security: Two Complementary Aspects Of System Security

Functional security and virtual security are two important aspects of system security. They should be considered as equally important goals in system development. Functional security focuses on preventing malfunctions that could lead to injury or property damage. Virtual security focuses on preventing attacks that could lead to system compromise or the disclosure of sensitive data.

Definition functional security

Functional safety focuses on preventing malfunctions that could lead to injuries or property damage. Electrical or electronic safety devices must be integrated into machines in such a way that they reliably fulfill their protective function in the event of danger. If this is guaranteed, the machine or system is functionally safe.

An important part of functional safety is risk assessment. In the planning and development phase of a system, it is important to avoid potential hazards from the outset and to eliminate or reduce risks in the area of functional safety, e.g. by using protective measures. To reduce the residual risk, it may be necessary for the operator of a machine or system to use PPE (personal protective equipment). Training and regular instruction also help to reduce the risk.

Functional safety gaps can be caused by a number of factors, such as:

• Faulty design
• Faulty implementation
• Faulty maintenance
• Environmental influences

Dangers from outside, such as vandalism or fire, do not fall within the scope of functional safety.

Functional safety gaps can be avoided by, for example:

• Safety design
• Safety testing
  
• Safety tests
• Safety training

Here are some examples of functional safety measures:

• Safety design: The system should be designed to be resistant to malfunctions.
• Safety testing: The system should be tested for safety gaps before it is put into operation.
• Safety tests: The system should be regularly tested for safety gaps after it is put into operation.
  

Definition virtual security

Virtual security is the ability of a system to perform its intended functions securely under all expected operating conditions, even when it is under attack. Virtual security focuses on defending against attacks that could lead to system compromise or the disclosure of sensitive data.

An example of a virtual security attack is a DDoS attack, in which a system is overloaded with so much traffic that it stops working. Another example is a hacking attack, in which an attacker gains access to a system and taps into sensitive data.

Virtual security vulnerabilities can be caused by a number of factors, such as:

• Weak passwords
  
• Unprotected networks
• Vulnerable software
• Insufficient security precautions

Virtual security vulnerabilities can be avoided by, for example:

• Secure password management
• Network security
• Software updates
• Security precautions

Here are some examples of virtual security measures:

• Firewalls: Firewalls protect systems from unwanted data traffic.
  
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): IDS recognize attacks on systems and raise the alarm.
• Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): IPS block attacks on systems.
• Penetration tests: penetration tests simulate attacks on systems to identify security vulnerabilities.
  

Conclusion

Functional security and virtual security are two important aspects of system security. They should be considered as equal goals in system development. Through a combination of functional security measures and virtual security measures, systems can be protected from malfunctions and attacks.