Cybersecurity readiness has become a top priority for organizations around the world as they struggle to defend against an ever-increasing number of cyber threats. In order to effectively protect their networks and data, companies have traditionally relied on sending their cybersecurity personnel away for training courses provided by security vendors or organizations like SANS. However, this approach is no longer sufficient in today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape.
According to Taavi Must, CEO and Co-Founder of RangeForce, continuous on-demand training is the only way forward for cybersecurity readiness. In a recent article for Cyber Defense Magazine, Must argues that the days of sending employees away for training once a year are over.
Must points out that traditional training methods are based on a “point-in-time” approach, where employees receive training on specific topics over a short period of time. This approach has several drawbacks. First, it is not sustainable in the long run. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and a one-time training session is not enough to keep up with the latest attack techniques and strategies. Second, traditional training methods are often product-focused, meaning they only cover a specific vendor’s products or solutions. This limits employees’ knowledge and understanding of the broader cybersecurity landscape.
Continuous on-demand training, on the other hand, offers a more effective and flexible approach to cybersecurity readiness. This model allows employees to access training materials whenever they need them, on any device. It eliminates the need for employees to be away from their work for extended periods of time, as they can complete training modules at their own pace and convenience. This ensures that employees are constantly updating their knowledge and skills, and are better prepared to defend against emerging threats.
The benefits of continuous on-demand training are not limited to convenience. Must highlights the importance of hands-on learning in cybersecurity training. Traditional training methods often rely on theoretical knowledge and lack practical application. Continuous on-demand training platforms like RangeForce provide employees with real-world scenarios and simulated attack environments, allowing them to develop their skills through practical exercises. This hands-on approach not only enhances learning but also ensures that employees gain the experience they need to effectively respond to real-world cyber threats.
Furthermore, continuous on-demand training platforms leverage the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to provide personalized learning experiences. These platforms can analyze employees’ performance and identify areas where they need improvement. They can then recommend specific training modules or exercises to address those weaknesses. This personalized approach ensures that employees are receiving training that is tailored to their individual needs and helps them better grasp complex concepts.
The adoption of continuous on-demand training is crucial in the current cybersecurity landscape, where the number and sophistication of threats continue to grow. By providing employees with ongoing access to training resources, organizations can ensure that their cybersecurity teams are always up to date with the latest knowledge and skills. This not only enhances an organization’s ability to prevent and detect cyber attacks but also reduces the risk of costly data breaches and other security incidents.
In conclusion, continuous on-demand training is the future of cybersecurity readiness. Traditional training methods are no longer sufficient in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving threat landscape. By adopting a continuous on-demand training model, organizations can ensure that their cybersecurity teams are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively defend against emerging threats. With the power of AI and ML, continuous on-demand training platforms provide personalized learning experiences that are both practical and effective. As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations must prioritize ongoing training and invest in the development of their cybersecurity personnel.