Staying abreast of the ever-changing cyber threat landscape can present a significant challenge for cybersecurity professionals. The demands of daily work leave little time for mastering the latest threats and tools, but cyber ranges serve as a solution to keep skills sharp while also providing a enjoyable experience.
For over two decades, governments, universities, and workplace training organizations have utilized simulated training environments known as cyber ranges. These platforms offer users the opportunity to practice using networks, systems, tools, and applications they would encounter in their job roles. Cyber ranges have proven to be an essential tool for cybersecurity professionals aiming to stay ahead of emerging threats and new technologies.
In a recent development, the National Aviation University in Ukraine introduced Cyber Range UA, a virtual platform dedicated to simulating real-world cyber attacks. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance cybersecurity training in Ukraine. Additionally, in October of last year, the US Navy unveiled the National Cyber Range at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, focusing on testing and training initiatives for aircraft and their supportive technologies.
The Deputy Director of the National Cyber Range, John Ross, emphasized the importance of cyber resilience within defense technology. By conducting vulnerability assessments and recommending mitigations, the National Cyber Range aims to strengthen warfighter systems against potential cyber threats, safeguarding sensitive data and technology from adversaries.
While cyber ranges are commonly associated with training exercises, they also play a pivotal role in the business sector. The SANS Institute has been hosting its NetWars cyber range competition since 2009, engaging the wider cybersecurity community. With about 20,000 participants annually in their free Holiday Hack Challenge, SANS offers various cyber range competitions for individuals and teams to ensure that cybersecurity professionals are well-equipped to tackle evolving threats.
Ed Skoudis, President of the SANS Technology Institute, highlighted the significance of cyber ranges in maintaining mission preparedness and readiness. SANS designs ranges that mimic real-world scenarios, allowing participants to enhance their skills in a gaming environment. Ranges can vary in complexity and time commitment, accommodating different skill levels and preferences. Moreover, SANS provides custom ranges tailored to specific skill sets or industry requirements for an immersive training experience.
In the realm of national security, Singapore’s Home Team Science & Technology (HTX) agency collaborated with SANS to develop a custom cyber range. This initiative aimed to enhance practitioners’ skills through gamified cybersecurity training, raising awareness of emerging attack surfaces and technologies. By exploring the application of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity and homeland security contexts, participants gain valuable insights into cyber incident investigation and threat mitigation.
Companies are also exploring innovative ways to leverage cyber ranges for training and differentiation in the market. Managed detection and response provider Critical Start integrated a cyber range feature into its platform, allowing customers to practice responding to real-time system alerts. This feature, available to all managed service customers, serves as a valuable training and onboarding tool while bolstering preparedness against cyber threats.
Chris Carlson, Chief Product Officer at Critical Start, highlighted the importance of providing ongoing training for cybersecurity professionals. The cyber range feature offers a practical way for analysts to enhance their skills and combat emerging threats effectively, all within the same platform used for their daily tasks.
In conclusion, cyber ranges continue to play a crucial role in enhancing cybersecurity readiness and preparedness across various sectors. By providing a platform for hands-on training and skill development, cyber ranges serve as a valuable resource for cybersecurity professionals to stay ahead of evolving threats and technologies. As the cybersecurity landscape evolves, the utilization of cyber ranges will remain essential in preparing individuals and organizations to combat sophisticated cyber threats effectively.