Security refers to the measures taken to protect individuals, organizations, and information from harm or unauthorized access. It encompasses a wide range of practices, technologies, and processes designed to safeguard assets, including physical items, data, and personnel, from threats such as theft, fraud, vandalism, and cyber attacks.
In a broader sense, security can apply to various domains including personal security, national security, information security, and cybersecurity. Personal security involves protecting individuals from physical harm and ensuring their safety in everyday life. National security involves measures taken by a state to ensure its survival and safety against threats from other entities. Information security focuses on protecting data integrity, confidentiality, and availability, often through encryption and secure access controls. Cybersecurity specifically addresses the safety of systems and networks in the digital realm.
Overall, security is about creating a safe environment and mitigating risks to ensure the continued functioning and well-being of people, organizations, and systems.