What does the term “defense in depth” imply?

The term "defense in depth" refers to the strategy of implementing multiple layers of security controls throughout an organization's technology environment. This approach ensures that if one layer of security is breached, other layers remain in place to thwart an attack or mitigate its impact. It creates a more resilient security posture by incorporating various forms of defense, such as physical security, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, antivirus software, and strict access controls, among others.

This methodology acknowledges that no single security measure is foolproof. By integrating multiple protection mechanisms, organizations can better manage risk and enhance their overall security effectiveness. In this way, the defense in depth strategy significantly reduces the chances of a successful cyber attack, as an attacker would need to get past several barriers to compromise a system.

This rationale strengthens the understanding of corporate cybersecurity practices and helps teams prioritize resource allocation toward comprehensive security frameworks.