Critical Infrastructure Protection

Introduction

The intention of this discussion is to research and discover United States critical infrastructures. Specifically, the mission, operations, and responsibilities of the Department of Homeland Security. Furthermore, an explanation of what critical infrastructure initiatives are, what they are protecting, and the methods being utilized to protect American assets. An evaluation of the effectiveness of information security professionals protecting U.S. critical infrastructures. Finally, three methods to improve the protection of our critical infrastructures is suggested along with justifications of why each suggestion may improve the current infrastructure.

Describe the National Initiative for Cyber Security Education

CIKR stands for critical infrastructure and key resources which is an overarching term that relates to United States essential assets such as security, public health and safety, economic vitality, and infrastructures that affect the way of life. Some of these infrastructures include the power grid, water filtration pants, and telecommunications and transportation. (Homeland Security., n.d.). The mission of the National Infrastructure Protection Plan (NIPP) is to ensure the safety and security of CIKR by developing resilient infrastructures by mitigating, deterring, neutralizing, and/or preventing the intentional attacks by terrorists to cause detrimental damage to CIKR and to also build strong National rapid recovery, timely response, and preparedness in the event of a natural disaster, attack, or emergency.

Efforts to accomplish this mission include understanding the terrorist threats and other hazards with CIKR partners, organizational collaboration to implement CIKR protection programs, maximize efficiency of resources for protection, restoration, and recovery, and implementing a long-term risk management program. To define specific responsibilities for this mission and objectives the Homeland Security Act of 2002 has a baseline...