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Training Camp • Cybersecurity Glossary
The sum of all points where an unauthorized user might extract data or gain access to a system, including network interfaces, APIs, services, protocols, and physical access points.
Attack Surface Definition: The sum of all points where an unauthorized user might extract data or gain access to a system, including network interfaces, APIs, services, protocols, and physical access points.
The attack surface represents the sum of all points where an unauthorized user might extract data or gain access to a system, including network interfaces, APIs, user interfaces, protocols, services, and even physical access points. A larger attack surface typically means increased vulnerability exposure. Security frameworks like NIST CSF and ISO 27001 emphasize attack surface reduction as a key security strategy. Organizations implement attack surface management through regular assessments, network segmentation, service minimization, and continuous monitoring. For example, a cloud service provider might reduce their attack surface by disabling unnecessary services, implementing strict network controls, and restricting administrative access to critical infrastructure. Related terms: Attack vector, Vulnerability management, Threat modeling, Defense in depth, Security posture.
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