Critical Systems/Critical Technologies

In the context of business operations and information security, critical systems and technologies refer to those components of an organization's infrastructure that are deemed essential for its operational effectiveness, security, and resilience. These systems and technologies are so integral that any disruption or compromise could lead to significant operational challenges, financial losses, or breaches in security.

Critical systems typically include:

The process of identifying which systems and technologies are critical involves a comprehensive risk assessment strategy. This assessment should consider factors such as the potential impact of a system's failure, the likelihood of such failures, the system’s role in the organization's core operations, and its relevance to the overall security posture of the business.

Determining the criticality of a system or technology also involves evaluating how its potential disruption could affect the organization's ability to function or meet regulatory obligations. Organizations must ensure these systems are robustly secured and regularly monitored to manage risks effectively, maintain continuous business operations, and comply with applicable standards and regulations.