Organized Initiatives

The Department of Homeland Security has a mission to strengthen the security resilience of cyberspace. The department works with industry and local governments to secure critical infrastructure and information systems through analyzing and reducing threats. They sponsor the National Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies.

The Department of Defense has a cyber strategy initiative to defend the department's networks and the homeland against cyber attacks, and provide cyber support to military planning.

The National Security Agency, Central Security Service provides information to U.S. decision-makers and military leaders through a partnership between NSA and cryptographic elements of the Department of Defense. They have a number of broad programs in information assurance that address areas such as commercial solutions, the global information grid, high-assurance platforms, cryptography and mobile computing

 

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides resources for a cybersecurity framework. The voluntary framework was developed based on existing standards, guidelines and best practices. They also provide a cybersecurity portal and computer security resource center. The National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) provides a framework for educators to follow that aligns with the NSA/DHS efforts. NIST has played an important role in defining standards for security. The Computer Security Division of NIST hosts a Computer Security Resource Center, which has many references to NIST programs and other government resources. NIST is the government sponsor of the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE). They hold several annual meetings including the NICE Conference and the NICE K-12 Conference.

Through the National IA Education and Training Programs (NIETP), the NSA and DHS jointly sponsor the National Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE). These programs are designed to reduce vulnerability in our national information infrastructure through higher education and research. An active CAE community and web site have been organized to promote all aspects of the CAE program.

The CAE-Community is a focal point for information about the centers for  academic excellence in cyber defense, operations, and research. It offers resources for students, parents, community members, K12 institutions, government, and industry. Through the CAE community academia, government, and industry offer opportunities for faculty development, shared curriculum, the CAE Forum, CAE Tech Talks, access to regional hubs, CAE collaboration, and funding opportunities.

 

InfraGard is a partnership between the FBI and members of the private sector. The InfraGard program provides a vehicle for seamless public-private collaboration with government that expedites the timely exchange of information and promotes mutual learning opportunities relevant to the protection of Critical Infrastructure. With thousands of vetted members nationally, InfraGard's membership includes business executives, entrepreneurs, military and government officials, computer professionals, academia and state and local law enforcement; each dedicated to contributing industry specific insight and advancing national security.

There are many national and international organizations advancing cyber security awareness and cyber defense.

ISACA and the Cyber Security Nexus™ (CSX)

CSX aims to help members of ISACA gain the knowledge and skills to increase performance and give members the guidance to enhance their careers. CSV is a holistic program designed to help members at any stage in their career and provides a one-stop source for members.

The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA)

The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) builds public/private partnerships to create and implement broad-reaching education and awareness efforts to empower users at home, work and school with the information they need to keep themselves, their organizations, their systems and their sensitive information safe and secure online and encourage a culture of cybersecurity.

SANS

SANS is the largest source for information security training in the world. They offer training through several delivery methods - live & virtual, classroom-style, online or webcast with live instruction, guided study with a local mentor, or privately at a workplace where remote colleagues can join via Simulcast. They offer computer security courses developed by industry leaders in numerous fields including cyber security training, network security, forensics, audit, security leadership, and application security. In addition to training, SANS offers certification via GIAC, an affiliate of the SANS Institute, a certification body featuring over 20 hands-on, technical certifications in information security, and optional Master's Degree programs through SANS Technology Institute graduate school, as well as numerous free security resources including newsletters, white papers and web casts.

Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)®

The Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)® is a not-for-profit, international organization of information security professionals and practitioners. It provides educational forums, publications, and peer interaction opportunities that enhance the knowledge, skill, and professional growth of its members. ISSA organizes conferences, local chapter meetings and seminars. It provides access to information through the ISSA Website as well as online E-Newsletters and in the monthly ISSA Journal. ISSA offers and opportunities for members to volunteer by joining committees, which provide leadership opportunities in the security industry.

(ISC)2 - International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium

The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc., (ISC)²®, is a global, not-for-profit leader in educating and certifying information security professionals throughout their careers.