What does an air-gap in cybersecurity do?

An air-gap in cybersecurity refers to a method of securing a network by physically segregating it from other networks, including the internet. This means that systems that are air-gapped cannot be accessed remotely and are not connected to any external networks. The primary purpose of this configuration is to enhance security by limiting the points of potential vulnerability that could be exploited by cyber threats.

By using an air-gap, organizations can protect sensitive information and critical infrastructures from various cyberattacks, as malicious actors would have to gain physical access to the air-gapped system to introduce an attack vector, which is significantly more difficult than attacking a system that is connected to the internet or other networks. This method is commonly employed in the defense, financial, and national security sectors where data confidentiality and integrity are paramount.

The other options involve different aspects of cybersecurity but do not accurately describe the concept of an air-gap. For instance, while encryption is an essential security practice, it does not involve physical separation of networks. Regularly updating software is important for patching vulnerabilities but does not inherently safeguard against all forms of cyber threats like an air-gap does. Finally, creating virtual networks refers to a different setup where networks are divided logically rather than physically. Thus, understanding air-gaps as