The Evolution of Cyber Security in the 80s
The 80s was an era of rapid technological advancement and innovation. This period marked a significant rise in personal computer usage and the spread of networked systems. Back then, technology was much simpler, and cyber threats were not as sophisticated as they are today. This article will examine the various methods people used to protect themselves against cyber threats in the 80s.
The Rise of Viruses and Antivirus Software
The 80s saw the first computer viruses, which were primitive compared to the viruses of today. These viruses infected the computer’s boot sector, causing havoc by corrupting the data stored on the hard drive or floppy disks. Initially, antivirus software programs were scarce, and the only reliable method of protection was to avoid sharing files and refrain from using infected disks.
However, in the late 80s, antivirus programs such as McAfee, Norton, and Sophos were developed. These programs provided computer users with the ability to detect and remove malicious software. These innovative antivirus solutions were widely adopted and helped many people stay protected from computer viruses.
Networking Security Protocols
The 80s saw the first use of networked computing, which presented new security challenges. The most notable security protocol developed during this period was the Secure Socket Layer (SSL), which enabled encrypted communication between the server and client. SSL quickly became ubiquitous in online transactions, and it paved the way for more secure online commerce.
Another popular security protocol was the Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS), which allowed network administrators to authenticate and authorize remote users. This protocol ensured that only users with the necessary authorization could access a network. Both SSL and RADIUS are still widely used today.
The Importance of Backups
In the 80s, data storage devices such as floppy disks and hard drives were prone to failures and data loss. To mitigate this risk, individuals and businesses had to regularly create backups of their data. This approach allowed them to quickly restore their data if they experienced a disaster or data loss.
Tape backups were the most popular backup solutions at the time. The tapes were inexpensive and could store large amounts of data. However, they required specialized hardware and software, which made them less accessible to individuals and small businesses.
Conclusion
The 80s were a time of significant changes in the technological landscape, and the rise of cyber threats necessitated the development of new security measures. Despite the limitations of the technology of the time, individuals and businesses found ways to protect themselves against cyber threats.
Antivirus software, network security protocols, and backup solutions were the primary methods of cyber security used in the 80s. These methods laid the groundwork for modern-day cyber security, which has become more sophisticated and complex in the intervening decades.
