Early approaches to information systems security, such as that articulated in Presidential Decision Directive 63, encouraged agencies to protect their networks primarily by hardening individual network nodes. Over the past few years, cyber threats have grown enormously. Vulnerabilities are being exploited ever more rapidly. New technologies to defend networks are being delivered by the commercial marketplace daily. New approaches that recognize this dynamic environment are needed. With two million passengers daily depending on FAA network operations for safe flight, the FAA has developed a sophisticated approach to secure its network from cyber attack. That approach integrates architecture simplification, element hardening, boundary protection, systemic monitoring, orderly quarantine, and informed recovery. The talk will provide insight into that approach and the challenges that the FAA faces in navigating the rapidly changing landscape of cyber security.
About the speaker:
Dr. Arthur Pyster is the Deputy Assistant Administrator for Information Services and Deputy Chief Information Officer for the Federal Aviation Administration. The CIO office oversees information technology and Information Systems Security (ISS) for the FAA. A more comprehensive biography is at http://www1.faa.gov/aio/common/biographies/index.htm#.
Contact information:
Arthur Pyster, PhD
FAA/AIO-2/Room 602W
800 Independence Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20591
Vox: 202 267-9477
Fax: 202 267-5719
arthur.pyster@faa.gov