Technical controls are the tools and systems used to protect sensitive information from cyber threats. Just as locks and alarms secure a physical space, technical controls use software and hardware to defend digital data. With cybercrime expected to cost the global economy $10.5 trillion annually by 2025 according to Cybersecurity Ventures, having robust technical defenses is now more important than ever. These controls are essential to any cybersecurity strategy, helping organizations prevent attacks, fix vulnerabilities, and ensure their data remains secure and private.
Technical controls, also known as logical controls, are the hardware and software solutions that enforce cybersecurity policies. Unlike administrative controls (e.g., policies and training) or physical controls (e.g., locked doors and security cameras), technical controls operate directly within IT systems to manage access, detect threats, and protect data.
Depending on how they safeguard devices, systems, and networks, different technical controls fall under specific categories. These are:
The numbers speak for themselves. A recent IBM report found that the global average cost of a data breach in 2024 is $4.88 million—a 10% increase over the past three years. Technical controls are essential for reducing these risks. Here’s how they make a difference:
Verizon’s 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report found that 68% of breaches in 2024 involved a human element. Technical controls like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and automated security updates exist to prevent failures due to human limitations and shortcomings.
With cyberattacks occurring every 39 seconds according to a recent study, tools like endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems ensure threats are identified and contained quickly before they become security incidents and disrupt critical business functions.
Technical controls are often required to meet standards and regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO 27001, helping organizations avoid hefty fines and legal repercussions, demonstrate their commitment and capacity for cybersecurity, and build trust among customers and regulators.
To build a strong cybersecurity framework, organizations should:
Technical controls are crucial for protecting your organization’s digital assets. By implementing strong technical defenses, you can reduce risks and keep your data secure in an ever-changing cyber landscape.
Enhance your cybersecurity strategy with 6clicks, a comprehensive cyber GRC platform that offers advanced features to manage and implement technical controls effectively.
First, our Security Compliance solution equips you with in-demand frameworks such as ISO 27001, NIST CSF, DORA, and more to help you align control implementation with regulatory requirements and global standards for cybersecurity.
Meanwhile, you can set up and manage your technical controls, link them to risks, assets, and compliance requirements, and assign control tasks to team members within the 6clicks Controls module. Then, conduct automated tests to ensure that controls are working as intended using our Continuous Control Monitoring feature.
Finally, utilize 6clicks' Audit & Assessment capability to validate the effectiveness of your technical controls and verify compliance.
Ready to elevate your cybersecurity strategy? Get started with 6clicks today and protect your organization with our cutting-edge solutions.