Science of Security (SoS) Program Review: 2011-2023 Report

The "Science of Security (SoS) Program Review: 2011-2023" report is now available.

National Security Agency (NSA) Research established the SoS initiative in 2011 for the promotion of a foundational cybersecurity science needed to mature the cybersecurity discipline and to underpin advances in cyber defense. Unlike the efforts undertaken by other parts of the government and industry, the SoS initiative focuses on foundational research that can fundamentally change the approach to cybersecurity, developing strategic rather than tactical approaches. These strategic results are required to transform cybersecurity from a cost-disadvantaged, reactionary field to one that is efficient and proactive. The SoS initiative fosters the establishment of security science through the pursuit of its three stated goals: 

• Engaging the academic community for foundational research
• Promoting rigorous scientific principles
• Growing the SoS community

The year 2023 marks a time of evolution for the SoS program. Remaining steadfast to its original goals, the program will conclude university-based (Lablet) foundational research for the increased diversity and mission relevance of topic-based Virtual Institutions. The three Virtual Institutes are Trusted Systems, Defensive Mechanisms, and AI for Cybersecurity. The SoS initiative will continue to tackle new challenges in the future as it seeks to raise awareness of the need for foundational cybersecurity science to ensure a mature, measurable, and reliable cyber defense.

Submitted by Cyber Pack Ventures, Inc.