| As cyber threats constantly evolve, professionals tasked with cyber defence are finding it increasingly difficult to combat sophisticated attacks. While traditional education in cybersecurity once provided a solid foundation for tackling cyberattacks, it may no longer be enough to prepare professionals for dealing with today’s increasingly complex threats. Thus, training in a more realistic environment is required. However, replicating such conditions in the daily practice of cybersecurity is challenging. What are cyber range scenarios? Cyber-range scenarios gain increasing popularity due to their resemblance with real - life security incidents which call for a rapid and adequate reply from cyber security professionals. A cyber range is a virtual environment for cybersecurity training, testing, and research that simulates real-world networks and cyberattacks. There are four main types of cyber range scenarios, including simulation ranges, emulation ranges, overlay ranges and hybrid ranges. Cyber ranges include networks, systems, applications and even simulate user activity where needed.This way, they create an isolated and controlled space in which professionals can develop their skills, strategies and technologies and learn from their mistakes without allowing them to have real consequences. But how do cyber ranges mimic real cyber-attacks? Cyber ranges use actual systems working in a simulated network environment. Usually, different groups of people are involved in the preparation and execution of such exercises. The first group, the white team, creates the training environment. Then, another group, known as the red team, tries to exploit vulnerabilities present in the environment. In the meantime, a third group, known as the blue team, tries to prevent the attack. Over time, security teams can enhance their ability to quickly detect and respond to threats and attacks, incorporate additional security controls or rules, understand which types of system behaviour are abnormal, and optimise the sequencing of protection for critical infrastructure to ensure operational continuity. Best use cases of cyber range scenarios: Cyber ranges can be used in various ways. The best cyber range use cases that have proven to provide immense value for companies and organisations worldwide include:
Real life examples for the use of cyber range scenarios: The benefits of cyber range scenarios are widely recognised. Projects including cyber range scenarios receive EU funding through programs such as the European Defence Fund (EDF) which supports projects developing defence-oriented scenarios like attacks on critical infrastructure, and the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL), funding the creation of interoperable cyber ranges and scenario content for resilience and training. Projects such as ACTING and CYBERUNITY are directly funded to create common standards and frameworks for scenario development and interoperable cyber ranges. A similar project has been conducted in the context of the EU-Moldova. This exercise conducted withing this project brought together 29 members of the Armed Forces of Moldova with the clear goal in mind – to equip the Moldovan military with the necessary skills and knowledge to detect, prevent, and respond to potential cyber threats and attacks. How are cyber ranges becoming crucial for shaping professionals? Cyber ranges are valuable for preparing cybersecurity professionals to protect critical systems and respond effectively to evolving threats. Some of the key benefits for people in the field include:
Given the rising complexity and relentless nature of cyber threats, the need for practical, hands-on training becomes essential. Cyber range scenarios provide a safe environment that closely mirrors real-world conditions, allowing cybersecurity professionals to hone their skills, test new technologies, and optimize response strategies without risking actual damage. By simulating actual attacks and industry-specific threats, cyber ranges bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-life application. Their increasing use in both public and private sectors, as well as the support provided from EU-funded programs, highlight their strategic importance. Ultimately, cyber ranges are becoming a cornerstone in developing resilient, skilled, and agile cybersecurity teams prepared to defend against the ever-evolving threat landscape. *The drafting of this blog post is funded by the Europen Union. Views and opinionsexpressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. |
