A digital immune system is a cybersecurity concept that aims to protect computer networks and systems from cyber threats in a way that mimics the human immune system. The idea is to develop an automated defense system that can detect, respond to, and neutralize cyber threats in real-time.

In a digital immune system, software and hardware work together to create a layered defense system that can detect threats at multiple levels. The system may include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, antivirus software, and other security tools that work in conjunction with machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence to analyze network traffic and identify potential threats.

Figure 1. Digital Immune System [1]

Figure 1 is an illustration of Digital Immune System. One of the key features of a digital immune system is its ability to adapt and learn from new threats. Similar to the human immune system, the digital immune system can use machine learning algorithms to detect new and emerging threats and update its defenses accordingly.

6 concepts to consider when building a digital immune system

1. Observability permits “seeing” of systems and software. By incorporating observability into programs, developers are able to alleviate reliability and resilience problems and enhance user experience (UX). [2]
2. AI augmented testing enables businesses to gradually remove human assistance from are testing processes. [2]
3. Chaos engineering employs experimental testing to find flaws and vulnerabilities in complicated systems. Teams can safely perfect the technique in non-intrusive, test-first environments when applied there. They can then apply what they’ve learned to regular operations and production hardening. [2]
4. Autoremediation focuses on integrating automatic remediation features and context-sensitive monitoring capabilities directly into an application. Without the assistance of operations employees, it self-monitors, automatically fixes problems when it notices them, and then resumes regular functioning. It can also avoid problems by fixing a poor user experience by combining chaotic engineering and observability. [2]
5. Site reliability engineering (SRE) is a set of engineering concepts and methods that employs service-level goals to control service management and focuses on enhancing CX and retention. It minimizes the effort of development teams on remediation and tech debt but allows for more attention on developing an engaging UX. It also balances the need for velocity against stability and risk. [2]
6. Software supply chain security considers the danger of supply chain attacks on software. The security, integrity, and visibility of both proprietary and open-source code in software supply chains are all improved by software bills of materials. The integrity of internal and external code is protected by strict version-control procedures, the usage of artifact repositories for trusted content, and controlling vendor risk throughout the delivery life cycle. [2]

Another important aspect of a digital immune system is its ability to respond to threats in real-time. The system can automatically isolate infected systems or devices, block suspicious traffic, and deploy patches or updates to fix vulnerabilities.

Overall, a digital immune system is a proactive approach to cybersecurity that can help organizations stay ahead of cyber threats and protect their valuable data and systems from cyber attacks

References:

1. https://www.innova.com.tr/en/blog/security-blog/what-is-a-digital-immune-system-and-how-to-build-a-strong-one
2. https://digitizingpolaris.com/what-is-a-digital-immune-system-74979b068f3c

Cite this article:

Hana M (2023), Digital Immune System, AnaTechmaz, pp.205