Cybersecurity: Changing the Model

The current model of cybersecurity is outdated. Adversaries continue to grow more sophisticated and outpace advancements in defense technologies, processes, and education. As nation states enter into a new period of great power competition, the deficiencies in current cybersecurity practice, evidenced by the growing number of successful cyber-attacks from Russia, China, North Korea, and others, pose a greater threat. The need to update the cybersecurity model is clear. An enhanced public-private model—based on coordinated, advanced protection and resilience—is necessary to protect key critical infrastructure sectors. In addition, enhanced action from the federal government, coupled with increased formal cooperation with international allies, are necessary to ensure comprehensive cybersecurity resilience.

Bob Butler is the co-founder and managing director of Cyber Strategies LLC. He also serves as Senior Vice President, Critical Infrastructure Protection Operations and leads strategy development to provide integrated secure data delivery to critical infrastructure clients. He has consulted as a Special Government Expert to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Air Force Scientific Advisory Board and other organizations on cyber security and enterprise risk management. He also serves as a fellow at the Center for New American Security and is a member of the Texas State Cyber Security, Education and Economic Development Council. Prior to assuming his current roles, Mr. Butler served as the first Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy. Mr. Butler has a distinguished career in information technology, intelligence, and national security that spans 38 years in both public and private sectors. He is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel and a former member of the Defense Department's Senior Executive Service.