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  11. <title>Canvas ICT</title>
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  14. <description>Professional Technology Assistance</description>
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  26. <title>Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)</title>
  27. <link>https://canvasict.com.au/public-key-infrastructure-pki/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=public-key-infrastructure-pki</link>
  28. <comments>https://canvasict.com.au/public-key-infrastructure-pki/#respond</comments>
  29. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kathy B.]]></dc:creator>
  30. <pubDate>Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:20:10 +0000</pubDate>
  31. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  32. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://canvasict.com.au/?p=2749</guid>
  33.  
  34. <description><![CDATA[<p>Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a foundational framework that enables secure digital communication, authentication, and encryption across various networks and internet-based applications. At the heart of PKI are digital certificates, which serve as digital passports, allowing individuals, systems, and devices to prove their identity and establish trust. The integrity and reliability of PKI hinge on [&#8230;]</p>
  35. <p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/public-key-infrastructure-pki/">Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></description>
  36. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a foundational framework that enables secure digital communication, authentication, and encryption across various networks and internet-based applications. At the heart of PKI are digital certificates, which serve as digital passports, allowing individuals, systems, and devices to prove their identity and establish trust. The integrity and reliability of PKI hinge on a well-structured hierarchy of Certificate Authorities (CAs), which issue and manage these digital certificates. This section delves into the critical components of PKI, including the pivotal roles of the Root and Subordinate Certificate Authorities, the functionality of Certification Authority Web Enrollment for streamlined certificate issuance, and the essential service provided by Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) responders for real-time certificate validation. Together, these components form the backbone of PKI, ensuring secure and trusted digital interactions in today&#8217;s interconnected world.</p>
  37.  
  38.  
  39.  
  40. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Certificate Authorities (CAs)</h3>
  41.  
  42.  
  43.  
  44. <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Root CA</h4>
  45.  
  46.  
  47.  
  48. <p>The Root Certificate Authority (Root CA) sits at the top of the PKI hierarchy and is the most trusted entity within the PKI framework. Its primary role is to issue certificates to Subordinate (or Intermediate) CAs, establishing a chain of trust. The Root CA&#8217;s certificate is self-signed, meaning it is generated and signed by the Root CA itself. Due to its critical importance and to minimize the risk of compromise, the Root CA is often kept offline (not directly accessible over the network) and activated only when needed, such as when issuing or renewing a Subordinate CA&#8217;s certificate or performing other high-trust administrative tasks.</p>
  49.  
  50.  
  51.  
  52. <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Subordinate CAs</h4>
  53.  
  54.  
  55.  
  56. <p>Subordinate Certificate Authorities, also known as Intermediate CAs, operate under the trust established by the Root CA. They are responsible for issuing certificates to end entities such as users, devices, or servers. There can be multiple levels of Subordinate CAs, creating a deeper hierarchy, which allows for a more segmented and manageable trust structure. Subordinate CAs handle the bulk of day-to-day certificate issuance and management tasks within the PKI. Their operations include validating certificate requests, issuing certificates based on predefined templates, and handling certificate renewals and revocation.</p>
  57.  
  58.  
  59.  
  60. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Certification Authority Web Enrollment</h3>
  61.  
  62.  
  63.  
  64. <p>Certification Authority Web Enrollment is a service that facilitates the process of requesting and retrieving certificates via a web interface. This service is part of the Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS) in Windows Server environments. It allows end-users and administrators to request certificates through a browser by accessing a web page hosted by the CA. Users can submit certificate signing requests (CSRs), and upon approval, download their issued certificates directly through the web interface.</p>
  65.  
  66.  
  67.  
  68. <p>This service simplifies the certificate enrollment process, especially in environments with a large number of users or devices requiring certificates. It supports various certificate types, including user certificates, computer certificates, and specific application certificates. The web enrollment feature is particularly useful for scenarios where automation or direct access to the CA is not feasible or desired.</p>
  69.  
  70.  
  71.  
  72. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Online Responder and OCSP</h3>
  73.  
  74.  
  75.  
  76. <p>The Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) responder is a crucial component for maintaining the real-time validity status of issued certificates. Unlike traditional Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs), which require clients to download a list of all revoked certificates, OCSP allows for on-demand, real-time queries of a certificate&#8217;s revocation status. When a client needs to verify the status of a certificate, it sends a request to the OCSP responder, which checks the current status and responds with the certificate&#8217;s validity information.</p>
  77.  
  78.  
  79.  
  80. <p>The OCSP responder improves the efficiency of revocation checking by reducing network bandwidth and processing time required for clients to ascertain the status of a certificate. This is particularly important in high-performance environments or where timely information about the revocation status is critical. The OCSP responder must be highly available and securely managed to ensure reliable and trustworthy responses to revocation status queries.</p>
  81.  
  82.  
  83.  
  84. <p>Each of these components plays a vital role in the PKI ecosystem, ensuring the secure issuance, management, and validation of digital certificates, which are foundational to secure communications and trust within and across organizational boundaries.</p>
  85.  
  86.  
  87.  
  88. <p></p>
  89.  
  90.  
  91.  
  92. <p>Microsoft Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS) is a critical component in implementing a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) within a Windows Server environment. AD CS provides customizable services for creating, managing, and revoking public key certificates used in software security systems employing public key technologies. Within the PKI structure, AD CS acts as the backbone, enabling the setup and management of Certificate Authorities (CAs) that issue digital certificates to users, devices, and services.</p>
  93.  
  94.  
  95.  
  96. <p>One of the key features of AD CS is the management of certificate templates. These templates define the purpose, validity period, renewal policies, and other settings for the types of certificates the CA can issue. This allows for standardized issuance policies across the organization, ensuring consistency and compliance with security policies.</p>
  97.  
  98.  
  99.  
  100. <p>AD CS also manages the issuance policies, which govern the rules and processes for certificate issuance. These policies can include authentication requirements for certificate requests, approval workflows, and automatic enrollment settings. The issuance policies ensure that certificates are issued securely and only to verified entities.</p>
  101.  
  102.  
  103.  
  104. <p>Revocation lists, specifically Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs), are another critical aspect managed by AD CS. CRLs provide a list of certificates that have been revoked before their scheduled expiration date, allowing users and systems to verify the validity of a certificate. AD CS facilitates the creation, distribution, and updating of CRLs, ensuring that entities within the network can check the revocation status of certificates in real-time.</p>
  105.  
  106.  
  107.  
  108. <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Policy and Certification Authority Web Services</h4>
  109.  
  110.  
  111.  
  112. <p>Policy and Certification Authority (CA) Web Services are integral to managing certificate enrollment and issuance, especially in environments with network boundaries or where direct access to the CA is restricted. These services facilitate the communication between CAs and clients across different domains or network segments, enabling secure certificate enrollment and issuance processes.</p>
  113.  
  114.  
  115.  
  116. <p>For Subordinate CAs, these web services are particularly useful as they allow for the delegation of certificate issuance tasks across organizational units or geographical locations. By utilizing Policy and CA Web Services, Subordinate CAs can adhere to centralized policies and templates while serving the specific needs of their domain, ensuring a cohesive and secure PKI structure across the entire organization.</p>
  117.  
  118.  
  119.  
  120. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Data Flow and Interactions</h3>
  121.  
  122.  
  123.  
  124. <p>This section outlines the critical processes within a PKI system, detailing the journey of digital certificates from their initial enrollment to potential revocation. It covers the steps involved in requesting, validating, and issuing certificates, as well as the methods used to check their validity over time, such as Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs) and the Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP). This section aims to provide a clear understanding of the essential interactions that maintain the security and trust of digital certificates in a PKI framework.</p>
  125.  
  126.  
  127.  
  128. <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Certificate Enrollment Process</h4>
  129.  
  130.  
  131.  
  132. <p>The certificate enrollment process in a PKI system involves several key steps:</p>
  133.  
  134.  
  135.  
  136. <ol>
  137. <li><strong>Enrollment Request</strong>: An end entity, such as a user or device, initiates the process by generating a Certificate Signing Request (CSR). The CSR contains the entity&#8217;s public key and identifying information.</li>
  138.  
  139.  
  140.  
  141. <li><strong>Request Submission</strong>: The CSR is submitted to the CA, often via a web interface provided by Certification Authority Web Enrollment or through automated processes like auto-enrollment in Active Directory environments.</li>
  142.  
  143.  
  144.  
  145. <li><strong>Request Validation</strong>: The CA validates the request. This validation can involve checking the identity of the requester against a directory service, requiring managerial approval, or other authentication methods as defined by the CA&#8217;s policies.</li>
  146.  
  147.  
  148.  
  149. <li><strong>Certificate Issuance</strong>: Once the request is approved, the CA signs the certificate using its private key, effectively binding the requester&#8217;s public key to their identity as specified in the CSR.</li>
  150.  
  151.  
  152.  
  153. <li><strong>Certificate Retrieval</strong>: The signed certificate is made available to the requester, either through a direct download from the web interface or via automatic installation onto the requester&#8217;s system or device.</li>
  154.  
  155.  
  156.  
  157. <li><strong>Certificate Installation</strong>: The end entity installs the certificate, enabling it to be used for secure communications, digital signatures, or other cryptographic functions.</li>
  158. </ol>
  159.  
  160.  
  161.  
  162. <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Revocation Checking</h4>
  163.  
  164.  
  165.  
  166. <p>Revocation checking is crucial for verifying the current validity of certificates. There are two primary methods for this:</p>
  167.  
  168.  
  169.  
  170. <ul>
  171. <li><strong>Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs)</strong>: CAs publish CRLs at regular intervals, listing all certificates revoked before their expiration. Clients download the CRL from a specified CDP and check if a given certificate is listed. This method can be resource-intensive for clients, especially when dealing with large CRLs.</li>
  172.  
  173.  
  174.  
  175. <li><strong>Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP)</strong>: OCSP allows clients to query the revocation status of a specific certificate in real-time. The client sends a request to an OCSP responder, which checks the current status of the certificate and returns a response indicating whether the certificate is valid, revoked, or unknown. OCSP provides a more efficient and timely method for revocation checking compared to CRLs.</li>
  176. </ul>
  177.  
  178.  
  179.  
  180. <p>Both methods ensure that entities within the PKI ecosystem can verify the trustworthiness of certificates, maintaining the integrity and security of digital communications and transactions.</p>
  181.  
  182.  
  183.  
  184. <p>individual Certificate Distribution Points (CDPs) have been designated for each Subordinate CA. This configuration permits every Subordinate CA to independently manage and disseminate its Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs), thereby bolstering the system&#8217;s security and operational efficiency. The decentralization of CRL dissemination guarantees dependable access to revocation data and supports the customization of revocation policies to meet the unique requirements of each Subordinate CA. This strategy enhances the strength and agility of our PKI framework.</p>
  185.  
  186.  
  187.  
  188. <p>In line with the Low side PKI setup, there will be no Authority Information Access (AIA) extension used in this design.</p>
  189.  
  190.  
  191.  
  192. <p>Application Process View</p>
  193.  
  194.  
  195.  
  196. <p>This section of the HLSD outlines the key operational processes within the PKI system, detailing the interactions between different components to ensure secure certificate management, from issuance to revocation.</p>
  197.  
  198.  
  199.  
  200. <p>Certificate Issuance Workflow</p>
  201.  
  202.  
  203.  
  204. <p>The process begins when an entity (user, device, or system) requests a digital certificate. This involves generating a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) and submitting it to the Certification Authority (CA). The CA then validates the CSR against organizational policies and, upon approval, signs and issues the certificate. The issued certificate is made available to the requester, either through direct download or automatic installation.</p>
  205.  
  206.  
  207.  
  208. <p>Certificate Validation and Chain Building</p>
  209.  
  210.  
  211.  
  212. <p>When a certificate needs to be validated, the client software builds the certificate chain up to a trusted root CA, using the Authority Information Access (AIA) extension if necessary. Each certificate in the chain is checked for validity, expiration, and revocation status, employing CRLs or OCSP to ensure no certificate in the chain has been revoked.</p>
  213.  
  214.  
  215.  
  216. <p>Certificate Revocation Process</p>
  217.  
  218.  
  219.  
  220. <p>Certificate revocation can be initiated by various stakeholders for reasons such as compromise or loss of private keys. The CA updates the CRL and, if configured, the OCSP database, to reflect the revocation. The updated CRL is then published to the designated Certificate Distribution Points (CDPs), ensuring all entities in the network can access the revocation information.</p>
  221.  
  222.  
  223.  
  224. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Application Use Case</h3>
  225.  
  226.  
  227.  
  228. <p><strong>Client-Server Authentication</strong></p>
  229.  
  230.  
  231.  
  232. <p>In this scenario, a user attempts to access a secure web service. The server presents its digital certificate to the user&#8217;s browser to prove its identity. The browser validates the server&#8217;s certificate, checking the validity, expiration, and revocation status. Upon successful validation, a secure connection is established using SSL/TLS, enabling secure communication between the user and the web service. This use case demonstrates the PKI&#8217;s role in facilitating secure, authenticated connections over the internet.</p>
  233.  
  234.  
  235.  
  236. <p><strong>Step 1: Secure Connection Request</strong></p>
  237.  
  238.  
  239.  
  240. <ul>
  241. <li>The user initiates a secure session by entering an HTTPS URL into their browser, signaling a request to establish a secure connection with the server.</li>
  242. </ul>
  243.  
  244.  
  245.  
  246. <p><strong>Step 2: Server Presents Its Certificate</strong></p>
  247.  
  248.  
  249.  
  250. <ul>
  251. <li>The server responds to the request by sending a copy of its digital certificate to the user&#8217;s browser. This certificate contains the server&#8217;s public key and identity information, along with the digital signature of the issuing Certificate Authority (CA).</li>
  252. </ul>
  253.  
  254.  
  255.  
  256. <p><strong>Step 3: Certificate Validation by the Browser</strong></p>
  257.  
  258.  
  259.  
  260. <ol type="1" start="1">
  261. <li><strong>Check Certificate Authenticity</strong>: The browser examines the certificate to ensure it was signed by a trusted CA. Browsers come pre-installed with a list of trusted CAs, and the certificate&#8217;s signature is verified against these.</li>
  262.  
  263.  
  264.  
  265. <li><strong>Verify Certificate&#8217;s Validity Period</strong>: The browser checks the validity dates of the certificate to ensure it is currently valid and not expired.</li>
  266.  
  267.  
  268.  
  269. <li><strong>Check for Revocation</strong>: The browser checks if the certificate has been revoked by the issuing CA, using either a Certificate Revocation List (CRL) or the Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP).</li>
  270.  
  271.  
  272.  
  273. <li><strong>Hostname Verification</strong>: The browser verifies that the certificate&#8217;s subject name (or SAN &#8211; Subject Alternative Name) matches the server&#8217;s domain name in the URL.</li>
  274. </ol>
  275.  
  276.  
  277.  
  278. <p><strong>Step 4: Session Key Generation</strong></p>
  279.  
  280.  
  281.  
  282. <ul>
  283. <li>If the certificate is valid, the browser generates a symmetric session key for encrypting data during the session. This key is then encrypted with the server&#8217;s public key (from the server&#8217;s certificate) and sent back to the server.</li>
  284. </ul>
  285.  
  286.  
  287.  
  288. <p><strong>Step 5: Server Decrypts Session Key</strong></p>
  289.  
  290.  
  291.  
  292. <ul>
  293. <li>The server uses its private key to decrypt the symmetric session key sent by the browser.</li>
  294. </ul>
  295.  
  296.  
  297.  
  298. <p><strong>Step 6: Secure Session Establishment</strong></p>
  299.  
  300.  
  301.  
  302. <ul>
  303. <li>With both the browser and server in possession of the same symmetric session key, they establish a secure, encrypted connection using SSL/TLS protocols. All data transmitted during the session is encrypted with the session key.</li>
  304. </ul>
  305.  
  306.  
  307.  
  308. <p><strong>Step 7: Data Exchange</strong></p>
  309.  
  310.  
  311.  
  312. <ul>
  313. <li>The user and the web server can now exchange data securely. The browser displays a padlock icon or similar indicator to inform the user that the connection is secure.</li>
  314. </ul>
  315.  
  316.  
  317.  
  318. <p><strong>Step 8: Session Closure</strong></p>
  319.  
  320.  
  321.  
  322. <ul>
  323. <li>Once the session is completed, the session key is discarded. Any new session will require a new key, ensuring the security of each individual session.</li>
  324. </ul>
  325.  
  326.  
  327.  
  328. <p><strong>Step 1: Connection Request</strong></p>
  329.  
  330.  
  331.  
  332. <ul>
  333. <li>A user requests a secure connection by navigating to an HTTPS website, prompting the server to share its digital certificate.</li>
  334. </ul>
  335.  
  336.  
  337.  
  338. <p><strong>Step 2: Server Certificate</strong></p>
  339.  
  340.  
  341.  
  342. <ul>
  343. <li>The server sends its digital certificate, containing its public key and a CA&#8217;s digital signature, to the user&#8217;s browser.</li>
  344. </ul>
  345.  
  346.  
  347.  
  348. <p><strong>Step 3: Certificate Validation</strong></p>
  349.  
  350.  
  351.  
  352. <ul>
  353. <li>The browser validates the server&#8217;s certificate by checking the CA&#8217;s signature, the certificate&#8217;s validity period, revocation status using CRL or OCSP, and that the certificate&#8217;s subject name matches the server&#8217;s domain.</li>
  354. </ul>
  355.  
  356.  
  357.  
  358. <p><strong>Step 4: Key Exchange</strong></p>
  359.  
  360.  
  361.  
  362. <ul>
  363. <li>Upon successful validation, the browser generates a symmetric session key, encrypts it with the server&#8217;s public key, and sends it to the server.</li>
  364. </ul>
  365.  
  366.  
  367.  
  368. <p><strong>Step 5: Secure Session</strong></p>
  369.  
  370.  
  371.  
  372. <ul>
  373. <li>The server decrypts the session key, establishing a secure, encrypted connection using SSL/TLS for data exchange.</li>
  374. </ul>
  375.  
  376.  
  377.  
  378. <p><strong>Step 6: Data Exchange</strong></p>
  379.  
  380.  
  381.  
  382. <ul>
  383. <li>Secure data transmission occurs, with the browser displaying a security indicator like a padlock icon.</li>
  384. </ul>
  385.  
  386.  
  387.  
  388. <p><strong>Step 7: Session End</strong></p>
  389.  
  390.  
  391.  
  392. <ul>
  393. <li>After the session, the session key is discarded, ensuring the security of future sessions.</li>
  394. </ul>
  395.  
  396.  
  397.  
  398. <p></p><p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/public-key-infrastructure-pki/">Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  399. <wfw:commentRss>https://canvasict.com.au/public-key-infrastructure-pki/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  400. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  401. </item>
  402. <item>
  403. <title>Cyber Security 101</title>
  404. <link>https://canvasict.com.au/cyber-security-101/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=cyber-security-101</link>
  405. <comments>https://canvasict.com.au/cyber-security-101/#respond</comments>
  406. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kathy B.]]></dc:creator>
  407. <pubDate>Thu, 09 Mar 2023 14:07:58 +0000</pubDate>
  408. <category><![CDATA[Cyber Security]]></category>
  409. <category><![CDATA[ICT Consultation]]></category>
  410. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://canvasict.com.au/?p=2510</guid>
  411.  
  412. <description><![CDATA[<p>Cyber Security 101 Looking to improve your cyber security knowledge? This post is the perfect starting point. What is Cyber Security? Cyber security is the protection of information and data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification or destruction. In other words, it&#8217;s the practice of keeping your information secure online. As you can imagine, [&#8230;]</p>
  413. <p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/cyber-security-101/">Cyber Security 101</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></description>
  414. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cyber Security 101</h3>
  415.  
  416.  
  417.  
  418. <p>Looking to improve your cyber security knowledge? This post is the perfect starting point.</p>
  419.  
  420.  
  421.  
  422. <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="324" src="http://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-call-to-action-1024x324.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-44 size-full" srcset="https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-call-to-action-1024x324.jpg 1024w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-call-to-action-300x95.jpg 300w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-call-to-action-768x243.jpg 768w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-call-to-action-1536x486.jpg 1536w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-call-to-action.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
  423. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">What is Cyber Security?</h3>
  424.  
  425.  
  426.  
  427. <p>Cyber security is the protection of information and data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification or destruction. In other words, it&#8217;s the practice of keeping your information secure online. As you can imagine, this is a very important issue that affects everyone who uses any kind of technology (which means almost everyone).</p>
  428. </div></div>
  429.  
  430.  
  431.  
  432. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Importance of Cyber Security</h3>
  433.  
  434.  
  435.  
  436. <p>The importance of cyber security is not a new concept, but it&#8217;s still something that many people don&#8217;t take seriously. The financial impact of cybercrime is enormous and growing&#8211;it&#8217;s predicted to cost $8 trillion annually by 2021. And while some businesses have taken steps to protect themselves against hackers and other threats, many others haven&#8217;t done enough or even anything at all.<br>The same goes for individuals: most people don&#8217;t know how much they could be vulnerable if their information were stolen or leaked online. In fact, according to one study from earlier this year, about half of Americans think their personal information is less secure than it was five years ago!</p>
  437.  
  438.  
  439.  
  440. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Data Security</h3>
  441.  
  442.  
  443.  
  444. <p>Data security is an important aspect of cyber security. Data can be defined as any information that you want to keep private, such as your bank account details or social media passwords. You should always ensure that your data is secure by using strong passwords and changing them regularly, using anti-virus software on all devices connected to the internet (including smartphones), backing up important files regularly and storing them offline in case they are deleted and corrupted by an attack on your network.</p>
  445.  
  446.  
  447.  
  448. <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>
  449.  
  450.  
  451.  
  452. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Role of Government in Cyber Security</h3>
  453.  
  454.  
  455.  
  456. <p>The role of government in cyber security is a complex one. On one hand, governments around the world have been working to develop regulations and compliance requirements for businesses that deal with sensitive information or operate critical infrastructure. On the other hand, there are some who feel that these regulations are too burdensome and may actually hinder innovation and growth within those industries.<br>In addition to these regulatory efforts by individual governments, there have been several international initiatives aimed at improving cyber security across borders. These include: * The G20 Cyber Expert Working Group on Enhancing Cyber Resilience (G20 CYBER), which was created in 2017 by 19 countries including Canada, France, Germany and Japan; * The International Telecommunication Union&#8217;s (ITU) Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development (BCSD); * And finally The<a href="https://www.un.org/disarmament/ict-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> United Nations Group of Governmental Experts on Developments in the Field of Information Security </a>(UN GGE).</p>
  457.  
  458.  
  459.  
  460. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cyber Security Careers</h3>
  461.  
  462.  
  463.  
  464. <p>There are many different career paths in cyber security, and the field is growing rapidly. Here are some of the most common job titles:</p>
  465.  
  466.  
  467.  
  468. <ul><li>Security Analyst &#8211; Security analysts are responsible for monitoring networks and systems for security breaches and investigating any incidents that occur. They also develop and implement security solutions to prevent future breaches.</li><li>Ethical Hacker &#8211; Ethical hackers are employed to test the security of an organization&#8217;s systems by attempting to break in and identify vulnerabilities. They then report their findings to the organization so that any necessary fixes can be made.</li><li>Penetration Tester &#8211; Penetration testers are similar to ethical hackers in that they attempt to identify vulnerabilities in an organization&#8217;s systems. However, they typically work with the organization to develop and implement fixes for any vulnerabilities that are discovered.</li><li>Information Security Manager &#8211; Information security managers are responsible for developing and implementing an organization&#8217;s overall security strategy, as well as managing security staff and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards.</li><li>Cyber Security Consultant &#8211; Cyber security consultants work with organizations to develop and implement security solutions that are tailored to their specific needs. They may also conduct security assessments and provide recommendations for improving security practices.</li></ul>
  469.  
  470.  
  471.  
  472. <p>The average salary for an Information Security Manager is $158,000 per year; however, this number varies depending on location and experience level.</p>
  473.  
  474.  
  475.  
  476. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cyber Security Education</h3>
  477.  
  478.  
  479.  
  480. <p>Cybersecurity education is the best way to ensure you&#8217;re prepared for a career in this field. The types of degrees offered include:</p>
  481.  
  482.  
  483.  
  484. <ul><li>Bachelor&#8217;s degree in information technology (IT) or computer science</li><li>Master&#8217;s degree in IT or computer science</li><li>Doctorate in information systems</li></ul>
  485.  
  486.  
  487.  
  488. <p>Industry Courses and Certifications like:</p>
  489.  
  490.  
  491.  
  492. <ul><li>CompTIA &#8211; Offers various certifications in cyber security, including Security+, CySA+, and PenTest+.</li><li>EC-Council &#8211; Offers various certifications in cyber security, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and Certified Incident Handler (CIH).</li><li>Offensive Security &#8211; Provides online courses and certifications in ethical hacking and penetration testing.</li></ul>
  493.  
  494.  
  495.  
  496. <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><br>Cyber Security Tools</h3>
  497.  
  498.  
  499.  
  500. <p>There are a variety of tools available that can help safeguard your data and protect you from potential cyber threats. For example, firewalls act as either hardware or software programs that prevent unauthorized access to your computer. Intrusion detection systems (IDS) constantly monitor network traffic and provide alerts when any suspicious activity is detected. Another useful tool is encryption, which scrambles data so it can only be accessed by authorized users with the appropriate key.</p>
  501.  
  502.  
  503.  
  504. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cyber Security Best Practices</h3>
  505.  
  506.  
  507.  
  508. <ul><li>Use strong and unique passwords for all accounts, and enable two-factor authentication when possible.</li><li>Keep software, operating systems, and devices up to date with the latest security patches.</li><li>Be cautious of unsolicited emails and attachments, and do not click on suspicious links.</li><li>Use a firewall to block unauthorized access to your devices and networks.</li><li>Regularly back up important data to an offsite location.</li><li>Limit access to sensitive data to only those who need it, and implement role-based access controls.</li><li>Train employees on cyber security best practices and conduct regular security awareness training.</li><li>Conduct regular security risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and address them.</li><li>Have an incident response plan in place in case of a security breach, and practice it regularly.</li><li>Stay up to date with the latest threats and trends in cyber security and adapt your practices accordingly.</li></ul>
  509.  
  510.  
  511.  
  512. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cyber Security Trends</h3>
  513.  
  514.  
  515.  
  516. <p>Cyber security is constantly evolving. As new technologies are developed and implemented, the threat landscape changes and the need for cyber security professionals grows. Here are three key trends to keep an eye on:</p>
  517.  
  518.  
  519.  
  520. <ol><li>Emerging Cyber Security Technologies &#8211; As cyber threats become more advanced, new technologies are emerging to help protect against them. For example, blockchain technology is being used to secure data and prevent unauthorized access, while machine learning is being used to detect and respond to threats in real-time.</li><li>The Rise of AI in Cyber Security &#8211; Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in cyber security to help identify and respond to threats. AI can analyze large amounts of data and identify patterns that might be missed by humans, allowing for faster and more accurate threat detection and response.</li><li>Cloud Security &#8211; As more organizations move their data and applications to the cloud, ensuring the security of these systems becomes increasingly important. Cloud providers are developing new tools and technologies to help organizations protect their data and applications in the cloud, such as encryption and multi-factor authentication.</li></ol>
  521.  
  522.  
  523.  
  524. <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><br>Conclusion</h3>
  525.  
  526.  
  527.  
  528. <p>The need for constant vigilance is the most important lesson to take away from this guide. As we&#8217;ve seen, cyber security threats are constantly evolving and changing&#8211;and they can affect anyone at any time. To keep your data and devices secure, there are numerous tools you can use. Firewalls, whether in the form of hardware or software, block unauthorized access to your computer. Intrusion detection systems (IDS) monitor network traffic and send alerts when suspicious activity is detected. Encryption is also valuable, as it scrambles data and requires authorized users to have a key for access. By leveraging these tools, you can better protect your information from cyber threats.</p>
  529.  
  530.  
  531.  
  532. <p>While there are many ways you can protect yourself from these threats, one thing remains true: you must be proactive in keeping yourself safe online. This means being aware of potential risks in your day-to-day life, as well as regularly updating software on your devices (including phones, laptops and tablets) so that they&#8217;re always up-to-date with the latest security patches available. </p>
  533.  
  534.  
  535.  
  536. <p>It also means being cautious about what information you share online&#8211;whether it&#8217;s through social media or emailing sensitive documents back and forth with colleagues at work&#8211;and making sure not to click on suspicious links sent via email or text message (if someone sends an unsolicited link asking to click or respond). </p>
  537.  
  538.  
  539.  
  540. <p></p>
  541.  
  542.  
  543.  
  544. <p>For the latest information and news on cyber security we recommend you check our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cyber.gov.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC)</a>&nbsp;website, it provides a wealth of information on cybersecurity, including the latest threats and vulnerabilities, advice and guidance for businesses and individuals, and updates on the ACSC&#8217;s activities and initiatives.</p>
  545.  
  546.  
  547.  
  548. <p>Protect your business and customer data with confidence. Our expert cybersecurity solutions offer comprehensive protection against the latest cyber threats. <a href="http://canvasict.com.au/contact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Contact us</a> today to learn more and secure your business from potential harm.</p><p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/cyber-security-101/">Cyber Security 101</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  549. <wfw:commentRss>https://canvasict.com.au/cyber-security-101/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  550. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  551. </item>
  552. <item>
  553. <title>Cybersecurity for Business: Importance &#038; Threat Protection in 2023</title>
  554. <link>https://canvasict.com.au/cybersecurity-for-business-importance-threats/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=cybersecurity-for-business-importance-threats</link>
  555. <comments>https://canvasict.com.au/cybersecurity-for-business-importance-threats/#respond</comments>
  556. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kathy B.]]></dc:creator>
  557. <pubDate>Thu, 09 Mar 2023 13:30:58 +0000</pubDate>
  558. <category><![CDATA[Cyber Security]]></category>
  559. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://canvasict.com.au/?p=2499</guid>
  560.  
  561. <description><![CDATA[<p>Why Cyber Security? As businesses continue to rely more and more on digital technology and online platforms, cybersecurity has become a critical issue. The threats of cyber attacks, data breaches, and other security incidents are real and can have serious consequences for companies of all sizes. In this article, we&#8217;ll explore the importance of cybersecurity [&#8230;]</p>
  562. <p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/cybersecurity-for-business-importance-threats/">Cybersecurity for Business: Importance & Threat Protection in 2023</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></description>
  563. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="416" src="http://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-hero-01-1024x416.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-53 size-full" srcset="https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-hero-01-1024x416.jpg 1024w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-hero-01-300x122.jpg 300w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-hero-01-768x312.jpg 768w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-hero-01-1536x624.jpg 1536w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/home-hero-01.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
  564. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why Cyber Security?</h3>
  565.  
  566.  
  567.  
  568. <p>As businesses continue to rely more and more on digital technology and online platforms, cybersecurity has become a critical issue. The threats of cyber attacks, data breaches, and other security incidents are real and can have serious consequences for companies of all sizes. </p>
  569. </div></div>
  570.  
  571.  
  572.  
  573. <p></p>
  574.  
  575.  
  576.  
  577. <p>In this article, we&#8217;ll explore the importance of cybersecurity for businesses and provide some tips and best practices for protecting your company from cyber threats.</p>
  578.  
  579.  
  580.  
  581. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">1. The Risks of Cyber Threats</h3>
  582.  
  583.  
  584.  
  585. <p>Cyber threats come in many forms, including hacking, phishing, malware, and ransomware. These threats can lead to data breaches, theft of sensitive information, financial losses, reputational damage, and even legal liabilities. Small businesses are often especially vulnerable, as they may lack the resources or expertise to fully protect themselves from these threats.</p>
  586.  
  587.  
  588.  
  589. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">2. The Cost of Cybersecurity Incidents</h3>
  590.  
  591.  
  592.  
  593. <p>The cost of cybersecurity incidents can be significant, both in terms of direct financial losses and reputational damage. According to a study by IBM, the average cost of a data breach in 2020 was $3.86 million. This includes costs such as legal fees, regulatory fines, and lost revenue due to downtime or lost business. In addition, a cybersecurity incident can damage a company&#8217;s reputation and erode customer trust, which can be difficult to recover from.</p>
  594.  
  595.  
  596.  
  597. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">3. Best Practices for Cybersecurity</h3>
  598.  
  599.  
  600.  
  601. <p>To protect your business from cyber threats, there are several best practices you can follow:</p>
  602.  
  603.  
  604.  
  605. <p>a. Conduct a risk assessment: Identify your company&#8217;s potential vulnerabilities and risks, and develop a plan to address them.</p>
  606.  
  607.  
  608.  
  609. <p>b. Educate employees: Train your employees on cybersecurity best practices, such as strong passwords, phishing awareness, and safe browsing habits.</p>
  610.  
  611.  
  612.  
  613. <p>c. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication: Require employees to use strong, unique passwords, and implement two-factor authentication for added security.</p>
  614.  
  615.  
  616.  
  617. <p>d. Keep software up-to-date: Make sure your operating systems, software, and antivirus programs are updated regularly to protect against known vulnerabilities.</p>
  618.  
  619.  
  620.  
  621. <p>e. Limit access to sensitive information: Restrict access to sensitive information to only those who need it, and implement controls such as encryption and data backup.</p>
  622.  
  623.  
  624.  
  625. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">4. Cybersecurity Services for Businesses</h3>
  626.  
  627.  
  628.  
  629. <p>There are many cybersecurity services available for businesses, including:</p>
  630.  
  631.  
  632.  
  633. <p>a. Managed security services: Outsourcing your cybersecurity needs to a third-party provider can provide added expertise and protection.</p>
  634.  
  635.  
  636.  
  637. <p>b. Cybersecurity training: Training programs can help educate your employees on cybersecurity best practices and increase awareness of potential threats.</p>
  638.  
  639.  
  640.  
  641. <p>c. Penetration testing: Conducting a penetration test can help identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in your company&#8217;s security systems.</p>
  642.  
  643.  
  644.  
  645. <p>d. Incident response planning: Developing a plan for responding to cybersecurity incidents can help minimize the impact of an incident and reduce downtime.</p>
  646.  
  647.  
  648.  
  649. <p>In conclusion, cybersecurity is a critical issue for businesses of all sizes. By understanding the risks and costs of cyber threats, following best practices for cybersecurity, and utilizing cybersecurity services, businesses can protect themselves and their customers from potential harm. Remember, investing in cybersecurity is an investment in the long-term success and security of your business.</p>
  650.  
  651.  
  652.  
  653. <p>Cyber security threats are constantly evolving and changing&#8211;and they can affect anyone at any time.<br>While there are many ways you can protect yourself from these threats, one thing remains true: you must be proactive in keeping yourself safe online. This means being aware of potential risks in your day-to-day life, as well as regularly updating software on your devices (including phones, laptops and tablets) so that they&#8217;re always up-to-date with the latest security patches available.</p>
  654.  
  655.  
  656.  
  657. <p>For the latest information and news on cyber security we recommend you check our <a href="https://www.cyber.gov.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC)</a> website, it provides a wealth of information on cybersecurity, including the latest threats and vulnerabilities, advice and guidance for businesses and individuals, and updates on the ACSC&#8217;s activities and initiatives.</p>
  658.  
  659.  
  660.  
  661. <p>Protect your business and customer data with confidence. Our expert cybersecurity solutions offer comprehensive protection against the latest cyber threats. <a href="http://canvasict.com.au/contact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Contact us</a> today to learn more and secure your business from potential harm.</p>
  662.  
  663.  
  664.  
  665. <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3><p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/cybersecurity-for-business-importance-threats/">Cybersecurity for Business: Importance & Threat Protection in 2023</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  666. <wfw:commentRss>https://canvasict.com.au/cybersecurity-for-business-importance-threats/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  667. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  668. </item>
  669. <item>
  670. <title>What to Wear for the Interview in 2023: A Guide to Dressing for Success</title>
  671. <link>https://canvasict.com.au/what-to-wear-for-the-interview-2023/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=what-to-wear-for-the-interview-2023</link>
  672. <comments>https://canvasict.com.au/what-to-wear-for-the-interview-2023/#respond</comments>
  673. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kathy B.]]></dc:creator>
  674. <pubDate>Thu, 09 Mar 2023 12:19:58 +0000</pubDate>
  675. <category><![CDATA[Interview Tips]]></category>
  676. <category><![CDATA[Human Resources]]></category>
  677. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://canvasict.com.au/?p=2493</guid>
  678.  
  679. <description><![CDATA[<p>First impressions are everything, especially when it comes to job interviews. What you wear to an interview can say a lot about your professionalism, confidence, and attitude. In this blog post, we&#8217;ll provide some tips and advice on what to wear for the interview, so you can make a great first impression and increase your [&#8230;]</p>
  680. <p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/what-to-wear-for-the-interview-2023/">What to Wear for the Interview in 2023: A Guide to Dressing for Success</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></description>
  681. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:37% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="500" src="http://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Untitled-design-10.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1226 size-full" srcset="https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Untitled-design-10.png 500w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Untitled-design-10-300x300.png 300w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Untitled-design-10-150x150.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
  682. <p>First impressions are everything, especially when it comes to job interviews. What you wear to an interview can say a lot about your professionalism, confidence, and attitude. In this blog post, we&#8217;ll provide some tips and advice on what to wear for the interview, so you can make a great first impression and increase your chances of landing the job.</p>
  683.  
  684.  
  685.  
  686. <p></p>
  687. </div></div>
  688.  
  689.  
  690.  
  691. <p>We&#8217;ll cover topics such as researching the company culture, choosing classic styles, paying attention to details like grooming and accessories, considering the role, and feeling comfortable and confident in your outfit. We&#8217;ll also provide some examples and guidelines for different types of roles and industries.</p>
  692.  
  693.  
  694.  
  695. <p>If you&#8217;re preparing for an upcoming interview, make sure you read this blog post to get some valuable insights and tips on dressing for success. Remember, your outfit can help you to project a positive image and show the hiring manager that you are the right fit for the job.</p>
  696.  
  697.  
  698.  
  699. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">1. Research the Company&#8217;s Culture</h3>
  700.  
  701.  
  702.  
  703. <p>Before deciding what to wear, it&#8217;s important to research the company culture. This will help you to understand the dress code and what is appropriate to wear for the interview. Look for photos of employees on the company website or social media profiles to get a sense of what people typically wear to work. If in doubt, it&#8217;s always better to dress more formally than too casually.</p>
  704.  
  705.  
  706.  
  707. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">2. Stick to Classic Styles</h3>
  708.  
  709.  
  710.  
  711. <p>When it comes to choosing an outfit for the interview, it&#8217;s best to stick to classic styles. This means choosing neutral colors like black, navy, or gray, and avoiding bright or flashy colors. A well-fitted suit or dress pants and a blazer with a conservative blouse or button-down shirt is always a safe choice. Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and in good condition.</p>
  712.  
  713.  
  714.  
  715. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">3. Pay Attention to the Details</h3>
  716.  
  717.  
  718.  
  719. <p>It&#8217;s not just the clothes you wear that matter, but also the details. Pay attention to your grooming, including your hair, nails, and makeup. Keep jewelry to a minimum and avoid anything distracting or noisy. Shoes should be clean and polished and should match your outfit. A good rule of thumb is to dress as if you are meeting your future boss, not your friends.</p>
  720.  
  721.  
  722.  
  723. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">4. Consider the Role</h3>
  724.  
  725.  
  726.  
  727. <p>The type of role you are interviewing for may also influence what you wear. For example, if you are interviewing for a job in a creative field like marketing or design, you may be able to get away with a more trendy or colorful outfit. However, if you are interviewing for a more formal role like a lawyer or banker, it&#8217;s best to stick to classic styles.</p>
  728.  
  729.  
  730.  
  731. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">5. Be Comfortable and Confident</h3>
  732.  
  733.  
  734.  
  735. <p>Finally, it&#8217;s important to feel comfortable and confident in what you wear. If you&#8217;re not used to wearing a suit, practice wearing it a few times before the interview to make sure you feel comfortable and can move around easily. If you feel confident in what you&#8217;re wearing, you&#8217;ll be more relaxed and better able to focus on the interview.</p>
  736.  
  737.  
  738.  
  739. <p>To sum up, selecting the right outfit is a vital aspect of interview preparation. To make a positive first impression and enhance your chances of securing the job, you should research the company culture, opt for classic styles, be mindful of details, take the role into account, and ensure you feel comfortable and confident. Always bear in mind that your attire can convey professionalism, dependability, and preparedness to the hiring manager, thereby helping you to make a favorable impression.</p>
  740.  
  741.  
  742.  
  743. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Summary of what to wear for the interview </h3>
  744.  
  745.  
  746.  
  747. <ol><li>Suit: A well-fitted suit in a neutral color like black, navy, or gray is always a safe and professional choice.</li><li>Dress pants and blazer: If you don&#8217;t want to wear a full suit, dress pants and a blazer can also work well. Stick to neutral colors and classic styles.</li><li>Button-down shirt or blouse: A clean and ironed button-down shirt or blouse in a solid color is a great choice. Avoid bright colors or bold patterns.</li><li>Dress shoes: A pair of polished dress shoes that match your outfit is the best choice. Avoid open-toed shoes, sandals, or sneakers.</li><li>Minimal accessories: Keep jewelry and accessories to a minimum, and avoid anything distracting or noisy.</li><li>Grooming: Pay attention to your grooming, including hair, nails, and makeup. Keep it clean and professional.</li></ol>
  748.  
  749.  
  750.  
  751. <p>Remember, it&#8217;s always better to dress more conservatively than too casually. A professional and polished outfit can help you make a great first impression and show the hiring manager that you are the right fit for the job.</p>
  752.  
  753.  
  754.  
  755. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Canvas ICT</h2>
  756.  
  757.  
  758.  
  759. <p>Hope you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our other articles on <a href="http://canvasict.com.au/interview-tips/">interview tips (intw)</a>, career advice, and industry insights. Our website is packed with useful resources designed to help you succeed in your professional life. Whether you&#8217;re seeking guidance on how to ace a job interview, or looking for inspiration to take your career to the next level, we have you covered. Don&#8217;t miss out on the opportunity to access our valuable resources, and <a href="http://canvasict.com.au/current-vacancies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">current vacancies</a> and unlock your potential. Check out our other <a href="http://canvasict.com.au/our-blog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">articles</a> today! Also check out this interesting article on <a href="https://www.workforceaustralia.gov.au/individuals/coaching/job-applications/job-interviews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preparing for job interview</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/what-to-wear-for-the-interview-2023/">What to Wear for the Interview in 2023: A Guide to Dressing for Success</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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  761. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  762. </item>
  763. <item>
  764. <title>Explain ChatGPT To A Primary School Student</title>
  765. <link>https://canvasict.com.au/explain-chatgpt-to-a-primary-school-student/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=explain-chatgpt-to-a-primary-school-student</link>
  766. <comments>https://canvasict.com.au/explain-chatgpt-to-a-primary-school-student/#respond</comments>
  767. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kathy B.]]></dc:creator>
  768. <pubDate>Wed, 22 Feb 2023 09:21:49 +0000</pubDate>
  769. <category><![CDATA[ICT Consultation]]></category>
  770. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://canvasict.com.au/?p=1992</guid>
  771.  
  772. <description><![CDATA[<p>My 7-year-old asked me what chatGPT? Hmmm, Good question but how do you answer this to a 7-year-old child? In my mind, I decided let&#8217;s ask ChatGPT. I powered on my laptop and quickly opened the URL: https://chat.openai.com/chat (goodbye Google.., for years I used google but now after using chatGPT for a few days, I [&#8230;]</p>
  773. <p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/explain-chatgpt-to-a-primary-school-student/">Explain ChatGPT To A Primary School Student</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></description>
  774. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="639" src="http://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/robot-5702074_1280-1024x639.png" alt="ChatGPT" class="wp-image-501" srcset="https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/robot-5702074_1280-1024x639.png 1024w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/robot-5702074_1280-300x187.png 300w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/robot-5702074_1280-768x479.png 768w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/robot-5702074_1280.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
  775.  
  776.  
  777.  
  778. <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>My 7-year-old asked me what chatGPT</strong>? </h3>
  779.  
  780.  
  781.  
  782. <p>Hmmm, Good question but how do you answer this to a 7-year-old child?  In my mind, I decided let&#8217;s ask ChatGPT.</p>
  783.  
  784.  
  785.  
  786. <p>I powered on my laptop and quickly opened the URL: https://chat.openai.com/chat (goodbye Google.., for years I used google but now after using chatGPT for a few days, I can&#8217;t imagine going back to Google search engine)</p>
  787.  
  788.  
  789.  
  790. <p>In the https://chat.openai.com/chat interface, I typed &#8220;Explain ChatGPT to a child&#8221;, and very quickly I received the response:</p>
  791.  
  792.  
  793.  
  794. <p>&#8220;ChatGPT is a talking computer that can help you with things you need to know, like answering questions or having a chat with you. It&#8217;s really smart because it has learned a lot of things and can talk to you like a real person. It&#8217;s like having a friendly robot friend to help you out!&#8221;</p>
  795.  
  796.  
  797.  
  798. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Then my little girl curiously asked me, <strong>What can <a href="https://chat.openai.com/chat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chatGPT</a></strong> do<strong>?</strong></h3>
  799.  
  800.  
  801.  
  802. <p>Again I asked Chatgpt to answer the question, and the reply from Chatgpt was: </p>
  803.  
  804.  
  805.  
  806. <p>&#8220;Hello! ChatGPT is like a smart robot that can talk with people and answer their questions. It can help you learn new things about the world, play games with you, and even help you with your homework or school projects. It&#8217;s kind of like having a really smart friend to talk to whenever you want!&#8221;</p>
  807.  
  808.  
  809.  
  810. <p>Very impressive answer. I read the answer to my daughter and she was listening with amazement, joy, and curiosity in her eyes.</p>
  811.  
  812.  
  813.  
  814. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Then my little girl asked: <strong>Is chatGPT a real robot ?</strong></h3>
  815.  
  816.  
  817.  
  818. <p>I decided to use Chatgpt to find the answers to my little girl&#8217;s question, so I typed her exact question in the chat box and instantly I got the reply: </p>
  819.  
  820.  
  821.  
  822. <p>&#8220;ChatGPT is not a physical robot like the robots that you might see in movies or on TV. It is a special computer program that uses artificial intelligence to talk and have conversations with people. So even though ChatGPT is not a real robot, it can still be a lot of fun to talk to and learn new things from!&#8221;</p>
  823.  
  824.  
  825.  
  826. <p>I read the response to my daughter and she was giggling and asked can ChatGPT read me a story? </p>
  827.  
  828.  
  829.  
  830. <p>And the response from chatGPT was: &#8220;Sure! ChatGPT is really good at reading stories! It can read all sorts of stories, from fairy tales to adventure stories, and even stories about animals or space. You can ask ChatGPT to read a story to you, and it will do its best to read it out loud. Just tell ChatGPT what kind of story you would like to hear, and it will try to find the perfect one for you.&#8221;</p>
  831.  
  832.  
  833.  
  834. <p>I read the response back to my daughter and instantly she wanted to chatGPT to read out a story. </p>
  835.  
  836.  
  837.  
  838. <p></p>
  839.  
  840.  
  841.  
  842. <p></p>
  843.  
  844.  
  845.  
  846. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">ChatGPT &#8211; Rise of AI</h3>
  847.  
  848.  
  849.  
  850. <p>While explaining the chatGPT to my child I was amazed and at the same time a little bit scared by the Rise of Artificial Intelligence. ChatGPT is already simplifying complex tasks and making a great impact in people&#8217;s life, Student can use it for doing assignments, Programmers can use it to create application codes, businesses can use it for marketing, emails/ creating legal letters/contracts,s and long lists of activities.  But with the rise of AI, what impact it will have on human jobs? If AI will do everything what will humans do? </p>
  851.  
  852.  
  853.  
  854. <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>How chatGPT started</strong></h3>
  855.  
  856.  
  857.  
  858. <p>Chat GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is a language model created by OpenAI, an artificial intelligence research laboratory. Chat GPT was introduced in 2018, and it is a type of deep learning model that is specifically designed for natural language processing.</p>
  859.  
  860.  
  861.  
  862. <p>The development of Chat GPT started with the creation of a simpler model called GPT-1. This model was trained on a massive dataset of text from the internet and was designed to predict the next word in a sentence. The success of GPT-1 led to the development of a more complex model, GPT-2, which had a greater number of parameters and was able to generate more coherent text.</p>
  863.  
  864.  
  865.  
  866. <p>GPT-2 was notable for its ability to generate text that was very difficult to distinguish from text written by a human. It was capable of writing long-form articles, poetry, and even fiction. However, GPT-2 was not publicly released due to concerns about the potential misuse of the model for generating fake news or propaganda.</p>
  867.  
  868.  
  869.  
  870. <p>Despite this, OpenAI continued to develop the GPT series of models and released GPT-3 in 2020. GPT-3 has a whopping 175 billion parameters, making it the largest language model to date. It is capable of generating even more coherent and human-like text than its predecessors.</p>
  871.  
  872.  
  873.  
  874. <p>The training process for GPT-3 involved feeding it an enormous amount of text data from the internet, including books, websites, and other sources. This allowed the model to learn the nuances of human language and develop a deep understanding of the structure and meaning of text.</p>
  875.  
  876.  
  877.  
  878. <p>The release of GPT-3 has opened up new possibilities for natural language processing and has generated a lot of excitement in the AI community. It has demonstrated the potential for AI to generate creative and original content and has shown that language models can be used in a wide range of applications, from chatbots to content generation.</p>
  879.  
  880.  
  881.  
  882. <p>The development of Chat GPT and the GPT series of models represents a significant milestone in the field of artificial intelligence. These models are capable of generating text that is almost indistinguishable from that written by humans, and they have opened up new possibilities for natural language processing and content generation.</p>
  883.  
  884.  
  885.  
  886. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Here are some of the key features of ChatGPT:</h3>
  887.  
  888.  
  889.  
  890. <ol><li>Natural Language Processing: ChatGPT is specifically designed to understand and process natural language. It can generate human-like text, understand the meaning behind sentences, and respond to questions and statements in a way that is similar to how a human would.</li><li>Large-scale Language Model: ChatGPT is a large-scale language model that has been trained on vast amounts of text data. This allows it to generate responses that are coherent and relevant to the input it receives.</li><li>Open-domain Conversational Model: ChatGPT is an open-domain conversational model, which means that it can respond to a wide range of topics and questions. It can engage in a conversation on a variety of topics, from sports to politics to entertainment.</li><li>Deep Learning: ChatGPT is based on deep learning, which is a subset of machine learning that uses artificial neural networks to learn from data. This allows it to continually improve its responses based on the data it is trained on.</li><li>Transfer Learning: ChatGPT uses transfer learning, which means that it can be trained on one task and then applied to another task. This allows it to be used in a wide range of applications, from chatbots to content generation.</li><li>Customizability: ChatGPT can be fine-tuned and customized for specific applications. This means that it can be trained to generate text that is specific to a particular industry or subject area.</li></ol>
  891.  
  892.  
  893.  
  894. <p>Overall, ChatGPT is a powerful language model that is capable of generating coherent and relevant responses to a wide range of topics and questions. Its deep learning and transfer learning capabilities make it a versatile tool for a variety of applications.</p>
  895.  
  896.  
  897.  
  898. <p>ChatGPT is a real revolution and it will have very deep impacts on all aspects of our daily lives.  At Canvas ICT we are already using chatGPT for almost all aspects of our business tasks and it has significantly increased our team&#8217;s efficiency. If you want to find out how your business or enterprise can use AI to boost your productivity please reach out to us, our team would love to help you transition to the AI-based workforce.</p>
  899.  
  900.  
  901.  
  902. <p><strong>Disclaimer:</strong> The majority of the content in this post is generated by chatGPT. Please use the comments section below to share your experience and concerns related to chatGPT and the rise of AI in our life.</p>
  903.  
  904.  
  905.  
  906. <p></p>
  907.  
  908.  
  909.  
  910. <p></p><p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/explain-chatgpt-to-a-primary-school-student/">Explain ChatGPT To A Primary School Student</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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  912. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  913. </item>
  914. <item>
  915. <title>IT Contracting in Canberra 2023: What You Need to Know&#8221;</title>
  916. <link>https://canvasict.com.au/it-contracting-in-canberra-2023/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=it-contracting-in-canberra-2023</link>
  917. <comments>https://canvasict.com.au/it-contracting-in-canberra-2023/#respond</comments>
  918. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kathy B.]]></dc:creator>
  919. <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jan 2023 08:21:40 +0000</pubDate>
  920. <category><![CDATA[Payroll]]></category>
  921. <category><![CDATA[Human Resources]]></category>
  922. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://canvasict.com.au/?p=1595</guid>
  923.  
  924. <description><![CDATA[<p>Canberra&#8217;s economy and its IT market are unique in Australia. The federal government has a large footprint in Canberra, which creates lots of employment and IT outsourcing opportunities. Every year the government and private sector are both launching large IT initiatives. This can be great news for IT Professionals living in Canberra. With a shortage [&#8230;]</p>
  925. <p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/it-contracting-in-canberra-2023/">IT Contracting in Canberra 2023: What You Need to Know”</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></description>
  926. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image size-medium is-style-default"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="300" height="300" src="http://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Untitled-design-3-300x300.png" alt="HR Services" class="wp-image-1002" srcset="https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Untitled-design-3-300x300.png 300w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Untitled-design-3-150x150.png 150w, https://canvasict.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Untitled-design-3.png 500w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></figure>
  927.  
  928.  
  929.  
  930. <p>Canberra&#8217;s economy and its IT market are unique in Australia. The federal government has a large footprint in Canberra, which creates lots of employment and IT outsourcing opportunities.</p>
  931.  
  932.  
  933.  
  934. <p>Every year the government and private sector are both launching large IT initiatives. This can be great news for IT Professionals living in Canberra. With a shortage of skilled workers, experienced IT professionals are always in demand in Canberra. &nbsp;This high demand creates opportunities for Contractors.</p>
  935.  
  936.  
  937.  
  938. <p>Going from a permanent job to a contracting role can be exciting and scary all at the same time. Many people take the leap because of the extra money they earn for their skills. IT Contractors often get paid 30%-60% more than the permanent staff.</p>
  939.  
  940.  
  941.  
  942. <p>This pay increase is substantial for most people, with more money you can afford a better lifestyle, pay off your debts/home loans. So, if you are looking for a job change or searching for an opportunity to make more money, then Perhaps you should consider switching to Contracting.</p>
  943.  
  944.  
  945.  
  946. <p>Now, when you are new to contracting, there are plenty of questions that often aren’t easy to find a straight answer to.</p>
  947.  
  948.  
  949.  
  950. <p>How will you get paid? Do you need to put into Superannuation? What about your expenses? Or insurances? What is salary sacrifice? How do I pay PAYG, FBT, GST, and taxes?</p>
  951.  
  952.  
  953.  
  954. <p>Here are the Top 5 common questions I get from contractors moving from a permanent role to contracting:</p>
  955.  
  956.  
  957.  
  958. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Q1) Is Now, a good time to begin contracting?</h3>
  959.  
  960.  
  961.  
  962. <p>There is no foolproof way to predict the future. However, if you possess in-demand skills, excel at your job, and have strong professional connections, you are likely to succeed in IT contracting. I have personally known IT contractors who have thrived in the industry for more than two decades.</p>
  963.  
  964.  
  965.  
  966. <p>To make an informed decision about pursuing new opportunities in IT contracting, it&#8217;s important to carefully examine the job market, weigh the advantages and risks of the potential new position, and have a plan B in case things don&#8217;t work out as expected. This includes considering factors such as the demand for your skills, the potential for growth and advancement, the company culture, compensation and benefits, and any potential risks associated with the job or company. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether pursuing the opportunity is the right choice for you. </p>
  967.  
  968.  
  969.  
  970. <p>Making the transition from a permanent position to a contract position can be both exhilarating and frightening. However, it&#8217;s important to remember that every phase of life comes with its own challenges, and the beginning of any new journey can be difficult. Once you take the first step, however, it&#8217;s often hard to look back. While there may be some adjustments and uncertainties along the way, embracing the new opportunities that come with contract work can lead to greater flexibility, new experiences, and the potential for greater professional growth. So, don&#8217;t stress and approach the transition with an open mind and a willingness to learn and adapt.</p>
  971.  
  972.  
  973.  
  974. <p></p>
  975.  
  976.  
  977.  
  978. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Q2) Which is better contracting with Government Departments or Private Companies?</h3>
  979.  
  980.  
  981.  
  982. <p>Every Government department and company is unique, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to deciding between government and private contracting. Both options come with their own set of pros and cons. Ultimately, the decision may come down to the project you will be working on and the team you will be working with.</p>
  983.  
  984.  
  985.  
  986. <p>Government projects typically have long-term funding and are considered to be safer options. However, the downside may be that your role is limited to specific technical areas, which may become monotonous over time.</p>
  987.  
  988.  
  989.  
  990. <p>On the other hand, private companies may push you to work harder and maximize the value of each hour they are paying you for. This is especially true for small companies, but larger companies may offer a better work-life balance.</p>
  991.  
  992.  
  993.  
  994. <p>During an economic boom, contracting opportunities may be abundant regardless of the sector. However, during a recession, government sectors such as Defence may offer more stability.</p>
  995.  
  996.  
  997.  
  998. <p></p>
  999.  
  1000.  
  1001.  
  1002. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Q3) As a contractor, do I require the services of a payroll services company?</h3>
  1003.  
  1004.  
  1005.  
  1006. <p>When starting your first role as a contractor, Often people have lots of questions like How will you get paid? Do you need to put into Superannuation? What about your expenses? Or insurances? What is salary sacrifice? How do I pay PAYG, FBT, GST, taxes?</p>
  1007.  
  1008.  
  1009.  
  1010. <p>When you are working as a permanent employee, your employer divides your pay into the many components you specify, including superannuation, tax withholding, and payments into designated accounts and to ATO.</p>
  1011.  
  1012.  
  1013.  
  1014. <p>Now as a Contractor, you need to manage and fulfill your insurance, tax, legal and super obligations.</p>
  1015.  
  1016.  
  1017.  
  1018. <p>This is where we can help, As a <strong>payroll services</strong> provider we manage your insurance, tax liabilities, deductions, pay into your superannuation account, manage any items covered by <strong>salary sacrifice,</strong> and make sure you get payslips on a regular basis and a PAYG Summary at the end of the fiscal year.</p>
  1019.  
  1020.  
  1021.  
  1022. <p>Using a<strong> payroll services </strong>provider gives you simple control over your finances and more time for what is important to you.</p>
  1023.  
  1024.  
  1025.  
  1026. <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Q4) Can I salary sacrifice my vehicle?</h3>
  1027.  
  1028.  
  1029.  
  1030. <p>Yes, you certainly can!</p>
  1031.  
  1032.  
  1033.  
  1034. <p>Buying a new or used car with your pre-tax income is a popular method of salary sacrificing because you can roll your vehicle expenses into a single payment that is deducted from your salary before tax. This method of salary sacrificing is called a novated lease.</p>
  1035.  
  1036.  
  1037.  
  1038. <p>Don’t forget, From 1 July 2022, new electric vehicles under the luxury car limit are exempt from fringe benefits tax. This means an electric vehicle under $84,916 can be salary packaged for a substantial tax benefit.</p>
  1039.  
  1040.  
  1041.  
  1042. <p><a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/General/Fringe-benefits-tax-(FBT)/FBT-exemptions-and-concessions/Electric-cars-exemption/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">From 1 July 2022, employers do not pay FBT on eligible electric cars and associated car expenses.</a></p>
  1043.  
  1044.  
  1045.  
  1046. <p></p>
  1047.  
  1048.  
  1049.  
  1050. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Free Payroll Calculator </h2>
  1051.  
  1052.  
  1053.  
  1054. <p>If you want to calculate your estimated income, super, or tax liability, try using our free online Payroll Calculator. It&#8217;s a quick and easy tool that can help you get a better understanding of your financial situation. Simply enter your Hourly Rate, Weekly hours and the calculator will provide an estimate based on current tax laws and regulations. Give it a try today and see how much you could be earning or saving! <a href="http://canvasict.com.au/payroll-calculator/">Try our free online Payroll calculator</a>. </p>
  1055.  
  1056.  
  1057.  
  1058. <p></p>
  1059.  
  1060.  
  1061.  
  1062. <p>If you are looking for a payroll service provider, contact our office for a free obligation free consultation. We pride ourselves on offering the best service at affordable prices.</p><p>The post <a href="https://canvasict.com.au/it-contracting-in-canberra-2023/">IT Contracting in Canberra 2023: What You Need to Know”</a> first appeared on <a href="https://canvasict.com.au">Canvas ICT</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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