Security Concept of Operations by State2 Security

What are Security Concepts of Operations

A Security Operations Concept of Operations (Security ConOps) is a high-level, stakeholder-focused document that describes how an organisation will operate to achieve its security goals, focusing on what it will do and why, rather than the technical how. 

It outlines the baseline measures, goals, objectives, relevant threats, operational strategy, stakeholder roles, and desired future state for security, providing a framework for developing security plans and protocols. 

Benefits of a Security ConOps

Shared Vision and Common Understanding:

A ConOps establishes a baseline "operational concept" that provides a clearly understood view for all stakeholders, from end-users to developers and decision-makers.

Clarifies Intent and Direction:

It clarifies the overall intent and direction of the operation, acting as a bridge between vague initial capabilities and specific technical requirements needed for successful implementation.

Guides System Development:

The ConOps communicates the vision for the system and guides the acquisition and development effort, ensuring operational needs are incorporated into the design.

Aligns Stakeholders:

It ensures that different parts of the organisation—people, processes, technologies, data, and facilities—are all working towards the same security and operational objectives.

Provides Context for Requirements:

By outlining critical context from an integrated systems perspective, the ConOps provides a basis for developing specific and actionable operational requirements that meet overall goals.

Defines Operational Boundaries:

It helps to define design constraints, the rationale behind them, and the range of acceptable solutions, setting clear boundaries for the security operations.

Improves Communication:

As an approachable document, the ConOps serves as a key communication tool, making complex operational concepts accessible to a wide range of technical and non-technical stakeholders.