Can you guess how many cyberattacks happen annually?
800,000. Crazy, right?
Well, what’s even more startling is this number is predicted to rise more and more each year.
With the increase in cyberattacks, it’s critical that businesses get a handle on their cybersecurity infrastructure. As of right now, it currently takes organizations an average of 49 days to identify a cyberattack. With many cybersecurity departments understaffed, it’s no surprise that it takes them that long!
Global cybersecurity job vacancies also grew by 350%, from one million job openings in 2013 to 3.5 million in 2021. While there are a few reasons why companies are having a hard time filling these positions, the biggest reason is not being able to find enough qualified talent.
Fortunately, we have some good news. Cybersecurity undergraduate enrollment is trending up! Total enrollment grew an average of 15% annually across all award levels from fall 2018 to fall 2022.
With this increase in student demand comes the need for more cybersecurity programs – both at the K-12 and college levels – to help bridge the cybersecurity talent gap in the workforce.
One of the first steps to incorporating a cybersecurity program is creating cybersecurity labs, where students can gain the skills and experience that are highly needed in today’s online world.
Let’s explore the following questions to help guide your cybersecurity lab design:
1. What type of space are you working with?
This is the very first question you should ask before designing your lab. While some cybersecurity labs have a designated space, oftentimes cybersecurity will share the same space with other specialty areas, like esports. Knowing this detail will play a significant role in how your cybersecurity labs will look and function.
2. What technology infrastructure is needed for your cybersecurity labs?
Evaluate the technological requirements for the classroom. This includes the hardware, software, networking equipment and security tools needed to support the learning objectives. Here’s a list of just some of the many types of physical equipment found in cybersecurity labs that will impact the way you configure your lab layout:
- Computers: Desktop computers or laptops for students and instructors to perform practical exercises and simulations.
- Servers: Physical servers for hosting various cybersecurity applications, services and tools.
- Networking equipment: Routers, switches, firewalls and access pounds for network configuration, testing and understanding network security principles.
- Network cables and accessories: Ethernet cables, connectors and other accessories for setting up and managing network connections.
- Racks and cabinets: Equipment racks and cabinets to organize and house servers, networking devices and other hardware securely.
- Whiteboards and projectors: Whiteboards, projectors and audio-visual equipment for conducting lectures, presentations and collaborative discussions.
- Mobile devices: Smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices to practice mobile security assessments, testing and understanding mobile device security.
As always, it’s best to speak to the instructor to understand what technology will be used in the classroom. Once you determine technology needs, it’s important to invest in furniture that allows for easy technology integration. Our experienced design team can create custom furniture solutions tailored to meet the specific technology needs of the classroom, ensuring a conducive learning environment and efficient use of technology throughout the learning process. These customized solutions will take into account the layout of the lab, equipment placement and the overall learning objectives to enhance the learning experience for students.
3. Are flexibility and adaptability built into the design?
Cybersecurity is constantly evolving. That’s why it’s essential to make sure your cybersecurity labs allow for flexibility and adaptability to integrate new technologies, update curriculum and accommodate changes in teaching methodologies. This might involve modular furniture, easily reconfigurable layouts and scalable technology infrastructure.
4. How will your cybersecurity labs foster collaboration?
Cybersecurity is often a collaborative effort. Consider how you can design the classroom to encourage interaction, teamwork and peer learning. Configuring seating arrangements, incorporating group projects and opting for our collaborative workstations can promote a conducive learning environment.
5. What type of style and color scheme?
While functionality is a key factor, the right look and feel can also foster effective learning and student engagement. One approach is an industrial style that utilizes raw materials, exposed structures and wood elements. This will give your lab a cutting-edge and utilitarian look, reflecting the tech-driven nature of cybersecurity. Another popular idea is a futuristic style that incorporates sleek surfaces, integrated LED lighting and high-tech furnishings, evoking a sense of innovation. Ultimately, the chosen style should align with the intended learning outcomes, the preferences of the institution and the overall aesthetic desired.
Let’s redefine cybersecurity learning
Our dedicated design team can create custom furniture solutions and innovative designs that align seamlessly with your vision. Whether it’s incorporating cutting-edge industrial aesthetics or embracing a futuristic style, we’re ready to transform your ideas into a reality, preparing the cybersecurity professionals of tomorrow for career success. Together, we can build cybersecurity labs that nurture expertise and strengthen our digital future. Reach out today to get started!