Build robust cybersecurity protection and defenses into networks

Recommendation #172

FCC Chapter: 14.13

Status: In progress

The Federal Communications Commission should work with Internet service providers (ISPs) to build robust cybersecurity protection and defenses into networks offered to businesses and individuals without access to cybersecurity resources. ISPs that participate in this program should receive technical assistance from the federal government in securing their networks.

As cybersecurity becomes increasingly specialized and technologically complex, it is no longer reasonable to expect that small business and individuals can engage in self-help when it comes to cybersecurity.

The FCC should work with ISPs to build robust cybersecurity protection and defenses into networks offered to business and individuals.

Participation by end-users would be voluntary: ISPs could offer a choice to subscribers between a network with built-in cybersecurity protection or a network with no cybersecurity protection.

The FCC should identify ways that the federal government can provide ongoing technical assistance to secure these networks
as an incentive for participation in this program.