Western Governors University (WGU) ITAS2110 D430 Fundamentals of Information Security Practice Exam

The distinction between physical and logical security lies primarily in what they aim to protect and how they achieve it. Physical security is concerned with safeguarding the physical components of a system—such as hardware, facilities, and equipment—against threats that could cause damage or unauthorized access. This includes strategies like locks, surveillance cameras, security guards, and environmental controls that protect against theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

On the other hand, logical security focuses on protecting digital assets, specifically data and information systems, through the use of access controls and encryption. This includes measures like passwords, authentication protocols, and user permissions that regulate who can access the data and what actions they can perform on it.

Understanding this difference is crucial, as both aspects are necessary for a comprehensive security strategy. While physical security addresses the tangible components that house data, logical security deals with safeguarding the data itself from unauthorized access or breaches. This holistic approach ensures that organizations can defend against both physical and cyber threats, securing their overall information security posture effectively.