Table of contents
- Origins and establishment of ACN
- Functions of the National Cybersecurity Agency
- Structure and governance
- Projects and initiatives
- Challenges and future objectives
The National Cybersecurity Agency (ACN) is a key institution in protecting Italy’s digital infrastructure.
This agency was established to ensure the security of networks and systems, develop national capabilities for prevention and monitoring, and promote innovation projects in the cybersecurity sector.
Origins and establishment of ACN
The ACN was established through a decree law initiated by the Prime Minister with the support of the Council of Ministers. This decision was made in response to the growing need for interministerial coordination in cybersecurity. The agency was conceived as a national authority capable of addressing cyber threats effectively and in a coordinated manner.
Functions of the National Cybersecurity Agency
The ACN is responsible for exercising the functions of a national authority in cybersecurity. This includes protecting national interests from cyber threats and ensuring the resilience of essential state services. The main functions of the ACN include:
- Prevention and monitoring
Developing national capabilities for preventing and monitoring cyber threats to anticipate and mitigate cybersecurity incidents.
- Coordination and collaboration
Working closely with other national authorities to ensure a coordinated response to cyber attacks.
- Innovation and development
Promoting scientific and technological projects to foster innovation in cybersecurity and stimulating the growth of a specialized national workforce.
- Protection of networks and systems
Ensuring the security of networks and IT systems used by national critical infrastructures.
- Training and awareness
Raising public and professional awareness about cybersecurity threats and improving threat awareness.
The ACN’s strategy is based on three key points:
- Protection
Ensuring a cyber-resilient digital transition for the Public Administration (PA) and the production sector.
- Response
Responding to threats, incidents, and national cyber crises through monitoring, detection, analysis, and activation processes involving the entire national cybersecurity ecosystem.
- Development
Securely developing digital technologies to meet market needs through tools and initiatives supporting centers of excellence, research activities, and businesses.
Structure and governance
The ACN’s structure is designed to ensure effective and coordinated action throughout the national territory. The agency operates under the direction of a delegated authority responsible for coordinating cybersecurity activities among various ministries and other involved institutions.
Additionally, the ACN collaborates with international organizations and other global cybersecurity agencies to share information and defense strategies.
Projects and initiatives
One of the ACN’s main goals is to promote technological innovation projects in the cybersecurity sector. These projects aim not only to develop new defense technologies but also to stimulate the growth of a qualified and competent national workforce.
The agency’s initiatives include scientific research programs, partnerships with universities and research centers, and awareness campaigns about cybersecurity.
Challenges and future objectives
The ACN faces several challenges in protecting Italy from cyber threats.
These include maintaining a high level of preparedness and responsiveness to evolving threats.
The agency constantly works to improve national capabilities for preventing, monitoring, and responding to cyber attacks. In a perspective of national strategic autonomy, the ACN aims to develop and maintain advanced competencies in cybersecurity, ensuring the protection of critical infrastructures and the safety of citizens.
In summary, the National Cybersecurity Agency is a cornerstone of Italy’s cyber defense strategy. Through prevention, monitoring, innovation promotion, and training, the ACN works to protect national networks and systems from increasingly sophisticated threats. With the support of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers, and thanks to its organizational structure and functions, the ACN stands as a bulwark against cyber attacks, contributing to the resilience and security of the country.
FAQ
- What is the National Cybersecurity Agency (ACN)?
The ACN is an Italian national entity established to protect digital infrastructure and ensure cybersecurity. - What are the main functions of the ACN?
The main functions include preventing and monitoring cyber threats, coordinating with other authorities, promoting innovation, and providing cybersecurity training. - How was the ACN established?
The ACN was established through a decree law initiated by the Prime Minister with the support of the Council of Ministers. - What is the objective of the ACN?
The objective is to protect national interests and the resilience of essential state services from cyber threats. - What are the main challenges for the ACN?
The main challenges include maintaining a high level of preparedness and responsiveness to continuously evolving cyber threats. - How does the ACN promote innovation?
The ACN promotes scientific and technological projects, collaborates with universities and research centers, and stimulates the growth of a specialized workforce in cybersecurity. - Who directs the ACN?
The ACN operates under the direction of a delegated authority who coordinates cybersecurity activities among various ministries and institutions. - Which entities collaborate with the ACN?
The ACN collaborates with other national authorities, international organizations, and global cybersecurity agencies. - How does the ACN contribute to cybersecurity training?
The ACN organizes awareness campaigns and training programs for the public and professionals on cybersecurity. - What is the role of the ACN in national network security?
The ACN ensures the security of networks and IT systems of national critical infrastructures, preventing and responding to cybersecurity incidents.
