Cyberspace

Primary definition

The interdependent network of information technology infrastructures, and includes the Internet, telecommunications networks, computer systems, and embedded processors and controllers in critical industries. Source: NSPD-54/HSPD-23

Also known asdigital domain · virtual space · online world · networked environment · information sphere
4 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 9, 2026
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015View source
People also ask

What is cyberspace?

The term Cyberspace refers to the interconnected environment of information-technology infrastructures, including the internet, telecommunications networks, computer systems, and embedded processors and controllers. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.

How is cyberspace used in cybersecurity?

In practice, Cyberspace is applied to the technical or security purpose captured by its definition: the interconnected environment of information-technology infrastructures, including the internet, telecommunications networks, computer systems, and embedded processors and controllers. Organizations combine that function with documented procedures, authorized access, testing, monitoring, and controls appropriate to the system. The governing standard or security policy determines the exact implementation.

Why does cyberspace matter for election security?

Understanding Cyberspace matters because the concept can affect security, reliability, auditability, or trusted operation. In this glossary context, it refers to the interconnected environment of information-technology infrastructures, including the internet, telecommunications networks, computer systems, and embedded processors and controllers. Applying the term precisely helps teams choose controls.

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CNSSGC

The interdependent network of information technology infrastructures, and includes the Internet, telecommunications networks, computer systems, and embedded processors and controllers in critical industries. Source: NSPD-54/HSPD-23

Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015 · 2024

Cite this term

Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Cyberspace. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/cyberspace

Sources

4 cited · last checked Aug 9, 2026

01

Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015

High consensus

View source

02

March 2020 CSC Report
March 2020 CSC Report

Multi-source

View source

03

The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary

Multi-source

View source

04

ODNI Cyber Threats to Elections Lexicon
ODNI Cyber Threats to Elections Lexicon

Multi-source

View source

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