Air gapped systems have been around for decades, but it's only recently that they have gained widespread attention as a means to secure sensitive data. In simple terms, an air gapped system is a computer or network that is physically isolated from other networks and the internet. This isolation makes it nearly impossible for cyber criminals to gain unauthorized access, as they are unable to directly connect to the system. In this article, we will explore the concept of air gapped systems in detail and discuss their role in protecting sensitive data from cyber attacks.

What is an Air Gapped System?
An Air Gapped System is a computer or network that is not connected to any other external networks or the internet. This isolation is created by physically disconnecting the system's network interfaces, such as Ethernet cables and Wi-Fi adapters. It can also be achieved by using special hardware devices called air gap guards that filter out any data transmission attempts between an air gapped system and other networks.

The term "air gapped" comes from the idea of creating a literal gap of air between the isolated system and potential attackers. This gap serves as a defense mechanism, preventing any kind of data transfer or communication between the air gapped system and other networks.

Why are Air Gapped Systems Used? Protecting Sensitive Data
One of the main reasons for using an air gapped system is to protect sensitive data from cyber attacks. This includes highly classified government information, financial records, trade secrets, and any other data that could be damaging if leaked or stolen. By physically isolating the system, it becomes extremely difficult for hackers to gain access to this sensitive data.