When dealing with internet security, staying up-to-date on the latest research and developments can be a challenge. Luckily, there are a variety of federally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs) dedicated to developing, improving, and maintaining cybersecurity. Here, we explain three of the most prominent FFRDCs and how they help secure the internet.

CERT Coordination Center

The CERT/CC (Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Center) is an integral part of the United States Department of Defense. It researches software bugs and vulnerabilities that impact internet security. This FFRDC is responsible for working with businesses and individuals to improve their security posture and make the internet a safer place. Additionally, CERT/CC researchers publish their findings to the public to help others apply the same security best practices.

National Cybersecurity FFRDC

The National Cybersecurity Federally Funded Research and Development Center (NCF) is operated by MITRE. This institution works to fill a critical need in the cybersecurity space by providing a platform for researchers, businesses, and government entities to come together and develop new security protocols. Through the NCF, MITRE works with other institutions to create better tools for defending against cyber attacks, develop new safeguards against malicious attacks, and increase the overall security of the internet.

The Federal Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Center

The Federal Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Center (FNITR) is another FFRDC dedicated to researching and developing IT security protocols. FNITR is part of the United States Department of Defense. This FFRDC works to protect government networks from threats and protect the US government from cyber attacks. The FNITR is also responsible for researching and developing new technologies and systems for increasing the security of the internet.

All three of these FFRDCs are dedicated to developing, improving, and protecting the internet from malicious threats. By working together, these institutions make the internet a safer place for everyone. The FFRDCs above are just a few of the many other federally funded research and development centers dedicated to keeping the internet secure and improving its security protocols.