A cyber range exercise is a simulated environment designed for training and testing cybersecurity skills, strategies, and technologies.
These exercises replicate real-world cyber-attack scenarios, allowing participants to practice their responses and improve their cybersecurity capabilities in a controlled setting.
Example of a Cyber Range Exercise
At The TAC we have cyber ranges that simulate real world environments like Adega Airport which features actual technology used across airports. An example of a cyber range exercise at TAC’s Adega Airport Cyber Range could involve simulating a ransomware attack on an airport’s operational systems, such as air traffic control, baggage handling, or energy management. Cyber Teams are able to attack/defend the airport’s operational systems in a cyber exercise.
This hands-on cyber exercise would prepare participants to handle real-world cyberattacks on critical airport infrastructure while emphasizing coordination and technical problem-solving under pressure.
Hack The Airport Cyber Security Conference and Cyber Exercise – Coming Spring 2025
CISA found that organizations participating in simulated exercises could respond to incidents 40-50% faster than those without such training.
6 Benefits of a Cyber Range Exercise
Cyber range exercises are valuable for preparing cybersecurity professionals to protect critical systems and respond effectively to evolving threats in a simulated risk free environment. Here are 6 benefits:
1. Real-World Skill Development
Cyber range exercises replicate real-world attack scenarios, providing hands-on experience that traditional training cannot match.
2. Safe Testing Environment
They allow cybersecurity professionals to test tools, strategies, and response plans without risking live systems. This safe environment encourages experimentation and innovation.
3. Improved Incident Response
Participants practice identifying and mitigating attacks, enhancing their ability to respond quickly during actual incidents.
4. Team Collaboration
Cyber ranges promote teamwork by requiring participants to collaborate under simulated pressure. This helps teams refine communication and decision-making in critical situations.
5. Boosts Organizational Resilience
Organizations benefit from cyber range exercises by identifying weaknesses in their cybersecurity posture and improving their overall readiness to defend against attacks.
6. Tailored/ Industry Specific Training
Exercises can be customized to focus on specific industries, technologies, or threat types, ensuring relevance for participants. For example, OT cyber ranges, like TAC’s Adega Airport Cyber Range, focus on critical infrastructure scenarios at Airports