Profiling

Profiling in IT refers to the systematic collection and analysis of data to identify characteristics, behavioural patterns or activities associated with users, devices, applications or network connections. In networking and cybersecurity, it can be used to identify device types, analyse typical communication behaviour or detect deviations from normal network traffic. The resulting information can support access control, network segmentation, monitoring and the detection of potential security incidents. Similar methods are also used in Identity and Access Management and Network Access Control. When the analysis involves personal data, specific data protection requirements may apply. In the European Union, the GDPR includes provisions concerning automated processing of personal data used to evaluate certain personal aspects.