What is the CIA triad (confidentiality, integrity and availability)?

The CIA triad refers to confidentiality, integrity and availability, describing a model designed to guide policies for information security (infosec) within an organization. The model is sometimes referred to as the AIC triad -- which stands for availability, integrity and confidentiality -- to avoid confusion with the Central Intelligence Agency.

In this context, confidentiality is a set of high-level rules that limits access to all types of data and information. Integrity is the assurance that the information is trustworthy and accurate. And availability is a form of risk management to guarantee reliable access to that information by authorized people.