[](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/?ts=markdown) * [](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/?ts=markdown) * Products Products AI Security [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-AIRS-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) [AI Security Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) * [AI Gateway](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-gateway?ts=markdown) * [AI Supply Chain Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-supply-chain-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Red Teaming](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-red-teaming?ts=markdown) * [AI Runtime Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Agent Identity Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/agent-identity-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/cloud/ai-spm?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentic-endpoint-security?ts=markdown) Secure GenAI Tools * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) Network Security [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/strata-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) [Secure the Network](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall?ts=markdown) * [Hardware Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/hardware-firewall-innovations?ts=markdown) * [Software Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/software-firewalls?ts=markdown) * [Strata Cloud Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/strata-cloud-manager?ts=markdown) * [OT / Industrial Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/ot-security-solution?ts=markdown) * [Device \& IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/device-security?ts=markdown) * [5G Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/5g-security?ts=markdown) * [Managed Firewalls - Azure](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw-for-azure?ts=markdown) * [Managed Firewalls - AWS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw?ts=markdown) [Cloud-Delivered Security Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/security-subscriptions?ts=markdown) * [Advanced Threat Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-threat-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Advanced URL Filtering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-url-filtering?ts=markdown) * [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire?ts=markdown) * [Advanced DNS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-dns-security?ts=markdown) * [Advanced IP Defense](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-ip-defense?ts=markdown) * [Quantum Safe Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/quantum-safe-security?ts=markdown) * [Next-Gen Trust Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-gen-trust-security?ts=markdown) SASE [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-sase-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) [Secure Access (SASE)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Access (ZTNA)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/access?ts=markdown) * [SD-WAN](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/sd-wan?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise DLP](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) Security Operations [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) [Security Operations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven SOC](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Extended Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr?ts=markdown) * [Security Orchestration \& Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsoar?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/exposure-management?ts=markdown) * [Email Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/advanced-email-security?ts=markdown) * [Threat Intelligence Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/threat-intel-management?ts=markdown) * [Agentic-first Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentix?ts=markdown) * [Identity Threat Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/itdr?ts=markdown) [Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentic-endpoint-security?ts=markdown) * [Ransomware Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/ransomware-protection?ts=markdown) * [Digital Forensics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/digital-forensics?ts=markdown) [Data Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/data-security?ts=markdown) Cloud Security [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-cloud-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) [Application Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security?ts=markdown) * [Application Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Software Supply Chain Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-supply-chain-security?ts=markdown) * [Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/infrastructure-as-code-security?ts=markdown) * [Software Composition Analysis](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-composition-analysis?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/secrets-security?ts=markdown) * [Open Partner Ecosystem](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/appsec-partner-ecosystem?ts=markdown) [Cloud Posture Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-posture-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-infrastructure-entitlement-management?ts=markdown) * [Data Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/data-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [AI Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/ai-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) [Cloud Runtime Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Container \& Kubernetes Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/kubernetes-and-container-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Workload Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-workload-protection?ts=markdown) * [API Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/api-security?ts=markdown) * [Serverless Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/serverless-security?ts=markdown) Observability ^NEW^ [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cortex/xcor/cortex-xcor-logo-nav-2.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) Observability \& Remediation * [AI-Driven Observability](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/ai-driven-observability?ts=markdown) * [Distributed Tracing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/distributed-tracing?ts=markdown) * [Log Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/log-management?ts=markdown) * [Metrics Monitoring](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/metrics-monitoring?ts=markdown) Identity Security [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/idira-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira?ts=markdown) [Human Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human?ts=markdown) * [Modern PAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/privileged-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Identity and Access Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-and-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Privilege Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/endpoint-privilege-manager?ts=markdown) * [Identity Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-governance?ts=markdown) * [Workforce Password Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/workforce-password-management?ts=markdown) * [Vendor Privileged Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/vendor-privileged-access?ts=markdown) [Machine Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/secrets-management?ts=markdown) * [Unified Secrets Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/unified-secrets-governance?ts=markdown) * [Application Credentials Delivery](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/application-credentials-delivery?ts=markdown) [Agentic Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/agentic?ts=markdown) [See All Products](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/products-a-z?ts=markdown) * [![Overview icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/logo-default-orange.svg) Overview](#products-panel-0) * [![AI Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-prisma-blue.svg) AI Security](#products-panel-1) * [![Network Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-strata.svg) Network Security](#products-panel-2) * [![SASE icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-prisma-blue.svg) SASE](#products-panel-3) * [![Security Operations icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-cortex.svg) Security Operations](#products-panel-4) * [![Cloud Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-cortex.svg) Cloud Security](#products-panel-5) * [Observability ^NEW^](#products-panel-6) * [![Identity Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-idira.svg) Identity Security](#products-panel-7) [See All Products](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/products-a-z?ts=markdown) [![AI Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-AIRS-logo-nav.svg) AI Security Discover, assess and protect AI apps, agents and employee use of GenAI tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) [![Network Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/strata-logo-nav.svg) Network Security AI-powered NetSec with next-gen firewalls, inline defense and unified management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) [![Security Operations icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-logo-nav.svg) Security Operations Stop cyberattackers with the industry's premier platform for autonomous security operations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) [![Observability \& Remediation NEW icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cortex/xcor/cortex-xcor-logo-nav-2.svg) Observability \& Remediation ^NEW^ Prevent downtime with the AI-driven platform that delivers autonomous remediation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) [![SASE icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-sase-logo-nav.svg) SASE Protect with AI, secure AI use and operate with AI using agentic Prisma SASE](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) [![Identity Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/idira-logo-nav.svg) Identity Security Identity security platform to secure every identity: human, machine and agentic](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira?ts=markdown) [![Cloud Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-cloud-logo-nav.svg) Cloud Security Prevent risks from code to cloud with the leading agentic cloud security platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) [![AI Security logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-AIRS-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) [AI Security Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) * [AI Gateway](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-gateway?ts=markdown) * [AI Supply Chain Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-supply-chain-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Red Teaming](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-red-teaming?ts=markdown) * [AI Runtime Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Agent Identity Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/agent-identity-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/cloud/ai-spm?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentic-endpoint-security?ts=markdown) Secure GenAI Tools * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) [![Network Security logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/strata-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) [Secure the Network](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall?ts=markdown) * [Hardware Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/hardware-firewall-innovations?ts=markdown) * [Software Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/software-firewalls?ts=markdown) * [Strata Cloud Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/strata-cloud-manager?ts=markdown) * [OT / Industrial Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/ot-security-solution?ts=markdown) * [Device \& IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/device-security?ts=markdown) * [5G Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/5g-security?ts=markdown) * [Managed Firewalls - Azure](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw-for-azure?ts=markdown) * [Managed Firewalls - AWS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw?ts=markdown) [Cloud-Delivered Security Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/security-subscriptions?ts=markdown) * [Advanced Threat Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-threat-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Advanced URL Filtering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-url-filtering?ts=markdown) * [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire?ts=markdown) * [Advanced DNS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-dns-security?ts=markdown) * [Advanced IP Defense](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-ip-defense?ts=markdown) * [Quantum Safe Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/quantum-safe-security?ts=markdown) * [Next-Gen Trust Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-gen-trust-security?ts=markdown) [![SASE logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-sase-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) [Secure Access (SASE)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Access (ZTNA)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/access?ts=markdown) * [SD-WAN](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/sd-wan?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise DLP](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) [![Security Operations logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) [Security Operations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven SOC](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Extended Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr?ts=markdown) * [Security Orchestration \& Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsoar?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/exposure-management?ts=markdown) * [Email Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/advanced-email-security?ts=markdown) * [Threat Intelligence Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/threat-intel-management?ts=markdown) * [Agentic-first Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentix?ts=markdown) * [Identity Threat Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/itdr?ts=markdown) [Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentic-endpoint-security?ts=markdown) * [Ransomware Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/ransomware-protection?ts=markdown) * [Digital Forensics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/digital-forensics?ts=markdown) [Data Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/data-security?ts=markdown) [![Cloud Security logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-cloud-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) [Application Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security?ts=markdown) * [Application Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Software Supply Chain Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-supply-chain-security?ts=markdown) * [Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/infrastructure-as-code-security?ts=markdown) * [Software Composition Analysis](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-composition-analysis?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/secrets-security?ts=markdown) * [Open Partner Ecosystem](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/appsec-partner-ecosystem?ts=markdown) [Cloud Posture Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-posture-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-infrastructure-entitlement-management?ts=markdown) * [Data Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/data-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [AI Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/ai-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) [Cloud Runtime Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Container \& Kubernetes Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/kubernetes-and-container-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Workload Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-workload-protection?ts=markdown) * [API Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/api-security?ts=markdown) * [Serverless Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/serverless-security?ts=markdown) [![Observability NEW logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cortex/xcor/cortex-xcor-logo-nav-2.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) Observability \& Remediation * [AI-Driven Observability](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/ai-driven-observability?ts=markdown) * [Distributed Tracing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/distributed-tracing?ts=markdown) * [Log Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/log-management?ts=markdown) * [Metrics Monitoring](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/metrics-monitoring?ts=markdown) [![Identity Security logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/idira-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira?ts=markdown) [Human Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human?ts=markdown) * [Modern PAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/privileged-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Identity and Access Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-and-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Privilege Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/endpoint-privilege-manager?ts=markdown) * [Identity Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-governance?ts=markdown) * [Workforce Password Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/workforce-password-management?ts=markdown) * [Vendor Privileged Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/vendor-privileged-access?ts=markdown) [Machine Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/secrets-management?ts=markdown) * [Unified Secrets Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/unified-secrets-governance?ts=markdown) * [Application Credentials Delivery](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/application-credentials-delivery?ts=markdown) [Agentic Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/agentic?ts=markdown) * Solutions Solutions By Use Case [![Drive AI Transformation icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/ai-page/teaser-block/teaser-icon-2.svg) Drive AI Transformation Scale enterprise AI adoption across employees, applications and agents with confidence and control](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security?ts=markdown) [![Accelerate Cloud Transformation icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-cortex.svg) Accelerate Cloud Transformation Build fast and innovate fearlessly with AI-driven protection from code to cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) [![Secure AI Coding icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/logo-default-orange.svg) Secure AI Coding Let AI coding do more, with you in control. Protect data, govern agents and control AI costs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/secure-ai-coding?ts=markdown) [![Secure Every Identity icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-idira.svg) Secure Every Identity Stop identity-led breaches: Secure human, machine, and agentic identities with zero trust](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira?ts=markdown) [![Enable Autonomous SOC icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-cortex.svg) Enable Autonomous SOC Fight AI with AI to stop threats at machine speed with the power of analytics and automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/fight-ai-with-ai?ts=markdown) [![Secure Critical Infrastructure icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/logo-default-orange.svg) Secure Critical Infrastructure Stop machine-speed threats across OT, 5G and IoT with AI-driven cyber defense](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/securing-critical-infrastructure?ts=markdown) [![Secure the Hybrid Network icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-strata.svg) Secure the Hybrid Network Stay ahead of AI-driven attacks with unified network security across hybrid environments](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) [![Automate Root-Cause Analysis icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-cortex.svg) Automate Root-Cause Analysis Respond autonomously to incidents and accelerate remediation with agentic AI](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) [![Frontier AI Defense icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-Unit42.svg) Frontier AI Defense Use defender-grade models to stop AI-speed attacks before they start](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/ai-advantage?ts=markdown) * Services Services Security Services [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/unit-logo-dark.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42?ts=markdown) Prepare for Emerging Risks * [AI Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/ai-security-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Frontier AI](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/prepare-for-emerging-risks/continuous-frontier-ai-defense?ts=markdown) * [Respond to Cyber Attacks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond?ts=markdown) * [Incident Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/incident-response?ts=markdown) * [Digital Forensics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/digital-forensics?ts=markdown) * [Managed Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/managed-detection-response?ts=markdown) * [Managed Threat Hunting](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-threat-hunting?ts=markdown) * [Managed XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-xsiam?ts=markdown) [Strengthen Your Defenses](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/attack-surface-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Breach Readiness](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/breach-readiness-review?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/cloud-security-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Compromise Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/compromise-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Ransomware Readiness](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/ransomware-readiness-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Supply Chain](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/supply-chain-risk-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Tabletop Exercises](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/tabletop-exercises?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Retainer](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/retainer?ts=markdown) [Build Your Security Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy?ts=markdown) * [Cyber Risk](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/cyber-risk-assessment?ts=markdown) * [IR Plan Development](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/IR-plan-and-development-review?ts=markdown) * [Security Program Design](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/security-program-design?ts=markdown) * [SOC Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/soc-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Virtual CISO](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/virtual-ciso?ts=markdown) * [Zero Trust](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/zero-trust-advisory?ts=markdown) Understand the Adversary * [Threat Intelligence](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/threat-intelligence?ts=markdown) * [Offensive Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/offensive-security-services?ts=markdown) Managed Firewalls Managed Firewalls * [Managed Firewalls - AWS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw?ts=markdown) * [Managed Firewalls - Azure](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw-for-azure?ts=markdown) Customer Services [Global Customer Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services?ts=markdown) * [Education \& Training](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/education?ts=markdown) * [Professional Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/consulting?ts=markdown) * [Success Tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/customer-success-tools?ts=markdown) * [Support Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/solution-assurance?ts=markdown) * [Customer Success](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/customer-success?ts=markdown) [Under Attack?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/contact-unit42?ts=markdown) * [Services Overview](#services-panel-0) * [Security Services](#services-panel-1) * [Managed Firewalls](#services-panel-2) * [Customer Services](#services-panel-3) [Under Attack?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/contact-unit42?ts=markdown) [![Security Services logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/unit-logo-dark.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42?ts=markdown) Prepare for Emerging Risks * [AI Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/ai-security-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Frontier AI](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/prepare-for-emerging-risks/continuous-frontier-ai-defense?ts=markdown) * [Respond to Cyber Attacks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond?ts=markdown) * [Incident Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/incident-response?ts=markdown) * [Digital Forensics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/digital-forensics?ts=markdown) * [Managed Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/managed-detection-response?ts=markdown) * [Managed Threat Hunting](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-threat-hunting?ts=markdown) * [Managed XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-xsiam?ts=markdown) [Strengthen Your Defenses](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/attack-surface-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Breach Readiness](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/breach-readiness-review?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/cloud-security-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Compromise Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/compromise-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Ransomware Readiness](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/ransomware-readiness-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Supply Chain](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/supply-chain-risk-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Tabletop Exercises](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/tabletop-exercises?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Retainer](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/retainer?ts=markdown) [Build Your Security Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy?ts=markdown) * [Cyber Risk](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/cyber-risk-assessment?ts=markdown) * [IR Plan Development](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/IR-plan-and-development-review?ts=markdown) * [Security Program Design](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/security-program-design?ts=markdown) * [SOC Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/soc-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Virtual CISO](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/virtual-ciso?ts=markdown) * [Zero Trust](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy/zero-trust-advisory?ts=markdown) Understand the Adversary * [Threat Intelligence](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/threat-intelligence?ts=markdown) * [Offensive Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses/offensive-security-services?ts=markdown) Managed Firewalls * [Managed Firewalls - AWS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw?ts=markdown) * [Managed Firewalls - Azure](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw-for-azure?ts=markdown) [Global Customer Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services?ts=markdown) * [Education \& Training](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/education?ts=markdown) * [Professional Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/consulting?ts=markdown) * [Success Tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/customer-success-tools?ts=markdown) * [Support Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/solution-assurance?ts=markdown) * [Customer Success](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/customer-success?ts=markdown) * Industries Industries [![Financial Services icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/financial-icon-2.svg) Financial Services Secure with AI cybersecurity, fraud and ransomware prevention, compliance, and customer data protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/financial-services?ts=markdown) [![Manufacturing icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/manufacturing-icon-2.svg) Manufacturing Secure with OT security, ransomware defense, industrial cybersecurity, supply chain resilience, and continuity](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/manufacturing?ts=markdown) [![Retail and Hospitality icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/retail-icon-2.svg) Retail and Hospitality Secure with payment security, PCI compliance, ransomware and fraud prevention, and data protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/retail?ts=markdown) [![Healthcare and Life Sciences icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/healthcare-icon-2.svg) Healthcare and Life Sciences Secure patient and clinical data, medical device security, ransomware defense, and HIPAA compliance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/healthcare?ts=markdown) [![Public Sector icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/public-sector-icon-2.svg) Public Sector Secure with Zero Trust, cyber defense, compliance, infrastructure protection, and citizen data security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/public-sector?ts=markdown) [![Utilities icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/utilities-icon-2.svg) Utilities Secure with power grid protection, OT network security, ransomware defense, and critical infrastructure security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/electric-utilities?ts=markdown) [![Transportation icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/transportation-icon-2.svg) Transportation Secure OT and connected infrastructure protection, ransomware defense, supply chain security, compliance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/transportation-security?ts=markdown) [![Small and Medium Business icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/smb-icon-2.svg) Small and Medium Business Secure against cyber threats using AI-powered endpoint, network, browser, cloud, and MDR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/small-medium-business-portfolio?ts=markdown) * Partners Partners NextWave * [Partner Program](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/nextwave-partner-portal-login?ts=markdown) * [Become a Partner](https://paloaltonetworks.my.site.com/NextWavePartnerProgram/s/partnerregistration?type=becomepartner) * [Request Partner Portal Access](https://paloaltonetworks.my.site.com/NextWavePartnerProgram/s/partnerregistration?type=requestaccess) * [Partner Portal Login](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/nextwave-partner-portal?ts=markdown) * [Find a Partner](https://paloaltonetworks.my.site.com/NextWavePartnerProgram/s/partnerlocator) Partner Ecosystem [Explore All Partners Find the right partner network tailored to your business needs, cloud environments, and security requirements](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners?ts=markdown) [Cloud Service Partners Bring cloud native security and compliance to the entire development lifecycle](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/nextwave-for-csp?ts=markdown) [Frontier AI Alliance Outpace today's cyberattacks through a global ecosystem of leaders orchestrating unified defenses](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/frontier?ts=markdown) [Global System Integrators Speed and secure digital transformation with the industry's best technology, people and intelligence](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/nextwave-for-gsi?ts=markdown) [Managed Security Service Providers Gain valuable resource oversight to help your businesses administer security strategies](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/managed-security-service-providers?ts=markdown) [Resellers Deliver the most comprehensive cybersecurity portfolio while expanding opportunities and profitability](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/resellers?ts=markdown) [Service Providers Protect mobile users, devices and applications with effective, flexible and easy to deploy cybersecurity](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/service-providers?ts=markdown) [Technology Partners Advance security and transformation with innovative technology partner integrations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/technology-partners?ts=markdown) * Resources Resources ![Learn icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/resource-library-icon.svg) Learn * [Resource Library](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources?ts=markdown) * [Analyst Reports](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/research?ts=markdown) * [Customer Stories](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/customers?ts=markdown) * [Blog](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/?ts=markdown) * [Cyberpedia](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia?ts=markdown) * [Threat Vector Podcast](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/podcasts/threat-vector?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Knowledgebase](https://knowledgebase.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Technical Documentation](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/) ![Engage icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/engage-icon-2.svg) Engage * [Webinars](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/webinars?ts=markdown) * [Demos](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/demos?ts=markdown) * [Test Drive](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/test-drives?ts=markdown) * [On-Demand](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ondemand?ts=markdown) ![Connect icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/connect-icon-2.svg) Connect * [Executive Briefings](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/executive-briefing-program?ts=markdown) * [Events](https://events.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Live Community](https://live.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Contact Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/contact-sales?ts=markdown) ![Discover icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/discover-icon-2.svg) Discover * [Why Palo Alto Networks?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/why-paloaltonetworks?ts=markdown) * [Platform Approach](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/why-paloaltonetworks/platformization?ts=markdown) * [Awards \& Recognition](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/awards?ts=markdown) * [Global Certifications](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/trust-center/certifications?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Locations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/regional-cloud-locations?ts=markdown) * [Corporate Responsibility](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/corporate-responsibility?ts=markdown) * [Trust 360 Program](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/whitepapers/trust-360?ts=markdown) ![Company icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/logo-default-orange.svg) Company * [About Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us?ts=markdown) * [Management Team](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/management?ts=markdown) * [Investor Relations](https://investors.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Newsroom](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/newsroom?ts=markdown) * [Careers](https://jobs.paloaltonetworks.com/en) * [Culture \& Benefits](https://jobs.paloaltonetworks.com/en/culture/) * [Ethics \& Compliance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/ethics-and-compliance?ts=markdown) * [Office Locations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/locations?ts=markdown) * ![search magnifying glass](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/search-black.svg) * us Language * USA (ENGLISH) * [AUSTRALIA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.au/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [BRAZIL (PORTUGUÉS)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.br/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [CANADA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.ca/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [CHINA (简体中文)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.cn/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [FRANCE (FRANÇAIS)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.fr/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [GERMANY (DEUTSCH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.de/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [INDIA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.in/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [ITALY (ITALIANO)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.it/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [JAPAN (日本語)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.jp/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [KOREA (한국어)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.co.kr/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [LATIN AMERICA (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.lat/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [MEXICO (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.mx/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [SINGAPORE (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.sg/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [SPAIN (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.es/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [TAIWAN (繁體中文)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.tw/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * [UK (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.co.uk/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) * Accounts \& Support Accounts \& Support * Accounts * Customer * Partner * Employee * [Login to Download](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/login?ts=markdown) * [Become a Member](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/login?screenToRender=traditionalRegistration&ts=markdown) * Support * [Contact Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/contact-sales?ts=markdown) * [What's New](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources?ts=markdown) * [Get Support](https://support.paloaltonetworks.com/SupportAccount/MyAccount) [Under Attack?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/contact-unit42?ts=markdown) * [Demos and Trials](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/get-started?ts=markdown) [Introducing Cortex XCOR: Observability, reimagined. Discover now.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) [](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/?ts=markdown) Search All * [Tech Docs](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/search) Close search modal 1. [Cyberpedia](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia?ts=markdown) 2. [Cloud Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/cloud-security?ts=markdown) 3. [DSPM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm?ts=markdown) 4. [What Is a Data Flow Diagram?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram?ts=markdown) Table of Contents * [What is Data Security Posture Management? DSPM Guide](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm#dspm-explained?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Works](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm#works?ts=markdown) * [The Importance of Data Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm#dspm-importance?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Capabilities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm#dspm-capabilities?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Vs. CSPM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm#dspm-vs-cspm?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Use Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm#dspm-use-cases?ts=markdown) * [Data Security Posture Management Tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm#dspm-tools?ts=markdown) * [Data Security Posture Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm#faq?ts=markdown) * [2026 DSPM Adoption Report](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-adoption-report?ts=markdown) * [Current State of DSPM Adoption in 2026](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-adoption-report#current?ts=markdown) * [Primary Drivers Behind DSPM Enterprise Adoption](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-adoption-report#primary?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Implementation Patterns and Deployment Models](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-adoption-report#dspm?ts=markdown) * [Barriers to DSPM Adoption and How Organizations Overcome Them](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-adoption-report#barriers?ts=markdown) * [Measuring DSPM Effectiveness and ROI](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-adoption-report#roi?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Adoption FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-adoption-report#faqs?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Is Evolving: Key Trends to Watch](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-evolving-trends?ts=markdown) * [From Static Discovery to Dynamic Intelligence](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-evolving-trends#static?ts=markdown) * [The Convergence of DSPM with Cloud-Native Security Architectures](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-evolving-trends#native?ts=markdown) * [Real-Time Data Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-evolving-trends#response?ts=markdown) * [AI Security and Generative AI Data Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-evolving-trends#protection?ts=markdown) * [Automation, Policy-as-Code, and DevSecOps Integration](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-evolving-trends#automation?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Key Trends FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-evolving-trends#faq?ts=markdown) * [Why DSPM Is Critical for Enterprise Data Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-enterprise-data-security?ts=markdown) * [The Enterprise Data Security Gap That DSPM Solves](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-enterprise-data-security#enterprise?ts=markdown) * [Core DSPM Capabilities That Enable Enterprise-Scale Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-enterprise-data-security#core?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Transforms Enterprise Risk Management and Compliance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-enterprise-data-security#how?ts=markdown) * [Building an Effective Enterprise DSPM Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-enterprise-data-security#building?ts=markdown) * [DSPM for Enterprise FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-enterprise-data-security#faqs?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Vs. CSPM: Key Differences and How to Choose](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-vs-cspm?ts=markdown) * [Understand the Fundamentals --- What Are CSPM and DSPM?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-vs-cspm#understand?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Vs. CSPM: What's the Difference?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-vs-cspm#difference?ts=markdown) * [Pros and Cons of Each Approach](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-vs-cspm#pros-and-cons?ts=markdown) * [Use Cases: When to Use DSPM, CSPM, or Both](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-vs-cspm#use-cases?ts=markdown) * [Choosing the Right Approach (or Integrating Both)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-vs-cspm#approach?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Vs. CSPM FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-vs-cspm#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is a Data Breach?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach?ts=markdown) * [Data Breaches Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#data?ts=markdown) * [The Breach Lifecycle](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#lifecycle?ts=markdown) * [Why Preventing Data Breaches Matter](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#why?ts=markdown) * [Data Breach Reporting](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#reporting?ts=markdown) * [How Do Data Breaches Happen?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#how?ts=markdown) * [The Prevalence of Data Breaches](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#prevalence?ts=markdown) * [Lessons from Headlining Breaches](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#lessons?ts=markdown) * [‍How to Prevent Data Breaches](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#prevent?ts=markdown) * [Data Breach FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Cloud Data Protection?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cloud-data-protection?ts=markdown) * [Why Companies Need Cloud Data Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cloud-data-protection#why?ts=markdown) * [How Companies Can Better Protect Their Data in Cloud Environments](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cloud-data-protection#how?ts=markdown) * [The Benefits of Cloud Data Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cloud-data-protection#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Data Protection FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cloud-data-protection#faqs?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Enables XDR and SOAR for Automated, Data-Centric Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-xdr-soar?ts=markdown) * [Why Data Context Matters in Modern Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-xdr-soar#why?ts=markdown) * [What DSPM Brings to XDR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-xdr-soar#what?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Powers SOAR Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-xdr-soar#how?ts=markdown) * [The Synergy of DSPM, XDR, and SOAR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-xdr-soar#synergy?ts=markdown) * [Best Practices for Implementation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-xdr-soar#best?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Enables XDR and SOAR FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-xdr-soar#faqs?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Tools: How to Evaluate and Select the Best Option](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-tools?ts=markdown) * [The Need for Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) Solutions](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-tools#solutions?ts=markdown) * [The Key 7 Components of DSPM Tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-tools#key?ts=markdown) * [How to Select the Right DSPM Solution](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-tools#how?ts=markdown) * [Common Challenges in Implementing DSPM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-tools#common?ts=markdown) * [Data Security Posture Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-tools#faqs?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Combats Toxic Combinations: Enabling Proactive Data-Centric Defense](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-defense?ts=markdown) * [What Are Toxic Combinations?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-defense#what?ts=markdown) * [The Role of Attack Path Analysis in Detection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-defense#role?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Capabilities for Toxic Combination Mitigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-defense#dspm?ts=markdown) * [Aligning with Frameworks and Zero Trust](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-defense#aligning?ts=markdown) * [Best Practices for Implementation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-defense#best?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Combats Toxic Combinations FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-defense#faqs?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Enables Continuous Compliance and Data Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-governance?ts=markdown) * [Why Traditional Compliance Approaches Fall Short](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-governance#why?ts=markdown) * [DSPM as a Foundation for Continuous Compliance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-governance#dspm?ts=markdown) * [Strengthening Data Governance with DSPM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-governance#strengthening?ts=markdown) * [Regulatory Alignment and Business Enablement](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-governance#regulatory?ts=markdown) * [Implementation Considerations and Best Practices](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-governance#implementation?ts=markdown) * [DSPM for Continuous Compliance and Data Governance FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-governance#faqs?ts=markdown) * [DSPM for AI: Navigating Data and AI Compliance Regulations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-ai-compliance?ts=markdown) * [How DSPM Secures Data Integrity and Enables Compliance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-ai-compliance#how?ts=markdown) * [Navigating Global AI Compliance with DSPM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-ai-compliance#navigating?ts=markdown) * [Securing the AI Lifecycle with DSPM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-ai-compliance#lifecycle?ts=markdown) * [Integrating DSPM Across the Security Ecosystem](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-ai-compliance#ecosystem?ts=markdown) * [The Future of DSPM: Business Value and Responsible AI](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-ai-compliance#future?ts=markdown) * [DSPM for AI FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-data-ai-compliance#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Data Exfiltration?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-exfiltration?ts=markdown) * [Data Exfiltration Vs. Data Breach](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-exfiltration#data?ts=markdown) * [Risks of Data Exfiltration](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-exfiltration#risks?ts=markdown) * [Examples of Data Exfiltration](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-exfiltration#examples?ts=markdown) * [Data Exfiltration in Public Clouds](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-exfiltration#public?ts=markdown) * [Data Exfiltration Warning Signs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-exfiltration#warning?ts=markdown) * [Preventing Data Exfiltration](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-exfiltration#preventing?ts=markdown) * [Data Exfiltration FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-exfiltration#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Data Discovery?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-discovery?ts=markdown) * [How Data Discovery Works](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-discovery#how?ts=markdown) * [Data Discovery: The Key to Data Classification](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-discovery#data?ts=markdown) * [Benefits of Data Discovery](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-discovery#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Data Discovery FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-discovery#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Data Classification?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-classification?ts=markdown) * [Data Classification Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-classification#data?ts=markdown) * [Why Data Classification Matters](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-classification#why?ts=markdown) * [Data Classification Levels](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-classification#levels?ts=markdown) * [Data Classification Use Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-classification#usecases?ts=markdown) * [How Does Data Classification Improve Data Security?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-classification#how?ts=markdown) * [Data Classification FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-classification#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Data-Centric Security?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-centric-security?ts=markdown) * [Why a Data-Centric Security Strategy Matters](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-centric-security#why?ts=markdown) * [When a Data Focus for Security Is Necessary](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-centric-security#when?ts=markdown) * [Data-Centric Security FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-centric-security#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Data Access Governance?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-access-governance?ts=markdown) * [Data Access Governance Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-access-governance#data?ts=markdown) * [Data Access Governance in Compliance and Auditing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-access-governance#compliance?ts=markdown) * [Data Governance in Cloud Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-access-governance#cloud-security?ts=markdown) * [Software Used for Data Access Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-access-governance#software?ts=markdown) * [Data Access Governance FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-access-governance#faqs?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Market Size: 2026 Guide](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-market?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Market Size and Financial Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-market#dspm?ts=markdown) * [Growth Drivers Reshaping the DSPM Market](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-market#growth?ts=markdown) * [Market Segmentation and Adoption Patterns](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-market#market?ts=markdown) * [Palo Alto Networks DSPM Market Position](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-market#position?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Market Forecast Through 2030](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-market#dspm?ts=markdown) * [DSPM Market FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-market#faqs?ts=markdown) * What Is a Data Flow Diagram? * [Data Flow Diagram Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#data?ts=markdown) * [What Symbols Are in Data Flow Diagrams?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#what?ts=markdown) * [What Are the Different Levels of DFDs?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#different?ts=markdown) * [What Are the Benefits of Using a Data Flow Diagram?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Data Flow FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Data Movement?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-movement?ts=markdown) * [Data Movement Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-movement#explained?ts=markdown) * [Data Movement and Cloud Data Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-movement#data-security?ts=markdown) * [5 Types of Data Movement, With Examples](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-movement#types?ts=markdown) * [The Fragmented Landscape of Data Movement Tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-movement#tools?ts=markdown) * [Data Movements FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-movement#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Data Detection and Response (DDR)?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr?ts=markdown) * [Data Detection and Response Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#data?ts=markdown) * [Why Is DDR Important?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#why?ts=markdown) * [Improving DSPM Solutions with Dynamic Monitoring](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#improving?ts=markdown) * [A Closer Look at Data Detection and Response (DDR)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#ddr?ts=markdown) * [How DDR Solutions Work](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#how?ts=markdown) * [How Does DDR Fit into the Cloud Data Security Landscape?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#landscape?ts=markdown) * [Does the CISO Agenda Need an Additional Cybersecurity Tool?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#does?ts=markdown) * [Supporting Innovation Without Sacrificing Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#supporting?ts=markdown) * [DSPM and Data Detection and Response FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-detection-response-ddr#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Unstructured Data?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/unstructured-data?ts=markdown) * [Understanding Unstructured Data in the Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/unstructured-data#understanding?ts=markdown) * [Unstructured Data and Challenges with Data Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/unstructured-data#unstructured?ts=markdown) * [Key Aspects of Data Security for Unstructured Data](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/unstructured-data#key?ts=markdown) * [Unstructured Data FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/unstructured-data#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Structured Data?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/structured-data?ts=markdown) * [Structured Data Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/structured-data#structured?ts=markdown) * [Benefits of Structured Data](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/structured-data#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Challenges with Structured Data](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/structured-data#challenges?ts=markdown) * [Internal and External Sources of Structured Data](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/structured-data#internal?ts=markdown) * [Structured Data FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/structured-data#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Shadow Data?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/shadow-data?ts=markdown) * [Shadow Data Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/shadow-data#shadow?ts=markdown) * [The Dangers of Shadow Data](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/shadow-data#the?ts=markdown) * [Mitigating Shadow Data Risks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/shadow-data#mitigating?ts=markdown) * [Shadow IT FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/shadow-data#faqs?ts=markdown) # What Is a Data Flow Diagram? 5 min. read Table of Contents * * [Data Flow Diagram Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#data?ts=markdown) * [What Symbols Are in Data Flow Diagrams?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#what?ts=markdown) * [What Are the Different Levels of DFDs?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#different?ts=markdown) * [What Are the Benefits of Using a Data Flow Diagram?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Data Flow FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#faqs?ts=markdown) 1. Data Flow Diagram Explained * * [Data Flow Diagram Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#data?ts=markdown) * [What Symbols Are in Data Flow Diagrams?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#what?ts=markdown) * [What Are the Different Levels of DFDs?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#different?ts=markdown) * [What Are the Benefits of Using a Data Flow Diagram?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Data Flow FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram#faqs?ts=markdown) A data flow diagram (DFD) is a graphical representation of [data movement](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-movement?ts=markdown) through an information system, modeling its process aspects. It is a powerful tool used in system analysis and design, and it allows a clear and concise representation of the system's components, data, and interactions. ## Data Flow Diagram Explained A data flow diagram offers a visual representation that maps the flow of information within a system, emphasizing processes, data stores, and external entities. It helps security teams identify and analyze data pathways, ensuring secure data handling and optimized processes. Using a standardized notation, data flow diagrams depict the movement of data between components, illustrating how inputs transform into outputs. By uncovering potential vulnerabilities and inefficiencies in data processing, DFDs facilitate the implementation of enhanced security measures and streamlined workflows in complex systems. ### Data Movement in the Cloud Ecosystem In multicloud environments, data flow diagrams become essential for managing data movement across multiple cloud service providers. [Data security posture management (DSPM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-dspm?ts=markdown) solutions automatically perform data discovery and flow mapping to understand how data moves throughout an organization's infrastructure. DFDs help experts visualize and track data flow between cloud platforms, ensuring seamless integration and adherence to security policies. By mapping data flows in multicloud settings, practitioners can identify potential points of exposure or misconfigurations, enabling the design of effective security controls across disparate cloud infrastructures. Additionally, DFDs assist in maintaining [compliance with data protection regulations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-compliance?ts=markdown), as they provide clear insights into data handling practices and potential risks in multicloud ecosystems. ## What Symbols Are in Data Flow Diagrams? In DFDs, symbols represent various components of the system and their interactions. These symbols serve as a visual language that conveys the structure and flow of data within a system. ### Core DFD Symbols 1. **Processes:** Represented by circles, ovals, or rectangles, processes are used to transform incoming data flow into outgoing data flow. 2. **Data Flow:** Represented by arrows, these show the direction and route of data as it moves through the system. It signifies what kind of information will be input and output from the system. 3. **Data Stores:** Often represented by two horizontal lines, these indicate data repositories like databases or other storage mechanisms where data rests. 4. **Entities:** Represented by rectangles or squares, entities can be external actors or system units interacting with the system. They can be sources or destinations of data. The consistent use of these symbols across DFDs ensures clarity and uniformity, helping technical and non-technical stakeholders comprehend the system's data architecture and interactions. ## What Are the Different Levels of DFDs? Data flow diagrams can be structured at various levels of abstraction. Each level offers a more detailed representation of the system's data flow and processes than the level above it. ### Context Diagram (Level 0 DFD) The context diagram, often called Level 0 DFD, represents the highest level of abstraction in a DFD. Serving as a broad overview, it encapsulates the entirety of a system and displays it as one unified process. This diagram distinctly outlines the system's boundaries, clearly demarcating external entities that can be sources or destinations for the system's data. Furthermore, it illuminates the primary data flows between these external entities and the system. However, it's noteworthy that data stores, where information might be held or retrieved from, are typically omitted from this level of representation. ### Level 1 DFD In the level 1 data flow diagram, the singular, overarching process depicted in the context diagram is broken down into its significant high-level processes or subprocesses. This level elucidates the core internal operations of the system, clearly showcasing the data flow between these processes, the associated external entities, and the data storage points. One of the salient features of the level 1 DFD is its harmonious balance between comprehensibility and complexity. It provides stakeholders with a lucid perspective of the system's principal functionalities while refraining from delving into granular specifics. This ensures an understanding of the broader system's workflow without overwhelming the viewer with excessive detail. ### Level 2 DFD In progressing to a level 2 data flow diagram, every process delineated in the level 1 DFD is further dissected into its underlying subprocesses. This level offers a more intricate visualization, capturing detailed data flows and the nuanced processes they navigate. Additionally, level 2 DFDs often delve deeper into the realm of data storage, pinpointing specific data stores and elucidating the mechanics of how data is accessed and retained within these repositories. As such, this representation affords a granular insight into the system's inner workings, illuminating the intricate dance of data as it moves through processes and storage points. ### Level 3 DFD Beyond the level 2 data flow diagram, the delineation process intensifies, with each subsequent layer dissecting processes further into even more specific and granular operations. With each advancing level, there's a proportional increase in the depth and precision of insights into the system's data flow, processes, and interactions. This modular breakdown isn't arbitrarily finite. Instead, the depth of these levels can extend indefinitely, tailored to meet the requisite clarity and detail necessary to thoroughly understand and represent the system's operations. The DFD can be expanded upon endlessly, ensuring that every facet of the system's functionality is meticulously mapped out. In practice, deciding how many levels to create for a DFD usually depends on the system's complexity and the analysis's specific goals. The main idea is to begin with a broad overview and then continually drill down into more detailed representations, providing clarity at each step. ## What Are the Benefits of Using a Data Flow Diagram? Using a data flow diagram offers several benefits, especially during system analysis, design, and documentation stages. Here are some of the critical advantages of employing DFDs: ### Visual Representation DFDs provide a clear graphical representation of a system's processes, data flows, data stores, and external entities. This visual element helps technical and non-technical stakeholders grasp system components and their interrelationships more easily. ### System Overview The context diagram (level 0 DFD) offers a bird's-eye view of the entire system, facilitating a high-level understanding of system boundaries, major processes, and external interactions. ### Modular Decomposition DFDs allow for a top-down modular decomposition of a system. As one moves from higher-level DFDs to more detailed ones, one can delve deeper into specific system aspects without getting overwhelmed by the system's entirety. ### Communication Tool DFDs are an excellent communication tool between analysts, designers, developers, and other stakeholders. They ensure everyone consistently understands the system's structure and functionality. ### Identification of Redundancies DFDs can help identify redundant or unnecessary data processes by mapping out data flows, leading to streamlined system design. ### Enhanced Error Detection DFDs can aid in pinpointing inconsistencies, missing elements, or potential bottlenecks within the system, which can then be addressed during the design phase. ### Documentation DFDs contribute to system documentation, providing future developers, analysts, and managers with valuable insights into system operations and data flow. ### Facilitates System Improvements Over time, as the system needs to evolve or be upgraded, DFDs can assist in pinpointing areas of improvement, integration, or modification. ### Boundary Clarification DFDs help clarify a system's boundaries by distinguishing between external entities and internal processes. This distinction is crucial for defining the scope of system development projects. ### Validation DFDs can validate the proposed design with end-users or stakeholders, ensuring that the design aligns with the system's goals and requirements. DFDs act as a roadmap for system development, offering clarity, facilitating communication, and ensuring the system is designed efficiently and effectively. ## Data Flow FAQs ### What is data mapping? Data mapping is the process of creating visual representations of the relationships and flows of data within an organization's systems and processes. It helps organizations understand how data is collected, stored, processed, and shared across different systems, applications, and third parties. The need to identify potential risks, maintain data accuracy, and respond effectively to data subject rights requests makes data mapping essential to complying with data protection regulations. ### What is data at rest in the context of the cloud? Data at rest refers to any data stored persistently within cloud-based storage services, such as object storage, block storage, or databases. The data remains static and is not being actively processed or transmitted over a network. [Cloud security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-a-cloud-security?ts=markdown) measures for data at rest include encryption, access controls, and regular vulnerability assessments to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and potential security threats. ### What is data in motion? Data in motion encompasses data actively being transmitted between cloud components or between on-premises and cloud infrastructure. It can involve data transfers between storage systems, APIs, or data streaming services within the cloud ecosystem. Securing data in motion is critical, as it is more susceptible to interception and tampering. Advanced security measures for data in motion include utilizing encryption protocols, secure communication channels, and authentication mechanisms to safeguard [sensitive data](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/sensitive-data?ts=markdown) during transmission. ### What is data in use? Data in use within the cloud refers to data actively being processed, accessed, or manipulated by cloud-based applications and services. Use might include data being analyzed by big data platforms, processed by serverless functions, or accessed by users through web applications. Advanced cloud security practices for data in use include real-time monitoring, [secure coding](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-code-security?ts=markdown) techniques, and implementing access controls and [data loss prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-data-loss-prevention-dlp?ts=markdown) strategies to prevent unauthorized access or manipulation of sensitive information. ### What is the difference between a FlowChart and a DFD? The primary distinction between a DFD and a flowchart is that a DFD visually depicts the data flow within a system. In contrast, a flowchart illustrates the step-by-step sequence to address a problem. ### How are DFDs used in cybersecurity? A data flow diagram visually depicts the location and movement of data within an entity's system, be it yours or your vendors', during a business operation. The most important aspect is that data is identified when stationary and during transmission. ### What is a data flow diagram in threat modeling? In the context of threat modeling, DFDs are commonly employed to pinpoint overarching categories of potential threats. These categories are often grounded in the STRIDE threat classification framework, encompassing threats like the elevation of privilege or distributed denial of service. Related Content [The State of Cloud Data Security in 2023 Gain insights on the best ways to secure sensitive data in your cloud environments based on real-world research analyzing 13B+ files stored in public cloud environments.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/research/data-security-2023-report?ts=markdown) [Securing the Data Landscape with DSPM and DDR Stay ahead of the data security risks. Learn how data security posture management (DSPM) with data detection and respons...](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/guides/dspm-ddr-big-guide?ts=markdown) [5 Orgs Achieve 360° Visibility and Compliance Learn how organizations achieve centralized visibility across cloud environments to remediate vulnerabilities and eliminate threats.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/ebooks/customer-spotlight-visibility-and-compliance?ts=markdown) [DSPM: Do You Know You Need It? Discover five predominant approaches to data security, along with use cases and applications for each data security approach.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/datasheets/why-dspm?ts=markdown) ![Share page on facebook](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/facebook-circular-icon.svg) ![Share page on linkedin](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/linkedin-circular-icon.svg) [![Share page by an email](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/email-circular-icon.svg)](mailto:?subject=What%20Is%20a%20Data%20Flow%20Diagram%3F&body=Data%20flow%20diagrams%20%28DFD%29%20visually%20map%20information%20flow%2C%20processes%2C%20and%20interactions%20for%20better%20understanding%20%26%20optimization%20of%20data%20security%20across%20clouds.%20at%20https%3A//www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-flow-diagram) Back to Top [Previous](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/dspm-market?ts=markdown) DSPM Market Size: 2026 Guide [Next](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-movement?ts=markdown) What Is Data Movement? {#footer} Products and Services * [AI-Powered Network Security Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) * [Secure AI by Design](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security?ts=markdown) * [Prisma AIRS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) * [AI Access Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/ai-access-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Delivered Security Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/security-subscriptions?ts=markdown) * [Advanced Threat Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-threat-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Advanced URL Filtering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-url-filtering?ts=markdown) * [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire?ts=markdown) * [Advanced DNS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-dns-security?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise Data Loss Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/enterprise-device-security?ts=markdown) * [Medical IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/medical-device-security?ts=markdown) * [Industrial OT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/ot-security-solution?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [Next-Generation Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall?ts=markdown) * [Hardware Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/hardware-firewall-innovations?ts=markdown) * [Software Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/software-firewalls?ts=markdown) * [Strata Cloud Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/strata-cloud-manager?ts=markdown) * [SD-WAN for NGFW](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/sd-wan-subscription?ts=markdown) * [PAN-OS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/pan-os?ts=markdown) * [Panorama](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/panorama?ts=markdown) * [Secure Access Service Edge](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Prisma SASE](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Application Acceleration](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/app-acceleration?ts=markdown) * [Autonomous Digital Experience Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/adem?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise DLP](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/access?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) * [Prisma SD-WAN](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/sd-wan?ts=markdown) * [Remote Browser Isolation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/remote-browser-isolation?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven Security Operations Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) * [Cortex Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) * [Application Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Posture Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-posture-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Runtime Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/cloud?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven SOC](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XDR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XSOAR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsoar?ts=markdown) * [Cortex Xpanse](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Managed Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/managed-detection-response?ts=markdown) * [Managed XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-xsiam?ts=markdown) * Observability * [Cortex XCOR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) * [Next-Generation Identity Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira?ts=markdown) * [Privileged Access Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/privileged-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Identity and Access Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-and-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Privilege Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/endpoint-privilege-manager?ts=markdown) * [Identity Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-governance?ts=markdown) * [Workforce Password Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/workforce-password-management?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/agentic?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/secrets-management?ts=markdown) * [Unified Secrets Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/unified-secrets-governance?ts=markdown) * [Application Credentials Delivery](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/application-credentials-delivery?ts=markdown) * [Vendor Privileged Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/vendor-privileged-access?ts=markdown) * [Threat Intel and Incident Response Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42?ts=markdown) * [Prepare for Emerging Risks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/prepare-for-emerging-risks/continuous-frontier-ai-defense?ts=markdown) * [Strengthen Your Defenses](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses?ts=markdown) * [Build Your Security Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy?ts=markdown) * [Understand the Adversary](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/threat-intelligence?ts=markdown) * [Respond to a Cyber Attack](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond?ts=markdown) Company * [About Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us?ts=markdown) * [Careers](https://jobs.paloaltonetworks.com/en/) * [Contact Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/contact-sales?ts=markdown) * [Corporate Responsibility](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/corporate-responsibility?ts=markdown) * [Customers](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/customers?ts=markdown) * [Investor Relations](https://investors.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Location](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/locations?ts=markdown) * [Newsroom](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/newsroom?ts=markdown) Popular Links * [Blog](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/?ts=markdown) * [Communities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/communities?ts=markdown) * [Content Library](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources?ts=markdown) * [Cyberpedia](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia?ts=markdown) * [Event Center](https://events.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Manage Email Preferences](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/preference-center-subscribe.html) * [Products A-Z](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/products-a-z?ts=markdown) * [Product Certifications](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/trust-center/certifications?ts=markdown) * [Report a Vulnerability](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/security-disclosure?ts=markdown) * [Sitemap](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sitemap?ts=markdown) * [Tech Docs](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Unit 42](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information](https://panwedd.exterro.net/portal/dsar.htm?target=panwedd) ![Palo Alto Networks Logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/pan-logo-dark.svg) * [Privacy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/privacy?ts=markdown) * [Trust Center](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/trust-center?ts=markdown) * [Terms of Use](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/terms-of-use?ts=markdown) * [Documents](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal?ts=markdown) Copyright © 2026 Palo Alto Networks. All Rights Reserved * [![Youtube](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/youtube-black.svg)](https://www.youtube.com/user/paloaltonetworks) * [![Podcast](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/icons/podcast.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/podcasts/threat-vector?ts=markdown) * [![Facebook](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/facebook-black.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/PaloAltoNetworks/) * [![LinkedIn](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/linkedin-black.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/palo-alto-networks) * [![Twitter](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/twitter-x-black.svg)](https://twitter.com/PaloAltoNtwks) * EN Select your language