Critical infrastructure refers to physical or virtual assets that are critical for the functioning of a society or economy, providing essential services to communities and underpinning the successful delivery of a range of products and services. Examples include water, electricity, communications networks and the internet, transport, ports and airports, banking, food production and distribution systems. Critical infrastructure is typically characterized by a high degree of interdependency, dual use or public-private partnerships, and an increasing complexity as a result of globalization and digitization, as well as vulnerability to risks and threats. Consequently, with advances in technology and risk management, critical infrastructure should be managed with resilience and vigilance.

See also: biosecurity, collective action, global governance, nuclear weapon, systems thinking