What does availability refer to in the context of data security?

In the context of data security, availability refers to the assurance that data and resources are accessible when required by authorized users. This means that systems and data should function properly and be ready for use to maintain operational capabilities. Ensuring timely and reliable access is crucial in various situations, including emergencies or daily business operations, where delays could lead to significant issues or losses.

While secure storage and protection against hacking are important aspects of data security, they pertain more to confidentiality and integrity rather than availability. Similarly, restricting access to only certain users limits availability, as it could hinder legitimate users from obtaining necessary information. Availability is fundamentally about the reliability and accessibility of data, which is why the correct answer focuses on that aspect.