ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Militarisation of cyberspace

Militarisation of cyberspace means that countries and their armies are using computers, the internet, and other digital technologies to plan, prepare for, and wage wars. It is like playing a video game but with real-life consequences. Just like soldiers go to battle with weapons and gear, armies nowadays are using sophisticated software, hardware, and networks to defend their countries from cyber-attacks, investigate and find those who attack them, and even launch cyber-attacks against other countries.

Just like in the game, there are teams on both sides trying to protect their interests. One team is working for a country or an army trying to protect its systems and information from attackers, while the other team is trying to break into these systems to steal information or disrupt operations. Sometimes people call them hackers.

Cyberspace is a special place where all the computers, networks, and information come together, and it is not just limited to one country or region. That means that countries must work together to protect their interests in this vast and constantly changing space. But, just like in the physical world, there are countries that abuse cyberspace and use it to harm others. So, countries have created cyber-armies to protect themselves and attack their enemies online when they need to.

In simple terms, just like soldiers in the army, computers and networks have become a critical tool for countries to protect themselves and their citizens in a faster and more efficient way. They can prevent wars or fight wars in cyberspace.