Here are some of the advancements and trends that were prominent in cybersecurity:

1. Zero Trust Security: The Zero Trust model, which assumes no trust in a network and verifies every user and device, gained significant attention. It focuses on strict identity verification and continuous monitoring.

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML were increasingly used for threat detection, anomaly identification, and predictive analysis. They enable more efficient and proactive threat mitigation.

3. Extended Detection and Response (XDR): XDR platforms were emerging, offering a broader and more integrated approach to threat detection and response by consolidating data from multiple security tools.

4. Cloud Security: As cloud adoption continued to rise, cloud security became a top priority. Solutions like Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASBs) and cloud-specific security tools advanced.

5. Secure Access Service Edge (SASE): SASE combined network security and wide-area networking capabilities into a cloud-based service, providing secure access for remote and mobile users.

6. 5G Security: With the rollout of 5G networks, new security challenges arose. Advanced security measures were being developed to protect the increased volume of data and connected devices.

7. Quantum-Safe Cryptography: With the potential threat of quantum computers breaking current encryption algorithms, quantum-safe cryptography research and solutions gained attention.

8. Ransomware Defense: As ransomware attacks surged, new defensive strategies, including backup and recovery solutions, gained prominence.

9. Internet of Things (IoT) Security: With the proliferation of IoT devices, security solutions for protecting these devices and the networks they connect to were developed.

10. Human-Centric Security: Focusing on user behavior and the human element in security became more prevalent. User training and behavior analytics played a crucial role.

11. Threat Intelligence Sharing: Organizations increasingly recognized the importance of sharing threat intelligence to collectively defend against cyber threats. Industry-specific Information Sharing and Analysis Centers (ISACs) became more active.

12. Regulatory Compliance: Data protection regulations like GDPR and CCPA, and industry-specific compliance requirements continued to influence cybersecurity strategies.

13. Mobile Device Security: With the growth of mobile workforces, mobile security solutions became more advanced, including mobile threat defense and mobile application security.

14. Blockchain for Security: Blockchain technology was explored for securing various processes, such as supply chain management and digital identity verification.

15. AI-Enhanced Attack Strategies: Cybercriminals were starting to use AI and ML in their attack strategies, making them more sophisticated and harder to detect.