What characterizes a bastion in cybersecurity?

A bastion in cybersecurity is characterized as a system that is heavily fortified against attacks. The term "bastion" originally refers to a stronghold that is built to defend against assaults, and in the context of cybersecurity, it denotes a network segment or system designed to withstand potential threats and prevent unauthorized access.

Typically, a bastion host acts as a critical point of defense, often positioned at the network perimeter. It is configured with stringent security measures, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, to monitor and control incoming and outgoing traffic. This level of fortification is essential because bastion hosts are often exposed to untrusted networks, making them a prime target for attackers.

While the other options refer to important components of cybersecurity, they do not accurately capture what a bastion represents. Secure communication protocols, data encryption methods, and data recovery systems serve different purposes and are not inherently about creating a fortified point of defense as a bastion is.