New technology trends invariably impact prospects for computer network defense (CND) – including the protection of critical infrastructures and services. Three evolving trends that stand out in particular include: 1) critical infrastructures' increasing reliance on commercial off the shelf (CoTS) technologies; 2) societies' growing reliance on mobile technologies coupled with a movement towards the ‘Internet of Things;’ and 3) the advent of cloud computing and big data. While these ICT trends contribute to economic growth and development, they will also generate new vulnerabilities, many of which may negatively impact segments of society. While policymakers play an important role in strengthening cyber security and resiliency, they may not always fully grasp the security implications of these and other technology trends – including the potential for ripple effects across different critical services and sectors. Minimizing this knowledge gap, as well as bringing tighter alignment and shared understanding of the operational realities and policy implications associated with new trends, is essential to promote effective computer network defense.