Network Segmentation can protect you against ransomwares and malwares

Network segmentation (Network Partitioning or Network Isolation) is used to improve network security but it is not an easy task. Generally, networks are designed to be tough on the outside and simple inside. Organisations following regulations install a mature firewall perimeter and some sort of Intrusion Detection System (IDS) or Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) to monitor the incoming traffic.

However, if someone manages to sneak in through that traffic will have a smooth network structure that can be exploited as required. Most of the tools are designed to perform specific functions and will ignore the movement outside of their programming. Gives the advantage to the hidden malicious programs to act free and launch an attack or simply stay quiet and leak the information. This kind of flat network infrastructure is easy to maintain but is a great opportunity for the threat actors to breach the main security and get access to the entire infrastructure.

What is Network Segmentation?

Segmenting the computer network is splitting the network infrastructure into smaller network segments. All servers and workstations are not required to communicate with each other but keeping them on a common network allows the threat actors for exploiting them.

Segmentation can be done physically or virtually. The main idea is to limit the communication between the devices and hence reduce the attack surface area.

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Who Needs Network Segmentation?

 

Every organisation running multiple internal systems for meeting its business needs must have network security. The more complicated the architecture is, the more important the need for segmentation. Businesses relying 100% on SaaS solutions or business that works completely offline will not need network segmentation.

 

Businesses running on flat networks will be ideal targets for hackers. A flat network may seem easy saving time and money for installation may lead to bigger disasters later. There is no substitute for network segmentation.

 

The Benefits of Network Segmentation

 

Network segmentation offers absolute and efficient security among all the information security methods. Following are some of the benefits an organisation will avail from applying network segmentation -

 

1. Data Security - More segments will lead to more blocks and will stop the hackers from exploiting the network and stealing the data.

 

2. Threat Reduction - In case of the attacks the bad actors will have the access to the limited network and hence will take some time for them to get details and insights for full structure hence giving alerts and time to the administrators to take preventive actions.

 

3. Controlled Access - Network segmentation helps in protecting against insider threats. Limiting access to different critical networks and allowing only a limited number of people helps in restricting the way attackers gain access to systems.

 

4. Enhanced Threat Detection and Tracking - Segmentation allows easy monitoring. Increasing the number of checks makes it easier to detect suspicious behaviour. This also helps in determining the source and context of a problem.  

 

5. Rapid Response Times - Quick response from the IT team is reacting to remote operations because of different routers. The threat can be easily tracked leading to quick detection of impacted sections.  

 

6. Damage Management - Segmentation keeps the damage caused limited to the particular section, keeping the others safe.

 

7. Safeguard Endpoint devices - The unwanted activities are maintained away from the unsecured devices due to repeated load balancing. This is gaining importance due to the increasing use of IoT devices.

 

Network segmentation helps in reducing the threat landscape, controlling traffic and detecting crucial infringements. It is a recommended framework based on the patterns the hackers are using to exploit the organisation's network for creating a big impact to harm the organisation and the associated businesses.

Why Network Segmentation?

Easy Execution

Easy enforcement of network segmentation strategy across the hybrid network.

Limited Movement

Limiting the lateral movement of hackers

Securing Assets

Protecting the access and hence securing the important assets.

What Illume Offers
  • 1. Easy representation of the traffic in network segments
    2. Proactively accessing the impact of changes in the network segmentation strategy
    3. Ensures the changes adhere to compliance requirements and network segmentation strategy.

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FAQs
Network Segmentation helps in enhancing network security. By creating separate segments, the lateral movement of threats within a network is restricted. If one segment is compromised, attackers find it more challenging to access other parts of the network, protecting critical assets and data.
Network Segmentation services may include -
1. Network assessment and analysis
2. Designing the segmentation strategy
3. Implementation of physical or virtual segmentation controls
4. Configuring firewalls and access controls
5. Monitoring and managing network segments
6. Regular audits and updates to the segmentation strategy
Yes, the poorly designed and implemented network segmentation could introduce bottlenecks and increase latency. Network Segmentation can improve network performance when designed and implemented properly. By segregating traffic and reducing congestion, it can lead to more efficient data flow.
There are various types of Network Segmentation including -
1. Physical Segmentation - This segmentation is done using physical devices like routers, switches, and VLANs to create separate network segments.
2. Virtual Segmentation - For virtual segmentation software-defined networking (SDN) and virtual LANs (VLANs) are segmented without using additional physical hardware.
3. Logical Segmentation - Based on access controls and policies, logical segmentation restricts communication between different network segments.
Network Segmentation should be reviewed regularly, especially when there are significant changes to the network infrastructure or the security landscape. It's essential to ensure that the segmentation strategy remains effective and aligns with the organization's evolving needs.
No, Network Segmentation is not a replacement for other security measures, instead, it complements them. Firewalls provide protection at the perimeter of the network, while Network Segmentation adds an internal layer of defense, limiting the lateral movement of threats within the network.
Network Segmentation is an ongoing process that requires regular monitoring and management. With the evolving networks and security requirements, updates and adjustments to the segmentation strategy may be necessary for maintaining the desired level of security.