In today’s digital world, cyber security plays a significant role. That is primarily because of the rising use of cloud technologies and the growing number of remote employees. As users start to access the corporate network from distant locations, businesses need different defending systems rather than traditional ones. Also, since it is significant to continually maintain and regulate the activity of networks, it becomes essential for businesses to implement cyber security solutions to safeguard their corporate network.
The remote access of users may compromise the security of network systems if the access is not properly regulated and monitored. This may result in security breaches, data leaks, and hacks. However, companies can regulate the traffic flow and track user activity rather easily by fracturing their networks into manageable and separated sub-networks. This process is called network segmentation and in this article, we will talk about how to segment your network and what to watch out for. But before we start, let’s take a look at what is network segmentation.
Network segmentation is the practice of partitioning a network system into distinct sections. This division assists network operators in establishing detailed and accurate policies for each section, resulting in a thoroughly secured network. Network administrators may have improved visibility and control over the systems and apps when the network is fragmented. The segregation operation also restricts unauthorized users from gaining access to the entire system and restricts their activities even if they do gain access to the network system.
By enclosing a problem in a preset area, network segmentation attempts to isolate it until it can be resolved. Administrators can utilize segmented networks to watch all user behavior across several workloads and analyze the interrelations to find abnormalities that may indicate intrusions or flaws. Segmentation practice may help companies increase business performance, minimize the impact of cyberattacks, and meet regulatory compliance requirements.
Implementing network segmentation correctly is critical since it is located at the basis of several cyber security paradigms, such as Zero Trust. Also, the architecture of a network has a significant impact on an organization’s ability to detect vulnerabilities and recover from cyberattacks. A properly segregated network may drastically reduce the risk of data breaches and their impacts. With that all said, let’s take a look at what should be done and what should be avoided while implementing network segmentation.
Every data stored have a different level of importance so the level of protection also varies. Assessing which parts of the network and which data can be accessed by which users should be the first thing to do when it comes to network segregation best practices. The reason behind this is when you manage to assess the importance of data and identify users properly, you can easily grant only the necessary access to each individual. This approach also allows you to assess the relevance of assets and avoid improper implementation. Evaluating data importance and identifying users is the first step of network segmentation since it allows you to have a clear vision of segments and who can access them.
Another thing a company should be careful about is overly segregating the network. Over-segmented networks are difficult to govern and monitor. Also, over-segmented networks may not function properly which impacts the user performance as well as app and service efficiency. Each segment should be analyzed in terms of necessity and security policies should be applied accordingly. Moreover, if your network is divided into too many sections, allocating individuals to the appropriate division may become challenging. Over-segmented networks are just as inefficient as under-segmented ones in terms of cyber security. Simply said, over-segmented networks may compromise cyber security and reduce network efficiency.
It is significant to establish different secure access gateways for third parties. In this way, corporate personnel and other third parties use different gateways to access the network which prevents third parties or associates to access confidential corporate data. Also, with these extra gateways, you can customize the services and apps for your clients and associates which would increase security as well as user experience. Having additional gateways helps you to distribute reliable and fast responses to customers. When you deliver accurate, timely information, customers may regard you as responsive to their needs.
Same as with other cyber security solutions, network segmentation also needs regular monitoring and audit. Since these solutions deal with dynamic and ever-changing work environments, conditions may change and they may fail to perform properly. Regularly monitoring segments may help you to detect vulnerabilities and risks before they occur which allows you to respond in time. Performing regular audits helps you to modify your network segregations to function at their maximum performance while enhancing security. Also, regular audits help you to see how your systems perform in different situations which may save remarkable time.
Network segmentation is a practice that can be highly beneficial for companies. For example, this practice may help businesses to collaborate with other companies without compromising security. Also, properly segmented networks increase user performance and affect user experience positively. Network segregation may help companies to have a better understanding of how their systems perform and provide them with better visibility and control over the network. Last but not least, this practice allows companies to implement other cyber security solutions much easier.