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What Is Network Segmentation?
Segmentation refers to subdividing computer networks into smaller subnetworks to increase stability, communication, and security within that more extensive network.
By isolating systems and applications within each subnet from its neighbors through segmentation processes, segmented subnets become unique entities, allowing free communications within them. At the same time, those outside must go through the firewall or router protection to ensure devices outside pose no danger or threats that threaten it - this limited activity and communication among systems results in numerous benefits to both systems.
- Enhancing the security of individual network components
- Better protection from network attacks such as hacking and malware infection
- Improvement of Performance within Subnets
- Monitoring and localizing technical problems more efficiently
What Is Network Segmentation Used for?
Many organizations employ network segmentation as an essential measure to safeguard data and information stored across vast networks like those found within hospitals or corporate institutions, where such data may be vulnerable to attacks due to being stored centrally.
When considering what network segmentation means about protecting sensitive material and vital business functions like finance or healthcare information, this strategy must consider modern networks being so vast by segmenting them and protecting sensitive files more securely.
- digital experiences
- potential threats
- unauthorized access
- critical application
- internal threats
Companies need to segment their networks to meet federal standards that protect sensitive information like personal identification data.
Many organizations employ network segmentation because it helps:
Online retailers: Store data such as credit and debit card accounts on networks protected with access restriction measures.
Healthcare Providers: Clinics, hospitals, and private practices offering health care often store patients' data by federal regulations mandating such protection measures by segregating it.
Implementation and Network Segmentation
Network segmentation divides an overarching network into distinct subnetworks with individual security policies for endpoints or applications to be stored securely within.
Implementing network segmentation can be accomplished via the following:
Physical Segmentation
Simply stated, physical Segmentation refers to breaking an entire network into smaller subnets using subnet gateways such as firewalls to limit which traffic enters or leaves each subnet.
With predetermined designs of physical Segmentation, networks can easily manage this practice.
Logical Segmentation
VLANs or network addressing systems are two primary methods for creating subnets using logical Segmentation. Installation of such VLAN systems is straightforward as traffic is automatically directed towards its respective subnet by VLAN tags.
Network addressing requires an in-depth knowledge of networking theory; to make network addressing work successfully, you must grasp this aspect of networking theory and any applicable legal issues.
Logical Segmentation offers more flexibility than physical because no physical wiring or movement must occur between devices on different subnets; automated provisioning services simplify this task.
Switching to a segmentation design can simplify the management of firewall policies. An emerging best practice suggests creating one policy integrating threat detection, mitigation, and access control across subnets - saving time by not dispersing these tasks across your network - strengthening security posture while decreasing attack surface area.
Perimeter-Based Segmentation
Our world can be divided into interior and exterior zones depending on what can be trusted; anything outside a network segment should not be trusted.
Filtration and Segmentation occur at individual nodes instead, leading to unfettered access to internal resources across a network with little internal Segmentation and filtering/segmentation being handled centrally.
VLANs were initially developed to increase network performance by isolating broadcast domains. Over time, however, VLANs have evolved into security tools due to being so open without filtering capabilities within them.
Policies must also be in place to facilitate traffic movement between sections, whether by restricting or prohibiting it based on traffic type, sources, and destinations.
Policies provide tools that allow or deny such movement depending on traffic types, sources, and destinations. Network firewall techniques are often employed for perimeter-based Segmentation. Their original purpose was to manage traffic flow between segments.
Network Virtualization
Modern firms require multiple zones within their networks that specialize in performing different functions, necessitating the Segmentation of various points on the network to perform these specialized duties effectively.
Furthermore, it must support various devices with differing degrees of trustworthiness on its network. Network virtualization offers one solution.
Due to developments such as cloud computing, BYOD, and mobile phones, Segmentation based solely on the perimeter is no longer adequate.
No clear demarcation lines remain for such Segmentation. As traffic flows now travel from east-west, further Segmentation may be necessary to improve security and speed on our networks.
Network virtualization provides valuable ways of segmenting networks.
Network virtualization involves providing networking and security services independent from physical infrastructure to promote effective network segmentation - rather than segmenting at only certain parts of a network but rather across its entirety.
Network virtualization is integral to this promotion by providing opportunities for greater Segmentation than simply at its perimeters. With flexible and finely-grained security solutions available today, perimeter-based Segmentation that we were previously used to has become virtualized across every part of a network.
Why Network Segmentation Is Important
Its Segmentation can serve many valuable functions; some benefits of segmentation strategy may include:
Fewer Access Points
Placing sensitive data within a subnet makes it more secure from external access points as there will be fewer opportunities for individuals or networks to exploit it for personal gain and access protected data.
By restricting external network access points, there will be less chance that external sources will steal your information while potentially mitigating internal breaches as well.
Access Control
Network segmentation provides another method of controlling who has access to which data by permitting specific resources, such as email servers, to be accessed by specific users to complete tasks but restricting other forms of data access for others.
You can thereby prevent internal leakage of sensitive information.
Improved Threat Management
Once inside an external firewall, hackers have access to data without limitation or restriction. Network segmentation offers protection for data subnets protected by individual firewalls; even if a hacker breaches its perimeter, they still won't gain entry to subnets that contain sensitive data; administrators then have more time to shut off attacks than with watertight compartments on vessels that allow it to continue sailing while one part takes in water.
Improved Network Performance
Segmentation can improve network performance by decreasing congestion by restricting the number of devices connected per subnet, leading to less traffic in each subnet and improving network performance for your company and, ultimately, more significant productivity gains.
Provide Better Network Monitoring
With increased network segmentation security, tracking network activities more closely becomes possible by closely watching end-user activity and looking for suspicious behaviors or patterns that indicate malicious data access.
You can then take measures against such access by implementing new security measures.
The Security Benefits of Network Segmentation
Segmentation is the best type of security for a network. Benefits of network segmentation include:
Secure Data Protection
Data protection becomes more accessible with greater control over network traffic. By restricting which network segments can access cached information, Segmentation creates an effective barrier around them and keeps their access at bay.
Hackers will have fewer opportunities to gain entry to data if fewer segments can gain entry. Restrict local protocols' access while adding security measures to reduce theft and loss.
Containment as a Threat
Hackers only gain entry to one segmented network at a time; other portions require longer to penetrate. Administrators can bolster security measures elsewhere while hackers attempt to break into subnets, then focus on stopping its spread once breached areas have been secured.Data Security Cloud, one of the safest online platforms, utilizes PhoenixNAP network segmentation technology and behavioral analytics for ultimate security.
Limit Access Control
Restricting users' access to only certain areas of a network will help guard against insider attacks. Known as The Policy of Least Privilege, Segmentation protects from insider threats while restricting who has access.
By doing this, you can limit hackers from getting their hands on sensitive systems by restricting who can gain entry.
Implement a Policy of Least Privilege as soon as possible in your organization, as employees represent one of its weakest links regarding security.
two-thirds of malware breaches occur through emails with malicious attachments. Segmented systems protect from further infiltration by keeping intruders out if someone steals or uses stolen credentials to gain entry to critical resources.
Improved Monitoring and Threat Detection
You can enhance network surveillance through Segmentation. Doing this makes detecting suspicious behavior much more straightforward, while more advanced monitoring systems help identify and quantify its scope.
By monitoring log events and connections, admins can recognize patterns of malicious behavior by attackers by becoming more informed as to their methods and taking proactive security steps to secure areas at high risk.
Rapid Response Rates
Subnets offer administrators an efficient means of responding quickly to network events. Easily identifying which subnets have been affected by an error or attack allows troubleshooters to focus their troubleshooting efforts efficiently.
Responding quickly to network events can improve user experiences. Customers in segmented systems usually won't feel any negative impact until one subnet is dedicated solely to them.
Damage Control
Securing your network through Segmentation can reduce damages caused by cyber-attacks. Segmentation ensures excellent network safety by restricting its spread and keeping it within one area of a network.
One subnet may contain network errors without being felt by other segments, making it simpler and quicker to address and control.
Protect Endpoint Devices
Segmenting network segments helps safeguard endpoint devices against malicious traffic by offering constant flow control.
As more IoT devices enter our homes and networks, this layering strategy becomes ever more essential. Cyber attacks often originate at endpoint devices; segmented networks isolate these devices to minimize exposure risk for all components within their respective networks.
Network Segmentation Benefits
Segmenting allows each network sector to have its security service, giving users more control of network traffic while improving network performance.
- Priority should always be placed on improving security; everyone understands that defense only extends as far as its weakest link and large flat networks present an enormous attack surface.
- Splitting large networks into multiple subnetworks that are smaller can significantly decrease attack surface area while blocking horizontal movement.
- Due to network segmentation, an attacker cannot easily traverse laterally after breaching its perimeter.
- Segmentation can also help isolate an attack before it spreads throughout your network, for instance, by ensuring malware from one area does not impact other sections.
- By breaking up an assault into pieces, attack areas are minimized to a great degree.
- Now let's talk about performance. Segmentation helps alleviate network congestion by eliminating unnecessary traffic; segregating hospital medical devices from visitor networks would prevent visitors from impacting them negatively.
- Each network subnetwork contains fewer hosts, with only allowed traffic that has been predetermined for that subnetwork.
Segmenting networks has long been seen as a good safety measure, particularly for businesses like Electronic Payment Businesses that may be vulnerable to cybercrime.
Competition among specific industries for network nodes raises essential issues regarding welfare policies.
The Best Practices for Network Segmentation
Many firms tend to over-segment their networks when first starting up. As a result, management may become less visible and harder to oversee across all segments.
Under-segmentation could leave your attack surface wide open while weakening your security posture. Utilizing network segmentation can significantly strengthen network security, but only if all vulnerabilities have been patched and access restricted.
Segment auditing is of utmost importance in order to guarantee there are no coverage gaps that can be exploited and reduce risks on your network, keeping you ahead of potential bad actors.
Implementing least privilege is central to network segmentation and access control in general, offering comfort to users, administrators, and the security team alike that only necessary access is granted. By adhering to this approach, you can rest easy knowing only necessary privileges are being granted across your entire network.
Limiting access for users from third parties is especially essential if offered to different network segments. Segmenting your network may reduce overall risks, but that does not give third parties access without carefully considering their impact on security posture.
Your business can leverage different automation solutions by segmenting its network. Automating network segmentation enables your staff to detect and categorize assets or data quickly - one of the best practices of Segmentation.
Automation, in general, brings many benefits, including increased visibility, reduced maintenance times, and enhanced security.
Here are a few best practices for network segmentation.
Segment your HTML Code to Form Different-Sized
Segments by under- and over-segmentation, respectively. Insufficient network protection leaves sensitive data vulnerable, making breaches into it relatively easier; too much Segmentation reduces productivity as users frequently request permission to do their work, leading to reduced efficiency overall.
For optimal Segmentation, identify which users require access to certain information so you can tailor network policies and infrastructure around these needs.
Restrict Access from Third Parties
While third-party vendors can help meet your needs, they also pose security vulnerabilities if they require data access to do their jobs effectively.
To minimize risk and keep sensitive information protected from external viewers, create isolated portals that only grant third parties the information they require - this way, the necessary access may only be given when required by them.
Perform Regular Network Audits
Network auditing involves examining computer systems to ascertain whether or not they meet performance and security standards.
Regularly auditing networks help ensure there are no architectural flaws, policies are compliant, threats from outside and internal security threats are effectively managed, policies reflect changes to regulations as they arise, and users added on are adequately accommodated, ensuring both compliance and ease of use for both you and your users.
Also Read: Implement A Comprehensive Security Strategy To Protect Against Cyber Threats
Microsegmentation Network Segmentation - Use cases
There are various approaches for segmenting networks and stopping lateral movements; micro Segmentation offers agility and accuracy, helping security teams better control Segmentation as IT environments become more complex.
Limit Lateral Movement
Microsegmentation allows organizations to extend security and visibility controls up to Layer 7, providing organizations with adequate protection for applications within clusters of services that use it, thus limiting east-west movement between applications within the same cluster and decreasing lateral movement and breach risks for business-critical data and applications.
Micro-segmentation provides engineers and security experts a rapid way to identify which policies have been successfully implemented and enforced and which gaps need filling within your coverage or additional policies are required to increase defenses against unwanted lateral movements.
Secure Your Network With Zero Trust
Zero Trust architectures eliminate the notion of trustworthy networks within corporate boundaries.. Technologies like micro-segmentation have made Zero Trust popular today.
They make an antithesis of perimeter-only security by protecting only its entrances while presuming anything within has already been cleared to enter.
Zero Trust requires security professionals to adopt an entirely different mindset: they should not trust any traffic or users until their authenticity has been established, whether from external or internal sources.
Zero Trust also necessitates setting up micro-perimeters around assets for added protection while considering all activity suspicious, even if conducted internally.
Zero Trust framework aims to minimize surface attacks and stop any subsequent lateral movement by an attacker; its purpose is to stop them from gaining entry to other systems or sensitive information quickly if one does occur.
Microsegmentation techniques make Zero Trust implementation in modern environments simpler; organizations may utilize them as part of best practice implementation, such as:
Securing all assets, no matter where they reside, must remain a top priority for security teams. Access control should adhere to the principle of least privilege; traffic must also be tracked and documented for easy monitoring.
Simple Compliance
With today's data and compliance regulations becoming ever more stringent, Segmentation is increasingly crucial in isolating assets from more extensive networks using micro-segmentation software.
Layer 4 may provide enough compliance requirements, yet its technologies don't effectively reduce attack surfaces or address critical security concerns.
Attackers could exploit an open Layer 4 Port between different tiers as an entryway into their network to achieve their objective.
Microsegmentation protects from such attempts through its Layer 7 policy enforcer technology. Once security controls have been implemented, an organization can use real-time and historical data to demonstrate that its segmentation works according to plan with no non-compliant communication between employees.
Access Control Based on Identity
A standard user requirement would be ensuring they only gain access to what is necessary for their job, with segmentation policies set by who accesses the system based on who attempts to log on; IT security teams can employ micro-segmentation by setting specific ports or services, even when two people log onto one computer simultaneously.
Many organizations also worry about controlling access to SaaS or external vendors. IT security defines access policies based on identity; each third-party relationship will have its policy, which allows them to gain access to applications and data related to services but prevents them from interfacing with unrelated assets.
Secure Cloud Loads
It is vitally essential for enterprises to distinguish between "the cloud" and its numerous providers and platforms of cloud services, with businesses increasingly adopting multiple providers as traffic and processing needs fluctuate between clouds.
Organizations frequently switch data/workloads between platforms depending on requirements for traffic processing or workload distribution.
Modern data centers incorporate technologies and environments ranging from physical servers in on-premise facilities through containers/virtual machines/private clouds, and IaaS providers - that will continue to change as their uses change in real-time depending on traffic/processing needs/process requirements/, etc., thus keeping up-to-date and dynamic with changing requirements as traffic/process requirements change - to accommodate this dynamism!
Your company can benefit from an inclusive micro-segmentation system in that it gives them a complete visual overview of all its IT infrastructure.
At the same time, you can extend segmentation policies across any environment where workloads move - including multi-cloud environments such as hybrid data centers. It will enable administrators to plan ahead and identify dependencies before moving any of their environments or data centers.
What Are The Differences Between Network Segmentation And Micro-Segmentation?
Micro-segmentation differs from network segmentation by decreasing an organization's attack surface on its network through specific security policies that restrict east-west connectivity.
Microsegmentation differs significantly from network segmentation in its many applications and uses; even its many potential advantages do not make micro-segmentation identical to network segmentation.
- Traditional network segmentation covers more ground. Micro-segmentation can provide IoT devices and edge devices with better service and reliability.
- An effective network segmentation technique employs physical division, while virtual networks employ micro Segmentation for micro-segmentation.
- Microsegmentation policies tend to be much more specific.
- Network segmentation relies on hardware, while micro-segmentation typically uses software.
- Network segmentation can help control traffic flows from North to South, while micro-segmentation at the workload level restricts east-west flows.
Conclusion
Cyber attacks have become more frequent and damaging to businesses than ever, so employing an effective security solution has become essential for staying safe online.
Segmented networks can protect your business against cyber-attacks and threats while minimizing their effects. Plus, segmented networks are far easier to manage, so you can act swifter in responding quickly when threats do emerge.
