Common Cybersecurity Measures
The most popular IT security measures are: A much more advanced form of network segmentation has been introduced recently, known as micro-segmentation.
Micro-Segmentation
The theme behind micro-segmentation is similar to network segmentation. However, SDN (Software Defined Network) controllers are integrated into micro-segmentation instead of subnets. Micro-segmentation controls east-west and north-south traffic and restricts excessive access from users. This technique allows the organization to implement lockdowns on each device, segment, or application.
Types of Micro-Segmentation
Micro-segmentation has three basic types with their respective roles.
Host Agent micro-segmentation In this setting, the SDN agents provide feedback and access to management tools at the device level. Hosts need an agent to guarantee full security, and having an agent allows the managers to specify access to employees. Network micro-segmentation This type is the most basic and close to previous segmentation techniques. User access is determined by segmenting data center resources into VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) and Internet Protocol constructs or ACLs (Access Control Lists). Network micro-segmentation is not considered the perfect solution as it is very expensive to maintain ACL and IP constructs. Hypervisor micro-segmentation Hypervisor is software that generates and runs virtual machines on its own. This enables a host system to provide support to various guest virtual machines. In this configuration of micro-segmentation, all existing and new data goes through the hypervisor, a virtual security environment that covers the security architecture.
Working of Micro-Segmentation
The micro-segmentation process is conducted at the workload level. The security layers can tackle any cyber attack quickly and efficiently. This restricts the possible harm to a minimum. Micro-segmentation allows managers to protect data resources and workstations from anywhere directly. It relies on segmenting crucial business data into different micro-segments that each have added security and cannot easily be accessed by threat actors. It offers software-based security that allows managers to reset controls in case of a change in the network architecture. The requirement for hardware-based firewalls is waived, and a flexible security perimeter is in place. Additional lockdown cloud resources can be added for complete edge protection. VLAN and firewall-based options are replaced by software agents. These agents are distributed to all endpoints as well as data centers.
Pros and Cons of Micro-Segmentation
Every security protocol has some benefits and costs to its use. It is not always possible that if a security option is a good fit for the industry, it must be viable for another business. Micro-segmentation, with all its features, is an excellent security strategy but not a good fit for every business. Here are some positive and negative aspects that need to be considered before opting for micro-segmentation. Benefits of micro-segmentation: Drawbacks of micro-segmentation:
Conclusion
Impeccable cybersecurity is crucial for a business to flourish and generate revenue. Every year a massive chunk of potential revenue is lost due to digital attacks. Stringent security policies and practices are the keys to making your organization cyber-secure. By integrating the above-mentioned best practices, you can ensure that you are safe from cyber threats at all times.
