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Network Security by Design: Key technologies and practices

10/15/2024
Stefan Ilchmann

Cyber threats continue to evolve, and businesses must ensure that their networks are built with security at the core, rather than relying on ad hoc measures. This is where the concept of “Network Security by Design” comes in—a proactive approach to building and maintaining secure infrastructures that mitigate risks from the ground up. But what exactly does network security entail, and how can your business benefit from a security-first strategy?

What is network security?

Network security refers to the policies, practices, and technologies that organisations use to secure their network infrastructure from unauthorised access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. It encompasses a wide range of tools and tactics to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of network resources. Effective network security requires an understanding of the vulnerabilities within the network, as well as a comprehensive strategy to protect the entire system, from endpoint devices to core servers.

Key technologies and practices for building a secure Network by Design

To build a secure network by design, businesses need to combine various technologies and practices. Here are some key elements:

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

ZTNA reinforces security by continuously verifying users and devices, regardless of location. Gartner forecasts that by 2025, ZTNA will serve 70% of new remote access deployments, replacing VPN services.

Network Ssegmentation

Refers to dividing the physical network into virtually smaller, isolated segments to limit access and minimise the spread of potential threats.

Encryption

Encrypting data both at rest and in transit helps protect it from unauthorised access. Encryption ensures that even if attackers gain access to the network, they cannot read the data.

Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs)

NGFWs provide advanced filtering capabilities, including application awareness and deep packet inspection, to safeguard network boundaries.

Network Access Control (NAC)

NAC ensures that only authenticated and authorised devices can access the network.

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

SASE integrates networking and security functions into a unified cloud-delivered solution, enabling secure, easy, and flexible remote access. It is a valuable tool for organisations with distributed workforces. Gartner estimates that by 2025, 80% of enterprises will have adopted a strategy to unify web, cloud services, and private application access using SASE up from 20% in 2021.

Secure Configuration

IT teams should configure network devices such as routers, switches, and firewalls according to the best security practices. Default configurations are often vulnerable and should be tailored to minimise exposure.

Continuous monitoring and response

The goal is not just to defend but to detect and respond swiftly. A robust network security system uses real-time monitoring tools and threat detection capabilities to notify administrators of suspicious activities.

The benefits of Network Security by Design

Building security into networks from the ground up offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Enhanced protection: By integrating security principles into the network architecture from the outset, organisations can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber threats.
  • Improved efficiency: A well-designed network security infrastructure can streamline operations and improve overall efficiency.
  • Cost savings: Proactive security measures can help prevent costly data breaches and downtime.
  • Regulatory compliance: Network Security by Design can help organisations comply with industry-specific regulations and standards.

The future of securing networks

As we look ahead, network security will be shaped by new technologies and threats. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will play an essential role in automating threat detection and response, enabling businesses to identify anomalies faster and mitigate risks before they escalate.

With the expansion of 5G and edge computing, networks will require more advanced security measures to cover a larger attack surface. Companies that prioritise security by design now will be better positioned to handle the growing complexity of future networks.

As businesses continue to depend on digital infrastructure to drive their operations, the need for strong network security will only grow. To stay ahead, companies must take a proactive, forward-looking approach that adapts to new challenges as they arise.

Interested in setting up your network security? Let us help! Meet us at the it-sa 2024 in Nuremberg. You’ll find us at the Cisco booth, hall 7a, stand #504.