Network Security

What is Network Security?

The definition has evolved over the last three decades to stay aligned with how security experts and agencies refer to threats against networks and to address the massive expansion and variety of threat types.

Traditional definitions were simple. For example, Gartner’s longstanding Information Technology Glossary describes it this way: “Network security are measures taken to protect a communications pathway from unauthorized access to, and accidental or willful interference of, regular operations.”^[i] Notice that there is no reference to protecting data, devices, managed end points, remote user devices, or other items associated with network security today.

Today, the US Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) puts forth this definition:

“Securing networks is a preventative measure in the fight against cybercrime and attacks. Securing a network involves continuous monitoring, assessments, and mitigation across various interrelated components, including servers, the cloud, Internet of Things (IoT), internet connections and the many physical assets used to access networks.”^[ii]

The gap between Gartner’s early definition and today’s definitions by CISA, Gartner, and other IT security thought leaders is understandable. As attack and threat types continuously expanded against the ever-widening use of the Internet and intranets for business, governmental, personal, and other purposes, measures had to evolve to address them.

The expanded definition by CISA underscores an important trend – the traditional network perimeter has, essentially, disappeared. If one considers remote worker devices, security cameras at critical infrastructure facilities, manufacturing machines that communicate over IP, etc. – all of these elements must now be addressed.

Examples of Modern Network Attacks

When an organization fails to systematically and continuously adhere to modern strategies and practices as highlighted by CISA, security breaches occur. The following are just a few of the hundreds of incidents known to have occurred in 2024:

July 2024 – Exposed credentials lead to Snowflake Account Attacks

Suboptimal credential management led to an infostealers’ extortion campaign built on data stolen from cloud storage systems. A threat actor accessed data belonging to at least 165 organizations using valid credentials to their Snowflake accounts. Every incident responded to was traced back to compromised customer credentials.^[iii]

August 2024 – Hacked IoT/IP cameras

On Aug. 1, 2024, CISA published an industrial control systems (ICS) advisory on the AVTECH IP camera zero-day, specifically citing the devices’ use across critical infrastructure sectors, including commercial facilities, financial services, healthcare, and public health. A campaign leveraging a zero-day vulnerability in remote monitoring cameras was used to spread Mirai cryptominer botnets at critical infrastructure operators.^[iv]

May 2024 – Operational Technology Vulnerabilities in Water Systems

A wave of cybercrime targeting key infrastructure led the Environmental Protection Agency to issue an enforcement alert warning that 70% of water systems inspected by the agency do not fully comply with requirements in the Safe Drinking Water Act. The EPA noted “alarming cybersecurity vulnerabilities“, stating that default passwords were not updated, single login setups were vulnerable, and former employees had retained systems access.^[v]

What Is the Difference Between Network Security and Cybersecurity?

In 2014, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published its first “NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)” and version 2.0 was released in 2024. Information provided by CISA and NIST yields much discussion of the framework. However, when researching ‘network security’ and ‘network security framework’, the majority of information points to CSF today. In other words, it is treated as a subset of cybersecurity at these organizations.

IT Research firm Frost & Sullivan addressed the confusion between cyber security and network security, stating:

“In modern enterprise computing infrastructure, data is as likely to be in motion as it is to be at rest. This is where network security comes in…In a nutshell, cybersecurity is concerned with the protection of data — both at rest and in motion.”

When IT security professionals discuss cybersecurity, they tend to focus on security for data that is stored. By contrast, transmitted data falls under the network realm. To further support the point, Frost & Sullivan noted that “a cybersecurity plan without a plan for network security is incomplete; however, a network security plan can typically stand alone.”

The Benefits of Modern Network Security

Today, it provides a wealth of benefits that fall into two categories – operational benefits and business benefits.

Operational benefits

Network security plays a crucial role in today’s interconnected world, where organizations rely heavily on computer networks for daily operations. Given the escalating sophistication of cyber threats, robust network security measures are essential to safeguard sensitive information, prevent data breaches, and maintain business continuity.

Effective measures prevent unauthorized users from accessing networks and sensitive data. Key solutions include firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), virtual private networks (VPNs), antivirus software, and encryption protocols. These tools work collaboratively, creating multiple layers of defense that make it challenging for hackers to infiltrate the network.

Furthermore, it aids in identifying and mitigating various threats like malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Regular monitoring, threat intelligence, and incident response procedures are integral to network security, enabling prompt detection and response to security incidents.

Business benefits

Regulatory compliance. Multiple industries like Financial Services, Healthcare, and eCommerce must adhere to strict regulations regarding data protection. Regulations, such as GDPR and HIPAA, require robust security to remain compliant. Businesses that fail to do so face fines, penalties, remediation requirements, and other mandatory requirements that can cost into the hundreds of millions of dollars.

As an example, The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) now requires financial broker-dealers and other investment firms to notify clients of data breaches within 30 days.^[vi] If the reporting has errors, the individuals signing the report(s) and the firms themselves, face increasing penalties and possibly criminal charges.

Brand protection. When a business suffers a security breach, it can result in extensive brand reputation damage. If the business fails to properly report the incident to regulators on time, the appearance of impropriety can erode consumer trust. Moreover, consumers could regard the company as incompetent or behind the times. In the end, the public image damage could be extensive.

Innovation and growth. Having a secure network(s), including a network of users who work remotely or in a mobile arena enables a businesses to take advantage of new revenue opportunities, wherever they arise. Moreover, much of the best human resource talent now demand a flexible, remote working environment. Having the right network security – one that secures an expanded network perimeter (or no perimeter at all) helps a business attract highly effective, independent, and creative employees.

In essence, Network security benefits not only include protecting sensitive data and intellectual property, but they also include significant gains of trust and confidence among customers, business partners, investors, and regulators.

How Does Network Security Work?

One of the key components is the implementation of various security mechanisms. These mechanisms safeguard networks from unauthorized access, data breaches, and other potential threats. Some common mechanisms include:

• Firewalls: Firewalls operate as a barrier between internal and external networks, monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing traffic based on predefined security rules. They are crucial in preventing unauthorized access and protecting against network attacks.
   
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): IDS detect and respond to potential network attacks or unauthorized activities. They analyze network traffic, identify suspicious patterns or anomalies, and generate alerts for network administrators.
   
• Encryption: Encryption transforms data into a secure format, preventing unauthorized access during transmission or storage and ensures that only authorized parties can access and decipher the information.
   
• Network Access Control (NAC): In simple terms, NAC defines who has access to what from where. Per Gartner’s publicly available definition, the “network access control (NAC) process adds policies to the network for controlling access by devices and users. Policies may be based on device and/or user authentication and the status of endpoint configuration.”
   
• Authentication: Similar to NAC, authentication is a control method for verifying user information. There can be multiple levels of verification. One well-known method is two-factor authentication, where there are usernames and passwords, but also biometrics, such as fingerprints on mobile devices, or digital certificates, including pin numbers sent to mobile devices used to physically verify user identity.
   
• Network Segmentation: Network segmentation adds additional security at the data center or on-premises – and is used to cordon off critical operations from others.  In operational technology (OT) environments, it is referred to as air gapping. Often, you use network zones separated by devices, such as firewalls, switches and routers. In OT, systems are traditionally isolated from external connectivity. More and more digital connections are made between IT and OT environments today – and attackers have shown to be able to move laterally.

Today, IT architectures are reshaping business and ownership models. These include private and public cloud services, ‘bring your own device’ (BYOD), mobility and the Internet of Things (IoT).With this digital transformation comes unique security challenges which traditional solutions – including those found in operational technology (OT) and industrial environments were never designed to address.

Go deeper: Explore OT Security and Industrial Control System Security.

Security leaders must apply a modern, unified security approach that dynamically segments the corporate network to secure users, devices, and apps – regardless of their location. Implementing this network segmentation is a critical step toward the adoption of a true [Link] Zero Trust security posture.

Our comprehensive solutions help organizations in safeguarding their networks from evolving threats, detecting and responding to potential attacks, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. With advanced technologies and expertise, we provide organizations with the confidence to secure their networks effectively.

Types of Software and Tools

Ensuring the security of any organization’s IT infrastructure is a crucial undertaking. To protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access, a variety of network security software and tools come into play, including:

• Antivirus and Anti-Malware Solutions: These software solutions detect, prevent, and remove malicious software such as viruses, worms, and Trojans from computer systems. They continuously scan files, emails, and web traffic to identify and eliminate potential threats.
   
• Network Monitoring and Analysis Tools: These tools provide real-time visibility into network traffic and activities. They monitor network devices, detect unusual behavior, and generate alerts for potential security breaches. Network monitoring tools help identify vulnerabilities, analyze network performance, and ensure compliance with security policies.
   
• Vulnerability Assessment and Patch Management: Vulnerability assessment tools scan networks, systems, and applications to identify potential weaknesses that attackers can exploit. They help prioritize vulnerabilities based on severity and provide recommendations for applying patches or implementing remediation measures.
   
• Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA): Zero trust assumes that a system will be breached (or that a breach has already occurred) and designs security accordingly as if there is no perimeter and implicit trust. A zero-trust architecture monitors all network activity, granting least-privilege access to only what is needed while constantly looking for anomalous or malicious behavior. In other words, “Never trust. Always verify.” Zero Trust Network Access is aligned to remote network access, including SSE / SASE.
   
• Universal Zero Trust Network Access (UZTNA): UZTNA provides remote and local access control with a common user experience. UZTNA extends Zero Trust Network Access beyond remote locations to support more local control and enforcement use cases, such as branch or campus locations. It offers granular and dynamic network access in any location via a single access policy.^[vii]
   

What Are the Challenges of Securing Networks Today?

One of the major challenges is the emergence of new threats and evolving attack techniques. Cybercriminals are constantly finding innovative ways to breach network defenses and exploit vulnerabilities. Organizations must stay vigilant to keep up with these ever-changing threats, from sophisticated malware and ransomware attacks to social engineering and phishing scams.

Another challenge is striking the right balance between security and usability. While robust security measures are necessary to protect sensitive data and systems, they should not hinder productivity or impede user experience. Finding the right balance ensures that employees can perform their tasks efficiently while maintaining a secure network environment.

Managing security across diverse network environments is yet another challenge. With the adoption of cloud services, mobile devices, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices, networks have become more complex and distributed. Ensuring consistent security across these diverse environments, each with its own set of vulnerabilities, requires a comprehensive approach.

How Does Forescout Help?

Forescout is a network security solution specializing in visibility, control, and automation. Here are several ways Forescout helps:

• Device Visibility: Forescout excels in providing comprehensive visibility into all devices connected to a network. It can identify and classify IoT devices, BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), and traditional IT assets. This visibility is crucial for understanding the network’s overall security posture.
   
• Continuous Monitoring: Forescout continuously monitors network devices, assessing their security posture in real time. It identifies any new devices joining the network and ensures they comply with security policies. This continuous monitoring helps detect and respond promptly to potential security threats.
   
• Policy Enforcement: Forescout enables organizations to enforce security policies across the network. It can automatically apply predefined security policies or custom rules based on device characteristics, ensuring that devices comply with the organization’s security standards. This helps prevent unauthorized access and reduce the attack surface.
   
• Integration with Security Ecosystem: Forescout integrates seamlessly with other security solutions, such as firewalls, endpoint protection, and SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) systems. This integration enhances overall security by facilitating coordinated responses to security incidents and ensuring a holistic defense strategy.
   
• Automation and Orchestration: Forescout offers automation capabilities to streamline security processes. It can automate responses to security incidents, isolate compromised devices, or trigger predefined actions based on policy violations. This automation helps in mitigating threats quickly and efficiently.
   
• Risk Assessment: Forescout assesses the risk associated with each device on the network. It considers factors such as device type, vulnerabilities, and security posture to assign risk scores. This information assists security teams in prioritizing their efforts and addressing the most critical security issues first.
   
• Compliance Monitoring: For organizations with specific compliance requirements, Forescout helps monitor and enforce compliance with regulations and standards. It provides insights into the compliance status of devices, helping organizations adhere to industry-specific security and privacy standards.
   

Experience the power of advanced visibility, policy enforcement, and automation – schedule your demo today and fortify your network against the challenges of the digital landscape.

[i] Gartner, Information Technology Glossary. Accessed September 8, 2024

[ii] CISA, Securing Networks, Accessed September 8, 2024 from the following source

[iii] Stephanie Schneider, Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst, LastPass, July 17, 2024. Accessed September 8, 2024

Snowflake Account Attacks Driven by Exposed Legitimate Credentials (darkreading.com)

[iv] CISA, AVTECH IP CAMERA, Alert Code ICSA-24-214-07, August 1, 2024

[v] EPA Press Office, EPA Outlines Enforcement Measures to Help Prevent Cybersecurity Attacks and Protect the Nation’s Drinking Water, May 20, 2024.

[vi] Chris Riotta, Bank Info Security, US SEC Approves Wall Street Data Breach Reporting Regs, May 17, 2024.

[vii] Andrew Lerner,  Aaron McQuaid,  Mike Leibovitz,  Christian Canales, Gartner, “Quick Answer: What Is the Future of NAC?”, July 11, 2024. Must be a Gartner research subscriber