A Layered Security Approach Is Essential in Today’s Threat Climate

Ransomware, phishing scams, malicious email attachments, hacker attacks — the list of potential cybersecurity threats just continues to grow. Most experts agree that it’s a matter of when, not if, an organization will be the target of a cyberattack.

In an age when no two network threats are exactly alike, it is important to understand that different cyber security threats call for different security measures. But simply adding an array of security tools isn’t enough. As we noted in a previous post, a fragmented approach to security can make it harder to identify and respond to threats.

The best defense is a layered security architecture that recognizes both the strengths and limitations of various security products. Also known as defense in depth, layered security places multiple security controls throughout the IT environment. If an attack gets by one security tool, others are in place to increase the odds that an attack will be identified and stopped.

Layered Security

Layered Cyber Security Components

The foundational component of layered security is perimeter defense, which involves keeping malicious traffic from ever reaching the network. Perimeter defense begins with a firewall, which can be implemented using software, a hardware appliance or a cloud-based solution.

Today’s next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) combine traditional firewall functionality with deep packet inspection, intrusion prevention, antimalware and other security features. By consolidating multiple security functions on a single device, NGFWs reduce costs and simplify management of the security environment and are better equipped to combat sophisticated cyberattacks.

Of course, perimeter security is no longer enough — more and more users are accessing systems and applications remotely using a wide range of devices. Identity-based and device-aware access controls enable the enforcement of policies according to the user, device type, location and other criteria. Continuous monitoring of network traffic and file activity helps detect and stop threats that make it past initial defenses.

Layered Security Email Scanning

Email scanning and filtering is another component of layered security. Malware that can cripple PCs and corporate networks continues to spread through email attachments and malicious links. Rather than depending on users to detect these threats, email security solutions prevent malicious content from ever reaching inboxes. Active content filtering tools should also be considered for blocking web sites that could compromise security.

Encryption plays an essential role in a layered security approach. Confidential data — whether residing on a storage device, traveling across the network or sent in an email — is at risk if left in “plain text.” Strong encryption algorithms, combined with encryption keys that are regularly changed, protect the data from prying eyes and add another crucial layer of security. Data loss prevention tools work in concert with encryption to prevent the unauthorized distribution or sharing of proprietary information.

GDS Delivers Layered Security:

The best cyber attack defense is a layered security architecture that recognizes both the strengths and limitations of various security products.

GDS delivers a suite of fully managed security tools that work together to create a layered security strategy. Each cyber security solution includes best-in-class hardware and software backed by 24x7 monitoring, management and support by cybersecurity experts. GDS keeps the tools up to date as new threats emerge and the IT environment changes. The GDS team also responds rapidly to security incidents to minimize the impact of a cyberattack.

Threats are constantly evolving, and no security infrastructure can be considered invulnerable. But a layered security approach that addresses all aspects of cybersecurity can significantly reduce the risk of an attack. GDS takes this a step further with fully managed tools that are monitored and supported around the clock by our experts.

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