What is the best way to segment your network for cybersecurity?

1 Why segment your network?

Network segmentation offers various advantages for cybersecurity, including isolating sensitive data and systems from the rest of the network, limiting the scope and impact of a cyberattack, and enhancing visibility and control over network traffic. Additionally, it can reduce the complexity and cost of network management by simplifying the configuration and maintenance of network devices and firewalls.

2 How to segment your network?

Network segmentation is not a one-size-fits-all solution, as it depends on the network architecture, size, and security requirements. Common methods for network segmentation include VLANs, Subnets, and Zones. VLANs are logical segments that separate network devices based on their IP addresses. Subnets are physical segments that divide a network into smaller ranges of IP addresses, based on their network masks. Zones are logical segments that group network devices based on their function, role, or security level. VLANs are easy to set up and modify but do not provide strong security or encryption; Subnets can improve network performance and security but require more planning and configuration; Zones can enforce stricter policies and controls for each segment but require more sophisticated firewalls and gateways to implement.

3 What are the best practices for network segmentation?

Network segmentation is not a one-time project, but an ongoing process that requires regular monitoring and evaluation. To ensure successful network segmentation, it is important to define goals and criteria based on business needs and risk assessment. Additionally, mapping the network topology and inventorying devices, assets, and data flows is necessary. Identifying and classifying network segments based on their function, location, or security level is also important. Furthermore, the appropriate tools and technologies should be used to implement and configure the network segmentation method. To test and validate the network segmentation, one should check the functionality and security of each segment. Lastly, tools and metrics should be used to monitor and audit the performance and compliance of each segment.

4 What are the challenges of network segmentation?

Network segmentation poses several challenges, such as balancing security and usability while ensuring each segment has the right level of access and protection. It is also important to manage network changes and updates, making sure modifications or additions do not affect the existing segments or create new vulnerabilities. Coordinating network segmentation efforts is also essential, requiring communication with all relevant stakeholders, including IT staff, business units, and vendors.

5 How to get started with network segmentation?

Network segmentation is an important investment for cybersecurity, and requires careful planning and execution. To get started with network segmentation, one should conduct a network audit and risk analysis to identify the current network state and security gaps. After that, it's necessary to define the network segmentation strategy and objectives to align it with business goals and security needs. Additionally, choose the network segmentation method and tools that are most suitable and cost-effective for the network. The last steps are to implement and test the network segmentation to verify its functionality and security, as well as monitor and review it to measure its effectiveness and efficiency.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?