The environment for IT is becoming increasingly complex, especially in the realm of network security. Cloud computing is becoming the norm, with more companies migrating to these convenient and cost-effective services. This change requires added attention to IT network security.
Based on a number of important benefits they offer, SDNs or System Defined Networks can be a more secure way to handle business IT network services for effective network protection.
One Centralized Controller
The main benefit of using an SDN is that it gives IT network services the ability to control an organization’s entire network from one central location. Where traditional network security systems rely on various routers and switches to manually control data flow, System Defined Networks force all data through the same control point where it is then forwarded to the rest of the system.
Because the central controller has a view of the complete system architecture and all connecting devices, it can be used to screen data, send it through firewalls, and route it as required to ensure data security.
Secure and Convenient API Integration
One of the main factors preventing many businesses from moving to a cloud-based network is a concern over the security of cloud Application Program Interfaces or APIs. While cloud security is becoming increasingly better each year, SDNs make any cloud system more secure.
System Defined Networks easily integrate with most cloud APIs, giving users all the control they need plus the benefit of heightened IT network security through the SDN.
Simple Network Configuration
Setting up VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) to increase network security has always been challenging. The larger the organization, the more VLANs an organization requires, each of which must be monitored and maintained.
SDNs simplify the configuration process by allowing automated setting and restructuring of the network as needed. These capabilities improve VLAN monitoring, prevents DDoS attacks, and can automatically detect and quarantine threats.
Easy Security Policy Management
In addition to the more technical benefits that can be gained by incorporating an SDN into IT network services, another benefit is the ease in which access and security policies can be set up and managed.
Company access policies can be easily programmed into the SDN that routes data throughout its central control hub and managed more efficiently. IT network security policies are applied as required, improving policy implementation globally through the network.
Are There Risks?
Overall, SDNs can increase network security in a number of ways. Yet if they are not properly set up, there is the possibility they could be attacked. “Man in the middle” attacks launched using malicious software or attempting to gain unauthorized access to the SDN are common.
Careful planning and risk-based auditing are necessary to ensure a System Defined Network is secure and cannot be breached in these ways.
This degree of convenience and control enables IT personnel to more efficiently implement security policies and shape network architecture, reducing mistakes and oversights that can lead to undetected vulnerabilities. The prime factor in achieving these advantages is proper SDN setup and integration
SDNs can be essential tools to achieve higher levels of IT network security when properly implemented and used in conjunction with other security technologies. They give IT network services total control over what data is entering a cloud-based network and where it goes, protecting all connected devices!
