Secure network connectivity is more crucial than ever as organizations rely more and more on the internet for their operations. Although software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN) is a well-liked method for boosting network efficiency and cutting expenses, it’s crucial to take security into account before implementing this technology.
One of the main advantages of SD-WAN is that it gives companies the option to build virtual networks and route traffic online, increasing flexibility and scalability. However, it’s critical that companies must be now more than ever, watchful in securing their networks against online dangers.
What can you do, to make sure that your SD-WAN network is secure? Here are some suggestions and recommended practices to keep in mind:
- Utilize encryption: It’s critical to use encryption to safeguard your data while it moves across the internet. Your data is protected while it moves between sites thanks to encryption, which also helps to prevent illegal access. Protecting sensitive information, such as financial information or personal information, requires end-to-end encryption, which encrypts data from beginning to end.
- Implement Security Measures: You may safeguard your SD-WAN network by putting other security measures in place in addition to encryption. Firewalls are one possible example of this; they serve as a barrier between your network and the internet, preventing access from unwanted sources. By identifying and preventing attempts to access your network from unknown sources, intrusion prevention systems (IPS) can aid in network security. VPNs can be used to establish secure, encrypted communications between different locations.
- Monitor Your Network: Regular network monitoring can assist you in seeing and resolving any security issues before they become serious ones. This can entail keeping a watch out for suspicious activities, searching for vulnerabilities, and monitoring for unusual traffic patterns. You can rapidly discover and resolve any security vulnerabilities that may occur by routinely monitoring your network.
- Maintain Software Updates: It’s an absolute MUST to maintain software updates in order to defend yourself from the most recent attacks. This covers any apps or systems linked to your network, as well as any software operating on your SD-WAN devices. You can assist to safeguard against potential new vulnerabilities by keeping your software updated.
- Train Your Staff: Your plan for network security includes your staff quite heavily. Make sure they are knowledgeable about security best practices, such as not clicking on shady sites or disclosing private information. The likelihood of unintentional security breaches can be decreased by regularly teaching your personnel about security procedures.
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA): By asking users to submit a second form of authentication in addition to their password, two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an additional layer of protection. This could be a hardware token, an authentication app, or a code texted to a phone. You can aid in preventing illegal access to your network by implementing 2FA.k.
- Evaluate Your Security Measures Frequently: To make sure your security measures are still working, you should frequently review them. To do this, you might carry out security audits, check your network for vulnerabilities, and review your policies and practices. You can make sure that your network is secured against the most recent threats by routinely assessing your security precautions.
You may contribute to your SD-WAN network’s security and safeguard your company from online threats by adhering to these best practices and advice. Keep in mind that security is a constant process, it’s crucial to regularly check and assess your security precautions to guarantee that your network is still protected.