Overview
This lecture discusses the importance of network segmentation in IT security, highlighting its applications for performance, compliance, and securing both consumer and industrial devices.
Segmentation in IT Security
- Segmentation involves separating devices physically or virtually to control communication and enhance security.
- Networks can be segmented using VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks).
- Segmentation improves performance by isolating high-data-transfer applications onto their own networks.
- Security segmentation limits which devices can communicate, reducing attack surfaces.
Compliance and Industry Requirements
- Some standards, like PCI DSS for payment card industry, require network segmentation when storing sensitive data.
- Segmentation may be a design requirement for regulatory compliance.
IoT and IIoT Device Segmentation
- IoT (Internet of Things) devices include sensors, smart home devices, and wearables, often with weak security features.
- IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) devices enable machine-to-machine communication in manufacturing, medical, or utility environments.
- Segmenting IoT/IIoT devices prevents them from accessing sensitive data and protects critical operations.
SCADA, ICS, and OT Network Segmentation
- SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and ICS (Industrial Control Systems) require strong segmentation due to critical real-time monitoring needs.
- OT (Operational Technology) systems, such as those managing power grids or traffic, depend on maximum uptime and security via segmentation.
- Segmented networks protect against failures that could affect infrastructure or public safety.
Segmentation for Guests and BYOD
- Guest networks allow internet access without access to internal systems, improving security in homes and offices.
- BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies segment personal devices to keep personal and company data separate and secure.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Segmentation — separating networks or devices to control traffic flow and access.
- VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) — a logical subnetwork used for segmenting traffic.
- IoT (Internet of Things) — networked devices like sensors and smart devices.
- IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) — industrial machines networked for automation.
- SCADA — systems for real-time data acquisition and control in industries.
- ICS (Industrial Control System) — integrates with SCADA for managing industrial processes.
- OT (Operational Technology) — hardware and software that controls physical devices.
- BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) — policy allowing personal devices for work use.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review organizational requirements for compliance-related segmentation.
- Assess current network for IoT/IIoT devices and apply segmentation as needed.
- Set up or update guest networks to ensure proper isolation from internal systems.