Cloud, server, and application protection are all in a day’s work here at Hillstone Networks. Take safeguarding data and applications in the cloud. It is something we take seriously, and something we address with a multilayered approach. We believe the multilateral approach is the best approach to protecting networks, servers, and apps.
We like to think of multilayered security as similar to protecting oneself against the elements. In an extremely cold environment, people having to spend time outdoors will dress in multiple layers to stay warm. Each layer of clothing offers additional insulation to trap warm air in and keep cold air out. Most importantly though, dressing in layers allows for maximum flexibility.
The same thing applies to protecting data and applications in the cloud. Multiple layers allow for a vast array of security measures designed to keep threat actors at bay. But each layer also gives the cybersecurity team maximum flexibility to thwart new attacks.
Separate but Overlapping Functions
A multilayered approach to safeguarding data and applications can utilize a lengthy list of cloud, server, and app protection strategies. Let us arbitrarily say your security team has chosen six strategies. Each one is separate and distinct in function and goals. And yet, there is plenty of overlap among the strategies.
The challenging aspect of the multilayered approach is determining which strategies are most appropriate and how to implement them correctly. Here are a few examples of security strategies you could utilize to safeguard data and apps:
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Zero trust network access (ZTNA).
- Hardware and software firewalls.
- Email filtering.
- Sophisticated password policies.
- Regular patch management.
Applying a multilayered approach to safeguarding data and applications is all about making it as difficult as possible for threat actors to do what they do. There are softer targets out there, so your organization can prevent at least some attacks by making them too difficult to be worthwhile.
How to Implement a Multilayered Approach
While your organization may appreciate the need for a multilayered approach to cybersecurity, your IT team might not know how to implement such an approach. We recommend partnering with a company like Hillstone Networks, one that offers a selection of tools along with expert advice. If that is not possible, the starting point for doing things in-house is to analyze your current security status.
Run a thorough audit of all data, applications, infrastructure, etc. Use the audit to identify potential weaknesses threat actors might utilize to exploit your cloud environment. Bear in mind that no weakness is minor enough to ignore.
Next, prioritize security needs based on the most serious vulnerabilities. Research a variety of hardware, software, and procedural strategies capable of addressing the weakest points in the system. Once they are successfully addressed, move on to less serious vulnerabilities. Continue repeating the same process until all identified vulnerabilities have been addressed.
Ongoing Action
Implementing a multilayered approach to safeguarding data and applications requires ongoing action. In other words, you do not deploy security strategies and tools and then forget about them. Cybersecurity threats are continually evolving, Your IT team needs to do the same.
The team should be constantly monitoring for attacks. They should be reporting any and all incidents – even those that appear minor in nature. Those in decision making positions should be analyzing the data to stay on top of things.
A multilayered approach to cybersecurity is the best way to go. At Hillstone Networks, it is something we believe strongly in. We would be happy to help you implement such an approach to safeguarding your data and applications in the cloud.
