Network Segmentation

What is network segmentation?

Network segmentation is a computer networking architectural design that divides a network into smaller sub-networks. Each sub-network functions as an individual network, enabling teams to provide unique security controls and services to each. Network administrators can control the flow of network traffic between different sub-networks by applying granular policies. Thus, network segmentation serves as a network security technique.

Network segmentation amplifies the effectiveness of endpoint protection platforms. Other terms used to describe it include network partitioning, network isolation, and network segregation. Breaking down enormous networks into smaller, more manageable segments through this technique simplifies the overall management process. The manner in which the network team decides to segment a network is called a segmentation policy.

The process of network segmentation is performed by controlling the flow of traffic within a network. Traffic protocols can be applied to manage where traffic can and cannot flow. Traffic can also be controlled based on traffic type, source, destination, and other factors. This also enables teams to manage the security and compliance of each sub-network by applying suitable security protocols.

Typically, each sub-network is equipped with its dedicated hardware to create a physical separation between each network. This improves security by only allowing users with valid credentials to access the system.

Benefits of network segmentation

There are several benefits of using network segmentation, with the enhancement of security being the biggest one. The following are some of the key advantages of using network segmentation:

• Protection of vulnerable devices: Network segmentation is useful in protecting devices that don’t have advanced security features by design. It stops harmful internet traffic from reaching such devices.

• Slowing down attackers: Another advantage of network segmentation is that it buys the security operations center (SOC) extra time during an attack. If an attacker breaches a network and it’s segmented, it will take a considerable amount of time for the attacker to break out of the segmented network. Network segmentation can help reduce the damage of attacks.

• Reduced compliance scope: One significant benefit of network segmentation is its ability to minimize the scope of regulatory compliance. It restricts the range of systems subject to regulations. For instance, an organization can utilize network segmentation to isolate systems handling payments from those that do not.

• Enhanced access control: Network segmentation can help prevent insider attacks by limiting user access to certain parts of a network. This approach is known as the principle of least privilege (PoLP), and it considerably prevents employees' misuse of data and resources.

• Improved response rates: Having distinct sub-networks makes the network detection and response (NDR) software more effective and allows network administrators to respond to incidents quickly. During an attack, it becomes easier to see which network segment is affected. This helps narrow the focus area of troubleshooting.

Types of network segmentation

There are two types of network segmentation: physical segmentation and virtual segmentation.

• Physical segmentation: Physical segmentation involves the use of dedicated hardware to create network segments. It’s also known as perimeter-based segmentation and is challenging to manage compared to virtual segmentation. Each network segment will require its own physical wiring, internet connection, and firewall.
• Virtual segmentation: Virtual segmentation uses software to create network segments. It’s also known as software-defined network segmentation and typically doesn’t require new hardware. It also helps simplify firewall management. Further, this approach enables businesses to implement more specific security policies, unlike physical segmentation, as policies can be easily modified on the software.

Network segmentation vs. microsegmentation

Network segmentation involves breaking down the corporate network into smaller sub-networks. This offers network administrators greater control and visibility over the network and the ability to spot malicious actors quickly.

On the other hand, microsegmentation takes a more granular approach by segmenting networks through virtual local area networks (VLANs) and access control lists. Micro-segmentation makes each device or application its own network segment instead of breaking a network into multiple segments.

This segmentation method offers better resistance to cyberattacks as policies are applied to individual workloads as per the security requirements of each device or application. Businesses employ microsegmentation software to achieve this. Whereas, network segmentation would apply security policies to all the devices or applications in a subnetwork.

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