Reviews and comparisons of the top Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) software currently available
Software-defined perimeter (SDP) software is a cybersecurity framework designed to provide secure and dynamic access to network resources. It operates on a zero-trust security model, ensuring that access is granted only after strict authentication and authorization checks are performed. SDP creates a virtual perimeter by hiding resources from unauthorized users, making them inaccessible until a user's identity and device posture are verified. This approach minimizes attack surfaces and prevents lateral movement within networks, as users can only access specific resources they are authorized for. SDP software typically integrates with identity management systems and enforces security policies through encrypted communication channels. It is widely used to secure remote work, cloud environments, and hybrid IT infrastructures.
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Secubytes LLC
Secure remote access solutions for today's evolving business needs.UTunnel Secure Access offers solutions including Cloud VPN, ZTNA, and Mesh Networking to facilitate secure remote connections and reliable network performance. ACCESS GATEWAY: Our Cloud VPN as a Service allows for the rapid deployment of VPN servers on either Cloud or On-Premise setups. By employing OpenVPN and IPSec protocols, it ensures secure remote connections complemented by policy-driven access controls, enabling businesses to establish a robust VPN network effortlessly. ONE-CLICK ACCESS: The Zero Trust Application Access (ZTAA) feature revolutionizes secure interaction with internal business applications such as HTTP, HTTPS, SSH, and RDP. Users can conveniently access these services via their web browsers without the necessity of any client-side applications. MESHCONNECT: This solution, combining Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and mesh networking, offers detailed access controls tailored to specific business network resources and fosters the formation of secure, interconnected business networks for enhanced collaboration. SITE-TO-SITE VPN: Additionally, the Access Gateway allows for the establishment of secure IPSec Site-to-Site tunnels, which facilitate connections between UTunnel's VPN servers and other network infrastructure components like gateways, firewalls, routers, and unified threat management (UTM) systems, thereby enhancing overall network security. By integrating these features, UTunnel Secure Access is committed to providing comprehensive solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern businesses. -
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Perimeter 81
Check Point Software Technologies
Empowering secure cloud access for today’s distributed workforce.Perimeter 81 is transforming the landscape of network security with its innovative SaaS solution that delivers tailored networking and top-tier cloud protection. By streamlining secure access to networks, clouds, and applications for today's distributed workforce, Perimeter 81 empowers businesses of all sizes to operate securely and confidently within the cloud. Unlike traditional hardware firewalls and VPNs, Perimeter 81 offers a cloud-based, user-focused Secure Network as a Service that utilizes Zero Trust and Software Defined Perimeter security frameworks. This modern approach not only enhances network visibility but also ensures effortless integration with leading cloud providers and facilitates smooth onboarding for users. The result is a comprehensive security solution that adapts to the needs of contemporary organizations while promoting a more agile and secure working environment. -
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GoodAccess is a cybersecurity solution focused on SASE/SSE, aimed at assisting mid-sized companies in effortlessly adopting Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), no matter the intricacy or scale of their IT systems. Utilizing a Low-Code/No-Code methodology, GoodAccess allows for rapid, hardware-free implementations that can be completed within hours or days, thereby removing the necessity for extensive internal IT skills. The platform provides smooth integration with both contemporary cloud applications and older systems, ensuring the protection of vital resources for teams working remotely or in hybrid settings. Targeting organizations with employee counts ranging from 50 to 5000 across diverse sectors, GoodAccess is particularly ideal for those leveraging multi-cloud and SaaS frameworks, enhancing their overall security posture significantly. Additionally, this solution empowers companies to stay agile and secure in an increasingly digital landscape, fostering a robust defense against emerging cyber threats.
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Zscaler
Zscaler
"Empowering secure, flexible connections in a digital world."Zscaler stands out as a pioneer with its Zero Trust Exchange platform, which utilizes the most expansive security cloud in the world to optimize business functions and improve responsiveness in a fast-evolving landscape. The Zero Trust Exchange from Zscaler enables rapid and safe connections, allowing employees the flexibility to operate from any location by treating the internet as their corporate network. Following the zero trust principle of least-privileged access, this solution provides robust security through context-aware identity verification and stringent policy enforcement. With a network spanning 150 data centers worldwide, the Zero Trust Exchange ensures users are closely connected to the cloud services and applications they depend on, like Microsoft 365 and AWS. This extensive infrastructure guarantees the most efficient routes for user connections, ultimately delivering comprehensive security while ensuring an outstanding user experience. In addition, we encourage you to take advantage of our free service, the Internet Threat Exposure Analysis, which is designed to be quick, secure, and private for all participants, helping organizations pinpoint vulnerabilities and effectively bolster their security defenses. Our commitment to safeguarding your digital environment is paramount, and this analysis serves as an essential step toward enhancing your organization's resilience against potential threats. -
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Forescout
Forescout Technologies
Empower your cybersecurity with insights, control, and automation.Forescout operates as a comprehensive cybersecurity platform that provides immediate insights, control, and automation to manage risks linked to various devices and networks efficiently. This solution empowers organizations with essential tools to monitor and protect a diverse array of IT, IoT, and operational technology (OT) assets, thereby ensuring robust defense against cyber threats. By leveraging Forescout's Zero Trust methodology along with its integrated threat detection capabilities, enterprises can enforce compliance for their devices, manage secure network access, and sustain continuous monitoring to uncover vulnerabilities. Designed with scalability in mind, Forescout’s platform delivers critical insights that allow organizations to mitigate risks and enhance their security posture across numerous industries, such as healthcare and manufacturing. Furthermore, the holistic approach of Forescout's offerings guarantees that companies are well-equipped to adapt to the constantly changing landscape of cyber threats, maintaining operational integrity and trust with their stakeholders. -
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Fidelis Halo
Fidelis Security
Streamline cloud security automation for seamless compliance today!Fidelis Halo is a cloud security platform that leverages SaaS to streamline the automation of security controls in cloud computing. It ensures compliance across various environments such as containers, servers, and IaaS, whether in public, private, or hybrid clouds. With its robust automation features, Halo facilitates quicker workflows between InfoSec (DevOps) teams and the platform itself, offering more than 20,000 pre-set policies and over 150 templates tailored to standards including PCI, CIS, and HIPAA. Furthermore, the comprehensive Halo API, SDK, and toolkit enhance the automation of security and compliance processes within your DevOps workflow, enabling the identification and remediation of critical vulnerabilities prior to production deployment. Additionally, the free edition of Halo Cloud Secure grants complete access to the Halo Cloud Secure CSPM Service for up to 10 cloud service accounts across a combination of AWS and Azure. Start your journey towards automated cloud security today and experience the peace of mind that comes with comprehensive protection! -
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InstaSafe
InstaSafe Technologies
"Revolutionizing security with Zero Trust for seamless access."InstaSafe is transforming the landscape of secure access to contemporary networks through the implementation of Zero Trust principles in its security solutions, which facilitate smooth access to various platforms including cloud applications, SAP applications, on-site data, IoT devices, and numerous innovative use cases. By shifting away from conventional VPN-based ideas of a network perimeter, InstaSafe redefines security by placing the perimeter around individual users and the devices they utilize. This Zero Trust methodology adopted by InstaSafe upholds a "never trust, always verify" stance on privileged access, emphasizing verification independent of network location. Consequently, this approach not only enhances security but also adapts to the evolving needs of modern digital environments. -
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VNS3
Cohesive Networks
Unlock seamless connectivity, security, and adaptability for enterprises.Presenting a comprehensive networking solution that combines connectivity, security, and adaptability at a significantly lower cost. You can effortlessly deploy a VNS3 image through numerous public cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and GCP. Moreover, we offer an uncomplicated method for sharing private images, and we are readily available to share a private image with your account upon request. In addition, we can provide a VDI/VDK file that you can easily integrate into your chosen environment, be it VMWare or a secured cloud infrastructure. Our committed support team at Cohesive Networks can deliver a license within minutes, guaranteeing a hassle-free experience. Upgrading your VNS3 controller license is an easy process that can be executed through the VNS3 console or via the API. An optional enhancement, the VNS3 Overlay Network, further optimizes your setup by delivering end-to-end encryption, superior performance in most cloud environments, and enhanced IP address mobility across different regions and cloud providers. This overlay network operates atop the existing networking layers, ensuring functionality independent of the underlying hardware and software, while still depending on those native networking layers. To conclude, this innovative solution not only simplifies your networking requirements but also provides you with unmatched flexibility and robust security, making it an ideal choice for modern enterprises. -
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Big Network
Big Network
Seamless, secure networking made simple for everyone, everywhere.Big Network facilitates the secure and effortless connection of networks and services among individuals, locations, and cloud environments from any location. By integrating simplicity with technologies such as mesh-VPN, cloud services, and SD-WAN, it provides a one-button solution for users. Additionally, Big Network features broadband offerings, a cloud marketplace, and a collaborative partner network. According to Accenture, 83% of enterprises are expected to maintain hybrid workforces moving forward. With Big Network, users can seamlessly and securely link their networks and services across various settings, including offices, homes, and cloud platforms. Navigating private networking often proves to be expensive and complex, especially with the myriad of legacy technologies available, each tied to distinct software and hardware ecosystems. This innovative approach aims to simplify the networking process, making it more accessible for all users. -
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Cloudbrink
Cloudbrink
Empower teams with seamless, secure connectivity solutions.Cloudbrink's secure access service significantly enhances both employee productivity and morale. For IT and business executives facing challenges with remote employees due to unreliable network performance, Cloudbrink’s High-Availability as a Service (HAaaS) offers a cutting-edge zero-trust access solution that provides a remarkably fast, in-office-like experience for today’s hybrid workforce, regardless of their location. Unlike conventional ZTNA and VPN options that compromise security for performance, leading to employee frustration and decreased productivity, Cloudbrink’s solution secures user connections while effectively addressing the end-to-end performance challenges that others overlook. The Automated Moving Target Defense security provided by Cloudbrink stands out among other secure access solutions. Recognized by Gartner as the "future of security," Cloudbrink is at the forefront of innovation in this field. By dynamically altering the attack surface, it becomes considerably more difficult for adversaries to target a Cloudbrink user’s connection. This includes rotating certificates every eight hours or less, eliminating fixed Points of Presence (PoPs) by allowing users to connect to three temporary FAST edges, and continually changing the mid-mile path. If you seek the quickest and most secure solution for remote access connectivity, Cloudbrink is undoubtedly the answer you’ve been searching for. With Cloudbrink, you can ensure a seamless experience for your remote teams while maintaining the highest security standards. -
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Simply5 CloudLAN
Simply5
Empowering remote teams with seamless connectivity and collaboration.CloudLAN serves as a safe virtual workspace, enabling teams spread out across various locations to work together effectively. This platform facilitates seamless connectivity by linking all users' computers into one cohesive network. With TeamVPN IP, users benefit from a roaming static IP that remains independent of any specific physical internet connection. Furthermore, features like service casting and Host connect empower businesses to operate remotely, even if they lack an internal technical support team. This ensures that companies can maintain productivity and collaboration, regardless of their technological expertise. -
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Twingate
Twingate
Revolutionize security and access management with modern simplicity.The landscape of work has undergone a significant transformation, enabling individuals to operate from virtually anywhere rather than being confined to their offices. Cloud-based applications have replaced on-premise solutions, leading to a distributed company network perimeter that spans the internet. Traditional VPNs, which focus on network-centric remote access, have become not only cumbersome and outdated but also pose considerable security vulnerabilities for businesses. The costs and resources associated with acquiring, deploying, and maintaining VPN infrastructure can be staggering. When access isn't secured at the application level, hackers may be able to compromise entire networks. Twingate offers a solution for organizations by facilitating the swift implementation of a zero trust network that outperforms VPNs in security. As a cloud-based service, Twingate enables IT teams to establish a software-defined perimeter rapidly without necessitating any changes to existing infrastructure. Moreover, it provides centralized management of user access to internal applications, regardless of whether these applications are hosted in the cloud or on-premise. This modern approach not only enhances security but also simplifies access management across diverse environments. -
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Prisma Access
Palo Alto Networks
Revolutionize security and connectivity with seamless cloud solutions.The Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is crucial for branch offices, retail locations, and mobile staff as organizations transition to the cloud, fundamentally changing user connections to applications and the delivery of security. Implementing effective solutions is vital to ensure both user and application security while managing data access from any point. Historically, companies have depended on a variety of single-point products, which often lead to increased costs and complexity, as well as potential weaknesses in security protocols. Thankfully, SASE presents a more effective alternative, with Palo Alto Networks at the forefront through its Prisma Access platform. This platform delivers a powerful blend of networking and security capabilities through a uniquely crafted cloud infrastructure. It employs a cohesive cloud framework that safeguards data from over 100 locations across 76 countries globally. Additionally, customers can manage their security policies using dedicated cloud instances, which guarantees that their traffic remains segregated for improved privacy and security. As the digital landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, adopting SASE not only enhances operational efficiency but also strengthens an organization's overall security posture. Ultimately, making this shift can pave the way for future innovations and more secure environments. -
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Trustgrid
Trustgrid
Streamline connectivity and security for resilient SaaS applications.Trustgrid serves as the SD-WAN solution tailored specifically for software providers. The Trustgrid platform effectively meets the unique demands of SaaS application providers that operate in environments controlled by customers or partners. By integrating SD-WAN 2.0, edge computing, and zero trust remote access into one cohesive platform, we empower software providers to oversee and support distributed application environments from the cloud to the edge. With Trustgrid, you can streamline connectivity, bolster security measures, and ensure consistent network availability, all while enhancing the overall performance of your applications. This innovative approach not only simplifies management but also fosters a more resilient infrastructure for software providers. -
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DxOdyssey
DH2i
Revolutionizing security with seamless, application-level connectivity solutions.DxOdyssey represents a cutting-edge software solution that leverages patented technology to create highly available application-level micro-tunnels across a multitude of locations and platforms. This software stands out by offering unparalleled ease, security, and confidentiality compared to other available alternatives. By integrating DxOdyssey, organizations can initiate a transition towards a zero trust security framework, which proves invaluable for networking and security administrators overseeing multi-site and multi-cloud environments. In light of the evolving nature of the traditional network perimeter, DxOdyssey’s unVPN technology has been crafted to seamlessly adjust to this new reality. Unlike conventional VPNs and direct link strategies that necessitate significant upkeep and pose risks of lateral network movements, DxOdyssey employs a more robust approach by providing application-level access rather than network-level access, which significantly reduces the attack surface. Moreover, it accomplishes this while delivering the most secure and efficient Software Defined Perimeter (SDP), thus enabling connectivity for distributed applications and clients across various locations, clouds, and domains. As a result, organizations can bolster their overall security posture while streamlining their network management processes, leading to greater operational efficiency and effectiveness. This innovative approach ensures that security measures can keep pace with the demands of modern digital landscapes. -
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Tempered
Tempered
Effortlessly secure and optimize your network for growth.Bring your envisioned network to life with a solution that is not only quick to deploy but also simple to oversee. You won’t require extensive machinery to get underway. Protect crucial assets and devices that are unable to be patched by implementing a segmented virtual air gap. This approach enables secure interaction between any device or network across various environments, such as public, private, cloud, and mobile networks. Protect against unauthorized lateral movement that could threaten your network's stability. Remove the necessity for internal firewalls, intricate VLANs, and ACLs, while substituting expensive MPLS connections with cost-effective SD-WAN solutions. Simplify remote access for both employees and vendors, improve hybrid cloud connectivity, and enable efficient multi-cloud transport. Moreover, isolate and secure essential process controls and devices, safely share device data with cloud analytics, and provide secure vendor access to sensitive industrial networks. By adopting these strategies, you can achieve strong network segmentation that bolsters security, mitigates ransomware risks, and simultaneously enhances overall network efficiency, ensuring a resilient operational environment for your organization. This holistic approach not only fortifies your systems but also positions your network for future growth and adaptability. -
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BeyondCorp Enterprise
Google
Secure access, robust protection, seamless experience, modern security.Implementing a zero trust framework that ensures secure access while integrating both threat mitigation and data protection strategies is crucial for modern organizations. This approach not only secures access to essential applications and services, but also enhances data protection capabilities. By utilizing an agentless approach, it simplifies the user experience for both administrators and end-users alike. This contemporary zero trust solution bolsters security through its resilient architecture, which is built on the extensive network and infrastructure provided by Google. Users benefit from a seamless and secure experience, complemented by integrated DDoS defenses, swift connections, and scalable resources. It adopts a thorough security strategy that protects against malware, data breaches, and fraudulent activities across all users, access points, data, and applications. Additionally, it brings together security posture insights and alerts from leading security vendors, offering extra layers of protection. Organizations can implement precise access policies based on user identities, device conditions, and other contextual factors, enabling them to maintain strict control over access to applications, virtual machines, and Google APIs. Embracing this zero trust methodology allows organizations to adapt swiftly to emerging threats while ensuring operational effectiveness remains intact, ultimately fostering a more resilient security environment. -
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SecurityTrails
SecurityTrails
Unlock unparalleled cybersecurity insights with our powerful API.Security companies, researchers, and teams can take advantage of a fast and dependable API that offers both current and historical information. This API follows a clear pricing structure, facilitating the easy integration of our data into your systems. All necessary resources are accessible, featuring fully indexed historical and live data that can be accessed instantly. Users have the opportunity to sift through nearly 3 billion WHOIS records and monitor changes over time. Our constantly updated database boasts over 203 million entries and continues to grow. You can discover the technologies that different websites are utilizing by browsing through a multitude of options. Gain monthly access to a vast repository of more than 1 billion passive DNS datasets. Stay updated with the latest information regarding IP addresses, domains, and hostnames as it becomes available. Efficient searching is simplified with well-organized and indexed data. Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of invaluable cybersecurity resources and gain insights that are not easily obtainable elsewhere. We take pride in delivering the latest DNS and domain intelligence to security analysts and developers through our powerful API, ensuring they have access to the best tools for their requirements. This extensive access not only empowers users to make informed decisions but also enhances their ability to navigate the challenges of an ever-changing digital landscape. With our API, you can stay ahead in the fast-paced world of cybersecurity. -
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Zentry
Zentry Security
Empower secure, streamlined access for modern businesses effortlessly.Adopting a least-privileged access model significantly bolsters security for all users, irrespective of their geographical position. Transient authentication provides targeted, restricted access to vital infrastructure components. Zentry Trusted Access delivers a streamlined, clientless, browser-based zero-trust application access solution specifically designed for small to medium-sized businesses. Organizations reap the rewards of enhanced security practices, improved compliance, a reduced attack surface, and greater visibility into user and application activities. As a cloud-native service, Zentry Trusted Access is not only straightforward to deploy but also user-friendly. Employees, contractors, and third parties can securely access applications hosted in the cloud and data centers with just an HTML5 browser, eliminating the need for additional client software installations. By leveraging zero trust principles, including multi-factor authentication and single sign-on, only verified users are allowed entry to applications and resources. Furthermore, every session benefits from comprehensive end-to-end encryption via TLS, with access meticulously governed by specific policies. This method not only strengthens security protocols but also encourages a more adaptable work environment, ultimately supporting the evolving needs of modern organizations. -
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Citrix Secure Private Access
Cloud Software Group
Empower your organization with seamless, secure access everywhere.Citrix Secure Private Access, formerly recognized as Citrix Secure Workspace Access, delivers crucial zero trust network access (ZTNA) that empowers organizations to maintain their competitive edge by utilizing adaptive authentication and single sign-on (SSO) for authorized applications. This solution fosters business expansion while complying with modern security standards, ensuring that employee productivity remains intact. By employing adaptive access policies that consider user identity, location, and the security status of devices, companies can effectively manage sessions and protect against unauthorized access from personal devices. Additionally, the system emphasizes an effortless user experience coupled with strong monitoring features. Importantly, the integration of remote browser isolation technology allows users to interact with applications through any personal device without requiring an endpoint agent, thus boosting both security and user convenience. This multifaceted security approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also significantly elevates user satisfaction levels, making it a valuable asset for any organization. In this way, businesses can navigate the complexities of modern digital security while fostering a productive work environment. -
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Ivanti Neurons for Zero Trust Access
Ivanti
Empower your security with constant verification and tailored access.Ivanti Neurons for Zero Trust Access empowers organizations to adopt a security model that emphasizes constant verification and limited access rights. By continuously assessing user identities, device conditions, and application permissions, it effectively enforces tailored access controls, granting authorized users entry only to the resources necessary for their roles. Adopting Zero Trust principles paves the way for a more secure future, enhancing protection while also enabling employees to excel in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. This forward-thinking strategy cultivates a safer and more efficient operational environment, ultimately benefiting the organization as a whole. With such a robust framework in place, companies can better mitigate risks and respond to emerging threats. -
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Ivanti Connect Secure
Ivanti
Secure, seamless access to your data, anytime, anywhere.Implementing a zero-trust framework for accessing cloud environments or data centers provides a secure and dependable connection that enhances productivity while minimizing expenses. Prior to granting any access, compliance with regulations is thoroughly verified. Enhanced data security measures, such as lockdown mode and continuous VPN usage, are integrated to safeguard sensitive information. This solution stands out as the leading SSL VPN, catering to organizations of various sizes across different sectors. One specific client benefits from both remote and on-site access, simplifying management processes. Directory and Identity Services play a pivotal role in this framework. It is crucial to confirm that all devices comply with security stipulations before establishing a connection. Access to both cloud-hosted and on-premise resources is designed to be straightforward, secure, and user-friendly. With options for on-demand, application-specific, and always-on VPNs, data transmission remains protected. Organizations can centrally oversee policies, monitor user activities, device statuses, and access logs efficiently. Additionally, users can access web-based applications and virtual desktop solutions without the need for any installations. This approach not only facilitates access but also ensures data protection, thereby meeting industry compliance standards effectively. Overall, the integration of these security measures enhances organizational resilience against potential threats. -
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Wandera
Wandera
Empowering secure, seamless remote work for today's workforce.Ensuring comprehensive real-time security for a remote workforce is crucial, no matter their location or connection method. A unified security solution addresses all needs for remote workers, from threat mitigation to content moderation and zero trust network access, while supporting devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. With an integrated analytics and policy engine, administrators can implement a one-time configuration that universally applies, accommodating the movement of users beyond conventional perimeters and facilitating data migration to the cloud. Wandera's cloud-focused strategy ensures that security and usability are maintained for remote users, sidestepping the challenges of retrofitting obsolete infrastructures for contemporary work environments. Our powerful cloud platform is built to scale both vertically and horizontally, offering real-time security across more than 30 global sites. Supported by insights gathered from 425 million sensors in our global network, the MI:RIAM threat intelligence engine is designed to be proactive, quickly adapting to an evolving landscape of threats. This forward-thinking approach not only bolsters security but also significantly enhances the experience for users working remotely, making them feel connected and safe while conducting their business operations. By prioritizing user experience alongside security, organizations can foster a productive remote work environment. -
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Appgate
Appgate
Empowering organizations with robust, Zero Trust security solutions.Appgate offers a wide array of cloud and hybrid-ready security and analytics solutions, currently safeguarding more than 1,000 organizations across 40 countries. The firm is committed to a focused approach on Zero Trust security, addressing the complexities that arise as IT environments become increasingly distributed and on-demand. This shift introduces fresh security challenges, leaving professionals struggling to resolve contemporary issues with outdated methods. Organizations can bolster their defenses against potential threats by becoming less conspicuous targets. Adopting an identity-centric, Zero Trust strategy is vital, as it evaluates multiple contextual factors before permitting access. Proactively identifying and neutralizing both internal and external threats is crucial to protecting your organization. Major global businesses and government agencies depend on our high-quality, effective secure access solutions. Our ZTNA solution is crafted to enhance and simplify network security through a comprehensive range of features. This approach not only diminishes risk but also guarantees that users experience seamless and secure access to your digital services while protecting sensitive information. As security landscapes evolve, staying ahead of potential vulnerabilities has never been more important for organizations around the world. -
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BloxOne Threat Defense
Infoblox
Elevate security with seamless integration and rapid threat response.BloxOne Threat Defense bolsters brand security by enhancing your existing protections, ensuring your network is secure while providing vital coverage for critical digital domains such as SD-WAN, IoT, and the cloud. This cutting-edge solution supports security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR), which significantly shortens the time needed to investigate and address cyber threats. Additionally, it streamlines the overall security architecture and reduces the costs associated with enterprise-level threat defense. By converting essential network services that drive business functions into important security assets, it utilizes services like DNS, DHCP, and IP address management (DDI), which are crucial for all IP-based communication. Infoblox positions these services as essential building blocks, allowing your complete security system to operate seamlessly and at scale, which enhances early detection and rapid response to potential threats. Furthermore, this integration equips your organization to swiftly adjust to the fast-evolving digital environment while ensuring a strong defense against cyber vulnerabilities, ultimately fortifying your overall cybersecurity posture. Embracing this advanced solution not only protects your assets but also instills confidence in your stakeholders.
Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) Software Buyers Guide
Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) is an emerging security framework designed to secure networks by adopting a “zero-trust” approach. This model assumes that no user, device, or application, whether inside or outside the network perimeter, can be trusted by default. SDP creates dynamic and adaptive boundaries that restrict access to network resources based on user authentication and real-time contextual data, offering a robust alternative to traditional security measures like firewalls and VPNs.
How SDP Works
SDP’s core principle is based on "need-to-know" access, where users and devices are only allowed to interact with network resources after their identity has been verified. Unlike traditional perimeter-based security models, which often provide blanket access to internal network resources, SDP limits visibility and access based on the role, device, and location of the user. Here's a breakdown of how it works:
- Authentication Before Access: Users and devices must authenticate via a centralized controller before any access is granted. This ensures that access is only granted to verified entities, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
- Microsegmentation: The network is divided into smaller, isolated segments to further reduce the attack surface. Each segment can have different access controls, ensuring that compromised systems cannot easily spread malware or unauthorized access.
- Dynamic Policies: Access to resources is governed by real-time policies based on contextual factors such as user identity, device health, location, and the sensitivity of the data or applications being accessed.
- Invisible Network Resources: With SDP, network resources are hidden from unauthorized users, making it difficult for malicious actors to even identify potential targets for attack. This concept of "blacklisting" ensures that even if attackers gain access to the network, they cannot see or interact with sensitive resources.
Benefits of SDP
Implementing an SDP framework offers several advantages over traditional network security approaches. Here are the primary benefits:
- Enhanced Security: By enforcing a zero-trust model, SDP significantly reduces the risk of data breaches caused by unauthorized access. The principle of least privilege ensures that users only have access to the minimum resources necessary to perform their tasks.
- Reduced Attack Surface: SDP hides network resources from unauthorized users, making it difficult for attackers to exploit network vulnerabilities. Even if an attacker manages to breach the network, they cannot see or access anything beyond what they’ve been explicitly allowed.
- Scalability and Flexibility: As more enterprises move to cloud-based environments, SDP offers scalability to secure complex hybrid environments. It works seamlessly across on-premises, cloud, and multi-cloud infrastructures, making it ideal for modern, distributed networks.
- Simplified Management: Traditional perimeter defenses like firewalls require constant updating and configuration. SDP simplifies network security management by using a centralized control system to enforce policies and monitor activity, reducing the complexity associated with securing modern, dynamic networks.
- Reduced Reliance on Hardware: SDP is a software-centric approach, reducing the need for costly, rigid hardware infrastructure like VPN concentrators and firewalls. This flexibility allows organizations to implement security controls more cost-effectively and adapt quickly to changing network environments.
Key Features of SDP Software
SDP software solutions typically include several key features that enable them to secure networks more effectively than traditional solutions:
- Zero Trust Model: Core to SDP is the idea that no device or user can be trusted by default. Every access request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, based on real-time contextual data.
- Granular Access Control: SDP allows for highly granular control over who can access specific resources, minimizing the potential for lateral movement across the network.
- Device Posture Assessment: Before allowing access, SDP software often evaluates the security posture of the device, including factors like operating system version, installed security software, and potential vulnerabilities.
- Encryption of Communication: All communications between users, devices, and resources are encrypted, ensuring that data in transit is protected from interception and tampering.
- User and Device Authentication: SDP solutions integrate with identity management systems to enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) and other strong authentication methods, ensuring only authorized users and devices gain access.
Use Cases for SDP
SDP is well-suited for a variety of scenarios in which traditional security models fall short:
- Securing Remote Access: With more employees working remotely, SDP can provide secure access to corporate resources without relying on VPNs, which are often vulnerable to attacks.
- Cloud and Hybrid Environments: As organizations increasingly move their workloads to the cloud, SDP enables secure access across hybrid environments without the need for complex network reconfigurations.
- Reducing Insider Threats: By limiting access to sensitive resources based on user roles and constantly evaluating device security, SDP helps mitigate the risk of insider threats.
- Compliance: Many industries, such as healthcare and finance, require strict compliance with regulations concerning data access and security. SDP can simplify compliance by providing detailed audit logs and ensuring only authorized users can access sensitive data.
Challenges of Implementing SDP
Despite its many benefits, adopting SDP can present challenges for some organizations:
- Initial Setup and Configuration: Implementing SDP requires an initial investment of time and resources to integrate with existing identity and access management systems, define access policies, and configure the network infrastructure.
- Legacy System Compatibility: Some legacy systems may not be fully compatible with SDP technologies, requiring additional workarounds or upgrades.
- Cultural Change: Moving to a zero-trust model often requires a shift in organizational thinking, particularly for employees accustomed to less stringent security measures. The shift to continuous verification can cause friction if not handled properly.
Conclusion
Software-Defined Perimeter software represents a significant advancement in network security, addressing the limitations of traditional perimeter-based defenses by embracing a zero-trust model. Its ability to provide secure, dynamic access to resources based on contextual factors offers a scalable and flexible approach that aligns well with today’s cloud-first, remote-work-centric environment. While challenges remain in terms of implementation and integration with legacy systems, the benefits of enhanced security, reduced attack surfaces, and simplified management make SDP an attractive solution for modern enterprises looking to bolster their network defenses.