Does network complexity add to risk?

The number of devices, sensors, servers and other endpoints inevitably increases as enterprises expand their digital networks. Digital systems are becoming ever more sophisticated as a result of the rising trend of cloud adoption. Enterprises that host their networks both on-premises and on virtual clouds must monitor the hybrid environment. Complexity increases as there are more users, machines and digital environments.

As enterprise networks become more distributed, digital security vulnerabilities may arise. The dangers that come with larger and more complex attack surfaces must be offset by IT leaders. Managing multiple vendors and multiple devices presents a significant challenge for IT security professionals, according to a survey on network complexity. Two-thirds of enterprises are estimated to still manually manage network security. Enterprises can lower the risk of configuration errors and data breaches through automation.

What specific steps should enterprises take to reduce the risks brought on by a more complex network? The first step is to switch from manual to automated processes. Network security can be increased by improving network visibility and streamlining configuration from a centralised console. For business networks and endpoints, SEACOM Business provides a wide range of cyber security services.

Automation helps to reduce risk

A major contributor towards network security breaches is human error. In many instances, automation can be used to prevent certain threats from taking place. The combination of automation and user access control is one example of this. It can be challenging to keep track of which employee profiles have been compromised, which passwords have been changed maliciously, or when another type of access control violation has occurred in large enterprises with thousands of employees and devices accessing the network every day.

IT teams are able to monitor and configure access control without the use of manpower thanks to automated software. Automation can be used to detect any irregularities, especially during times when the network is most vulnerable. For instance, network security needs to be enhanced during cloud migration to prevent unauthorised network access.

Automation makes it much easier to monitor a distributed network. Tools for automated detection and response aid in improving network security. It is easier for security teams to cover the entire attack surface of multiple branches, data centres and cloud environments when they can monitor everything through a single platform..

Fighting fire with fire

The majority of malware attacks are automated. They scan devices and identify vulnerable points; they can access networks through these entry points. When security teams need to isolate these threats, doing so manually is challenging. The longer an IT team investigates the threat or vulnerabilities, the greater the potential that malware can propagate throughout the network.

Compounding this issue is IT personnel and a skills shortage, particularly in cloud and hybrid environments. If complex digital environments are to be kept safe, manual network security needs to be eliminated. Businesses can improve performance and network security through consolidated management, which also reduces risk.

Enterprises can reduce complexity even as their networks expand by using cutting-edge solutions such as secure access service edge (SASE) or software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN). These networking architectures are revolutionising the face of network administration and security.

Hosted security to support digitisation

There is currently a cyber security and IT skills shortage in Africa. Fortunately, there is a workaround for this that lowers costs while simultaneously reducing risks. Enterprises that choose hosted security receive a comprehensive security solution from threat management experts.

Security solutions from SEACOM Business leverage the power of cloud computing. Using next-generation firewalls and virtual server hosting, even complex hybrid cloud environments are protected through our award-winning platforms.

Modernising network security with SEACOM business

Examining the risks of network complexity highlights distinct operational challenges that organisations must face. By being aware of the risks, enterprises can take the necessary steps to streamline network management and security policies. The risk of misconfigurations due to human error increases as complexity does. Attackers exploit security gaps in networks caused by the use of various devices and vendors.

Organisations must modernise their approach to cyber security if they want to empower a growing remote workforce. The ability to defend IT networks from sophisticated and potentially disastrous attacks is a function of machine learning and automated tools.

Large enterprises in Kenya can grow their IT environments safely and ensure the safety of their digital assets through a partnership with SEACOM Business. For more information or to get a quote for our cyber security solutions, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s largest network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including fibre optic networks and subsea cables. We offer a wide range of industry-leading scalable ICT solutions for large companies that operate throughout the region.

SEACOM is privately owned - making it adaptable to the needs of the client. We are the preferred ICT and internet connectivity supplier for African enterprises. We can guarantee fast, reliable and secure internet and networking services at affordable prices.

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