Network segmentation is the process of dividing a computer network into smaller, isolated segments or zones, each with its own access controls and security policies. This is done to reduce the attack surface and prevent lateral movement in case of a breach. The network is typically segmented into thRead more
Network segmentation is the process of dividing a computer network into smaller, isolated segments or zones, each with its own access controls and security policies. This is done to reduce the attack surface and prevent lateral movement in case of a breach.
The network is typically segmented into the following zones:
- Internet Zone: Externally facing systems and services, such as web servers and firewalls.
- Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Systems and services that require external access, but are not critical to internal operations, such as email and VPN servers.
- Intranet Zone: Internal systems and services, such as file and print servers, and employee workstations.
- Sensitive Data Zone: Systems and services that handle sensitive data, such as financial or personal information, such as databases and application servers.
- Management Zone: Systems and services used for network management, such as network devices and monitoring tools.
The rationale behind segmentation is to:
- Reduce the attack surface by limiting access to sensitive areas of the network
- Prevent lateral movement in case of a breach
- Improve security and compliance by applying targeted security policies and access controls
- Enhance network visibility and monitoring
- Simplify network management and troubleshooting
Baseline performance metrics for a network typically include latency, throughput, and packet loss, each crucial for assessing network efficiency and reliability. Latency :- It's measures the delay between sending and receiving data packets. It includes propagation delay (time taken for a signRead more
Baseline performance metrics for a network typically include latency, throughput, and packet loss, each crucial for assessing network efficiency and reliability.
Latency :-
It’s measures the delay between sending and receiving data packets. It includes propagation delay (time taken for a signal to travel) and transmission delay (time to push data into the network). Lower latency is critical for real-time applications like video conferencing or online gaming.
Throughput :-
It’s refers to the rate at which data is successfully transmitted through the network. It’s usually measured in bits per second (bps) or packets per second (pps). High throughput is essential for handling large volumes of data efficiently, such as file transfers or streaming high-definition video.
Packet loss :-
It’s indicates the percentage of data packets lost or discarded during transmission. It can result from network congestion, hardware failures, or errors in transmission. Minimizing packet loss is vital for maintaining data integrity and ensuring reliable communication.
These metrics serve as benchmarks to evaluate network performance and identify potential issues. Ideal values vary based on network type and application requirements. For instance, a gaming network may prioritize low latency and minimal packet loss, whereas a data center network might prioritize high throughput and reliability. Continuous monitoring and optimization of these metrics are essential for ensuring optimal network performance under varying conditions and user demands.
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