What is SDP?

Modern security threats require new approaches to network protection. Traditional methods such as firewalls and VPN are no longer always able to cope with new vulnerabilities. In this context, SDP becomes an important tool for protecting networks and data. In this article, we will consider what SDP is, how it works and what benefits it provides.

What is SDP and how does it work?

SDP (Software Defined Perimeter) — is a security framework that creates a dynamic security perimeter around valuable network assets, regardless of their physical location. Unlike traditional network-focused security solutions, SDP focuses on the security of users, assets, and their relationships.

SDP operates on the principle of restricting access to servers without proper authentication. The main stages of SDP operation include:

• User verification. First of all, SDP requires user authentication using multi-factor verification. This may include entering a password, a one-time code sent to a mobile device, or biometric verification. Multi-factor authentication significantly reduces the risk of account compromise and prevents unauthorized access.
• Device verification. After successful user authentication, SDP verifies the device from which the user is logging in. This ensures that the device meets corporate security standards. For example, verification may include checking for antivirus software or operating system updates. This eliminates the possibility of data leaks through vulnerable devices.
• Limited access. After checking the user and device, the SDP opens access only to those parts of the resources whose use directly determines the purpose of the user's entry. This is called the principle of least privilege. For example, a marketer can only enter the space with marketing information, but cannot view the company's financial information. This helps minimize the risk of leakage of confidential information.
• Creating a network. At the final stage, the SDP establishes an individual secure connection between the user's device and the network. This connection is encrypted to protect data from interception by intruders. Each connection is unique and can be immediately terminated if suspicious activity is detected. This ensures a high level of security and flexibility in managing network resources.

SDP operation is based on four main principles:

1. Trust is not a priori. Login to the network is granted only after strict identification of the user and device. That is, each login request is subject to multi-stage authentication operations. This approach prevents intruders from penetrating and minimizes the likelihood of cyberattacks.
2. No incoming requests. SDP hides the network and application infrastructure from the outside world, accepting only outgoing requests. This means that the network does not respond to incoming requests, making it invisible to potential attacks. For example, hackers will not be able to detect the presence of the company's servers on the Internet, which significantly reduces the likelihood of cyberattacks.
3. Application segmentation. SDP implements the principle of segmentation, opening access to a part of the resource based on need and individual security policies. Each requestor of permission to enter receives it, limited to a specific task and personal powers. Such measures prevent a large number of possible cyberattacks and improve the overall security and usability of the network.
4. Complete security. SDP focuses on maintaining the privacy of connections between the device and the resource on the Internet. This solution involves encryption of information, access control and activity auditing. Thus, connections are protected from interception, and the company's resources remain safe even when accessed from external networks.

SDP application areas

SDP is used in various scenarios:

• An alternative to VPN. SDP helps overcome the disadvantages of VPNs, such as low security, complexity of management, and limited scalability. Unlike VPNs, SDP provides more flexible and secure methods of connecting to the network. For example, SDP provides individual connections for each user, which significantly reduces the risk of attacks on the network.
• Secure multi-cloud access. SDP provides secure access to cloud storage and applications, both public and private. This allows organizations to use multi-cloud environments without compromising on security. For example, employees can securely work with data in the cloud, regardless of their physical location, which is especially important for hybrid and remote working models.
• Integration after mergers and acquisitions. SDP simplifies the process of network integration during mergers and acquisitions by preventing IP address conflicts and ensuring secure connectivity between the networks of the combined companies. This speeds up the integration process and minimizes security risks. For example, two companies can quickly merge their IT infrastructures without the risk of data leakage.

SDP is a promising solution for protecting networks and data in the face of modern threats. Its use allows for a high level of security, flexibility and access control, making it an indispensable tool for organizations seeking to protect their resources and information.

Private VPN server: secure access in any conditions

And if SDP is relevant today for organizations with a large number of employees, then a private VPN server organizes the same level of security for personal users or small groups, allowing them to securely connect to the Internet from anywhere in the world and ensure the confidentiality of their data when using public or untrusted networks.

You can buy a private VPN server profitably and choose a convenient term of use Private VPN server. Here you can also find full information about the offer, available servers by geographic zones, as well as detailed answers to popular questions.

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