Cyber security
IT
Aged Care
As your business infrastructure expands, so do the risks to your network security.
Discover the critical steps needed to safeguard your growing operations.
Strengthening Network Security with Segmentation and Isolation
Implementing network segmentation and device isolation is crucial for enhancing network security in a growing infrastructure. By segmenting the network by device type and business function (using VLANs), you can effectively separate devices such as CCTV cameras, VoIP handsets, public kiosks, servers and staff BYOD devices.
Placing high-risk (or public-facing) devices on their own isolated subnets prevents lateral movement if one device is compromised (yes, assuming that devices will be compromised is a great starting point!). Limit inter-segment communication to strictly to what is necessary for business operations - using a firewall and/or network security groups is essential in achieving this outcome.
This approach reduces your attack surface, contains breaches, and ensures that a compromise in one segment does not expose critical business systems, thereby safeguarding your growing infrastructure.
Centralised Access Control: The Key to Secure Multi-Site Operations
Centralised access control is essential for secure multi-site operations. Deploying a centralised access management platform unifies authentication and authorisation across all sites and systems (EntraID is great for this!!). Applying role-based access control (RBAC) and the principle of least privilege ensures that users and devices only access resources essential for their roles. Integrating multi-factor authentication (MFA) for remote access and any system that contains Personally Identifiable Information, along with standardising credential management, enhances security significantly.
This approach simplifies administration, enforces consistent security policies, and limits unauthorised access to sensitive systems across all locations, providing a robust security framework for your growing infrastructure.
Enhancing Device Security and Endpoint Protection
Enhancing device security and endpoint protection is critical in a growing infrastructure. Changing all default passwords on devices to strong, unique credentials and enabling encryption for data at rest and in transit wherever possible are fundamental steps. Regularly updating firmware and software for all devices, including printers, handsets, and kiosks, CCTV cameras, WiFi access points and Access Control System helps keep known vulnerabilities from being used in an attack.
For shared or public devices, using kiosk mode, restricting allowed applications, enabling session resets, and auditing usage to prevent unauthorised changes or data leakage. These measures reduce the risk of device compromise, data breaches, and unauthorised configuration changes, ensuring a secure network environment.
The Importance of Centralised Monitoring and Rapid Response
Centralised monitoring and rapid response are vital for maintaining network security. Deploying centralised monitoring, logging, and alerting across all network segments and sites using SIEM or similar platforms provides unified visibility. Real-time monitoring of access attempts, device status, and network anomalies enables rapid detection and response to threats.
Conducting regular audits, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing, especially for devices exposed to public networks or physical access, supports compliance and continuous improvement. This approach ensures that threats are identified and mitigated swiftly, maintaining the integrity of your growing infrastructure.
Standardised Policies and Staff Training for Consistent Security
Standardising policies and training staff across all sites is essential for consistent security. Developing and enforcing standardised security policies for device use, access control, and acceptable behaviors ensures consistency across all locations. Providing regular training for staff on security best practices, including phishing awareness, secure device usage, and incident reporting, reduces human error.
Planning for future expansion by selecting scalable, modular solutions and maintaining a lifecycle management process for onboarding/offboarding users and devices prepares the organisation for growth and evolving threats. These measures ensure compliance and a robust security posture in a growing infrastructure.
Where do I start?
We generally recommend starting with a review of what is in place, what it does and how it is configured. Once you have an asset list and baseline of existing security, evaluate and decide what level of security is appropriate - not everyone needs Fort Knox level security - identify your gaps and prioritise filling them.
Enhancing network security is a fundamental step in securing your digital assets - without a secure network, nothing else can be guaranteed!
