Isolation is a powerful online security approach that focuses on threat separation instead of blocking access to computer systems. This modern foundation of computer networks allows resilience to various attacks. By isolating applications, hackers and cybercriminals are barred from accessing computer systems, applications, or data, which avoids system or data damage due to attacks. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the concept of network isolation and why it is necessary.
Why is network isolation necessary?
Cyberattacks can be devastating to any individual or organization. Most cyberattacks rely on system vulnerabilities in different computer systems. Hackers and cybercriminals keep finding flaws in websites so that they can add their codes to help them bypass security protocols. They may install malicious software or copy information and paste it into their computers. This is why advanced browser security is a crucial consideration for any internet user. Organizations need browser isolation technology due to several reasons.
The dangers of web browsing
The internet is a primary channel that attackers use to access computer systems. The need for safe browsing is an essential consideration, as browsing leads to the downloading of malicious software, phishing, or man-in-the-middle attacks.
The need for increased productivity
Cyberattacks lead to reduced productivity and losses. Browser isolation technology can help organizations avoid such issues by allowing access to web content through isolated environments.
Increased attack possibilities
The user interface has enormous numbers of users who access many other links and programs, which increases attack possibilities. Isolation technology creates separate and secure environments, preventing any malicious links from causing harm.
Types of cyberattacks:
There are different types of cyberattacks that you may encounter:
1. Malware attacks
Attackers install malicious software into the computer system. The types of software can be Trojans, worms, ransomware, or spyware. They can either block the system, steal data, or display unwanted ads.
2. Phishing
This is an impersonating attack where cybercriminals send malicious emails that look real. Once the target opens the email or link, the attacker gains access to the target’s data immediately.
3. Denial of service
This is an attack that overwhelms the system, making it slow. These attacks may target business competitors in a bid to gain the competitor’s clients.
4. Man-in-the-middle attacks
An attacker sandwiches themselves between the system and the client. They then hijack communication, but the target continues to think they are communicating with the right company.
Isolation-based security techniques
The top isolation solutions are cloud-based and do not need extra plugins to work. The technology keeps browsers safe and erases all actions after use to ensure high-value privacy and security. Isolation works with any type of device so that the end gains a seamless experience. Organizations use two main types of browser isolation.
Local isolation
This isolation is done on the specific user device using a sandbox or virtual machine.
Remote isolation
This isolation is done through a remote server which moves all browsing activities to remote environments. Users only access real-time activities from the server, which can either be located on-premise or cloud.
Blocking threats through eight important techniques
When isolation is implemented, it blocks threats and bypasses several other activities through the following techniques:
Content isolation
This technique blocks all content that looks suspicious or is proven malicious.
Client isolation
The isolation system keeps the client separate from the remote hosting server. If the end user is on-premise, the isolation exists within the premises.
Public web
For safety, all requests and replies pass through an isolation system and then are redirected to the user or back end.
Web security service
This feature decides which content will be restricted.
File download restriction
Users cannot download any files that seem harmful or suspicious.
Data loss prevention
This feature is used to prevent data loss by only allowing access