Software-Defined Perimeter
A Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) secures access to distributed resources using Zero Trust principles, ensuring that users authenticate before connecting to the network.
| Category | Network Security |
|---|---|
| Last page update | 19 days ago |
| Pricing Details | Contact for pricing information. |
| Target Audience | Organizations seeking to enhance their network security through advanced access control solutions. |
When dealing with the complexities of modern network security, a Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) addresses the core challenge of securing access to distributed and dynamic resources. SDP is built on the principles of Zero Trust, implementing an "authenticate first, connect second" approach to network cybersecurity.
Technically, SDP architectures are centered around three key components: the Controller, the Initiating Host, and the Accepting Host/Gateway. The Controller acts as the policy decision point, verifying user identities and assessing the state of their devices before granting access. The Initiating Host is the user's device, which authenticates to the Controller, while the Accepting Host/Gateway enforces the access policies defined by the Controller. This setup creates individualized perimeters for each user, allowing for fine-grained access control that surpasses traditional network security methods.
Operationally, SDP solutions utilize trusted tokens to manage access. These tokens are signed and encrypted, ensuring secure authorization. The system is designed to be robust and resilient, with decisions and enforcement handled by separate elements. This architecture allows for the operation of the system even when certain components are offline, as the tokens on the client device can still grant access when a Gateway becomes available.
Key operational considerations include the scalability and performance of the SDP solution. Appgate's SDP, for example, is designed to be performant at scale, supporting dynamic least privilege access models and decentralized access. It also integrates well with cloud deployments, available in AWS, Azure, and GCP marketplaces, and can be managed through tools like Terraform and Kubernetes operators.
However, there are limitations to consider, such as the need for continuous updates and patches to maintain full support and compliance. For instance, Appgate SDP versions must be kept up-to-date to ensure they receive feature packs, security updates, and bug fixes. Additionally, the solution requires all associated systems to be fully patched and manufacturer-supported.