CASP+ Definitions: Microsegmentation

Microsegmentation is a cybersecurity strategy that involves dividing a network into small, isolated segments, with each segment having its own security controls and policies. Microsegmentation goes beyond traditional network segmentation by providing granular controls and visibility into network traffic, making it more difficult for attackers to move laterally and gain access to sensitive data or systems.

Microsegmentation is typically implemented through software-defined networking (SDN) technologies, which allow network administrators to define security policies at the application level and automate the creation and management of network segments. By isolating each application or workload in its own segment, microsegmentation can prevent lateral movement of malware and limit the damage that a successful attack can cause.

One of the key benefits of microsegmentation is that it provides fine-grained visibility and control over network traffic, making it easier to detect and respond to security incidents. It also enables organizations to enforce stricter access controls and reduce the attack surface of their networks, improving overall security posture.

However, implementing microsegmentation can be complex and requires careful planning and coordination to ensure that security policies are properly defined and enforced. It may also require additional resources and infrastructure to support the creation and management of multiple network segments.