CyberSecurity Mesh

What is a Cyber Security Mesh?

Cybersecurity mesh is an all-encompassing cybersecurity defense strategy that merges and fortifies insular security services across hardware from a safe and centralized control node.

Cybersecurity mesh reinforces protective architecture around user control points and the Internet of Things (IoT), verifying user identity, analyzing an enterprise’s potentially vulnerable IT access points, and securing them through robust preventative processes. In accordance with Zero Trust frameworks, Cybersecurity mesh grants/denies access to an enterprise’s software apparatus, applications, devices, and other sensitive data without proper verification.

Cybersecurity mesh enables clear communications between an enterprise’s relevant systems, utilizing interoperability to replace redundant perimeter-centric procedures. The strategy’s centralized nature allows for the distribution of security functions and updates across an organization quickly and efficiently.

Cybersecurity mesh comprises multiple solutions and methodologies that work together to form a comprehensive security system. The core aim of a cybersecurity mesh is to provide better protection against sophisticated cyber attacks that target an organization’s critical data and systems.

The Key Benefits of a Cybersecurity Mesh

While a cybersecurity mesh can offer many benefits, it is essential to note that the strategy’s success depends on the quality of the security solutions and implemented tools. To ensure that a cybersecurity mesh is effective, working with a reputable and experienced security provider is important.

It’s key benefits are:

• Improved security posture through the consolidation of security tools and processes
• Better visibility into an organization’s overall security status
• Reduced complexity and improved manageability of security infrastructure
• Faster and more efficient response to security incidents

Cybersecurity Mesh Architecture

Cybersecurity mesh architecture is defined as a structure of secure processes and authorized controls that reinforce the protection of an enterprise’s insular programs and devices through the implementation of firewalls, infrastructure surveillance, and other cross-perimeter safeguards. Data protection is paramount for an enterprise, its clients, customers, and partners.

Cybersecurity mesh’s architectural apparatus shields sensitive company information from potential harm through the encryption and securement of data between an enterprise’s corresponding devices – no matter the location.  An enterprise’s data is its most valuable asset, and as such, it must be protected from external and internal threats. By deploying cybersecurity mesh architecture, an organization can gain a competitive advantage by ensuring the safety of its data.

Cybersecurity mesh architecture can be customized to fit an organization’s specific needs. The size and scope of an enterprise will dictate the type of architecture required. For example, a small business may only need to implement a basic firewall and VPN solution. At the same time, a large enterprise may require a more comprehensive approach that includes multiple firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and other security controls.

Cybersecurity Mesh Examples

Cybersecurity mesh can assess and optimize disparate IT processes, assess IoT perimeters and detect vulnerabilities within an enterprise’s digital network. CSM’s overarching capabilities include consolidating enterprise software security into a centralized point of authority. These preventative measures can range from firewalls to network protection tools and the utilization of an Identity Access Management system (IAM), which synchronizes access management processes and supports a 50% increase in the volume of requests.

Cybersecurity mesh will usher in a new era of decentralized identity standards, where identity information management is processed through the latest encrypted technologies. To tackle business, personal, societal, and identity-invisible use cases within enterprises, a universal decentralized identity standard is expected globally by 2024. Cybersecurity mesh will support a non-centralized secure approach to identity retention, pseudonymity, and privacy concerns.

Another example of increased efficient processes empowered by the mesh model is mitigating bias within identity proofing. 2020 saw a spike in remote working, leading to increased online identification scrutiny concerning gender, race, and other demographic preferences. Cybersecurity mesh will enable an independent and secure approach to minimizing identity proofing discrepancies under its new and innovative architecture.

Cybersecurity Mesh Companies

Several notable companies are gaining prominence in the global cybersecurity mesh market. This competitive field consists of players that operate regionally and internationally to reinforce their position on the market and expand their product base through mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and joint ventures.

Cybersecurity mesh companies use various marketing strategies to stay ahead of the curve and better meet the needs of their target consumers. Awareness campaigns, educational resources, and customer support are some of the approaches used by vendors to inform potential enterprise customers about their products and services.

The global cybersecurity mesh market is growing rapidly as enterprises adopt this innovative security measure to protect their data from external and internal threats. The market is expected to reach $7.5 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 35.8% from 2020 to 2025.

The major players in the cybersecurity mesh market are Cisco Systems, Inc. (US), Palo Alto Networks (US), Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (Israel), Juniper Networks, Inc. (US), Symantec Corporation (US), McAfee LLC (US), Fortinet, Inc. (US), F5 Networks, Inc. (US), Trend Micro Incorporated (Japan), and Array Networks, Inc. (US).

These companies have adopted various growth strategies to expand their global presence and increase their market share. Partnerships, agreements, and collaborations were vendors’ most popular growth strategies from 2018 to 2020. This strategy helped vendors gain access to new markets and expand their customer base.

Cybersecurity Mesh Tools

Cybersecurity mesh utilizes various specialized tools to maximize the efficiency of network securement and management. These can range from software as a service (SaaS) to cloud-based applications – which automatically update the cloud with real-time data. An effective mesh model ensures the secure access and identification of digital assets working through an enterprise’s internet protocol address (IP), fortifying network defenses, improving communication between applications, and transitioning legacy systems onto updated cloud servers.

In order to function properly, the mesh network will need continuous monitoring. A security information and event management system (SIEM) will provide enterprises comprehensive visibility across their environment to identify potential risks and take appropriate action. Additionally, a SIEM can help reduce the number of false positives – often caused by human error – by as much as 90%.

How Do You Implement Cybersecurity Mesh?

Cybersecurity mesh contributes to the Zero Trust model. This strategic initiative prevents harmful breaches to a network by mitigating system vulnerability through the securement and verification of users accessing the network. Relegating the responsibility of identity and user access to a robust and advanced verification process will ensure long-term protection for businesses of all sizes.

Assessing and documenting all devices and users frequently connected to the network will best assist you in understanding how to implement cybersecurity mesh and where you need it most. Consolidation of enterprise data via cybersecurity mesh helps to avoid information silos and unauthorized attempts to access the network.

There are a few key considerations to take into account when implementing cybersecurity mesh:

-Data classification: You need to identify and classify the data stored on your network to determine how best to protect it.

-Security controls: Selecting the proper security controls will be crucial in keeping your data safe.

-User and device management: Creating a comprehensive inventory of all devices and users connected to your network will help you understand where your security risks lie.

-Network segmentation: Segmenting your network will help you contain the spread of any potential threats.

How Secure Is Cybersecurity Mesh?

Cybersecurity mesh is an advanced and contemporary architecture designed to enhance security access and user verification across enterprise networks and disparate devices. Global leading companies realize the necessity to secure and protect sensitive data. That’s why most corporations incorporate cybersecurity mesh over existing security processes.

Cybersecurity mesh’s decentralized parameters assess data horizontally across the network and reinforce preventive measures unique to the access point. This incorporation of cybersecurity mesh supporting the existing systems of these globally recognized companies signifies the high level of security capabilities cybersecurity mesh can provide.

Cybersecurity mesh’s popularity will continue to grow as companies strive to protect their data from breaches. The unique architecture allows for the development of new tools and applications, which will, in turn, help businesses better secure their networks.

What is Zero Trust?

Zero Trust refers to the over-extending belief across digital landscapes that attempts to access secure networks are assumed unauthorized until proper verification has been approved. Zero Trust is formed based on assumed hostility, which inhibits attempted access to secure servers through authorized identity confirmation processes.

The confirmation of user identity is not based on predefined locations like an IP address. In practicality, Zero Trust models can be challenging to implement for companies with large and complex digital networks. Global companies have been incorporating cybersecurity mesh to support and enhance their move towards Zero Trust initiatives. Cybersecurity mesh assesses data horizontally across the network and reinforces preventive measures unique to the access point.

The advantages of Zero Trust include:

• Increased security
• Decreased complexity
• Improved compliance
• Greater visibility into user activity

Cybersecurity Mesh vs. Zero Trust

Cybersecurity mesh architecture utilizes its capabilities in managing users and devices connected to a protected network. Conceptually similar to the functions of an ‘identity control plane,’ CSM monitors and identifies system access points and takes preventive measures specific to individual identity and the device they’re using.

Cybersecurity mesh reinforces the broader Zero Trust security strategy, which opts to inhibit network access to anyone without strict authentication. Zero Trust underpins enterprise security, understanding the network is at risk of a breach when accessed through decentralized parameters. Cybersecurity mesh and Zero Trust initiatives support one another, ensuring transparent user configuration and authenticated network accessibility.

When enterprises move towards Zero Trust models, they must consider how to segment their network properly and what security tools are necessary to verify user identity. Cybersecurity mesh provides the advanced capabilities needed to help companies implement a Zero Trust strategy. The platform can monitor user activity, enforce security policies, and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Cybersecurity Mesh & Digital Transformation

On-site IT infrastructure leaves much to be desired in the ever-expanding field of technology. It hinders productivity in a post-pandemic world where remote work can limit an employee’s access to critical company data. Digital transformation is intrinsically connected to cybersecurity mesh through their common objective of incorporating and gathering data that enhances enterprise productivity. Digital transformation harnesses the latest digital solutions, such as cybersecurity mesh, to streamline and improve software processes across the IT sector.

Digital transformation is reinventing products and processes across global industries, creating unbridled opportunities through innovative architectural software that fundamentally changes how consumers interact with the market. At the forefront of change, digital transformation is leading enterprises into the future by introducing cutting-edge architecture that improves decision-making and optimizes results.

Digital transformation can be challenging to define and even harder to implement without the proper tools. Cybersecurity mesh helps companies manage and monitor their devices, users, and data through its innovative platform. Cybersecurity mesh bolsters digital transformation efforts by identifying potential security risks and implementing preventive measures by ensuring a company’s data is protected.

Companies must adapt their methods to stay ahead of the curve in a world where technology is constantly evolving. Cybersecurity mesh helps businesses do just that by supporting their digital transformation initiatives. The platform provides the necessary tools to monitor devices, authenticate users, and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

What’s Next for Cybersecurity Mesh?

As enterprises strive toward a Zero Trust model, cybersecurity mesh will contine to play a vital role in managing and securing company data. The platform’s comprehensive capabilities help businesses authenticate users, monitor activity, and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Cybersecurity mesh will become increasingly important in the coming years as companies move away from on-premise infrastructure and towards cloud-based solutions. The platform’s ability to manage and monitor devices, users, and data will help enterprises keep their information safe and secure in a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving.

Cybersecurity mesh is an innovative platform that helps businesses authenticate users, monitor activity, and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. The platform’s comprehensive capabilities make it an essential tool for companies striving to move toward a Zero Trust model. Cybersecurity mesh will become increasingly important in the coming years as companies move away from on-premise infrastructure and towards cloud-based solutions.