Understanding Air Gap Technology: Key Benefits & Uses
Please Mind The Gap
Ransomware is expected to attack a business every 11 seconds by the end of 2021, and reparation costs will reach upwards of $20 billion by the end of 2021, states a report by Cybersecurity Ventures. Cybercrime, in general, will tally up over $6 trillion in damages this year across the globe.
Unfortunately, hackers have many ways to steal corporate data and will stop at nothing to get it. The loss of data, time, and productivity is sobering. When hackers hit, companies need to restore backup data, pay ransom for the return of valuable data, and usually need to invest in additional cybersecurity technologies. Reputation management and employee re-training also add to the cost of recovering from an attack.
Air-gapped computer networks can help lessen the risk of hacking by acting as a firewall to protect your computer network.
What is an Air Gap?
“Air gapping” refers to creating a gap between the computer and any outside network. With no direct connection to the outside, the system cannot be hacked remotely. In the military or industrial arena, air-gapped networks support systems that are completely disconnected from the internet. This would mean that the only way the system could be compromised would be by a hacker showing up in person with a USB or other removable media—air gaps lessen the risks of attack exponentially.
Not Using It? Turn It Off!
Dataprobe’s redundancy switching products have been used by the military and other industries to insert an air gap between communications circuits using relay technology. When wireless connections are completely blocked, a hacker would need access to wired connections to invade. That makes breaking in a bit more complicated! Just like you would turn off the lights when you leave a room, this system shuts down devices when they are not needed to minimize exposure to hackers. Better yet, your systems can be controlled remotely. This means they can remain offline indefinitely, yet be activated and connected from anywhere in the world when needed.
Airtight Security
Isolating systems from other networks can be a valuable addition to your cybersecurity toolbox. When properly implemented, air gaps heighten security and don’t demand high bandwidth This system has been used to support the military, government installations, and the stock market.
Thanks to the recent rise of cybercrimes in all industries, air-gapped networks also appear in the private sector like utilities, healthcare, and banking.
Air Gapping Works with Tight Budgets
Air-gapping technology blocks virtually 100% of breaches, yet it’s not very costly. It merely requires disconnecting from any internet connection. It’s a viable way to add another level of security to your network.
Want to talk more about air gap technology? Connect with Dataprobe today!
