Data breaches are becoming increasingly frequent, and all of them are considered network security incidents. Taking steps to implement network security is one of the best defense mechanisms to secure your data.

Micro-segmentation is the **division of networks into small units**. It limits communication within networks by controlling user movement between resources.

The word “micro” means that segments involved are much smaller than regular network [macro segmentation](/learn/network-security/macro-segmentation/). Managers can segment networks at tier, workload, application, or process levels. The result is a high degree of granularity and control over user access. This level of control is also a robust basis for [Zero Trust security](/learn/zero-trust/what-is-zero-trust/) built around the principle of least privilege.

Micro-segmentation is extremely valuable in modern business settings. It shrinks the threat surface, protecting network assets against attackers breaching the security perimeter. Proper segmentation also helps corporations meet demanding industry regulations via robust data protection.

## What are the main types of micro-segmentation
When answering the question what is micro segmentation, we need to be aware of the various segmentation types. Micro segmentation is a broad category and includes a diverse range of approaches. Major variants include:

### Network micro-segmentation
This variety closely follows standard [network segmentation](/learn/network-security/network-segmentation/). It uses **Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) technology** to segment data center resources. Access Control Lists (ACL) or IP registers control VLAN access, limiting entry to authorized users.

Network micro-segmentation architecture is familiar. This makes it relatively easy for most IT departments to put in place. But it comes with several drawbacks. Maintaining ACLs and IP constructs is time-consuming and prone to human error. Gaps can emerge between [VLAN](/secure-remote-access/) coverage, providing openings for cyber attackers. The relatively large size of VLAN segments also makes it harder to put in place fine-grained east-west controls.

### Hypervisor micro-segmentation
In this form of segmentation, **all network data must flow through a hypervisor**. The hypervisor creates a virtualized network environment that overlays the existing network infrastructure.

This technique suits companies that need to segment virtual machines. It is a preferred solution for many businesses dependent on VMWare infrastructure. But it is less effective when managing a hybrid mix of wired, remote, and cloud-based assets.

### Host agent micro-segmentation
Host agent segmentation takes a different approach. In this case, **segmentation revolves around Software Defined Networking (SDN) agents**. These agents operate on all endpoints, granting user access and monitoring network traffic.

SDN agents create secure tunnels to route traffic. They apply security policies for each segment and user, authenticating every access request. Network teams can install agents in the cloud, bare metal, and hybrid settings. This diversity makes SDN an effective solution for modern corporate networks.

Flexibility is a critical advantage of host agent segmentation. Managers can determine settings for each app or process via centralized security controls. They can also automate policy delivery and device discovery, ensuring total security coverage.

Agent based segmentation has some drawbacks. The need for many host agents can make this method complex. Network throttling can occur as more devices come online. But host agent micro-segmentation remains a strong option for contemporary settings. It works well in environments mixing remote work, central data centers, and cloud resources.

## How does micro-segmentation work?
Most micro-segmentation solutions **involve Software Defined Networking controllers**. Networking teams can manage SDN controllers on central data centers. But they operate via agents distributed to every endpoint.

SDN agents act as access controls for **workloads**. Managers determine which assets to include in workload definitions. Organizations can define workloads on a departmental basis, or for different staff roles. The separation of software development departments from production environments offers a good example.

SDN controllers deliver specific **security policies** to each agent. These policies apply when users access workloads. They then determine whether to permit or deny access. Installed across the network, they provide strong protection against unauthorized east-west movement.

Access controls and agents work alongside network firewalls. Firewalls operate around each workload or application, wrapping the segment in encryption. Tunneling protocols also protect data passing between hosts and the data center. This provides a tightly focused barrier against intrusion.

All data on the network passes through software-defined network agents. Data flowing through these agents generates instant feedback. Managers can learn about network traffic and user behavior. IT teams can instantly detect threats. And technicians can change security policies for any connected device. There’s no need for hardware reconfiguration as **everything works via software tools.**

Micro-segmentation can apply at many **levels**:
- **Application** – Segments protect critical applications or processes. Controls limit east-west communication with other apps. Coverage can extend across on-premises data centers, cloud or hybrid cloud settings. Segmentation protects every aspect of the application along with associated high value data.
- **Environmental** – Network teams can create segments for different corporate departments and deployment environments. For example, managers can divide software development operations from testing and production. Segmentation controls govern communication between environments. This makes east-west movement much harder.
- **Application tier** – Organizations can segment networks to gather related tools together for seamless communication. Protections limit access for tiers with more distant connections. For example, companies might microsegment their database, load balancing and processing tiers.
- **Users** – Segments apply to groups of users such as project members. In this case, network managers can apply controls via Microsoft Active Directory. Policies assign privileges to each user related to their role. No hardware changes are needed.

## Micro-segmentation: benefits and challenges

![Comparison of Traditional network vs Micro segmentation](https://content.nordlayer.com/uploads/comparison_of_traditional_network_vs_micro_segmentation_875dfba5e7.webp)

Micro-segmentation offers many benefits compared to traditional network segmentation or perimeter defenses.

### 1. Shrinking the threat surface
Tightly segmented networks are much **less vulnerable to external attackers**. Segmenting core assets shrinks the attack surface dramatically. Encryption and security controls secure points of network entry. There are no gaps between VLANs, and networks are not reliant on external firewalls or [VPNs](/learn/vpn/what-is-vpn/).

The use of text to identify network segments also helps reduce the attack surface. Segments defined by text labels are less vulnerable to common network attacks targeting IP addresses or allowed ports.

### 2. Data breach containment
Traditional network segmentation operates broad Layer 4 controls. Micro-segmentation solutions integrate controls down to Layer 7. This is the level where applications and processes connect to network infrastructure. Segmentation at Layer 7 allows **fine-grained controls over lateral movement between apps**.

Attackers gaining access to a data center will have nowhere to go. They cannot move between servers or applications, as segmentation renders sensitive data off-limits. Security teams can instantly detect threats. They can contain attackers before they have the ability to cause damage.

### 3. Flexible scaling and incident response
Micro-segmentation **scales effectively** as businesses grow. Managers can add new departments or users. They can register role-based security policies featuring user privileges to access essential resources. There is no need to add extra hardware as networks expand. Companies can add or change cloud deployments at will. This makes it easier to find a configuration to balance security and business needs.

### 4. Enhanced regulatory compliance
Micro-segmenting sensitive data is a reliable **route to regulatory compliance** in many sectors. PCI-DSS regulations specify tight data handling rules in the credit processing sector. HIPAA lays down strict regulations for storing patient data. In both cases, micro-segmentation is a sensible risk management option for compliance management.          
                                                                                                                                                                                                                  
### 5. Network learning
More information means **greater awareness and visibility**. A well-informed IT team is ideally placed to manage networks efficiently. Networking and security teams can track data flowing between workloads. The data produced can help identify traffic bottlenecks. Security experts can detect misconfigurations, and isolate vulnerabilities for security teams to resolve.

## Micro-segmentation use cases
Applying fine-grained micro-segmentation solves many critical security and networking problems. Companies can deploy the technology in many ways, with a wide range of potential use cases.

### Dividing development, testing, and production systems
Segmenting networks **separates discrete business processes**. This is a strategy often found in software development settings. Segmentation separates development workloads from testing processes. It divides both processes from production or implementation settings, ensuring minimal friction.

Proper segmentation guards against development staff casually accessing sensitive data without authorization. It also contains lateral movement of malware infections acquired during the development phases.

### Smooth cloud transitions
Many companies are transitioning from on-premises workloads to cloud environments and SaaS. Making this change can pose security challenges. Legacy security approaches or macro-segmentation are often inadequate when securing cloud resources.

Micro-segmentation is **a cloud-optimized solution for companies moving into the cloud**. Managers can configure segments for apps spanning many cloud environments and multiple data centers. They can allow app access across distributed geographical sites. Security policies cover every data center and endpoint. Closing gaps in the security perimeter also significantly reduces the risk of data exfiltration.

### Strengthening data protection
Data breaches are a critical reputational and financial risk for most companies. This risk is particularly relevant for organizations [complying with HIPAA](/security-compliance/hipaa/) or PCI-DSS regulations. For instance, PCI-DSS compliance requires a secure credit storage environment. HIPAA dictates strong protections for patient records.

Micro-segmentation **allows security teams to construct targeted shields around confidential data**. Companies can segment cloud containers or information within data centers. This enables privileged access along Zero Trust lines.

### Effective malware protection
Micro segmentation is **a reliable protection against malware infections**. Attackers gaining access to user accounts will only have access to specific resources. Centralized panels track suspicious behavior across the data center. Firewalls and security controls restrict lateral movement denying access without privileges.

Logs generated by host agents form the basis for effective incident response. Security teams can extract in-depth data about any incident. They can use that information to improve security policies. Real-time user tracking also makes it possible to detect and isolate threats as they emerge.

## Which businesses need to segment their networks?
Micro-segmentation does not suit all businesses. In some cases, legacy macro-segmentation solutions will suffice. Host agent segmentation may burden network traffic and prove incompatible with core resources. Even so, many modern organizations are using segmentation technology to safeguard their data.

Micro segmentation is well-suited to companies **handling large amounts of confidential data**. This includes healthcare companies managing patient records. It also spans educational establishments protecting student data, and networks handling credit data.

Network micro-segmentation also fits companies juggling data storage and **cloud infrastructure**. Agile companies using SaaS solutions for payments and other core business tasks will see major benefits. Standard network perimeter concepts are becoming irrelevant in these situations. Host-agent or hypervisor micro-segmentation is a much more adaptable and effective solution.

Segmentation is also highly relevant for organizations with large communities of **remote workers**. Network perimeters change when employees choose to work from home. Remote devices pose extra [network security risks](/learn/network-security/threats/). Traditional perimeter security measures struggle to provide effective protection.

Software-defined agent micro-segmentation provides a robust solution. Access management tools [ensure remote workers can access essential resources](/remote-access-vpn/) while minimizing east-west movement. Poor device security can admit malware agents onto the network. Security tools within micro segmentation packages identify threats quickly.

## How to implement micro-segmentation
- **Plan your micro-segmentation approach.** Before making any infrastructure changes, devise a micro-segmentation strategy. Decide which network resources have the highest priority and need urgent protection. Some resources will need tight security controls. Others require less oversight. It’s a good idea to refer to relevant data regulations at this stage. Ensure that your strategy covers all critical data containers.
- **Map the segmentation environment.** Create a network map showing every critical app and device on the network. Include data about how they interact. Use these connections to map clusters of resources for each workload. These clusters form the basis for micro-segmentation. When drawing up the network map, clearly label every section. Ensure that these labels are informative and legible for all stakeholders.
- **Create and distribute security policies.** After drafting a segmentation map, create security policies for every endpoint and user. Assign appropriate security privileges for every role in the organization. Ensure access to role-specific resources only.
- **Commission the correct segmentation tools.** Choose a micro segmentation solution that meets your needs. Solutions could be purely software-based but may include hypervisor coverage. Organizations not fully transitioned to SaaS may need hybrid setups integrating on-premises hardware.
- **Set the right pace for segmentation rollout.** Look for “easy wins” when you roll out your micro-segmentation plan. Focus on core data resources to meet compliance requirements. Or separate production from development teams. Short-term tasks set a segmentation baseline and protect critical resources.
- **Plan for gradual implementation with zero gaps.** Proceed gradually. Test the security integrity of each segmented workload as the project develops. Ensure that workers have access to necessary applications and data. And test network performance to avoid conflicts between segmentation and bandwidth.
- **Install network monitoring and threat detection.** Put in place security protocols to track network traffic and deal with alerts. Segmentation software should include centralized monitoring tools. Use these tools to track user behavior and detect suspicious patterns. Schedule regular audits, including threat testing. And use network data as raw material to fine-tune segmentation setups where possible.

## Choose the ideal segmentation strategy for your network
Micro segmentation is one way to secure network resources and reduce your attack surface. It is well-suited to protecting cloud resources. It can be calibrated to divide workloads and departments. And it offers adaptable protection against east-west movement within data centers.

All of those reasons make fine-grained segmentation an appealing option for cloud-reliant businesses or organizations with large remote working communities.

What is micro-segmentation?

 It would be hard to find a company that doesn’t use computers or the internet. Naturally, cyber-attacks are a risk to almost all modern businesses. Therefore it’s important to have a security plan in place. Especially in a current climate when online attacks are on the rise.

A network security audit gives a good insight into a company’s security systems. Timely audit reports can indicate huge cybersecurity risks that, when patched, could improve an organization’s security state. In this article, we’ll present everything you should know about creating a network security audit checklist to help you improve your cybersecurity.

## What is a network security audit?
**A security audit evaluates all company’s network systems** to eliminate potential security risks. Devices like servers, laptops, smartphones, and even virtual gateways should all be screened to ensure they’re safe to use. Generally, five different key areas must be checked:

**Control implementation** — based on the importance of the assets, various security controls have to be implemented to limit data exposure and restrict access.

**Management practices** — bad habits in cybersecurity management can severely backfire, so it’s essential to ensure that the processes use the best practices.

**Network availability** — all applications and data must be available for users immediately when needed.

**Network security** — computer networks with access to the internet serve as attack surfaces, so their security is central to the overall [network security](/learn/network-security/what-is-network-security/).

**Overall performance** — the general performance of an organization’s IT systems is a significant factor that, when resolved, could improve work performance.

Investigations of these areas and resolving found issues can drastically improve an organization’s security or performance.

## Why do you need a network security audit checklist?
Current computer network systems can be so complex that the list of areas that must be supervised is quite extensive. Due to its scope, **a network security audit checklist helps to make the audit easier** by putting it in a systematic approach. It’s the easiest way to ensure that everything that should be secured is checked for issues.

While the checklist’s importance cannot be understated, it’s also important to realize that **audits should happen periodically**. As the threats evolve, the previous issues that weren’t considered risks can suddenly become serious vulnerabilities. Patches and improvements should be added regularly.

## What should a network security audit include?
Your network security audit should begin by identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities to the organization. This can be achieved by listing all network devices and mapping the network infrastructure. Depending on your business size, this step can take a while.

A typical network security audit will consist of several rounds of reviews of all documented assets’ security status, especially the ones that are reachable from the public internet. This should be followed up with reviews of security mechanisms and practices. Depending on the audit’s focus, it can also be one of the parts of a larger compliance procedure. Audit results provide a list of critical issues and help shape the company’s cybersecurity direction.

## Network security audit checklist

![Network Security audit checklist](https://content.nordlayer.com/uploads/network_security_audit_checklist_0c0c0d2d7c.webp)

Don’t forget that you don’t have to do everything yourself, especially if you have the resources. However, if you don’t want to rely on third parties and can do it independently, here’s a network security audit checklist that should help you out.

### 1. Inventorize all your digital assets
Identify all used devices and operating systems on your network. This includes:
- Organization-managed devices
- Unmanaged assets belonging to employees

The list of all these devices will help you to outline the organization’s security perimeter. Don’t forget various unsupervised workarounds on how your employees could access company resources, as they could function as backdoors into your network, i.e., mobile devices.

### 2. Identify key risks
Make a list of various cybersecurity risks that could be threatening your company. A good choice could be listing the most frequent threats for businesses like malware, insider threats, DDoS, and ransomware. Once you have identified what you’re up against, it will be easier to evaluate security flaws in the right context.

### 3. Define audits objectives and scope
Your audit needs to have a purpose and scope. This will help you to focus on the task at hand and not stay fixated on the minor details. You should have a good overall view of your current cybersecurity situation, and an audit could serve as a method to identify the areas that need improvement.

### 4. Go through current internal policies
Revising your company policies can provide invaluable insights into your company’s security. There should be a good justification for how usage, wireless network security, internet access, and other policies are implemented. Better transparency in network security policy areas can have long-term benefits.

### 5. Review authentication methods
Leaked passwords can be a significant risk, especially if your employees tend to reuse passwords. You should ensure that your employees are using strong and complex passwords and, if possible, implement additional security measures like two-factor authentication. An additional requirement to make password changes mandatory can contribute to overall security.

### 6. Secure sensitive information
Some assets hold the most sensitive data types, which the hackers target. Therefore, sensitive information should never be stored in an unencrypted form. Never allow unauthorized individuals to access it and restrict employees only to the resources needed for their direct tasks.

### 7. Deploy security services on servers
Your servers simultaneously provide network connectivity for your organization and host a lot of critical data. Therefore, they should be properly configured to allow only trustworthy connections. In addition, you should have a server list with all used IP names, purposes, operating system versions, etc. In an emergency, you’ll have an easier time getting the service back online.

### 8. Have cybersecurity awareness training
Nowadays, cybersecurity training should be a part of your onboarding. As employee actions pose a significant risk to your organization’s security, they must be aware of the most common errors. Internal cybersecurity exercises are a good checkup method, checking how many employees opened suspicious links. Invest time and effort to spread the message that cybersecurity is also a responsibility of each employee.

### 9. Frequently roll out security patches
Always use the latest version of applications, operating systems, and other software. Timely patches are a good way to avoid hackers using newly discovered exploits to penetrate network software systems. It’s also important to keep antivirus applications updated as they retrieve the latest malware databases when detecting malicious files.

### 10. Conduct penetration tests
Penetration tests put you in a hacker’s perspective and are a good way to discover loopholes that could be hard to find by only focusing on perimeter security. Various tools test applications when they’re not running and active. It’s also a good idea to review whether the currently used penetration testing methods are effective.

### 11. Have a backup strategy
Backups are one of the business areas that reaffirm age-old knowledge that it’s better to be safe than sorry. Every company should have an emergency plan for data backups, so it’s important to review its process during an audit. A shortcoming in this chain could make your data recovery longer, if not impossible.

### 12. Review firewall access rules
A firewall is the main gateway for all inbound and outbound connections in your network. Appropriately configuring their rules can be a solid shield against all cybersecurity threats. Close opened but unused ports, and remove permissions from unsupervised connections. [Segmenting your internal network](/learn/network-security/network-segmentation/) is a great tool for better control.

### 13. Engage in monitoring
Monitoring and analysis of past logs should be key instruments of enterprise security supervision. There should be a company-wide system to collect and review the logs. Always take note of new devices on the network and check their identity and ownership. It’s a good habit to clean up inactive accounts and devices from the system.

## Network security audit challenges
No two enterprises will have the same challenges if you’re wondering what potential bottlenecks could be when performing network security audits. For some, the audit scope will be very high, as they’re huge enterprises, so it will be much more time-consuming and expensive. For others, the main problems will be the lack of knowledge to audit or to analyze the audit data.

As with many projects, **you’ll need discipline and willingness** to achieve better cybersecurity status. Even if you’re on a very limited budget, there are many cost-saving opportunities even when working with a very limited budget. The focus should be on making gradual improvements that would bring value to the organization for years to come. 

Network security audit checklist

As technologies change and remote working grows there has never been a greater need to make security more robust. Effective cybersecurity guards sensitive data and applications while enabling access for authorized users. To create a setup that works, it’s crucial to understand the difference between network and application security.

## What is network security?
[Network security](/learn/network-security/what-is-network-security/) **guards core network assets against external attackers**.

Traditional security focuses on network perimeters. Firewalls, password controls, and VPNs all strengthen the network edge. This approach guards single perimeters well. But it struggles when the single perimeter concept doesn’t apply.

Cloud applications, remote workstations, and dispersed endpoints complicate the picture. These technologies have increased the attack surface by dissolving network perimeters.

Modern network security has developed as well. Features like encryption and segmentation protect critical assets. Internal traffic scanning tracks suspicious activity. Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) guard network edges. Secure Web Gateways (SWG) block unauthorized web traffic.

The important thing about network security is that it covers the entire network. Measures can be superficial or deep. But they always protect network infrastructure against intrusions and damage.

## What is application security?
Application security (AppSec) takes a different approach. Internet-facing apps and APIs are common sources of malware infection or data theft. AppSec **secures individual applications against external threats**. It assesses each application, isolating any vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.

AppSec tools generally refer to databases of application vulnerabilities such as the Common Weakness and Enumeration CWE) database or the U.S. National Vulnerability Database (NVD). These databases provide up to date information about code weaknesses and remediation strategies.

Application security tools function alongside other tools to [secure SaaS services](/saas-security/) SaaS-specific ools include Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) and Web Application Firewalls (WAF). [Network micro-segmentation](/learn/network-security/micro-segmentation/) and [Identity Access Management (IAM)](/learn/iam/what-is-iam/ ) may also feature. Together, these capabilities represent an effective shield for most SaaS or web applications.

## Network security vs. application security

![Network security vs. application security comparison table](https://content.nordlayer.com/uploads/network_security_vs_application_security_comparison_table_6975ae131a.webp)

### 1. Network-wide or app-centred
**Network security** takes a holistic approach at the enterprise network level. It protects the entire network edge and may also limit activity inside the perimeter. The focus is on threat detection and visibility. Security tools resolve all security issues affecting the entire network.

**Application security** secures software at the application level. Security controls operate before attackers have a chance to use code exploits or harvest data. AppSec also operates close to the apps involved. Apps could be local, but AppSec may also guard externally hosted cloud resources.

### 2. Code or hardware-based
**[Network security solutions](/network-security/)** involve hardware such as switchers, network servers, and routers. Security teams must be able to change and update hardware as needed. They must manage integration issues, while network hardware and security software such as firewalls must work in harmony.

**AppSec** is code-based. Security systems target vulnerable application code. Flawed code presents opportunities for attackers. Skilled programmers must change this code and fix any issues.

### 3. Threat detection
**Network security** combats cyber threats across the whole network and does not focus on individual apps. This solution covers more ground. But it is not granular enough to protect SaaS assets.

**AppSec** secures the endpoints where SaaS apps and network infrastructure meet. It provides threat detection for web-facing apps and blocks the most common exploits and malware agents. Meanwhile, CASB tools guard against unauthorized traffic between network infrastructure and SaaS assets.

### 4. At-rest or in-transit protection
**Network security** solutions protect data as it moves across the network infrastructure. Tracking tools deliver insights to detect threats, limit access, and optimize performance. Segmentation creates zones of trust to reduce east-west movement.

**Application security** generally protects data at rest on core applications. Robust AppSec measures guard against code exploits or unauthorized access. These protections ensure that sensitive data held on SaaS customer databases are secure. It's a core part of protecting against data breaches for cloud-dependent businesses.

## Which type best fits your business needs?

![Table comparing network security and application security for your business needs](https://content.nordlayer.com/uploads/Network_security_vs_application_security_comparison_table_fb17a8fe9b.webp)

**Application security** is crucial for all organizations reliant on cloud computing.

AppSec secures web-facing cloud assets, including SaaS tools like Zoom or SalesForce. Companies can target security precisely. Controls guard the interface between SaaS applications, internal infrastructure, and the external internet.

Security teams address vulnerabilities as threats emerge. Software based firewalls cordon off data or apps. They also tightly control access to every web application. Secure Web Gateways create app-specific portals to access the internet.

**Network security** is crucial for securing any on-premises or distributed network infrastructure. Features include firewalls, access portals, segmentation, and threat detection systems. They work together to protect enterprise network assets.

Companies must secure routers, servers, and endpoints such as mobile devices, but they also must protect applications – especially those with cloud interfaces. This situation makes an integrated security strategy vital. There is no competition between the two approaches. Balancing app and network security is essential. 


Network security

What is micro-segmentation?

Network security audit checklist

Network security vs. application security: which to choose?