Unified Threat Management
In its broadest form Unified Threat Management (UTM), a company’s computer network infrastructure, including its computer networks, servers and data centers, consists of various components, which may include firewalls, applications, security appliances, and applications or systems that protect specific computer network systems from a threat. Many organisations have integrated all of these components to provide a complete unified system for network security. The company can further improve its overall security by deploying the systems that are best suited to its business needs.
A typical unified threat management software solution includes a complete set of security applications, firewalls, application security controls, network security controls, and a reporting service. UTM is used as a central point of control to manage and monitor the protection of a business network. The system helps in protecting a network against both known and unknown threats, as well as monitoring the effectiveness of its existing network security protections. The more comprehensive the system the more robust the protection becomes.
A common way to understand unified threat management is through the definition of a “threat” and what it involves. A threat can be defined as an activity that may not be harmful, but could have potentially adverse consequences to the business. Common threats include those from hackers, identity theft, malicious software, and viruses, among others. Because some threats may involve the potential for harm, even if they may not ultimately affect a business, the company must establish and maintain the right levels of protection for their network.
By using a unified threat management solution, a company can ensure that its network and other network resources remain in compliance with network security standards. This also improves the security of the company’s own internal network and other external networks that it manages, as well as any business-to-business connections. Utilising unified threat management reduces the need for costly re-deployments and maintenance, and allows the company to focus on other aspects of the security of its network.
By implementing the appropriate unified threat management measures, a company can enhance the security of its network and reduce the cost and effort involved in implementing security measures. By providing security solutions for the internal network as well as external networks, a company ensures the security of both the network and its own information. By implementing the use of centralised security controls for managing the security of network assets, a company can make better use of its investment in IT resources and minimise the possibility of security breaches occurring in its network. Using centralised solutions also helps to ensure that security breaches occur at an early stage, minimising the need to deploy more resources to address the problem. This can reduce downtime and allow a company to focus on other business processes and initiatives.
Companies using unified threat management solutions can reduce the risks associated with implementing security controls in place and improve the security and productivity of its network. Implementing this method allows companies to reduce operational costs and expenses related to security, while maintaining the overall security of the network. By applying unified threat management solutions, a company can provide the highest level of protection possible to its networks and the most effective protection to their network resources.
To discuss your Unified Threat Management requirements, get in touch with the Sigma Cyber Security team today!