Reduce organisational risk by securing your wireless network infrastructure

Cyber security is top of the IT agenda for IT leaders and yet the dangers of unsecured networks are not always fully understood. At a recent webinar, we used the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 as a fitting analogy to understand the risks associated with insufficient wireless network security and we offered advice on how we can help you to build robust security.

In 1605 Guy Fawkes and his co-conspirators sought to infiltrate and destroy the Palace of Westminster. In the same way, modern cybercriminals aim to exploit vulnerabilities in wireless networks to disrupt operations, steal sensitive information, and undermine organisational stability. The lessons from this historic event can illustrate both the pitfalls of neglecting security and the solutions to adopt to secure your network.

1. Conspiracy and collaboration

The conspirators of 1605 worked in secrecy, leveraging collaboration to execute their elaborate plan. Today, cybercriminals operate similarly, often forming alliances to amplify their reach and impact. For instance, attackers can infiltrate a poorly secured wireless network and share access to third parties, including organised crime syndicates or advanced persistent threats (APTs). Today's cyber attacks reach far across the supply chain and are not isolated attacks.

Unsecured wireless networks function as a doorway for attackers, enabling them to exploit organisational systems, compromise data, or propagate malware through the network and connected devices.

How can you block the doorway into your network?

Firewalls: These function as the gatekeeper to your network and offer comprehensive security. Vigilance across multiple layers and robust wireless security requires a multi-faceted approach.

Built-In firewalls block unauthorised access and prevent malicious activity. Tailored access controls customise permissions for users and devices ensuring unauthorised users don't gain access.

You can enhance guest Wi-Fi by creating tailored access controls and by bandwidth management. Providing customised splash pages for specific groups of users and using URL filtering restricts harmful or inappropriate content from being accessed by users.

2. Deception and misinformation

The plotters were adept at hiding their activities, tunnelling under the Palace of Westminster to position their barrels of gunpowder. Similarly, attackers can "tunnel" into your network unnoticed if security protocols like WPA3 encryption and robust authentication mechanisms are absent. Organisations may remain unaware of a breach until considerable damage is done and you're experiencing data theft, operational disruption, or financial fraud. Tools like spoofed access points or man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks exploit poorly secured wireless networks to manipulate data and monitor communications.

What can you do to get early warnings and better visibility?

Proactive network monitoring: Continuous monitoring tools can detect and neutralise threats before they escalate. A centralised, cloud-managed dashboard can give you a single pane of glass and real-time visibility and control across all your locations. This streamlined approach makes it easy to manage user access, enforce security policies, and ensure smooth operations, whilst safeguarding your network. Dashboards allows administrators to manage access points, switches, firewalls, and security measures across global networks in one place. This reduces complexity and provides visibility into every aspect of the wireless network.

3. Detection failures

The Gunpowder plot was foiled by an anonymous tip-off, leading to decisive action and a thorough search that uncovered Guy Fawkes.

In wireless security, the absence of monitoring tools and intrusion detection systems (IDS) leaves organisations vulnerable to undetected attacks. Without the ability to detect unauthorised access or abnormal behaviour, organisations run the risk that cybercriminals are able to linger in the network, escalating their activities and leading to breaches that are costly to remediate.

What can you do to improve detection?

Security reviews and vulnerability assessments: Proactive monitoring and updates mean that you can stay secure and in control. IT teams can identify and address issues remotely, eliminating the need for on-site troubleshooting. Frequent security reviews and vulnerability assessments ensure that wireless networks are not an easy target. Training staff to recognise threats, such as phishing, is also essential to reduce human vulnerabilities.

To conclude

To counter today's adversaries, Redcentric partners with Cisco Meraki to deliver advanced technology and expert services that help you take control of your wireless networks. Cisco Meraki provides a comprehensive solution for wireless network security by integrating advanced technology and intuitive management tools. Organisations across many different sectors have already seen the benefits of partnering with Redcentric and adopting Cisco Meraki managed firewalls.

A well-known housing association enhanced guest Wi-Fi with sponsored access, improving security and delivering a professional branded experience, while a mid-sized enterprise migrated to Meraki's cloud-first platform, reducing costs, improving scalability, and streamlining network management. Both highlighting the transformative impact of investing in secure and efficient wireless solutions.

Transform your wireless network into a secure, scalable foundation for your organisation with Redcentric and Cisco Meraki secure wireless networks. Contact us today to understand how together we can strengthen your network security and streamline management.

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.