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Question: Prescribing a Secure Network Infrastructure Plan Using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework

14 Jan 2025,5:18 PM

 

Prescribe a Secure Network Infrastructure Plan

Using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and the organizational knowledge gained in the prior assignments, apply the Identify function to prescribe a secure Network Infrastructure Plan, including a detailed diagram of the recommended security architecture of the network.

  • Identify aspects of the current network architecture that are found to increase security risk, considering remote access using the Internet, multiple locations, firewalls, routers, servers, switches, and VPN/VLAN capability.
  • Make recommendations to the organization for each security-related aspect of the network infrastructure in need of improvement in security protection. Justifications should be supported by the NIST CSF and other industry-accepted standards.
  • Create a table listing security weaknesses and recommended mitigations.
  • Provide an annotated network diagram to support recommendations.

Length: 5-6 page paper, including an annotated network diagram and a table listing security weaknesses and recommended mitigations

 

https://youtu.be/gfADoo99KEw

 

 

Expert answer

 

DRAFT / STUDY TIPS:

Prescribing a Secure Network Infrastructure Plan Using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework

Introduction

In an era dominated by digitization and interconnected networks, securing an organization's network infrastructure is paramount. Cybersecurity breaches have far-reaching consequences, from financial losses to reputational damage and regulatory penalties. Leveraging established frameworks like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) provides a structured and strategic approach to designing robust and secure network infrastructures. This paper applies the Identify function of the NIST CSF to prescribe a comprehensive and secure network infrastructure plan. A detailed network diagram will be included, alongside a table listing security weaknesses and recommended mitigations.

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework and Its Relevance

The NIST CSF provides a structured method for managing and reducing cybersecurity risks. It comprises five primary functions—Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover—designed to help organizations develop robust security postures. The Identify function focuses on understanding the organization’s environment, including its assets, business processes, and potential cybersecurity risks. For a secure network infrastructure, this function aids in evaluating current vulnerabilities, understanding critical components, and aligning security measures with business objectives.


Analyzing the Current Network Infrastructure

The hypothetical organization in question operates across multiple locations and facilitates remote access using the Internet. Critical components include:

  1. Firewalls: Used for traffic filtering and intrusion prevention.
  2. Routers and Switches: Provide connectivity and traffic management.
  3. Servers: Host applications and data.
  4. VPN/VLAN: Enable secure remote access and segregated network segments.

While these components form the backbone of a functional network, several aspects may increase security risks:

  • Insufficient Segmentation: Lack of proper network segmentation can lead to lateral movement during an attack.
  • Unsecured Remote Access: VPN misconfigurations or outdated protocols pose risks.
  • Firewall Misconfigurations: Ineffective rules or unmonitored logs can leave gaps.
  • Vulnerable Routers and Switches: Default credentials or unpatched firmware create attack vectors.
  • Inadequate Endpoint Security: Unsecured endpoints connected via VPN increase vulnerability.

Recommendations for Secure Network Infrastructure

1. Network Segmentation
  • Recommendation: Implement VLANs to isolate critical systems from less sensitive network segments.
  • Justification: VLAN segmentation reduces the attack surface by preventing unrestricted lateral movement within the network.
  • Supporting Standards: NIST SP 800-125 and 800-41 emphasize segmentation as a key defensive mechanism.
2. Enhanced Firewall Policies
  • Recommendation: Deploy next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) with deep packet inspection capabilities.
  • Justification: NGFWs enable advanced filtering and intrusion prevention.
  • Supporting Standards: NIST SP 800-41 details guidelines for robust firewall configurations.
3. Secure Remote Access
  • Recommendation: Transition to modern VPN protocols (e.g., IKEv2 or OpenVPN) and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for access.
  • Justification: Secure remote access minimizes unauthorized entry points.
  • Statistical Evidence: Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report highlights remote access vulnerabilities as a common breach vector.
4. Endpoint Security
  • Recommendation: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions on all devices.
  • Justification: EDR solutions offer real-time monitoring and threat mitigation for endpoints.
  • Supporting Literature: MITRE ATT&CK Framework reinforces the importance of endpoint visibility in threat detection.
5. Regular Firmware and Patch Management
  • Recommendation: Automate updates for routers, switches, and other network hardware.
  • Justification: Regular updates prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.
  • Supporting Standards: NIST SP 800-40 emphasizes systematic patch management.

Annotated Network Diagram

The diagram outlines the proposed architecture incorporating the above recommendations. It includes segmented VLANs, NGFWs, secure VPN access points, EDR-integrated endpoints, and centralized monitoring via a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system.

(A visual representation would be provided here, showing detailed annotations.)


Security Weaknesses and Recommended Mitigations

Security Weakness Recommended Mitigation Justification/Standard
Lack of network segmentation Implement VLANs and NGFWs NIST SP 800-125
Outdated VPN protocols Upgrade to IKEv2/OpenVPN and enable MFA Verizon DBIR 2023, NIST SP 800-41
Weak endpoint security Deploy EDR solutions MITRE ATT&CK Framework
Firewall misconfigurations Use NGFWs with regular policy audits NIST SP 800-41
Unpatched network devices Automate firmware and patch management NIST SP 800-40

Conclusion

Applying the Identify function of the NIST CSF reveals that a secure network infrastructure requires a multi-faceted approach. By addressing weaknesses such as segmentation, remote access, and endpoint vulnerabilities, organizations can significantly enhance their security posture. Recommendations grounded in NIST guidelines, supported by industry standards and empirical evidence, ensure a resilient and adaptable network architecture.

This plan not only mitigates current risks but also provides a scalable foundation to accommodate future technological advancements. The proposed network diagram and security improvements align with industry best practices, ensuring robust protection for organizational assets in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

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