MPLS Network Security Considerations for 2024
As we approach 2024, organizations need to consider several factors to secure their MPLS networks. As the primary networking technology for many enterprises, MPLS networks carry sensitive data and support critical applications, making network security paramount. Here are some of the key MPLS network security considerations for 2024:
Modern Threat Landscape
The threat landscape continues to evolve rapidly. MPLS networks face threats from various vectors, including:
- Sophisticated hackers using advanced malware and zero-day exploits to infiltrate networks
- Insiders misusing access or stealing data
- DDoS attacks aimed at overloading network resources
- Supply chain compromises through tainted hardware or software
To counter these threats, MPLS security in 2024 should include:
- Next-gen firewalls with threat intelligence feeds and sandboxing
- Zero trust network access to secure remote users
- Microsegmentation to limit lateral movement
- Behavioral analytics to detect anomalies and advanced threats
Upgrading legacy firewalls and IPS to modern solutions with advanced capabilities will be crucial.
Encryption and Data Protection
As networks transmit more sensitive data, encryption becomes mandatory to prevent eavesdropping or theft. Key technologies include:
- IPsec VPNs to encrypt WAN traffic over MPLS links
- MACsec to encrypt LAN traffic between switches
- SSL/TLS inspection to decrypt traffic for inspection
Data loss prevention (DLP) solutions will also play an important role in detecting and blocking unauthorized transmissions of sensitive data like intellectual property, financial information, or personal data subject to regulations.
Visibility and Monitoring
Network visibility is critical for security analytics, forensic investigation, and meeting compliance requirements. MPLS networks should implement:
- Network packet brokers to aggregate and replicate traffic
- Full packet capture to retain network forensic data
- Network detection and response to analyze traffic patterns
- Intrusion detection to identify threats
- Security information and event management (SIEM) to correlate events
Automating threat detection and response will be a priority rather than relying on manual methods.
Secure MPLS Services from Carriers
Where MPLS networks connect to carrier-provided MPLS services, ensure the provider:
- Implements security best practices in their MPLS service delivery
- Provides client isolation and protection from other customers
- Offers DDoS mitigation scrubbing services
- Has redundancy mechanisms and guaranteed SLAs
Review carrier security audit reports and certifications. Utilize MPLS provider portals giving network analytics and visibility.
Business Continuity Planning
A solid business continuity plan is necessary in case of MPLS network outages. Strategies like redundant MPLS links, alternative internet VPNs, and cellular backup connectivity provide failover and disaster recovery capabilities.
Test and update business continuity plans regularly.
Staff Training
With advanced persistent threats, social engineering is often the initial vector of compromise. Ongoing security awareness training makes staff a key last line of defense.
Ensure IT groups stay current on the latest threats and security best practices through vendor/partner training and industry certifications.
Compliance Audits
As regulations like HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI DSS evolve, compliance audits will be important to identify and remediate gaps versus changing requirements.
Maintain an up-to-date asset inventory with data classifications and flows mapped. Perform periodic risk assessments.
By taking a proactive approach in these areas, organizations can make their MPLS networks more secure and resilient against looming threats. MPLS will continue to be the networking standard for enterprises in 2024, but needs enhanced protection for modern attack techniques.
