The Impact of Virtualization on Network Security
by Sourcefire

> View this White Paper now

Published on: 11/01/2008
Type of content: White Paper
Format: Adobe Acrobat (.pdf)
Length: 8
Price: FREE

Overview
There are various types of virtualization from a technical standpoint, but the one discussed in this paper is known as server or full virtualization, which is the most prevalent type used for production.

With a compelling and seemingly assured set of benefits to be realized, it seems obvious that virtualization solutions are poised to take today’s enterprises by storm. As this occurs, however, consideration will need to be given to the impact that virtualization will have on security. Changes will inevitably need to be made to ensure that the resulting hybrid environment of virtual and physical computing systems remains sufficiently protected.

It is important for organizations to take the following steps as they move to virtualization:

▪ Understand what virtualization is and how it will offer concrete benefits for your organization. Provide a clear business case of these benefits
▪ Assess the impact of virtualization on your organization’s security. Follow the best practices mentioned here, such as continuing to use traditional security practices where applicable, implementing a segmented trust model, and avoiding VM sprawl with careful management
▪ Investigate where existing security technologies may be sufficient and where they may need to be supplemented with new virtual technologies. Have a clear understanding of the pros and cons of various approaches

> View this White Paper now

Solution Center
By the time November rolls around, the most popular high-tech devices, software and business strategies of 2008 have had time to simmer. This year, we saw the all-out battle of Microsoft vs. Apple, security concerns over virtualization, mobile... More...
Nov 26, 2008
When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005, the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency (LOPA) lost both its landlines and its cell phone service, effectively isolating all of its agents. "We mostly communicated via voice, and our 'disaster plan... More...
Nov 25, 2008
Other content by this company
Expert Tips for a Successful IDS & IPS Deployment by Sourcefire
The impact of a breach can be devastating for a financial institution. Taking both a pro-active and reactive approach to protecting your network and data is a must. Check out this E-Guide for expert tips on how deploying IDS/IPS can protect your network. This expert E...