Layered security is a strategy that implements multiple security controls across an organization’s IT network to protect all potentially vulnerable areas where a data breach or cyberattack could occur. Your reputation as an MSP depends on your ability to stay ahead of ever-evolving data security risks, and the overall goal of the layered approach is to keep your customers’ businesses operating and secure at all times.

Why Layered Security? ​

Your customers’ networks consist of multiple layers, and as an MSP or MSSP you need multiple security measures in place to fully protect them. The purpose of a layered security strategy is to ensure that every element of a network is protected against vulnerabilities and threats – protecting the continued operations, reputations and revenues of both their business and your own.

Let’s look at the 7 layers of a holistic cybersecurity solution, and why you should ensure your customers have each layer in place.

Mission Critical Assets

The layer that is absolutely critical to protect. Think financial records, medical records, operating systems or your entire cloud infrastructure – anything that would stop a business from operating in the event of a data breach. Every business has unique Mission Critical Assets that each require their own protection.

Data Security

Protection of both the storage and transfer of data. This is what hackers, cybercriminals and even your own staff or contractors could steal and use maliciously. The data layer requires dedicated protection, as it can be used to bypass the Network, Application, Endpoint and Cloud security layers too.

Application Security

Securing the software that a business depends on. From Microsoft Office 365 to Slack to Zoom – these are all prime targets for security threats such as ransomware and other malware, and another gateway to the Data, Endpoint, Network and Cloud security. Preventing unauthorized software is also key to this layer.

Endpoint Security

Securing the software that a business depends on. From Microsoft Office 365 to Slack to Zoom – these are all prime targets for security threats such as ransomware and other malware, and another gateway to the Data, Endpoint, Network and Cloud security. Preventing unauthorized software is also key to this layer.

Network Security

Limiting access to a network for employees, and eliminating access altogether for potential attackers. Email and the web can open up a network to a huge range of threats – malware, data leaks, spam, insider sabotage – and security measures for both inbound attacks and outbound data needs to be implemented.

Perimeter Security

The outer layer of a network. Expanding on the Endpoint layer, this includes not only computers and communication devices, but printers, photocopiers and anything other wireless access points. Firewalls, encryption, anti-virus software are part of the process, as well as device management and usage policy.

The Human Layer

The outer layer of a network. Expanding on the Endpoint layer, this includes not only computers and communication devices, but printers, photocopiers and anything other wireless access points. Firewalls, encryption, anti-virus software are part of the process, as well as device management and usage policy.

Staffing for a Layered Security solution

Our cybersecurity resources cover all bases when it comes to layered security. From Junior SOC Analysts to Senior Security Engineers or a dedicated vCISO – we can provide the talent you need. Alongside cybersecurity staffing, we partner with trusted vendors to offer wider security solutions including SOCaaS and a range of project services. 

Contact our cybersecurity experts to find out more.