Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) is a security framework that uses software to dynamically define network perimeters around protected resources, creating encrypted connections based on identity and context. SDP creates a virtual network perimeter that isolates protected resources from unauthorized access, making them invisible to unauthorized users.
Core Components
- SDP Controller: Orchestrates the SDP connection process
- SDP Gateway: Provides encrypted tunnels to protected resources
- SDP Client: Software component that enables secure connections
- Identity Provider: Validates user and device identity
- Device Authenticator: Verifies device security posture
- Policy Engine: Enforces access control policies
Key Features
- Application Hiding: Applications remain invisible to unauthorized users
- Encrypted Tunnels: Secure, encrypted connections between users and applications
- Identity-Based Access: Access based on user identity and device posture
- Dynamic Perimeters: Network perimeters defined dynamically based on policies
- Micro-Segmentation: Isolation of protected resources
- Continuous Validation: Ongoing assessment of trust factors
Benefits
- Reduced Attack Surface: Protected resources are invisible to unauthorized users
- Improved Security: Strong encryption and authentication
- Flexibility: Can adapt to changing network architectures
- Simplified Management: Centralized policy management
- Compliance: Better audit trails and access controls
- Scalability: Can grow with the organization
Common Use Cases
- Remote workforce access
- Cloud application security
- Legacy application protection
- Multi-cloud environments
- Compliance requirements
- Third-party access management
- Network security optimization