Part 2: Exploring the importance of DNS Security with Cisco Umbrella

If you have attended even a single meeting about cybersecurity, you know of firewalls, endpoint protection, and email security. But how focused are you on DNS (Domain Name System) security? As fundamental as DNS is for internet access at the office or when working remotely, it is also a common vector for cyber-attacks. Users can be directed to harmful sites through simple errors like mistyping a URL or clicking on a deceptive link from a search engine or email.

Given its significance, DNS security deserves as much attention as any other aspect of cybersecurity. In this post, I will use Cisco Umbrella as a notable example of efficient DNS security solution.

Cisco Umbrella focuses on the DNS layer of network communication by aiming to block threats before they ever reach your network. It does so by filtering DNS requests against a robust database of known malicious URLs, which helps prevent access to sites linked to malware, ransomware, or phishing.

Powered by Talos

One of the core strengths of Cisco Umbrella is its integration with Talos, Cisco’s threat intelligence network, that allows for real-time insights into emerging threats. Regular updates to the block list ensure that protection measures evolve in tandem with new and emerging threats.

Furthermore, Cisco Umbrella provides extensive visibility into internet activity within an organization. Logging every DNS request helps identify targeted attacks and detect risky behaviors, fostering a safer internet usage environment.

Cloud-based and easy to deploy

Cisco Umbrella is cloud-based and therefore easy to deploy with no additional hardware and minimal changes to existing DNS settings. Its capabilities are not just limited to DNS filtering. With a Secure Web Gateway (SWG) functionality, it monitors a range of internet-related access points, including URLs, IP addresses, and files and provides a comprehensive security solution.

For an additional layer of protection, use Cisco Umbrella Secure Internet Gateway (SIG). Beyond basic DNS filtering, SIG secures internet access by inspecting encrypted traffic and blocking malicious content. It also incorporates a suite of security controls, firewall, intrusion prevention system, and data loss prevention as well as the following:

Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)

Cisco Umbrella SIG includes CASB functionalities, which provide cloud applications visibility and control over data. It helps enforce security policies across cloud services, manage access controls, and protect sensitive information from being exposed or compromised.

Firewall as a Service (FWaaS)

With FWaaS, organizations can implement a high-performance firewall in the cloud. This feature simplifies the security infrastructure by eliminating the need for physical firewalls and reducing the complexity of managing multiple security appliances.

Interactive Threat Intelligence

Cisco Umbrella SIG integrates with Cisco’s Threat Grid, offering detailed threat intelligence that helps organizations understand the nature of threats and their mechanisms. This intelligence is crucial for proactive threat hunting and incident response. This Interactive Threat Intelligence includes the use of sandboxing services to contain possible threats and execute the possible malicious code in a secure environment before it is released to the end user.

Integration and Policy Enforcement

Umbrella SIG is designed to seamlessly integrate with other Cisco security products as well as third-party tools, providing a unified security posture. It supports real-time policy updates and enforcement across all users, whether they are on or off the corporate network.

Global Network and Reliability

Leveraging Cisco’s global network, which handles over 100 billion DNS requests daily, Umbrella SIG ensures reliable and fast connectivity with minimal latency. This global presence helps ensure that security does not come at the cost of performance.

Visibility and Reporting

With detailed and actionable reports, security teams can analyze traffic, track user behavior, and identify anomalies that could indicate security issues.

Businesses need to understand the various options available to enhance their network security. While Cisco Umbrella is a powerful option, organizations should consider their specific needs and consult security experts to find the best solution tailored to their requirements. Codeex leverages decades of IT security expertise to provide vendor-neutral consulting, ensuring that customers get the right solution for their specific needs.