NC1701

NETWORKEXPERT
don't provide the entire solution. Specific security analytics solutions fed with log files are now also being deployed to identify
advanced attacks and fraud. These security devices are in stark contrast to the hand cranked analysis of just a few years ago."
There can be little doubt that logs offer a potential gold mine of data, especially for the identification of exploits. With most
devices possessing logging capability, it's simply a matter of turning logging on, forwarding those logs to an aggregator and
normalising them prior to analysis. As well as attack insight, logs can help security and network teams to forensically examine
successful attacks.
In addition to SIEMs and Security Analytics products there are also Big Data Analysis platforms that provide the ability to perform
customised log analysis. Graham explains that, "These are ideal for undertaking very specific analysis, fraud for example, however,
given the complexity of developing algorithms for specific log data, it's out of the question for all but the most capable."
There is so much competition for the mind of the IT and network professional that
even the most committed need to make decisions to knowingly ignore some things
simply to maintain the focus that keeps their organisation working. This reality can
mean that solutions to problems already exist and just need to be recognised.
L is for LTE. 4G or LTE is a common technology for high-speed mobile connectivity in
consumer smartphones and has been largely ignored in the toolbox of Enterprise IT
infrastructure managers. With cost and bandwidth that is competitive with other WAN
connectivity, LTE can provide a failover link, out-of-band management and even become
the principal connectivity solution for remote locations.
Marcio Saito, CTO at Opengear says that, "As the trend to increased geographical
dispersion of networks continues, LTE should be considered."
The number of devices at the edge of the network is multiplying and with increased
adoption of IoT, mobile devices and cloud architectures, connectivity to servers in the
cloud becomes mission-critical. Marcio continues, "Real-time requirements of new
applications demand continuous connectivity at remote sites and branch offices. An
Internet link failure can take a site out of operation and out of business. It's here that LTE
can provide an effective failover link to ensure business continuity.
"In retail store applications, increasing numbers of networked devices are being
deployed to collect extensive data and create a better shopping experience. For
example, advanced signage provides a responsive messaging environment and
traditional POS (Point of Sale) machines are being replaced with cloud-based systems.
In both instances a reliable network connection is necessary for these devices. Without
failover capability the store may be unable to take orders, process payments and check
inventory, impacting both customer satisfaction and revenue."
LTE also provides connectivity in remote locations, Marcio explains. "Take for example
an oil field where equipment is actively monitoring production. Implementing a physical
connection in an inaccessible area can be cost prohibitive if possible at all.
Organisations may be forced to use truck rolls to retrieve data which is tedious, slow
and expensive. In those situations, LTE should be considered as a technology to provide
primary connectivity." NC
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