As wireless technology continues to evolve; we are seeing the need for more frequent technology refreshes to maintain secure networks. An ideal refresh rate would be every 3 years, but we see many organizations are at the 5–7-year mark. More frequent refreshes are relevant because as technology advances, so do the cyber threats. Outdated hardware or software could make an organization more susceptible to a breach. Where privileged data is concerned, a breach could result in a big fine.

The IEEE is currently developing a standard that will create WiFi6e and 5G interoperability. According to the IEEE, the key is to “define a mechanism for communications among entities operating in licensed and unlicensed spectrum.” To simplify this statement, they are working to find a way for licensed (5G) and unlicensed (WiFi6) to communicate seamlessly. So, if a doctor is looking at a 3D image on their tablet, they could move from one space to another and from one device to another, securely and efficiently. Ultimately, the goal is to enable interoperability among devices designed for licensed (5G) and unlicensed (WiFi6) frequency spectrum, including Wi-Fi and LTE devices.   

Currently, the IEEE is developing a 1932.1 standard layer 1 5G spectrum to WiFi6e handoff. This handoff solution will embed into another solution that controls centralized authentication.

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Software Defined Access (SDA) takes the complexity out of network management. Achieve more efficiency, security and consistency across wired, wireless, and VPN infrastructure by automating user policy and network access with Cisco's SDA.

SDA offers:

• End to end segmentation
• Network Automation
• Consistent User Experience

First, you'll want to consider what type of devices you're needing to secure. For example, if you need to secure your mobile employees laptops, you'll want to consider these solutions:

VPN

Cisco AnyConnect Mobility Client

Endpoint Security

We recommend Cisco Secure Endpoints (previous AMP for endpoints)

Two-factor or Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)

DUO

Internet Security

SecureX

Email Protection

Cloud Mailbox Defense

A traditional security model would assume anything inside your network is safe and can automatically be trusted. Zero Trust Security is a security method that considers all resources coming onto your network to be external and a potential threat that needs to be verified, even if they aren't. In today's remote, roaming, and mobile workers, resources and devices inside the network hold just as much opportunity for compromise than ever. A Zero Trust Security approach helps secure access across your applications and network, giving you the visibility you need to help reduce your attack surface. 

Trust nothing. When you consider your workforce, applications and devices as resources where trust has to first be established, enforced, and continually verified, you make it harder for hackers to breach and attack your network.