Air Gapped Network: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re looking to keep your network secure from external threats, an air gapped network could be a great option for you. An Air Gapped Network is a computer system or network that is physically isolated from any other networks, most notably the public internet. This provides an added layer of security as no external devices or threats can directly access the system and any data stored within it. In this guide, we’ll go over what an air gapped network is, how to set one up, its advantages and disadvantages, and more. By the end of reading this comprehensive guide to air gapped networks, you'll be fully informed and ready to decide if this is the best security measure for your organization.

What is an air gapped network?

An air gapped network, also known as a disconnected or isolated network, is a computer system or network that has been physically disconnected from any other outside networks; most notably, it is not connected to the internet. This means that any data stored on the system is safe from external threats and unauthorized access, making it a great option for organizations looking to protect sensitive or proprietary information.

How Does it Work?

An air gapped network works by completely isolating the system from any external networks, including the internet. This is typically done through physical separation, such as placing all necessary hardware and storage devices in a secure room that can only be accessed by authorized personnel.

Types of Air Gapped Networks

There are two main types of air gapped networks:

A Standalone Air Gapped Network:

These systems are completely isolated from any other devices or networks, and can only be accessed through physical entry.

An Air Gapped Network with Peripherals:

This type of network is connected to a few external peripherals, such as USB drives or printers. However, it still remains isolated from the internet and other external networks.

Advantages of Air Gapped Networks

Increased Security:

Air gapped networks provide an added layer of security as they completely isolate the system from external threats and unauthorized access.

Easier to Control and Manage User Access:

As there are no outside connections, air gapped networks make it easier for organizations to control who has access to their systems or data, ensuring that only authorized personnel are able to access it.

No Need for Firewalls or Antivirus Software:

Since the system is not connected to any external networks, there’s no need for extra security measures such as firewalls and antivirus software.

Greater Privacy:

With air gapped networks, organizations can ensure that any data stored is kept private and secure.

Lower Risk of Data Breaches:

As there are no external connections, air gapped networks reduce the risk of data breaches as it’s nearly impossible for an outside entity to gain access.

More Reliable:

Air gapped networks are more reliable as they are not exposed to the same risks as connected networks, such as malware or other cyberattacks.

Less Software Maintenance:

Since there’s no need for extra security measures, air gapped networks require less software maintenance than connected networks.

Higher Performance:

Due to its lack of external connections, air gapped networks tend to perform better than connected networks.

Minimal Impact from System Failures:

As air gapped networks are not affected by external threats, they have a minimal impact from system failures.

Lower Cost of Operation:

Considering that there’s no need for additional security measures or software maintenance, air gapped networks offer a lower cost of operation than connected networks.

Disadvantages of Air Gapped Networks

Difficult to Access Remotely:

Because air gapped networks are completely isolated from external networks, they can be difficult to access remotely. This means that any users or personnel not physically in the same location as the network will have difficulty accessing data or information stored on the system.

Vulnerable to Physical Access:

Since air gapped networks are physically isolated, they can be vulnerable to physical access if someone is able to gain access to them without authorization.

Limited File Transfer Capabilities:

As the network is not connected to any external networks, users have limited file transfer capabilities. This means that if a user wants to transfer a large amount of data, it must be done manually via physical devices such as USB drives or DVDs.

How to Set Up an Air Gapped Network

Setting up an air gapped network may seem complicated, but with the right tools and knowledge it can be easily done. Here are the steps you’ll need to take in order to set up an air gapped network.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Hardware and Software

The first step is to gather all of the necessary hardware and software for your air gapped network. This includes computers, servers, storage devices, routers, switches and any other peripherals.

Step 2: Secure the Network’s Location

Once you have all of your hardware and software in place, it’s important to secure the network’s location. This may include setting up physical access points or locks on doors to prevent unauthorized entry into the area where the network is located.

Step 3: Configure the Network

Once you’ve secured the location of your network, it’s time to configure the hardware and software. This may include setting up routers, switches, firewalls and other security measures.

Step 4: Test Your Network

Before you can put your air gapped network into use, it’s important to test it and make sure everything is working properly. Make sure to check for any potential vulnerabilities or flaws in your system that could be exploited by outsiders.

Step 5: Use Your Network Safely

Once you’ve successfully set up your air gapped network, it’s important to use it safely and securely. Make sure to regularly update the software and hardware on your system, and only allow authorized personnel to access it.

Conclusion

Air gapped networks offer organizations a secure and reliable way to protect sensitive data from being accessed by unauthorized personnel. While there are some drawbacks, such as difficulty accessing remotely and limited file transfer capabilities, air gapped networks can provide added peace of mind to organizations looking for enhanced security measures. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to successfully set up an air gapped network that can meet your security needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an air gapped network?

An air gapped network is a system that is completely isolated from external networks, preventing any unauthorized access or threats.

What are the advantages of an air gapped network?

The advantages of air gapped networks include increased security, easier to control and manage user access, no need for firewalls or antivirus software, greater privacy, lower risk of data breaches, more reliable performance, less software maintenance, minimal impact from system failures and lower cost of operation.

What are the disadvantages of an air gapped network?

The disadvantages of an air gapped network include difficulty accessing remotely, vulnerability to physical access, and limited file transfer capabilities.

What are the steps for setting up an air gapped network?

The steps for setting up an air gapped network include gathering necessary hardware and software, securing the location of your network, configuring the hardware and software, testing your network, and using your network safely.