Educational Institutions Case Study

Securing a University’s Hybrid Network Environment

Below is an overview of one of our case studies, highlighting Defenda Network's expertise in managing complex challenges in this industry.

Background and Challenges

Defenda Network partnered with a university that was facing challenges in securing its network. With over 4,000 students and staff accessing systems from various devices and locations, the institution’s outdated security infrastructure was inadequate to defend against modern threats.

Defenda Network conducted a full assessment, uncovering vulnerabilities such as weak access control, unsecured endpoints, and a lack of network segmentation. We implemented a multi-layered approach:

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA): To enforce strict user identity verification.

Micro-segmentation: Dividing the network into isolated segments to limit threat movement, separating student networks, administrative systems, and research servers.

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Enhancing endpoint security and enabling real-time monitoring with a custom-built SIEM for proactive threat mitigation.

Solution Implementation

Results

Within a month, we significantly enhanced access control measures by implementing stronger authentication protocols. The micro-segmentation effectively contained a simulated virus attack, preventing its spread beyond the library’s network. The SIEM and EDR integration provided early detection of credential stuffing attacks, ensuring swift responses before they could escalate.

Defenda Network transformed the university's vulnerable network into a secure learning environment, significantly enhancing access control, threat containment, and proactive threat detection. Our tailored approach provided immediate, effective solutions and established a resilient foundation for future security needs. We continue to support the university to this day, ensuring its security remains robust and adaptable to evolving challenges.