Many organizations are investing in securing their systems, applications and data centers, while overlooking one of the most sensitive areas of IT infrastructure – network data transmission. Data transmitted between servers, locations or cloud environments is often treated as “secure by design.” Meanwhile, it is the network layer that is increasingly becoming the target of eavesdropping, interception or manipulation of information. Network layer encryption is no longer a solution for select industries – it is becoming a real need for more and more companies.
Key findings
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Data in motion is just as vulnerable as data stored
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Private links and carrier networks do not guarantee full security
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Network encryption protects data regardless of application
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Transmission protection supports business continuity and regulatory compliance
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Performance and security can go hand in hand
Table of contents
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Why data at the network layer is at risk
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The most common risk scenarios in data transmission
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How application encryption differs from network encryption
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When network layer encryption is necessary
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How encryption affects system performance
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Frequently asked questions
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Summary
Why data at the network layer is at risk
Data sent over the network often travels a long way between different locations – data centers, branch offices or cloud environments. Along the way, they use the infrastructure of third-party operators, over which the organization does not have full control. Even if the data is well protected at the ends of the connection, the transmission itself can become a target for eavesdropping or interference.
Many companies have the misconception that a closed network or dedicated link automatically means data security.
The most common risk scenarios in data transmission
Data transmission risks affect many daily IT processes. Replication of databases, synchronization of systems, transmission of backups or communication between applications generate huge amounts of sensitive information. Their interception can lead to data leakage, loss of confidentiality or disruption of systems.
Particularly dangerous are situations where data is transmitted automatically and unattended, making it difficult to detect an incident.
How application encryption differs from network encryption
Application encryption protects data at the specific application level, but requires modification and consistent configuration on both sides of the communication. In practice, this means high costs and limited scalability. Network layer encryption works independently of the application and covers all traffic transmitted between locations.
This makes it possible to secure all data in motion, without interfering with existing systems and processes.
When network layer encryption is necessary
Network layer encryption is becoming essential wherever data leaves directly controlled infrastructure. This includes connections between data centers, integration with the cloud, hybrid environments, and organizations handling sensitive or regulated data.
Solutions offered by Certes Networks enable data traffic protection at the network level, ensuring information confidentiality without impacting application performance or system architecture.
How encryption affects system performance
One of the most common concerns about network encryption is the drop in performance. However, modern solutions are designed to minimize latency and not negatively impact network throughput. As a result, organizations don’t have to choose between security and performance – they can have both at the same time.
Frequently asked questions
Is network encryption needed in private networks?
Yes, because even private links can be tapped or compromised.
Does encryption cover all network traffic?
Yes, it protects all data transmitted between secured points.
Is it complicated to implement encryption?
Modern solutions allow implementation without changes to applications.
Summary
Network layer encryption is one of the key elements of a modern IT security strategy. It protects data in motion, regardless of the application and environment in which it is processed. In the era of distributed systems and intensive information sharing, securing transmissions is no longer an option – it is becoming a necessity for organizations concerned about confidentiality and business continuity.
