Sepio Academy – Physical Layer and Sepio Explained

The Physical Layer is the lowest layer of the OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection). Which is a conceptual framework used to understand and standardize how different networking protocols and technologies interact within a network. The main purpose of the Physical Layer is to define the hardware and physical characteristics required to transmit raw bits over a physical medium. Such as cables, wireless signals, or optical fibers.

Overall, the Physical Layer is responsible for establishing and maintaining the physical connection between devices. Ensuring reliable and accurate transmission of bits over the chosen physical medium. It forms the foundation upon which higher-layer protocols build their communication structures.

Physical Layer Security with Sepio

Sepio’s patented technology offers comprehensive oversight and management of assets at the Physical Layer, addressing the need to identify potential threats and mitigate risks effectively. Currently, conventional cybersecurity solutions fall short in providing this crucial Layer 1 visibility, leaving hardware security overlooked. Consequently, the network remains blind to potential threats like network implants or rogue devices operating within the Physical Layer. Moreover, it adeptly identifies counterfeit peripherals as authentic Human Interface Devices (HIDs).

The absence of assets visibility poses a significant risk to enterprises. As it opens the door to rogue devices infiltrating the network and executing damaging hardware-based attacks. Given that Layer 1 is the foundational level in the OSI model, establishing robust security measures at this level is imperative. This proactive approach enables the prevention of attacks originating from rogue devices right from their inception, providing a crucial line of zero trust hardware access defense.

Check out our new series of “Sepio Academy” with Victoria and Justin! In this episode, they discuss a pen testing that failed due to the fact that the red team was able to get in through a spoofed network device.

Learn how the true identity of a network device is verified with Sepio.

April 13th, 2022