Physical Layer Visibility

The OSI layers, also known as the Open System Interconnection layers, play a vital role in computer-security and communication across networks. Published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in 1980, the OSI Model is a conceptual framework that efficiently manages computing functions and facilitates global data transmission through its 7 distinct layers. The Physical Layer, deals with the physical medium and the electrical, mechanical, and functional characteristics of the network. It is responsible for transmitting raw binary data over a physical medium such as cables, wireless links, or optical fibers, ensuring the accurate and reliable transmission of bits between devices.

The Physical Layer is vulnerable to network implants, malware, and rogue devices that remain undetected without proper protection. Malevolent entities have the potential to cause significant damage within an enterprise network. Jeopardizing sensitive data and disrupting critical operations. Moreover, spoofed peripherals can masquerade as legitimate Human Interface Devices (HIDs), further increasing the risk.

Addressing Physical Layer Security Gaps with Sepio’s Technology

Sepio’s patented technology offers unparalleled visibility and control over the Physical Layer, providing comprehensive protection against threats that bypass traditional traffic-based solutions. Our innovative Asset Risk Management (ARM) solution identifies hidden risks and mitigates potential attacks targeting Layer 1, ensuring robust hardware security and network integrity.

Why Physical Layer Visibility Matters

Many network security solutions, including Network Access Control (NAC), Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and IoT security scanners, often fail to detect threats at the Physical Layer. Unmanaged switches, passive taps, and out-of-band devices can evade detection by traffic-based systems. Worse, spoofed devices can masquerade as legitimate devices, bypassing security measures. The key to securing your network is complete physical layer visibility — without it, you cannot fully protect your infrastructure from cybercrime and malicious attacks.

The Risks of Ignoring Physical Layer Visibility

Cybercriminals and state-sponsored hackers are fully aware of these vulnerabilities and actively exploit blind spots in network security. By using passive implants or device spoofing, they gain unauthorized access to critical systems. For example, a seemingly harmless Raspberry Pi could mimic a legitimate device, leading to security breaches.

IoT devices with their use of MAB (MAC Authentication Bypass) are your ״”soft underbelly”, implementing 802.1x and then setting up exceptions for non-802.1x compliant devices (i.e., IP cameras, printers etc.) punches a huge hole in your security defenses. Attackers are adept at finding and exploiting these security risks.

Enhancing Your Security with Full Physical Layer Visibility

Adding physical layer visibility to your existing security stack provides full visibility of all network/peripheral devices. Sepio’s solution can easily integrate with you NAC, EPS, SIEM, SOAR, enhancing their effectiveness and fitting seamlessly into your current security management workflow.

The Role of the Physical Layer in Network Security

The Physical Layer, denoted as layer 1 in the OSI model, serves as the foundational tier responsible for overseeing hardware security. Its primary role is to establish and manage the physical connections between devices, identifying the equipment engaged in data transmission. Layer 1 encompasses the definition of hardware components, cabling, wiring, as well as the management of frequencies and pulses. Information is transmitted in the form of bits, with nodes facilitating its transfer from one point to another.

However, a pressing concern lies in the neglect of hardware security within this layer. Current security software solutions fail to encompass the Physical Layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model. This omission results in a lack of insight into the physical specifications of the network. Consequently, rogue devices and manipulated peripherals remain undetected, leading to potential data-security breaches.

The absence of Physical Layer Visibility puts enterprises at risk of Rogue Devices infiltrating their networks and executing potentially harmful hardware attacks. Given that Layer 1 stands as the initial layer in the OSI model, it becomes paramount to establish robust security measures at this level to thwart attacks originating from Rogue Devices right from the outset.

Sepio’s Patented Technology: Trust and Verify

Sepio’s Asset Risk Management (ARM) provides unmatched visibility at the Physical Layer—going deeper than traditional traffic-based solutions. Unlike solutions that rely on device traffic to detect threats, ARM uses Layer 1 data to validate devices and connections, enabling a true trust and verify approach.

With Sepio’s solution, you can:

• See all network assets, both known and hidden.
• Prioritize vulnerabilities and mitigate risks effectively.
• Gain better control over asset risks with an advanced, hardware-focused security approach.

Talk to an Expert

Learn how Sepio’s patented technology can transform your information-security by providing the necessary Physical Layer visibility to detect and prevent sophisticated attacks. Get in touch with one of our experts today to enhance your hardware security strategy and protect your enterprise from security breaches and compromised systems.