Air Gap

Glossary

What is an Air Gap?

An air gap is a robust security measure designed to protect highly sensitive systems by physically isolating them from external networks, including the internet.

It involves disconnecting a computer or network entirely, ensuring there is no digital link to other systems that could serve as an entry point for cyberattacks. The idea behind an air gap is to eliminate the risk of remote hacking or unauthorised access, making it particularly useful in safeguarding critical infrastructure, confidential data, and high-security operations. By relying on complete isolation, air-gapped systems reduce vulnerabilities that might arise from internet connectivity or remote access.

Common Use Cases of Air Gaps

  1. Military and Defense Systems: Air gaps are heavily used in military operations to protect classified data and strategic communication systems from being compromised by cyberattacks. Defence networks often handle sensitive intelligence and must remain secure from remote access threats.
  2. Nuclear Power Plants: Nuclear power facilities frequently utilise air-gapped networks to insulate control systems from public-facing or internet-connected systems in order to reduce the danger of cyber events that could disrupt vital operations. By doing this, industrial control systems are protected, and operational security is guaranteed.
  3. Financial Institutions: In environments like stock exchanges and banks, where financial transactions and sensitive customer information are handled, air-gapped systems are employed to protect critical financial data from breaches or malware attacks. Isolating these systems reduces the risk of fraud and financial manipulation.
  4. Government and Intelligence Agencies: Government agencies, especially those dealing with national security and intelligence, often employ air-gapped systems to ensure that sensitive communication and classified data remain secure. The isolation ensures that confidential information is not exposed to external networks.
  5. Healthcare Organisations: Healthcare organisations may deploy air-gapped systems to safeguard private patient information or prevent ransomware or other viruses from compromising vital medical equipment. Ensuring the continuity of operations in emergency or critical care contexts is very crucial.

Data Transfer in Air-Gapped Systems

Since air-gapped systems are completely disconnected from any external networks, transferring data to and from these systems must be done manually. The most common methods of data transfer in air-gapped environments include the use of physical media, such as USB drives, CDs, DVDs, or external hard drives.

However, while this approach enhances security by avoiding network-based attacks, it introduces several potential risks and operational complexities:

  1. Strict Security Protocols: Strict procedures must be followed to guarantee the integrity of the transferred data, including checking physical media for viruses both before and after use. If thorough checks are not put in place, hacked devices may introduce malware into the isolated system.
  2. Data Diodes: Some air-gapped systems use one-way data transfer devices known as data diodes, which allow data to flow in only one direction, from one system to another, without risking a backchannel for cyberattacks. This method ensures that sensitive systems receive updates or data without exposure to external threats.
  3. Potential for Human Error: Manual data transfers need human interaction, which raises the possibility of errors like uploading the wrong files or utilising infected equipment. If these mistakes are not closely monitored, they may jeopardise the air-gapped system’s security.
  4. Physical Security of Transfer Media: Physical data transfer devices, like USB drives, must be protected since they are susceptible to theft or loss. These devices could need extra security measures and encryption in high-security settings to safeguard the data while it is in transit.
  5. Slower Data Transfer Process: When it comes to huge files or regular updates, manual data transfers can take longer than digital transfers across a network. Given that patches and upgrades must be carefully scheduled to prevent interrupting essential services, this could affect operational efficiency.

How can iZOOlogic help my Company or Organisation?

Find out how iZOOlogic can protect your organisation from threats that bypass traditional security measures, including the vulnerabilities associated with air-gapped systems. With our comprehensive cybersecurity solutions, we ensure your critical systems remain isolated and secure.

To learn more about how iZOOlogic can enhance your company’s cyber defences, schedule a demo today.