Author: Michael Morris

Endace Packet Forensics Files: Episode #58

Original Entry by : Michael Morris

Michael talks with Stephen Donnelly about the importance of packet capture in cloud environments.

By Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

In this episode of the Endace Packet Forensics Files, I talk with Stephen Donnelly, CTO of Endace, about why packet capture is essential in cloud environments. He shared an amusing anecdote about an executive claiming, “Cloud doesn’t have packets.” While humorous, it highlights a misunderstanding of cloud technology. Even though cloud networks are more abstract, they still rely heavily on network packets, just like traditional on-premises systems.

Why Packet Capture Matters in the Cloud

There are two main reasons why packet capture is as important in the cloud as it is on-premises:

  1. Network Operations: Packet data is crucial for diagnosing and troubleshooting issues like slow network speeds, downtime, and performance problems. Without packet capture, it becomes difficult to identify and resolve network challenges, even in cloud environments.
  2. Security: Cloud environments face the same security threats as traditional networks. Packet capture plays a vital role in security operations, including detecting threats, incident response, and maintaining overall security. “DEATH” (Detection Engineering and Threat Hunting) emphasizes the need for proactive security in cloud environments.
How to Capture Packets in the Cloud

Several methods exist for capturing packets in cloud environments, each with its own advantages and challenges:

  • Port Mirroring Services: Many cloud providers offer services that allow traffic from virtual machines or containers to be captured. However, these services often come with limitations, such as performance impacts and visibility gaps.
  • Cloud Packet Brokers: These tools use software agents installed on virtual machines to capture and forward traffic. While useful, this method can consume additional CPU and network resources.
  • In-line Devices: Firewalls and routers can mirror traffic for packet capture, but cloud-based devices may not offer all the features of their physical counterparts, requiring thorough research.
Conclusion

Capturing packets in the cloud brings challenges, including performance impacts, visibility gaps, and costs. These factors should be carefully considered when developing a packet capture strategy.

The belief that packet capture isn’t needed in cloud environments is a myth, and a dangerous one. Packet capture is just as important in the cloud as it is in traditional networks. It provides the visibility and security needed to effectively manage and protect cloud environments. As more organizations move to the cloud, the need for strong packet capture solutions only increases.

Endace Packet Forensics Files Ep 58 Thumbnail

Follow Stephen on LinkedIn

Other episodes in the Secure Networks video/audio podcast series are available here. Or listen to the podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform.

Endace Packet Forensics Files: Episode #57

Original Entry by : Michael Morris

Michael talks to Ryan Chapman about the growing complexity of ransomware – how to prepare, investigate and respond.

By Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Ransomware has shifted from simple, isolated attacks to coordinated, human-operated campaigns that target entire organizations.  

In this episode of the Endace Packet Forensics Files, I talk with Ryan Chapman, SANS Instructor and expert in Digital Forensic and Incident Response (DFIR) about these evolving threats.  

Ryan explains how attackers are becoming more methodical and sophisticated, focusing on disabling EDR/XDR solutions to evade detection and leaving organizations vulnerable to advanced attacks.  

One of the key challenges Ryan highlights is visibility. Without robust logging, packet capture, and monitoring tools, it’s nearly impossible to understand how an attack happened fully. Even encrypted traffic can reveal critical patterns if analyzed properly.   

Ryan shares examples of organizations that suffered reinfections because they rushed to restore systems without identifying the original entry point. Packet capture data plays a vital role in pinpointing when and how attackers infiltrated, ensuring a safe recovery and minimizing disruption.  

As ransomware tactics evolve, adopting a Zero-Trust approach is essential. Ryan discusses how limiting permissions and avoiding overly trusting software configurations can help prevent breaches. He cites the Kaseya attack, where some organizations avoided compromise by not blindly whitelisting trusted directories. As attackers increasingly use legitimate tools, verifying all network activity and following least privilege principles are critical defenses.   

Don’t miss this insightful episode, where Ryan provides actionable advice for preparing your organization against today’s ransomware threats.  

Follow Ryan on Linkedin

Other episodes in the Secure Networks video/audio podcast series are available here. Or listen to the podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform.

Endace Packet Forensics Files: Episode #56

Original Entry by : Michael Morris

Michael talks to Cary Wright about why security certifications such as FIPS, NIAP, and DoD APL are important across industries.

By Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

In this episode of the Endace Packet Forensics Files, I talk with Cary Wright, VP, Product at Endace about the importance and impact of Federal security certifications such as FIPS, NIAP, and DoD APL  to ensure the robust security of cybersecurity tools.

Although these standards are primarily applied in Federal Government, the rigorous testing that products must undergo to be compliant is extensive.  Regardless of your industry, you can be confident that products certified to these standards are robust and have been thoroughly tested and scrutinized.

Cary explores the detailed testing procedures these certifications entail and their role in enhancing network device security. The standards are continuously updated to ensure that they continue to address new cybersecurity challenges that emerge. We discuss the relevance of these standards for Government and Defense sectors as well as how they can provide surety for large enterprises looking to improve their security measures.

Cary explains what these certifications test in order to validate cybersecurity tools’ encryption strength and overall security robustness. He also talks about the challenges and costs to manufacturers of achieving these standards, and the real-world benefits this testing delivers – such as improved protocol security.

Don’t miss this episode as Cary provides valuable insights into the impact of Federal security certifications and the critical role they play in helping ensure best practices in  cybersecurity.

Follow Cary on Linkedin

Other episodes in the Secure Networks video/audio podcast series are available here. Or listen to the podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform.

Endace Packet Forensics Files: Episode #55

Original Entry by : Michael Morris

Michael talks to Taran Singh about network observability.

By Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

In this episode of the Endace Packet Forensics Files, I talk with Taran Singh, VP, Product Management at Keysight Technologies.

Taran sheds light on how network observability differs from traditional network monitoring by consolidating data sources to provide a comprehensive view of network activity.  This is crucial when it comes to validating zero-trust architectures.  

We talk about the challenges organizations face in achieving clear network visibility amidst complex IT environments and evolving threats. Taran emphasizes the pivotal role of network visibility in incident response and investigation, particularly for thoroughly verifying network activity. He stresses the importance of historical lookback and analyzing packet-level data for incident response and cybersecurity investigations, highlighting the value of packet evidence.  

Taran also explains how scalability and historical data-analysis significantly improve cybersecurity posture. He talks about Keysight’s strategy for network visibility, emphasizing reliability and scalability tailored to the demands of sizable corporations and hybrid-cloud setups. 

Finally, Taran talks about the escalating threat landscape, discussing recent cyberattacks and ransomware incidents, and emphasizing the importance of prioritizing network security measures. By treating networks as valuable assets, leveraging enriched data, analytics, and advanced tools, and adopting proactive approaches, organizations can enhance their readiness to combat cyberthreats more effectively.  

Don’t miss this informative episode as Taran shares his invaluable insights into network observability and its critical role in modern cybersecurity practices. 

Follow Taran on Linkedin 

Other episodes in the Secure Networks video/audio podcast series are available here. Or listen to the podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform.

Endace Packet Forensics Files: Episode #54

Original Entry by : Michael Morris

Michael talks to “Malware Jake” Williams, about the concept of Zero Trust and its implications for enhancing your security posture.

By Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

In this episode of the Endace Packet Forensics Files, I talk with cybersecurity expert Jake Williams, aka ‘MalwareJake’,  IANS faculty member, former SANS educator, computer science and information security expert and U.S. Army veteran, about the concept of Zero Trust and its implications for organizations striving to enhance their security posture.

Zero Trust challenges traditional security models by advocating for a “deny all, permit by exception” approach. Jake describes it as a mindset—a philosophy focused on continuous verification and least privilege access. Despite its potential benefits, embracing Zero Trust can be challenging. Jake highlights obstacles such as defining and operationalizing Zero Trust, legacy system dependencies, and cultural shifts within organizations.

Continuous verification is crucial in Zero Trust environments. Jake provides examples of verification challenges, emphasizing the importance of network visibility and packet capture in incident response and threat detection. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of networking and cybersecurity, citing Managed File Transfer appliances, Citrix NetScalers, and SSL VPNs as examples. These network security appliances often have extensive technical depth and may harbour unpatched vulnerabilities, presenting significant risks to organizations. He predicts increased targeting of network security appliances by threat actors, underscoring the importance of Zero Trust principles and network visibility in mitigating such threats.

Jake touches on the importance of tools like Wireshark for detailed analysis but also emphasises the need to understand the role network visibility plays and how it relates to business challenges. He recommends that analysts strengthen their networking fundamentals, while SOC directors should broaden their skill set by understanding business concepts for effective communication with stakeholders.

Finally, Jake suggests that embracing Zero Trust requires a holistic approach, encompassing technical ability, organizational buy-in, and a commitment to continuous improvement. His insights on this topic serve as valuable guidance on the path to cybersecurity resilience.

Follow Malware Jake on the below links. 

 

Also watch our series of Threat Investigation webinars with SANS and Jake Williams here – https://www2.endace.com/sans-webinar-series

Other episodes in the Secure Networks video/audio podcast series are available here. Or listen to the podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform.

Endace Packet Forensics Files: Episode #53

Original Entry by : Michael Morris

Michael talks to Tanya Janca, Head of Education and Community at Semgrep, Founder of WehackPurple.

By Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

In this episode of the Endace Packet Forensics Files, I talk with Tanya Janca, Head of Education and Community at Semgrep, Founder of WehackPurple, and renowned cybersecurity expert, author and RSA Speaker.

Tanya shares her journey from software developer to penetration tester to application security specialist, to cybersecurity education evangelist. She stresses the value of hands-on experience in cybersecurity education and urges universities and training programs to keep pace with evolving threats.

Tanya discusses the skills gap in cybersecurity, suggesting there is inadequate education in secure coding and design. She believes industry practitioners should be involved in teaching to ensure relevance. Tanya also highlights the need for affordable training options to connect theory with real-world practice.

Tanya underscores the importance of varied perspectives and real diversity and inclusion for organizations to understand and counter modern threats. She challenges the notion of diversity as a mere checkbox and calls for organizations to create inclusive environments to address the skill shortage effectively.

Tanya emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation as vital for cybersecurity professionals to navigate the changing landscape.

Other episodes in the Secure Networks video/audio podcast series are available here. Or listen to the podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform.

Endace Packet Forensics Files: Episode #52

Original Entry by : Michael Morris

Michael talks to Tiktok influencer Caitlin Sarian, CEO of Cybersecurity Girl

By Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

In this episode, I talk with to Tiktok and Instagram influencer Caitlin Sarian, CEO of Cybersecurity Girl, who discusses her journey into the cybersecurity field and her mission to break down stigmas surrounding the industry.

Emphasizing the importance of a love for learning and problem-solving over coding skills, Caitlin encourages individuals to explore diverse paths within cybersecurity, ranging from technical roles like ethical hacking to non-technical roles in data privacy.

The conversation highlights the need for continuous learning in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, with Caitlin recommending various channels for staying updated, including news alerts, newsletters, and professional groups. She addresses common misconceptions about coding requirements, debunking the idea that a specific educational background is essential, and stresses the value of gaining practical experience and obtaining certifications tailored to one’s chosen specialization.

Finally, Caitlin highlights the importance of advocating for diversity and inclusivity in cybersecurity. She emphasizes the need for mentorship, role models, and a supportive company culture to encourage women and minorities to enter and thrive in the industry. You won’t want to miss this episode if you’re looking for valuable insights about a career in cybersecurity. 

Other episodes in the Secure Networks video/audio podcast series are available here. Or listen to the podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform.

Endace Packet Forensics Files: Episode #51

Original Entry by : Michael Morris

In this episode, Michael talks to Eric Buchaus, Director of Sales at Niagara Networks

By Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Michael Morris, Director of Global Business Development, Endace

Are SPAN ports sufficient to provide network traffic visibility for high-quality security (NDR) and network (NPM) investigations? What about cloud workloads?  What do you need to gain insights into cloud network activity?

In this episode of the Endace Packet Forensic Files, I talk with Eric Buchaus, Director of Sales at Niagara Networks. Eric outlines potential pitfalls and challenges associated with SPAN ports and highlights situations where they may fall short for network and security analysts.

Eric walks us through some alternative options, discussing the merits of network TAPS, network packet brokers, and in-line bypass solutions which can offer NoC / SoC teams more reliable, efficient, and scalable ways to get network packet data to the right tools in large-scale and complex environments.  He discusses some of the specific challenges of network visibility in cloud infrastructures and suggests some practical ways to overcome these obstacles.

Eric suggests things organizations should consider when exploring different packet brokers or TAP vendors and outlines the management and scrutiny that needs to be applied to encrypted traffic to achieve in-depth visibility securely.

Finally, Eric talks about how TAPs and packet brokers can help in dynamic SDN environments with high traffic volumes. He emphasizes why they are important for organizations looking to implement zero-trust infrastructures – particularly environments with many walled gardens and lots of VLANs for IOT/IOTM devices and technologies.

Don’t miss this informative episode as Eric demystifies the complexities of network visibility and supplies some valuable guidance for navigating the challenges posed by evolving network landscapes.

Other episodes in the Secure Networks video/audio podcast series are available here. Or listen to the podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform.