What is a secure router?

Understanding secure routers

Routing is the process by which data packets are transmitted across networks, ensuring efficient communication. Routers analyze the destination IP address within each packet and determine the most suitable path based on their routing table. This table contains various routes and metrics and is dynamically updated to adapt to network changes, facilitating seamless connectivity and optimal data transmission between different networks.

A secure router is an essential component of any network infrastructure, designed to protect data as it moves between devices and the internet. Secure routers are equipped with an integrated next-generation firewall (NGFW) to defend against cyberthreats, ensuring sensitive information stays confidential and the network functions efficiently.

An NGFW delivers network security with capabilities that go beyond a conventional, stateful firewall. While a traditional firewall generally provides stateful inspection of incoming and outgoing network traffic, a next-generation firewall includes extra features such as application awareness and control, integrated intrusion prevention, and cloud-delivered threat intelligence.

Key capabilities of secure routers

Network connectivity

Connectivity is crucial for secure routers, enabling seamless communication across devices and systems. High-speed, reliable connections support advanced security measures like real-time traffic monitoring and threat detection. This connectivity ensures consistent application of security protocols, allowing routers to adapt to evolving threats while maintaining optimal performance and protection.

Security

Secure routers boost protection with NGFWs and advanced features beyond encryption. They monitor traffic, acting as barriers between trusted and untrusted networks. Technologies like deep packet inspection and intrusion prevention systems block threats in real time. Automated updates and ecosystem integration ensure resilience, safeguarding network integrity and confidentiality.

Data routing

Secure routers utilize intelligent routing algorithms to efficiently manage network traffic, ensuring optimal speed and reliability. This capability supports robust security measures by segregating sensitive data and prioritizing traffic based on security policies. Effective routing helps manage network congestion, reduce latency, and protect against unauthorized access and evolving threats.

Traffic management

Traffic management is crucial for secure routers, enabling them to regulate data flow and prevent congestion. By prioritizing critical data and implementing quality of service (QoS) policies, secure routers maintain optimal performance and security. This capability ensures efficient bandwidth utilization, minimizes latency, and supports real-time threat detection and response.

SD-WAN

Secure routers utilize SD-WAN to enhance network management, security, and performance through centralized control and intelligent traffic optimization. SD-WAN integrates security features like encryption and threat detection directly into the network, ensuring data protection across WAN connections. Additionally, it facilitates seamless cloud integration, optimizing cloud application performance and secure access.

Local network creation

Secure routers facilitate local network creation by establishing secure, reliable connections among devices. This capability supports efficient communication, resource sharing, and implements security measures to protect internal data from external threats.

Future trends in secure routing

To address the growing sophistication of cyberthreats and the widespread distribution of workplaces, including IoT and hybrid environments, secure routers need to evolve. As security technologies advance, these routers must utilize AI and machine learning to improve real-time threat detection and integrate smoothly with broader security frameworks, such as secure access service edge (SASE).

Increasing volume and sophistication of cyberthreats

As cyberthreats become more advanced, secure routers need enhanced capabilities to detect and respond to complex attacks, ensuring robust protection against evolving security challenges.

Continued hyper-distribution of workplaces

Organizations are increasingly operating across various environments, including branches, campuses, AI data centers, public cloud services, SaaS apps, and the internet. Secure routers must accommodate this diverse network landscape, supporting hybrid work models and managing IoT devices.

Rapid evolution of router security technologies

Driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, routers are now capable of detecting and responding to threats in real time, significantly enhancing network security posture.

Impact of IoT proliferation on security needs

With the exponential growth in connected devices, secure routers must efficiently manage and protect a wide array of IoT endpoints, ensuring comprehensive security across all devices.

Branch as code

This approach integrates secure routing and wireless switching, allowing for automated configuration and management of network branches, improving operational efficiency and security.

Integration with secure service edge (SSE) for SASE

Secure routers are increasingly integrating with SSE solutions to provide a unified SASE framework, streamlining security and connectivity management.

Adoption of hybrid mesh firewall

This strategy involves using multiple firewalls to create a cohesive security mesh, reducing complexity, minimizing human error, and enhancing overall network protection.

How to choose a secure router

Vendor selection

Opt for a reputable vendor with global support to guarantee reliable assistance anywhere, aligning with networking trends like hyper-distribution and adaptability.

Performance evaluation

Test shortlisted routers within your own environment to evaluate real-world capabilities beyond data-sheet figures, emphasizing scalability.

Integration

Select routers that integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure, including switching and wireless, to maintain end-to-end security and zero trust.

NGFW collaboration

For larger organizations, evaluate how NGFWs can collaborate to enhance protection without adding complexity, supporting the hybrid mesh firewall approach.

SASE and SSE integration

Ensure routers are SASE-ready and capable of integrating secure service edge solutions for unified security management across SSE and routers.

Threat protection

Choose routers capable of extended detection and response (XDR) capabilities to identify and protect against multi-vector threats.

Infrastructure visibility

Make sure routers provide visibility across both owned and unowned infrastructure to proactively identify SaaS application issues.

API support for deployment

Select routers with API support for programmatic upgrades across locations, extending capabilities across network stacks, including switching, wireless, and secure routing for efficient deployment.

Summary

Organizations will need to choose secure routers to ensure they meet the demands of the future. Models like the Cisco 8000 Series Secure Routers provide connectivity and routing, along with in-line and out-of-band threat management. These advanced devices support post-quantum cryptography and seamlessly integrate with existing Cisco security solutions, ensuring a unified approach to network security. Secure routers play a crucial role in network protection, particularly as cyberattacks become more sophisticated. Investing in secure routers improves a business's security posture and cultivates trust with clients and stakeholders, demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding information in an increasingly digital environment.