Maintaining secure network connections is paramount when our lives merge with technology. However, striking an optimal balance between security and performance remains a complex task, especially in our fast-paced business environments.

At NordLayer, we understand this complexity, which is why we’re excited to introduce our VPN split tunneling feature—a cutting-edge solution that empowers organizations with granular control over their network traffic.

Split tunneling allows you to specify which traffic should traverse the secure VPN tunnel and which can access the internet directly. By “splitting” the traffic based on user-defined rules, you can tailor your network security approach to meet your organization’s unique needs.

Our VPN split tunneling functionality offers a tailored approach to traffic management, enabling you to selectively encrypt and route specific data streams while maintaining optimal speeds for non-sensitive traffic. This innovative feature provides a fresh approach to network security, paving the way for enhanced productivity, flexibility, and peace of mind.

How does VPN split tunneling work?

Traditional VPN connections route all internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel, providing robust security but potentially impacting performance for certain applications or services. VPN split tunneling breaks free from this one-size-fits-all approach by enabling you to specify which traffic should traverse the secure VPN tunnel and which can access the internet directly.

The process is remarkably straightforward: IT administrators define rules based on IP addresses, subnets, domain names, or even specific applications. By tailoring the rules to the organization’s needs, they can determine which network resources require the added protection of encrypted tunneling. This granular control ensures that mission-critical data associated with specific applications remains secure while other traffic, such as regular web browsing, flows uninterrupted. This optimization of network performance reduces potential bottlenecks, enhancing the user’s experience.

VPN split tunneling with NordLayer

At NordLayer, we’ve made it our mission to simplify the implementation of advanced networking solutions. Our VPN split tunneling feature easily integrates with our existing suite of products, providing a seamless and user-friendly experience.

To harness the power of VPN split tunneling, simply navigate to the “Network” section of the NordLayer Control Panel, select the desired server, and configure the split tunneling settings. Here, you can input the specific IP addresses or subnets you wish to route through our secure VPN servers, ensuring that only designated traffic utilizes the encrypted tunnel.

You also have the option to enable URL-based split tunneling directly from the Control Panel. Go to “Settings” and choose “Browser Extension Settings” to add specific domains you want to exclude from the encrypted VPN tunnel. This allows certain internet traffic to bypass encryption for optimized performance while maintaining security for other resources.

With our Core and Premium subscription plans, you gain access to this feature, unlocking new realms of network control and optimization. Premium subscribers can further leverage the Site-to-Site and Cloud Firewall capability, allowing secure access to private network subnets through the NordLayer gateway.

Differences between URL-based and IP-based split tunneling

While VPN split tunneling is not a novel concept, NordLayer’s implementation stands apart, offering a flexible split tunneling solution with both URL-based and IP-based filtering options. This dual approach addresses the needs of modern organizations by allowing customized network security configurations.

URL-based split tunneling

URL-based split tunneling for the Browser Extension allows you to create exceptions by excluding specific domains from the encrypted VPN tunnel. This method is ideal for scenarios where you want to bypass VPN encryption for certain domains to optimize the internet performance while keeping the security for organizational resources.

IP-based split tunneling

On the other hand, IP-based split tunneling, our newly released feature for desktop and mobile apps, takes a more targeted approach. Instead of excluding domains, it allows you to include specific IP addresses or subnets for encryption through the NordLayer VPN tunnel. It provides less sensitive web browsing traffic to bypass encryption while keeping the protective layer on through the use of NordLayer’s Secure Internet Access features, such as DNS Filtering by Category and ThreatBlock.

This granular control enables you to pinpoint the exact network resources that require the heightened security of encrypted tunneling, while all other traffic traverses the internet directly.

Together, these two methods create NordLayer’s comprehensive VPN split tunneling feature, providing unprecedented flexibility in tailoring your organization’s network security posture. By combining URL-based and IP-based split tunneling, NordLayer enables you to customize your network security posture according to your organization’s specific needs and use cases.

Benefits of VPN split tunneling

The advantages of implementing NordLayer’s VPN split tunneling are multifaceted, catering to the diverse needs of IT administrators, end-users, and the organization as a whole.

• Selective encryption for resource access: By encrypting only the traffic destined for specific resources, IT administrators maintain optimal performance for non-sensitive data streams, ensuring critical resources remain secure

• Increased flexibility for network access security: IT admins can choose whom to grant access to specific resources

• Better VPN and internet performance: VPN split tunneling helps when users experience latency or disruptions by optimizing traffic flows

• Optimized bandwidth usage: Some traffic bypasses the corporate network, reducing VPN congestion and improving overall performance

• Enabling access to restricted sites: Certain websites like financial services or government portals may block VPN connections, but VPN split tunneling allows making exceptions while keeping other traffic secure

For IT administrators

Enhanced control over network traffic allows tailored routing policies based on organizational priorities. Additionally, streamlined management from the Control Panel provides the flexibility to configure the feature to suit the organization’s unique requirements.

For end-users

Improved productivity stems from encrypting only selected sensitive traffic, reducing potential latency and performance bottlenecks. VPN split tunneling also increases flexibility and freedom to access organizational resources or specific domains or applications without compromising speed or user experience.

For organizations

Optimized network efficiency results from selectively routing traffic through the VPN tunnel, reducing congestion and optimizing bandwidth usage. Furthermore, elevated security and risk mitigation are attained by directing critical internal systems through a VPN while allowing web browsing traffic to bypass encryption.

Should you use NordLayer’s VPN split tunneling?

The answer to this question lies in your organization’s specific needs and priorities. If you’re seeking a solution that strikes the perfect balance between robust security measures and uninterrupted performance, NordLayer’s VPN split tunneling is an invaluable asset.

This feature is particularly beneficial for organizations with remote or hybrid workforces, where employees require seamless access to both corporate resources and the open internet. By selectively encrypting traffic to internal systems and applications, you can maintain a high level of security without sacrificing productivity or user experience.

Additionally, VPN split tunneling can be a game-changer for businesses operating in regulated industries or those with strict compliance requirements. By granularly controlling the flow of sensitive data, you can ensure adherence to industry-specific regulations while optimizing network performance.

Take control of your network traffic with NordLayer

In the realm of cybersecurity, where threats evolve and network demands surge, mastering the delicate balance between security and performance becomes paramount. NordLayer’s VPN split tunneling feature empowers organizations to take control of their network traffic, ensuring sensitive data remains secure while maintaining optimal speeds for non-sensitive activities.

Embrace the power of VPN split tunneling and experience a new level of network control, flexibility, and peace of mind. Don’t settle for compromise—choose NordLayer’s VPN split tunneling to level up your network security and performance. Reach out to our team and discover how this innovative solution can transform the way you approach network management.

Together, let’s redefine what’s possible in the world of secure networking.

As cyber threats grow more advanced and frequent, protecting sensitive data and ensuring secure remote access are top priorities. Reports show that cyber-attacks are increasing in complexity and number, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down.

IT administrators face challenges such as budget constraints, the need for easy-to-use solutions, scalable systems, and reliable customer support. To address these issues, many companies offer solutions that replace or improve traditional VPNs with more secure options.

This article compares various remote access solutions, highlighting their features, strengths, and drawbacks, with a focus on ease of use, scalability, and customer satisfaction.

Disclaimer: This article is based on third-party reviews and open-source online information accessed between June 6 and 10, 2024. NordLayer is not responsible for data accuracy, as competitor information is subject to change. The competitor information was gathered through manual research, including feature comparisons and product analysis.

Twingate overview

Twingate is a remote access solution that focuses on a Zero Trust model. It allows organizations to secure access to private apps, sensitive data, and environments both on-premise and in the cloud. Twingate aims to replace traditional VPNs with a simpler and more secure alternative that fits today’s work-from-anywhere needs.

Twingate capabilities

1. Provides Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) tools to authenticate every user and device before granting network access.

2. Supports clients on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows.

3. Connects up to 100 local networks, depending on the plan.

Strengths of Twingate

1. Offers ease of use through a simple setup.

2. Ensures security by providing encrypted user access.

3. Provides flexibility by allowing detailed control over access management and network routes.

Limitations of Twingate

1. Needs better organization and more features in the admin interface for improved usability.

2. Offers a limited set of features and integrations that may not meet advanced needs.

3. Lower plans lack support; only enterprise offers priority.

4. Focuses on ZTNA; may not cover long-term, complex needs.

5. Full tunnel support is still under development, which may limit functionality.

6. Does not offer separate VPN subnets.

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from VPN review sites such as Gartner, Capterra, and G2, along with user feedback from Reddit and TrustRadius, accessed on June 6, 2024.

Now, let’s look at Twingate alternatives.

1. NordLayer

Overview of NordLayer

NordLayer is a network protection tool developed by Nord Security, the creators of NordVPN. It helps businesses work safely and flexibly by using Secure Service Edge (SSE) and Zero-Trust frameworks. It integrates with Azure AD, Okta, Google Cloud, OneLogin, and Amazon AWS.

NordLayer capabilities

NordLayer secures network connections for businesses. It creates safe connections to the internet, company networks, and cloud resources, supporting compliance and flexible working.

1. Zero Trust Network Access. Provides secure access by verifying each user and device.

2. Secure internet access. Protects employees who travel by securing remote access through public Wi-Fi. It blocks threats, allows geo-specific content, and ensures privacy.

3. Network and resource access management. Manages access to company resources, connects remote devices, and supports hybrid resources.

4. Achieving compliance. Monitors VPN activity, manages user access and encrypts data from untrusted networks.

5. Integration with identity providers. Works seamlessly with existing identity provider systems.

6. Scalability. Supports unlimited users and adapts to different business needs.

Strengths of NordLayer

The NordLayer website states that the solution is easy to use, offers powerful security features, and works efficiently.

1. Modern network security. Developed with NordVPN’s standards for today’s businesses.

2. Easy integration. Installs quickly with existing systems without extra hardware, and scales easily.

3. Robust SSE framework. Combines ZTNA, SWG, and FWaaS into a powerful cloud-native service.

4. High server speeds. Provides strong connections with fast loading speeds, up to 1Gbps.

5. Quantum-safe encryption. Uses AES-256 and Chacha20 technologies for top-level security.

6. Seamless integration. Works with identity providers like Google Workspace, Okta, Entra ID (Azure AD), JumpCloud, and OneLogin.

7. 24/7 support. Offers round-the-clock assistance and dedicated account management.

8. Unique technologies. Includes NordLynx, browser extension, and Smart Remote Access for efficiency.

9. Diverse VPN protocols. Supports OpenVPN (UDP & TCP) and NordLynx for various needs.

10. Money-back guarantee. Offers a 14-day money-back promise.

Uniqueness of NordLayer

NordLayer stands out with unique elements tailored to IT admins who prioritize ease of use and speed. Here’s what makes NordLayer different:

1. Browser extension. Secures web access easily.

2. NordLynx VPN protocol. Offers the fastest VPN protocol made by NordLayer.

3. ThreatBlock. Blocks malicious websites and threats.

Limitations of NordLayer

1. Lacks API access for custom integrations.

2. Does not integrate with SIEM solutions.

3. Requires a minimum purchase of 5 licenses.

NordLayer provides a comprehensive remote access solution with secure access and flexible network management. It is a strong competitor among Twingate alternatives for securing a remote workforce.

NordLayer reviews

NordLayer receives positive reviews for its Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solutions, Secure Web Gateway (SWG), and Security Service Edge (SSE) capabilities like Cloud Firewall (FWaaS).

NordLayer is rated 4 out of 5 on TechRadar, 4.5 out of 5 on Gartner, which is the most authoritative source for technology reviews and insights, and 4.3 out of 5 on G2, a popular platform for user reviews and ratings of software products.

NordLayer pricing

NordLayer offers several pricing plans. All plans support server speeds up to 1 Gbps, Shared Gateway locations in over 30 countries, and automatic user logout after a set time. Features like ThreatBlock,  Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Always On VPN, and Single Sign-On (SSO) are also available for all plans. You can choose from VPN protocols like NordLynx, OpenVPN (UDP), and OpenVPN (TCP). There is also a 60% discount for nonprofit organizations.

NordLayer requires at least 5 users per organization.

2. Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81)

Overview of Harmony SASE

Harmony SASE aims to simplify secure network, cloud, and application access for today’s mobile workforce. Its mission is to transform traditional network security into a unified approach based on the SASE framework.

Harmony SASE capabilities

Harmony SASE provides a variety of capabilities that are important for modern network security and access.

1. Easy setup and configuration

2. Reliable customer support

3. Solid performance and speed

4. Comprehensive access auditing

Strengths of Harmony SASE

Customers value Harmony SASE for its user-friendly nature.

1. Simple and adaptable solution

2. Quick deployment

Limitations of Harmony SASE

Users have expressed concerns about various limitations of Harmony SASE.

1. Premium feature availability

2. Customer support data access

3. Limited country options

4. Higher cost

Disclaimer: This product review is based on information from VPN review sites such as Gartner, Capterra, and Cybernews, along with customer feedback on these platforms, accessed on June 10, 2024.

3. Tailscale

Overview of Tailscale

Tailscale is a modern VPN service that creates secure private networks using the open-source WireGuard protocol. It forms a distributed mesh network, allowing direct communication between devices.

Tailscale capabilities

Tailscale’s main feature is its mesh network, which allows direct communication between devices.

1. Mesh network for direct communication between devices

2. Lightweight encrypted connections created by WireGuard.

3. Magic DNS provides easy-to-remember domain names for devices in the network.

4. Access control lists (ACLs) centralize policy management

Strengths of Tailscale

Customers find Tailscale to be a user-friendly solution that offers several benefits.

1. Ease of use

2. Scalability

3. Cost-effective options

Limitations of Tailscale

Users have expressed concerns about issues such as data safety and the Tailscale feature set.

1. Privacy concerns arise because it logs certain device metadata and is based in Canada, a Five Eyes country.

2. Limited global reach lacks a global network of servers for geo-unblocking content.

3. Dependency on third-party authentication requires external identity providers for authentication.

4. Lack of full VPN features includes missing features like public IP masking and comprehensive geo-unblocking.

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from the Tailscale website; VPN review sites such as Capterra, TechRadar, and vpnMentor; along with user feedback from Reddit, accessed on June 6, 2024.

Choosing the right solution depends on your company’s size and needs. Each Twingate competitor offers different features and capabilities. NordLayer, Harmony SASE, and Tailscale provide secure access for a remote workforce, supporting Zero-Trust Network Access and robust security policies.

Evaluating these Twingate alternatives will help your business ensure secure access, support zero-trust principles, and maintain strong security policies for your remote workforce. Check out the Decision Maker’s Kit, a free tool from the NordLayer team, which helps you build a strategy for selecting the best solution for your organization and guides you through the process from start to finish.

CyberCare is a beacon of customer support and stands tall with its roots firmly planted in customer experience excellence. With offices in Lithuania and Ukraine, the company’s workforce of 400 employees embraces a hybrid model. CyberCare succeeds in a culture of quality and flexibility, serving millions worldwide.

Darius Dagys, Head of Business Development, pilots the organization’s journey of supporting diverse cybersecurity products by leading external partnerships and automation internally. Operating with client data and handling user requests, the company understands the importance of employing the right tools to make work and security effortless and efficient.

The challenge

On a mission to secure client data effectively

For CyberCare, the security of customer data is non-negotiable. As a company that prides itself on providing superior customer support, it became evident that an enhanced security framework was imperative.

The quest wasn’t sparked by a singular incident but by a continuous commitment to uphold the highest standards of data security and privacy.

CyberCare combines various technologies and solutions to achieve the best results. However, when they found themselves in need of a network security tool, the team looked for something to ease their daily tasks, maintenance, and configuration to integrate into the existing technology stack smoothly.

Simple integration and high-security standards led the lookout for a new tool. The challenge was unique as the customer support software vendor secured part of the client data. For complete protection, CyberCare needed to ensure that access to the network is secure from its side as well.

The solution

A simple and effective way to add another security layer

The pivot from previous VPN tools to NordLayer wasn’t a leap in the dark but a calculated step toward fortified security. NordLayer, with its robust VPN services, offered the perfect armor to shield the valuable data entrusted by clients.

Eliminating the complexity and creating shortcuts in user management and network controls streamlined the processes of the CyberCare security team.

The most important thing is that NordLayer complemented already existing tools in use, such as SSO integration and the customer support solution Zendesk.

Why choose NordLayer?

The choice was clear and devoid of lengthy deliberations. NordLayer promised simplicity, efficacy, and unwavering security.

It stood out as CyberCare needed to navigate cyberspace, ensuring data remains inviolable confidently.

One of the criteria for selecting NordLayer was its adherence to security standards. Aligning with compliance requirements gives a stronger foundation to a company like CyberCare to be sure all is well on all fronts.

Strategic integration of NordLayer and Zendesk to efficiently protect customer data

Who? Dual synergy

CyberCare employs both internal policies and external tools to manage sensitive data. They emphasize selecting partners like Zendesk, known for its commitment to security and ensuring compliance with the latest standards.

Why? Strategic alignment

Zendesk was chosen for its status as a leading CRM platform, ease of use, and significant investment in security. This partnership was based on the need for a CRM that matched CyberCare’s security requirements and business operations.

How? The process

CyberCare leverages NordLayer to ensure that the login process to Zendesk is encrypted and secure. With NordLayer, they assign fixed IPs, meaning Zendesk can be accessed securely via these IPs. This setup guarantees that both the traffic within Zendesk and the access to it are encrypted and safeguarded.

What? The usage

The integration is seamless for employees who log into Zendesk through NordLayer without navigating complex security measures. This not only simplifies the process but also enforces a high level of security by default.

The outcome

An intuitive tool you can forget about

The integration of NordLayer into CyberCare’s operations marked a new dawn. With NordLayer’s intuitive design and features like 2FA, SSO, and static IPs, CyberCare not only safeguarded its data but also streamlined access and management processes.

As for the tool implementation, NordLayer didn’t require long preparations and complicated setups. Simple, from start to finish, the deployment and solution adoption in the team was as smooth as it gets.

The simplicity of NordLayer’s VPN solution meant that employees could focus on their tasks without the distraction of complex security protocols.

Pro cybersecurity tips

Have you ever thought about your top cybersecurity hygiene actions you perform daily? It’s a good question to ask yourself for a self-check because maybe today is the day you start acting a bit more secure than yesterday.

If you don’t know where to start or want to compare your habits with other professionals, here are Darius Dagys, the Head of Business Development and AI at CyberCare, the top favorite tips everyone should consider.

In essence, the collaboration between NordLayer and Zendesk within CyberCare’s operations showcases a forward-thinking approach to data security, emphasizing ease of use without compromising on stringent security measures. This strategic choice not only aligns with their internal policies but also reinforces their commitment to protecting sensitive customer information.

Transparency, speed, and high levels of trust make blockchains an increasingly popular option. Those benefits are well-recognized among forward-thinking businesses. However, blockchain security issues are much less prominent, and that’s a problem. Read on to discover common blockchain risks and use our best practices to secure every link in the chain. 

Key takeaways

• Blockchains are decentralized ledgers consisting of blocks with unique cryptographic hashes. The blocks form an immutable chain that every user can inspect. This transparency enhances trust and integrity in information transmission.

• Blockchain security is coming into focus as the technology becomes mainstream. Threats include man-in-the-middle, Sybil, and 51 attack types that exploit insecure nodes. Blockchains are vulnerable to traditional phishing and endpoint vulnerabilities. Smart contracts and poorly designed routing systems also put blockchains at risk.

• Mitigate threats by following blockchain security best practices. Users should implement robust encryption and Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions. Secure development practices, multi-signature wallets, fail-safes, regular audits, and Zero Trust Security solutions mitigate blockchain security risks.

Blockchains are decentralized digital ledgers that record transactions between different devices or individuals. Chains consist of “blocks”. Each block has a unique cryptographic hash. Subsequent blocks create hashes based on previous blocks, generating a chain where each entry is connected but unique.

Blockchains are tough to change after creating blocks. This immutability makes them a good fit for verifying information transmission. Participants can see information about block generation, making the process extremely transparent.

Analysts project the global blockchain market will grow to $40 billion by 2025, and use cases will multiply. Secure information exchange, digital identification, and tracing financial transactions are just a few areas emerging blockchain technologies are disrupting.

However, as with all new digital technologies, decentralized ledgers potentially pose critical security risks. Hackers routinely use untraceable crypto wallets to mount ransomware attacks. Consensus protocols that establish ledger entries are vulnerable to attack. Poorly designed smart contracts can also put businesses at risk.

This article will take a closer look at blockchain security issues. We will explore how blockchains work and discuss how you can safely capitalize on blockchain technology.

Introducing the main types of blockchain

Blockchains are defined by whether they use public or private keys to verify transactions.

Public blockchain networks are accessible to everyone. Cryptocurrencies like Ethereum or BitCoin fall into this category. Public systems create public and private keys for blockchain participants. The public key enables users to engage transparently with other currency holders, while the private key protects their digital wallets.

Public blockchain technology is decentralized, with no single controlling entity. Decentralization promotes trust among participants and makes the blockchain more resilient. Distributed ledgers are hard to tamper with, as changes need approval from the user community. They also enable access for customers or larger user groups.

Private keys are limited to a defined community of users. Each authorized user receives a private key. Digital signatures based on this key verify interactions with the blockchain ledger.

Private blockchain security ensures control and confidentiality for the blockchain owner, making it suitable for many enterprise uses. However, private blockchains can be vulnerable to insider attacks. Attackers can also exploit centralized chains, using the blockchain controller as an attack vector.

Exploring blockchain security issues

Users often think blockchains guarded by encryption are safer than traditional information transfer systems. Ledgers supposedly make tampering difficult. In theory, changing data blocks without authorization is unlikely without a user’s private keys.

However, there are questions about this reputation for security. Blockchains can put sensitive data at risk, resulting in significant financial losses or data exposure. Companies adopting private or public blockchain solutions should thoroughly assess their security vulnerabilities.

Phishing attacks

Blockchains are as vulnerable to phishers as traditional networks. In this case, phishing attacks target the private keys used by blockchain participants. Cunning attackers persuade key holders to hand over the passwords used as ciphers for private key hashes. When they get the key, hackers can make transactions, extract information, and ruin the integrity of blockchain ledgers.

Solution: The best remedy for phishing attacks is improving employee security training. Include blockchain security issues in cybersecurity training. Every ledger user should know the risks of sharing their private keys.

Routing attacks

Blockchains rely on consensus mechanisms to establish the legitimacy of transactions. However, attackers can use routing attacks to intercept consensus requests and isolate blockchain nodes. Isolated nodes can’t make transactions or ledger changes. Attackers can slow down business processes and launch damaging 51% of attacks (please see below).

Solution: Organizations can cut the risk of routing attacks by protecting blockchain communications with strong encryption and using network monitoring tools to identify suspicious traffic patterns.

Sybil attacks

Sybil attacks create many fake identities or “dishonest nodes.” Dishonest nodes seem authentic to blockchain users (“honest nodes”). However, dishonest nodes enable attackers to control network traffic. They can then force honest nodes to act against their interests.

Sybil attacks enable attackers to leech sensitive information about blockchain users (IP data, for example). Malicious actors can also block new transactions, effectively holding users to ransom.

Solution: Fortunately, Sybil attacks are usually easy to detect. They tend to affect blockchain operators with weak validation and monitoring systems. Ensure you have robust measures in place to authenticate every node.

51% attacks

In 51% of attacks, malicious actors control over half of a blockchain’s computational power. Control matters because attackers can then dominate how the ledger functions.

The most common method involves creating fake “pools” and enticing legitimate users to join. The attacker separates this pool from the original ledger, creating a second parallel blockchain. Attackers then leverage their pool to add blocks faster than users on the original chain.

Problems arise when hackers reintegrate the fake blockchain with the original. If standard rules apply, the largest blockchain becomes the default version. Rules may reverse transactions on the legitimate ledger, eroding user trust.

During a 51% attack, the blockchain is no longer fully decentralized or transparent. A single user can change ledger entries and block additions and potentially force double transactions, leeching money from currency users. For example, in 2020, Ethereum Classic suffered three 51% attacks. Each attack cost currency holders $9 million through double transactions.

Solution: Organizations can cut the risk of 51% attacks by switching from proof-of-work (PoW) consensus algorithms to proof-of-stake (PoS) algorithms. Slowing down transaction confirmations can also make attacks prohibitively expensive.

Man-in-the-middle attacks

Hackers use man-in-the-middle attacks to place themselves between users and digital wallets. Attackers posing as legitimate nodes can intercept transmissions and change their destination or contents. After that, thieves can divert cryptocurrency to their wallets. Because hackers recycle transmission data to the legitimate sender, the diversion may be very hard to detect.

Man-in-the-middle techniques can also steal private keys, giving attackers unlimited access to a user’s blockchain assets. Both attack methods compromise information stored on the blockchain and undermine trust.

Solution: Robust encryption and consensus mechanisms usually mitigate MITM attacks. Blockchain users should adopt secure protocols and verify all transaction details independently.

Endpoint vulnerabilities

Some blockchain security issues start close to home. Users may store their private keys locally and fail to apply protective measures. Stolen smartphones and compromised apps can divulge authentication information. Third-party vendors can expose blockchain keys, putting client assets at risk.

Solution: Do everything possible to prevent encryption key theft. Encrypt devices that store keys and implement rigorous physical security.

Smart contract vulnerabilities

Smart contracts are becoming increasingly popular but can also be risky. Developers build these self-executing contracts into blockchain operations. When two users meet pre-defined conditions, the contract processes their transaction. There is no need for an intermediary to verify credentials. Transactions should be faster and more secure.

However, that’s not always the case. The code base of smart contracts could contain flaws, creating room for malicious exploits. For instance, in 2021, hackers leveraged code flaws in smart contracts to extract over $600 million from Poly Network.

Solution: The problem with smart contracts often lies in the code. Apply code audits and verify every contract before use. Follow secure development practices to ensure high-quality outputs and use trusted code libraries when building contracts.

Blockchain security best practices

The list above may be concerning, and it should be. Blockchain usage is generally safe, but users must be aware of common blockchain security issues to mitigate critical risks. If not, one of the attacks we’ve discussed will eventually materialize.

Help is at hand. Follow the best practices below to benefit from blockchain technology and ensure secure transactions.

Apply robust encryption to blockchain networks

The first blockchain security fundamental is obvious. Always encrypt private keys used to access and change blockchain network nodes.

Use AES-256 (or even more secure standards) to generate blockchain hashes. Remember: every link in the chain should be unique and verifiable. Meeting these conditions is only possible with virtually undecipherable encryption.

Additionally, use encrypted digital signatures to verify blockchain network transactions. Signatures based on the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) should deliver sufficient security.

Implement Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions

Controlling access to your blockchain network is all-important. IAM solutions define who can use private keys and change the blockchain ledger. Unauthorized users are blocked at the source, making it harder to launch insider attacks.

IAM also makes phishing more complex. Hackers may obtain user credentials. However, IAM systems can detect suspicious logins via contextual verification. Just having a password is not enough to manipulate blockchains.

Combining IAM with robust multi-factor authentication is also advisable. MFA dramatically cuts risks linked to endpoint vulnerabilities.

Adopt secure development practices

Secure development practices ensure the security of apps, contracts, and algorithms. Code reviews check for vulnerabilities before blockchains go live. Measures like bug bounties and penetration testing assess existing blockchain systems. Security teams can detect problems before they enable malicious access.

Use multi-signature wallets for blockchain transactions

One of the biggest blockchain security problems is verifying user requests. Inadequate verification can lead to crippling Sybil or 51 attack methods, ruining the integrity of blockchain systems. Multi-signature (or multi-sig) wallets solve this problem.

These digital wallets require more than one user to approve blockchain network operations, essentially a form of separation of duties. Single users cannot make critical changes or divert funds. Every change requires third-party sign-off.

Multi-sig wallets also have benefits for eCommerce users of blockchain networks. The third party can arbitrate disputes, smoothing problematic transactions.

Put fail-safes in place to deal with security incidents

Fail-safes ensure blockchain security vulnerabilities won’t cause catastrophic failures. Or at least they make disasters less likely.

For example, circuit breakers and emergency stops can kick in when unexpected conditions arise in smart contract transactions. Companies can use secure backups to hold encryption keys and implement secure key recovery systems.

At a more general level, incident recovery policies are crucial. Employees should understand how to restore blockchain networks when emergencies arise. Response plans may include upgradeability measures to fix vulnerabilities without compromising blockchain availability.

Regularly audit blockchain networks

Networks based on blockchain technology are like any other systems. Users must constantly revisit their security measures to detect emerging vulnerabilities. Security teams should also collect user data to monitor transactions.

Audits should include code reviews. Reviews cover apps, consensus mechanisms, encryption, and transfer protocols. Code audits within the software development lifecycle enable timely changes and continuous vulnerability management.

You can use penetration testing to simulate real-world attacks and assess functional weaknesses. Cover the attack types listed above and note any possible weak points.

Finally, audit network security issues that govern access to blockchain networks. For instance, consider device security, password hygiene, and access management. Training is also important, as one careless employee can open the way to 51 attack methods.

Solve blockchain security issues with NordLayer

Blockchain networks now occupy niches throughout the business world. Distributed ledgers are making transactions easier to trace and more trustworthy. They enable secure global payments, manage logistics flows, and record processes like real estate title management.

However, it’s easy to oversell the security benefits of blockchains. As we have seen, blockchain security is an urgent concern for companies adopting the new technology. Hackers can dominate networks, force transactions, steal keys, and destroy the integrity of ledgers. Users need to respond quickly.

NordLayer offers user-friendly solutions that enhance blockchain security by ensuring that only authorized people have access to your blockchain environments.

Our Zero Trust Security solutions, such as IP allowlisting, Cloud Firewall, and MFA, block access for all unauthorized network users and allow the distribution of access rights to blockchain networks. Only users with appropriate credentials can access blockchains, and everyone else remains locked out.

Encrypted VPN tunnels protect private keys, reducing the risk of man-in-the-middle attacks. Device posture checks if connected devices comply with device security rules, promoting endpoint security. ThreatBlock also restricts access to malicious blockchain websites.