Why do you need to observe encrypted traffic?
In today's interconnected digital world, securing your network has become more critical than ever. With the increasing amount of sensitive information transmitted online, it's essential to have robust security measures in place. One such measure is DPI SSL (Deep Packet Inspection of Secure Socket Layer). In this article, we'll break down what DPI SSL is, how it safeguards your network, and the risks of not using it.
What is DPI SSL?
DPI SSL is a technology used to inspect and secure encrypted internet traffic. When you visit a secure website (those starting with https://) or use any other secure service or application with SSL/TLS, your data is encrypted to protect it from eavesdroppers. While encryption is essential for your privacy, it can also be used by malicious actors to hide their activities.
DPI SSL is like an X-ray machine for your network traffic. It decrypts and examines the data passing through your network in real-time, even if it's encrypted. This process allows your Firewall to identify potential threats, malware, and other suspicious activities that might otherwise go unnoticed.
How Does DPI SSL Protect Your Network?
1. Traffic Intercept: When a user on the network initiates an SSL/TLS encrypted connection (e.g., HTTPS), the traffic is intercepted by the firewall or security appliance. This means that instead of the encrypted traffic flowing directly from the client to the server, it passes through the firewall device.
2. SSL Decryption: The intercepted encrypted traffic is decrypted by the firewall appliance using a SSL/TLS certificate that is issued by the firewall itself. This certificate acts as a middleman, allowing the firewall to decrypt and inspect the traffic without the end user or the server being aware of it.
3. Traffic Inspection:
Once the traffic is decrypted, the firewall can apply various security and content filtering policies to the traffic.
This includes:
- Content Filtering: firewall can inspect the decrypted traffic for specific keywords, patterns, or known malware signatures. If it detects any malicious content or policy violations, it can take appropriate actions like blocking or logging the traffic.
- Intrusion Prevention: The firewall can apply intrusion prevention techniques to the decrypted traffic, identifying and blocking any potential threats or attacks.
- Antivirus Scanning: The decrypted traffic can also be scanned for viruses and other malware. If any malicious files or attachments are detected, they can be quarantined or blocked.
- Application Control:
Firewall can identify the specific applications or services being used within the encrypted connection. This allows administrators to control access to specific applications or services based on policies.
4. Re-Encryption: After the traffic has been inspected and any necessary actions have been taken, the firewall re-encrypts the traffic before sending it to its intended destination. It uses the original server's SSL/TLS certificate to do this, so the end server receives the traffic as if it had been encrypted from the client.
5. Delivery to Destination: Finally, the re-encrypted traffic is sent to the destination server, and the server responds in the usual way. The entire process is transparent to both the client and the server, as they are unaware that their communication was intercepted and decrypted by the firewall.
The Risks of Not Using DPI SSL
Now that we've covered how DPI SSL protects your network, let's explore the risks associated with not using it:
- Hidden Threats: Without DPI SSL, encrypted threats can pass through your network undetected. Malicious software, phishing attempts, and other cyberattacks can go unnoticed, leading to data breaches and significant damage.
- Data Leakage: Sensitive information, such as customer data or financial records, may be exposed if not properly inspected. This can result in legal and financial consequences.
- Compliance Violations: Failing to inspect encrypted traffic can lead to non-compliance with industry regulations and legal requirements. This can result in hefty fines and reputational damage.
- Loss of Control: Without DPI SSL, you lose control over what enters and exits your network. This lack of visibility can make it challenging to manage and secure your network effectively.
- Productivity Issues: Inappropriate or non-work-related content can impact employee productivity and lead to bandwidth congestion. DPI SSL helps you filter out such content.
DPI-SSL is an essential feature for ensuring the security of encrypted traffic within a network.
However, it's important to configure and manage it properly.
Neglecting DPI SSL can leave your network vulnerable to hidden dangers, compliance violations, and productivity issues.
To protect your digital assets and maintain a safe and efficient network, consider implementing DPI SSL as part of your cybersecurity strategy.
Author: Alan Kluba
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Switching IT providers can feel daunting, with concerns about downtime, miscommunication, and disruptions. At Infinity IT, we eliminate these worries with a structured, client-focused onboarding process designed for a smooth and stress-free transition. Why Choose Infinity IT? ✔ Proven Process – Our refined onboarding blueprint ensures a seamless transition. ✔ Comprehensive Assessment – We evaluate your IT environment to identify risks, document assets, and establish performance baselines. ✔ Clear Roadmap – Actionable recommendations prioritised by urgency and impact. ✔ Risk Management – Meticulous planning to mitigate potential disruptions. ✔ Stakeholder Engagement – Involving key team members to address business-specific needs. ✔ Transparent Communication – Regular updates and clear documentation every step of the way. Client Success: Community Credit Union "Infinity IT made our transition seamless with impeccable organisation, minimal disruption, and outstanding communication. A truly reliable IT partner!" Andrew Higgs, CTO
Countdown to Windows 11: Why Upgrading now is a must before time runs out... As the technological landscape continues to evolve, so must our tools. The impending end of Windows 10's lifecycle marks a significant turning point, especially as 70% of computers worldwide apparently use Windows 10: it's time to embrace Windows 11. With only one year left to upgrade, it's crucial to understand why making the move now is essential for both individuals and businesses. Let’s explore the compelling reasons for upgrading to Windows 11 sooner rather than later. 1. Smooth Transition: Avoid Last-Minute Rush Waiting until the last minute to upgrade can lead to several complications: Increased Demand: As the End-of-Life date approaches, demand for upgrades and technical support will surge, potentially leading to longer wait times and higher costs. Hasty Upgrades: Rushing the upgrade process increases the likelihood of errors, data loss, and compatibility issues. Limited Time for Adjustment : Upgrading now gives you ample time to familiarise yourself with Windows 11, ensuring a smooth transition. By upgrading early, you can avoid the last-minute rush and ensure a seamless, well-planned transition. 2. Enhanced Security: Protecting Your Digital Realm Security should always be a top priority, and Windows 11 is built with advanced security features that surpass those of Windows 10. Here’s why upgrading now is vital: Hardware-Based Security: Windows 11 leverages TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) and Secure Boot, providing robust protection against firmware and hardware attacks. I ntegrated Threat Protection: Enhanced malware protection, including cloud-based security and Microsoft Defender Antivirus, offers comprehensive defence mechanisms. Zero Trust Model: Windows 11 adopts a zero-trust security approach, ensuring stricter access controls and data protection measures. By upgrading now, you can immediately benefit from these advanced security features, safeguarding your data and devices against emerging threats. 3. Continued Support and Updates: Stay Current and Supported Microsoft will cease to provide updates, security patches, or technical support for Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. This lack of support means: No Security Patches: Without regular updates, your system becomes vulnerable to new security threats. No Feature Updates: You'll miss out on new features and improvements that enhance user experience and productivity. No Technical Support : Troubleshooting issues without official support can be challenging and time-consuming. Upgrading to Windows 11 now ensures you remain in the loop with ongoing updates and support, keeping your system secure and up to date. 4. Performance and Productivity Boost: Work Smarter, Not Harder Windows 11 is designed to improve both performance and productivity. Here’s how upgrading now can transform your computing experience: Faster Performance : Optimisations in Windows 11 result in quicker boot times, faster app launches, and improved power management. Enhanced Multitasking: Features like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops streamline multitasking, allowing you to organise your work more efficiently. Integrated Tools: Seamless integration with Microsoft Teams and other productivity tools fosters better collaboration and communication. Upgrading now allows you to start benefiting from these enhancements immediately, enabling you to work more effectively and efficiently. 5. Compatibility with New Technologies: Future-Proof Your System As new software and hardware are developed with Windows 11 in mind, staying on an outdated OS can lead to compatibility issues. By upgrading now, you ensure: Software Compatibility: Access to the latest applications and software updates designed for Windows 11. Hardware Compatibility: Compatibility with new hardware technologies and peripherals, ensuring optimal performance and functionality. Future-proofing your system by upgrading now minimises the risk of running into compatibility issues down the line. Conclusion: Embrace the Future Today The impending end of Windows 10 signals a crucial moment: it’s time to embrace Windows 11. With only one year left to upgrade, the clock is ticking. Upgrading now offers numerous benefits, from enhanced security and ongoing support to improved performance and future-proof compatibility. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Start planning your upgrade today and step confidently into the future with Windows 11. Your digital realm deserves the best—upgrade now and ensure it remains secure, efficient, and ready for whatever comes next.
You Still Need to Back Up Your Microsoft 365 Data Multiple organisations have settled on cloud-based Software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions from the Microsoft 365 (M365) family of products. This is understandable as M365 provides rich applications and services that are easy to commission and onboard users without any on-premise infrastructure management. Do you need to back up Microsoft 365 data, such as the emails in Office 365? It’s a question that’s often asked. And it’s a question that’s frequently answered in contradictory ways. Let’s not bury the lede — the answer, as far as we are concerned, is an emphatic yes. It’s your data in M365, and you are responsible for it. Microsoft delivers some protections via SLAs, site mirroring, and retention policies. But these are not backups in the traditional sense, and if you have to produce data for regulators at some point or for any other reason, you may discover they’re not good enough. One aspect of M365 and other cloud services from Microsoft that often surprises people is that having your data in M365 does not remove your responsibility for backing it up. Microsoft operates its cloud-based services on a shared responsibility model, and for data stored in its SaaS solutions like M365, the responsibility for data backup and integrity resides with the organisations using M365. Image 1 shows a table of responsibilities taken from Microsoft’s Shared responsibility in the cloud document on the Microsoft Learn site.
Storm Éowyn is bringing more than just wind and rain – it’s also shaking up how we work. With Met Éireann issuing a red alert and many businesses shifting to remote work today. Remote access issues can be a major roadblock when you need to stay productive and it’s essential to stay connected, secure, and productive during these extreme conditions. We are here to support you in navigating challenges like these, ensuring your IT infrastructure is ready to handle anything – even a storm! Here are 4 Key Things to Check TODAY Before Working Remotely During the Storm:  ✅ Power Backup: Sudden outages can happen. Ensure you have a fully charged phone/laptop, access to backup power sources, and offline access to critical files. ✅ Cloud Accessibility: Ensure your team has seamless access to critical systems and files through a secure cloud solution – no delays, no excuses. ✅ Communication Tools: Stay in sync with your team using platforms like Microsoft Teams or Zoom. Have a backup channel in case one goes down. ✅ IT Support Readiness: Know how to reach your IT provider (that's where we come in!) for quick troubleshooting in case of unexpected disruptions. As we adapt to Storm Éowyn, it’s a good reminder of the importance of a robust IT strategy. Whether it’s disaster recovery, remote work setup, or cybersecurity, we’re here to help you weather any storm – literally and figuratively. 📞 Need support during the storm? .Click here to reach out to our team today as there will be no onsite services during the red weather warning for the safety of our staff.
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Enterprise Ireland Cyber Review Grant – Your Complete Guide In today’s fast-paced digital world, cybersecurity is more important than ever. With the rise of cyber threats—especially those targeting smaller businesses—it’s crucial to protect your company’s data and reputation. To help businesses like yours, Enterprise Ireland (EI) has introduced the Cyber Review Grant. This grant not only helps you assess your current cybersecurity status but also provides a roadmap for improvement. But what does this mean for you? This blog breaks down the process and explains why now is the time to act. What is the Enterprise Ireland Cyber Review Grant? The Cyber Review Grant is a new initiative designed to help Irish companies evaluate their cybersecurity readiness and create a plan to improve it. The grant covers 80% of the fixed project cost (€3,000), making it an affordable and essential step in protecting your business from cyberattacks. Who is it For? This grant is available to Irish companies that are clients of Enterprise Ireland. If your business is engaged in exporting and leveraging digital tools, this grant can help secure your digital assets and ensure that your company meets the highest cybersecurity standards. With cyber threats growing in sophistication, this grant offers you a chance to strengthen your defences. Why Should You Apply? Cybersecurity isn’t just a technology issue—it’s a business imperative. Attacks can disrupt your operations, damage your reputation, and compromise customer trust. The Cyber Review Grant allows you to: Identify vulnerabilities in your current systems Improve your defences by following expert recommendations Boost your international credibility with a secure and compliant setup Future-proof your business against evolving cyber threats With advancements in AI making businesses more vulnerable to cyberattacks, now is the time to take action. The grant offers a structured, expert-led process that’s tailored to your company’s specific needs. What Do You Get? When you apply for the Cyber Review Grant, you gain access to certified cybersecurity experts, who will: Interview your key personnel to understand your current practices Review your technology and digital processes, both onsite and in the cloud Provide a detailed report identifying vulnerabilities and offering actionable steps to improve your cybersecurity measures This report, based on the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) framework, will cover essential areas such as software updates, data backups, access management, and more. Each recommendation will have a clear, measurable action plan with designated owners within your company, ensuring you can address these vulnerabilities over the next 6 to 12 months. How Much Does It Cover? The total cost of the cybersecurity review is €3,000, but with Enterprise Ireland funding 80%, your business will only pay €600. This small investment could save your company from costly cyberattacks and help you comply with industry regulations. The Application Process Applying for the Cyber Review Grant is quick and straightforward. Here’s how it works: Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your company is an Enterprise Ireland client and has an assigned Development Advisor. Find a Certified Consultant: Infinity IT is a certified consultant and can guide you through the entire process. Submit Your Application: Apply online, naming your chosen consultant (Infinity IT). Receive Your Offer: Once your application is approved, you will receive a letter of offer. Complete the Review: Work with your consultant to carry out the review and receive a comprehensive report. Claim the Grant: After paying your consultant, submit the required documents to claim back 80% of the project cost. Who is Eligible? The grant is open to Enterprise Ireland client companies. Only one grant is available per company, so it’s important to act quickly as the funding is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. What’s Not Covered? Certain activities, such as routine software upgrades, physical security measures, or general management consultancy, are not eligible for the grant. The focus is on cybersecurity and protecting your company’s digital assets. Why Choose Infinity IT? At Infinity IT, we are experts in Information Technology, providing Managed IT Support Solutions and Services both in the Cloud and On-Premise to a diverse base of customers in Ireland and beyond. Our technical expertise with leading technologies ensures we deliver a superior level of customer service, helping you implement best practice IT strategies. We deploy and manage technologies that mitigate risks and improve productivity, allowing you to focus on running your business. Choosing Infinity IT as your consultant means you’re partnering with a trusted Enterprise Ireland-certified cybersecurity expert who understands the grant process inside and out. We will ensure the review is comprehensive and actionable, tailored to your company’s specific needs. Ready to Apply? If you’re ready to strengthen your cybersecurity defences and apply for the Cyber Review Grant, don’t wait—funds are limited, and demand is high. Contact Shane Casey at shane.casey@infinityit.ie today to start your application and secure your company’s future.
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We cannot express enough gratitude to Infinity IT for their exceptional Disaster Recovery efforts following the unforeseen flooding of our Credit Union premises. The flooding posed a significant threat to our daily operations and the safety of our members' financial assets. However, thanks to the meticulous disaster recovery planning and swift execution by Infinity IT, we were able to navigate through the crisis seamlessly. Their emphasis on defining Recovery Point Objectives (RPO) and Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) proved invaluable, allowing us to maintain data integrity and resume operations swiftly. Infinity IT demonstrated unparalleled efficiency by successfully transitioning our critical systems to our designated Disaster Recovery site within 24 hours. This remarkable feat not only minimised downtime but also reassured our members of the unwavering reliability of our services. We recommend Infinity IT to any Credit Union seeking reliable, comprehensive, and effective disaster recovery solutions. John Fenton, Manager, Midleton Credit Union
We have worked with Infinity IT for a number of years now and I would highly recommend them. The team at Infinity IT have worked with us to upgrade our IT systems; significantly improving our IT security and business continuity plans in that time. They have also been able to identify cost saving measures for us in terms of our email and licensing packages. The Infinity IT support team are quick to resolve any queries for us through their dedicated support desk and the monthly security reports provide great oversight and reassurance that our IT systems are secure and efficient. Liz Hogan, Clinic Manager, Wellington Eye Clinic
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