Elevating Workplace Security with 5G: A New Era in Connectivity

In today's digital landscape, having a fast and reliable workplace connection is fundamental. However, as workplaces evolve with remote and hybrid models, ensuring secure access to company applications and systems is critical. Christer Widmark, a specialist in networks and security at Telenor Business, emphasizes the growing importance of security, especially in light of new EU regulations, such as NIS2 and DORA, which are designed to enhance cybersecurity and resilience in businesses and organizations. Many organizations have delayed addressing security issues, under the misconception that breaches will not occur within their walls. 'Now action is needed; it's time to press the button,' Widmark asserts, recognizing that proactive measures are essential in today's threat landscape. Telenor's network adheres to high security standards, fostering a safer environment for companies whose operations hinge on reliable connectivity. This presents significant opportunities, particularly with 5G technology, which offers enhanced flexibility compared to traditional networks like WiFi and fiber connections. Widmark notes that 5G can be viewed as a national data network, allowing operational responsibilities to be managed by the service provider while enabling tailored and controlled security integrations. By combining 5G services with cloud-based security solutions, such as Telenor SASE, companies can create secure access to the internet, cloud services, and their own data centers. The scalability and future-proof nature of such technologies mean new services and applications can be incorporated without the need for major network overhauls. However, maintaining an ongoing secure network is complex. Emerging security services need to be compatible and effectively implemented to ensure long-term security. Widmark points out that the task can feel overwhelming for many companies and their IT departments. 'No matter how hard we try, we will experience breaches, if we haven't already. It requires seeking innovative solutions based on current technology,' he advises. Positioned as a foundational security framework, 5G powers broad security solutions like SASE. This integrated approach combines networking and security through a cloud platform, featuring Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) to ensure that only authorized users and devices can interact with company systems. This shift means that security is user-centric, traveling with the employees rather than being tied to a physical office location. Telenor’s network serves beyond personal business needs; it plays an essential role in societal stability, designed to function effectively even during crises. 'The robustness of our network is not only beneficial during emergencies but also provides reliable everyday connectivity for businesses,' Widmark highlights. ### Understanding Telenor's Hybrid Security Solution Telenor’s 5G Hybrid Security Layer aims to serve as an alternative to traditional LAN/WiFi setups, offering easier management, scalability, and future-proof enhancements. Here's a closer look at some key components: 1. **Core Components**: The Telenor 5G network covers 99.9% of the population and 90% of the area, ensuring high coverage, low latency, and high capacity with built-in encryption and SIM-based authentication. - **Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)** allows secure access based not on location but on user identity and device integrity. - **Telenor SASE integration** centralizes firewall, encryption, and threat analysis into the cloud, simplifying security management. 2. **Operational Mechanics**: Users will connect through Telenor's 5G network instead of traditional corporate WiFi, with traffic routed through Telenor SASE for stringent security control. ZTNA facilitates verification, ensuring only trusted users and devices can gain access. 3. **Advantages**: - Reduces maintenance burden by eliminating complex WiFi infrastructure management. - High-level security is achieved through SIM-based authentication, Zero Trust principles, and encryption. - Flexibility allows seamless use anywhere 5G is available, which is ideal for hybrid working environments. - The platform is scalable and prepared to adapt to the IoT and new security requirements. ### Conclusion In summary, Telenor's 5G services, complemented by SASE, offer promising solutions to enhance workplace security while providing the required flexibility in a rapidly changing work environment. As companies navigate the new terrain of hybrid and remote work, these technologies enable them to protect their data and maintain productivity without compromising security integrity. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2