All virtual data, including emails, messages sent by applications, and pages accessed, is transmitted over the internet in small segments of information known as packets.
In addition to the information itself, these packets contain a metadata layer capable of identifying the source and content of the traffic, as well as other important details, which ensure that the data is safely forwarded to the proper destination.
The process of analyzing these packets is known as deep packet inspection, or simply DPI. In this article, you will understand in more detail how it works and the main benefits of DPI.
How does DPI work?
The deep packet inspection feature monitors some of the incoming and outgoing traffic from the equipment connected to the network. In this way, it is possible to filter this data by identifying network protocol deviations that indicate an attack or security policy violations.
Deep packet inspection is often used by businesses and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to detect and prevent cyber attacks and threats. Detailing the events provides valuable information, including the date of the occurrence, as well as the attacker and target. This way, administrators can be automatically notified in the event of incidents.
Read also: Web Filter: Why is content filtering so important?
Benefits of Deep Packet Inspection
Enhances network security
By analyzing the packets beyond the header, DPI is able to detect threats or attacks that may be hidden in the content. This makes it easier for an organization to identify and block malware, data leaks, and other security threats to its network and/or users.
Provides additional options for managing network traffic
Deep packet inspection rules can be programmed to look for specific types of data and identify packets according to their priority.
Works for outbound traffic as well
This can help prevent data leaks and identify where your data is being sent.
Predetermined rules define how DPI handles packets in real time
All package information, from the header to its contents, is verified and handled based on pre-programmed rules by your team. This way, your system can automatically classify, filter, and prioritize each packet without impacting your network speed.
Blockbit NGFW offers deep packet inspection and encrypted traffic capabilities, which enable the rapid creation of policies to allow, deny, or restrict access to applications or entire categories of applications.
With more than 5,000 clients, Blockbit is one of the leading manufacturers of cybersecurity solutions, empowering businesses to protect themselves against a wide range of threats, vulnerabilities, and cyberattacks, whether internal or external, generic or specific.