A network traffic analysis (NTA) examines and interprets the patterns and behaviors of data flowing through a network, providing invaluable insights that can help organizations identify and address a wide range of performance, security, and operational challenges.
Why network traffic analysis matters
Network traffic analysis allows users to uncover a wealth of information informing decision-making. By closely monitoring network traffic, organizations can understand their overall health, identify potential bottlenecks, and detect anomalies that could signal security threats or performance issues.
One of the primary purposes of analysis is to establish a baseline of normal network activity, allowing Security and IT teams to identify deviations that may indicate a problem. Teams generally look at the patterns and volumes of network traffic, establishing a dynamic baseline that accounts for changes due to increased and decreased application demand.
The network traffic analysis process
The network traffic analysis process typically involves several steps:
Establishing a baseline
The first step in effective network traffic analysis is establishing a baseline of normal network activity. IT and Security teams will closely monitor the network during periods of regular operation to understand the typical patterns of network traffic, including the volume, types of data, and flow of information across the network.
Anomaly identification
Once a baseline is established, the analysis process shifts to identifying anomalies or deviations from the norm, including sudden spikes in traffic, unusual data flows, or the presence of unfamiliar network protocols or applications. Anomalies can be an early warning sign of potential performance issues or security threats.
Anomaly analysis
When an anomaly is detected, the teams will analyze it in-depth to determine the underlying cause. This process may involve correlating network traffic data with other sources of information, such as server logs, security event logs, or application performance metrics, helping teams determine the anomaly’s significance.
Automated monitoring and detection
Organizations should employ automated monitoring and detection tools to manage the volume of network traffic. These solutions use advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to continuously analyze network traffic, identify anomalies, and alert the appropriate teams for further investigation and remediation.
Read also: Tools to automate validation
Best practices for effective network traffic analysis
To maximize the impact of network traffic analysis, organizations should consider the following best practices:
Dynamic baselining
As mentioned earlier, static baselines may not be sufficient in modern, dynamic network environments. Instead, teams should determine dynamic baselines that can adapt to changing network conditions, such as fluctuations in traffic patterns based on the time of day or day of the week.
Contextualizing data
Network traffic data alone is not enough to draw meaningful conclusions. By correlating network traffic data with other sources of information, such as endpoint logs, security event data, and application performance metrics, analysts can gain a more detailed understanding of the underlying issues.
Prioritizing traffic alerts
With the vast amount of network traffic data that organizations analyze, teams should prioritize the most important alerts to those that could constitute a potential threat or anomaly.
In the news
The network traffic analytics market, valued at $2.92 billion in 2023 and expected to grow to $3.32 billion in 2024, is driven by escalating cyber threats, remote work expansion, and increased demand for network security and performance optimization. Cyber threats like Distributed Denial-of-Service attacks and unauthorized access are rising, proving the beneficial role of network traffic analytics in providing real-time insights, anomaly detection, and proactive threat mitigation strategies. Major players such as Microsoft, Cisco, and Palo Alto Networks are developing advanced Network Detection and Response (NDR) platforms by enhancing encrypted traffic analysis and anomaly detection through advanced technologies like behavior analysis and machine learning.
FAQs
What is network traffic analysis in healthcare?
Network traffic analysis involves monitoring and analyzing data flowing through a healthcare organization's network to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential security threats. For healthcare organizations, it’s useful to maintain network performance, ensure HIPAA compliance, and detect cyber threats early.
Why is network traffic analysis important in healthcare?
Network traffic analysis in healthcare can safeguard sensitive patient information, ensure the integrity of medical systems, and protect against cyber threats such as data breaches and ransomware attacks.
How does network traffic analysis support HIPAA compliance?
Network traffic analysis aids healthcare organizations in fulfilling HIPAA requirements by monitoring data transmissions, identifying unauthorized access attempts, ensuring data encryption where necessary, and maintaining audit trails of network activities. It also keeps electronic protected health information (ePHI) secure and mitigates risks associated with data breaches.
Learn more: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
Farah Amod
