What is a data diode and how does it work?

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Some networks must stay completely separate for security reasons, but information still needs to be shared between the networks. A secure one-way data transfer solution makes this possible, learn what a data diode is and how it can be used in this article.

Introduction to a data diode

It’s no secret that organisations have physical assets that require protection. In the same way, valuable or even classified information kept on sensitive networks also needs to be safeguarded. One way of doing so is by isolating the networks, making them inaccessible to all other external networks.

However, there are times when you want and need to transfer information between these networks, regardless of their sensitive nature. How do you as an operator within critical infrastructure send information without risking the integrity of the network, and how do you as a member of the defense industry collect sensitive information while maintaining the confidentiality of the network? In both cases a high assurance solution is needed, e.g. a data diode.

Questions we cover in this article

What is a data diode?
How does a data diode work?
Who needs a data diode?
What are the different types of data diodes?

What is a data diode?

A data diode is hardware device that is often called a “unidirectional security gateway”. It is placed between two networks with different levels of security and controls the flow of information. A data diode is a cybersecurity solution that makes sure that information can only travel in one direction. Since the security properties of the data diode are based on hardware and optical fiber, it can be shown that it is physically impossible for data to be transported in the opposite direction. Because security is not based on software, there are no vulnerabilities in the form of software bugs, nor can it be attacked by malicious code. Hardware-based security means that you can show that data diodes have high assurance.

How does a data diode work?

An optical fiber with a sender on one side and a receiver on the other ensures that data can only be transferred in a forward direction, and never in reverse. This means no two-way transfer, preventing leakage and manipulation from taking place.

If a data diode is directed out from the high security network towards a network with a lower security level, data can be transferred while the network stays protected. By transferring information via a data diode, you are guaranteed that no one can use the same connection in the opposite direction to reach the secure network and manipulate its environment.

A data diode can also be directed in towards the secure network. In these cases, it’s most likely that you want to collect information of some kind from another network. The security issue, however, is how to collect the information and at the same time make sure that there is no leakage of sensitive data from your network through this channel. A data diode will ensure the confidentiality of the network by preventing any form of leakage from happening.

Guaranteeing a unidirectional flow of information means sensitive information can be transferred without jeopardising the integrity or the confidentiality of the network, depending on how the data diode is used. Another benefit lies in the technology of a data diode. Being hardware and not software based, means it can’t be attacked by malicious code and intrusion is thereby prevented. A data diode allows you to transfer the data without putting the security of the network at risk.

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Who needs a data diode?

All organisations that process and share information such as those in infrastructure, authorities, industries, and defence require robust protection. All these sectors rely on digital systems and manage sensitive data that must be shared securely with authorised persons only.

Thanks to its hardware-based design and optical fiber connection, a data diode allows information to flow out while physically blocking anything from coming back into the network. This makes it a highly effective solution for ensuring that sensitive data can be shared safely while preventing cyberattacks, keeping systems secure, and making sure organisations maintain compliance with security standards.

Different types of data diodes

FAQ

Who needs a data diode?

Organisations that handle sensitive information, such as those in defence, authorities, infrastructure, and industry.

What are the various types of data diodes?

Advenica offers a broad portfolio of data diodes including DD1000i, DD1000A, DD1G, DD500E, DDSFX-10G, Data Diode Engine and Data Diode Services.

How does a data diode work?

A data diode allows data to move in only one direction using optical fiber with a sender and receiver. This prevents two-way communication, stopping cyberattacks, data leakage, and manipulation. Because it is hardware-based, it cannot be compromised by malicious software, helping protect the network’s confidentiality and integrity.

How much does a data diode cost?

There are different types of data diodes with different functions, which also means that the costs can vary. Something that also can affect the price is if the data diode is certified.

Advenica’s data diodes have a unique certification, N3, in Sweden – Advenica are the only ones with this certification level in Sweden. N3 is a certification issued by the Swedish Armed Forces.

Advenica’s data diodes DD1000A and DD1000i are approved by the Swedish Armed Forces at component assurance level N3, which e.g. handles data up to and including level KVALIFICERAT HEMLIGT/TOP SECRET according to the Swedish Armed Forces’ “Krav på säkerhetsfunktioner” (KSF). So a higher cost for a data diode with a high certification will also give you much higher security.

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