Should jump box servers be consigned to history?

Abstract

Jump boxes have been utilised for decades to protect and isolate critical systems. The main purpose of the jump box is to act as a security guard at the entrance to the infrastructure. It checks the credentials of users approaching the gate, ensuring that only authorised users can log into the network environment and from there can safely get access to any of the other servers or boxes. Jump boxes have been used for decades to protect and isolate critical systems. However, even though they don't store sensitive data, they raise serious security concerns. With the growing popularity of hybrid ecosystems, where enterprises are transitioning to cloud-based infrastructure and incorporating third-party services and/or contractors, jump boxes become harder to implement effectively. A software-defined perimeter approach will not only solve jump box concerns, but will also strengthen security and compliance, explains Chris Steffen of Cyxtera.