by Holly Landis / June 26, 2024
Databases become complex quickly and protecting the data they hold poses a challenge for many IT teams. As both a mix of technological systems and practical steps, database security must be done correctly to protect critical data from threats to your system and your business.
Database security is the overall system of tools and processes used to secure and protect sensitive, confidential data from both intentional threats and accidental misuse.
Not only are database security solutions designed to protect the data held within, they also maintain the database management system itself, along with the applications, systems, servers, and other infrastructure connected to the database.
For most IT teams, dedicated database security software is the easiest way to track activity within every database and ensure that only permitted users can access the most sensitive data. Essential features like encryption and activity monitoring are typically built into these systems, making database management and security more efficient for businesses of any size.
Experiencing a data breach can spell catastrophe for organizations, particularly when databases have been accessed, and sensitive company information is put at risk. Some of the possible consequences of a database breach are:
In many cases, the most common threats to database security come from misuse of the system. This can lead to unauthorized users gaining access in a number of ways:
To ensure the highest level of protection, database security should include all areas of the system, from the database itself to the hardware it’s connected to.
Databases can be located either on the business’s property in physical servers or digitally in the cloud. Regardless of where the information lives, you should always confirm that the servers are in a secure, climate-controlled space. If you aren’t managing the server yourself, always choose a provider who can guarantee these protections.
Not every user should have access to everything in the database. In fact, you should operate on a minimum number approach—who actually needs to have access to this information? Permission levels should be set on a per-user basis and continually reviewed for ongoing security. Limit network access as much as possible. It may be worth opening a second network specifically for guests if you have customers or vendors who use your network frequently.
All data should be protected using the highest level of encryption possible, both while it’s being stored on the server and when it’s being used across the network. This goes a long way toward protecting private and confidential information from anyone who isn’t authorized to access it.
Any applications or software that are connected to the database should also be periodically updated with the latest security features. Vulnerabilities in these systems allow hackers access to the database, even if the database itself isn’t the original source of compromise.
No matter the type of database you have, always have backups of its information on a separate network and server. This is a proactive step in the event of lost database access, either accidentally or due to a targeted attack. Ransomware attacks, whereby hackers try to extort businesses for money by withholding their data, are common. A separate copy of all your data on an equally-secured server is non-negotiable.
Managing passwords and permissions is essential for database security and is typically handled by dedicated security staff or IT teams. This often involves using access control lists. Organizations can enhance password management by implementing measures like dual or multi-factor authentication and setting time limits for credential input. Although keeping access and permissions lists up-to-date can be time-consuming, it is crucial for security.
By placing sensitive databases in locations that are less accessible or known only to authorized personnel, you reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Additionally, database isolation can provide protection against zero-day attacks by limiting the exposure of sensitive data to potential threats.
Database auditing provides visibility into who accesses databases, their actions, and timing. Instead of manually reading log files, companies often use dedicated auditing solutions that aggregate data from various sources, offer centralized event summaries, and deliver real-time alerts for suspicious activity.
A database firewall is designed to monitor and analyze database traffic to detect attacks specific to databases. It helps identify and respond to unusual or suspicious activity and can be deployed in both on-premise and cloud-based environments to safeguard against potential threats.
Network firewalls, including specialized web application firewalls (WAFs), are critical for blocking unauthorized access and protecting database applications against specific threats like SQL injections. Their features, like continuous monitoring and updates, coupled with tools like Data SecurityPosture Management (DSPM), help identify and fix vulnerabilities in real time.
For businesses of all sizes, database security software assures you that the data stored within the database is used properly and is secure from any unauthorized usage. Some solutions are on-premises or through the cloud, and some have hybrid platforms to help businesses choose the best level of security for their data.
To be included in the database security software category, platforms must:
Below are the top five database security software solutions from G2’s Spring 2024 Grid Report. Some reviews may be edited for clarity.
Oracle Data Safe is a unified control center for all Oracle databases, where you can safely manage your sensitive information. From one simple system, you can access user security settings, monitor overall security controls, and address compliance issues.
“Well, say goodbye to unwanted or unauthorized data access and malware that can hinder any organization's performance. Oracle Data Safe gives users control over user activity, monitoring, and how they log in – and in this case, data protection is ensured.”
“The processing here makes the user wait a longer time than expected.”
As a data security platform, IBM Security Guardian Insights allows enterprises to address data security and compliance needs quickly and easily. The software automates the compliance process with policy enforcement measures while centralizing data from multiple cloud databases. This consolidated view is the best way to review critical data and your current security levels.
“I like IBM Security Guardium insights because of its capability to protect data, threat detection and prevention, compliance management, and risk management. And moreover, it’s a user-friendly platform.”
“It is very tough to deploy in a big environment. I also dislike that it does not provide good documentation for the deployments.”
The Oracle Audit and Database Firewall provides database protection for both Oracle and non-Oracle databases. The system is built to detect and block threats as they become known, improve compliance reporting, and consolidate audit data from the databases it manages.
“The Database Firewall monitors activity block/permits search query language (SQL) activity on the network. Easier way to collect audit data and create the audit report. Good variety of formats to use for reports.”
“Sometimes a little slow and difficult to integrate with other outside applications.”
The McAfee Data Center Security Suite for Databases offers a robust, industry-leading data security system, with minimal impact on hardware and network resources. The tool works across physical, virtual, and hybrid environments, keeping your data safe wherever it’s stored. As an enterprise system, McAfee allows for scaling as your business grows.
“The software is easy to install and has many features that will detect threats and vulnerabilities in the DB system. The reporting feature is quite useful too. Moreover, the tech support from McAfee is also quite commendable.”
“The customization was not easy. Also cost-wise, it’s expensive.”
McAfee Vulnerability Manager for Databases helps businesses discover the databases within the network, determines if the latest patches have been applied, and tests for common weaknesses that could expose your confidential data to unauthorized users.
“You get comprehensive and up-to-date information about the database and reports for each update, version level, and modified privileges. It uses a variety of algorithms to detect threats and vulnerabilities and automatically discovers any database breach. It helps to detect where exactly the risks are and how to minimize and resolve the risks. It also detects weak passwords for database access, etc. It has almost all the capabilities that a vulnerabilities manager should have, including user access, privileges, and authentications.”
“Custom scan profiles can be improved more; scanners should be less consuming”
Protect your most valuable asset—your business data—with a comprehensive database security system. Don’t wait until a threat arrives; take proactive steps to safeguard your data now.
Make your devices as secure as your databases with endpoint protection platforms that offer all-in-one security for computers and servers.
Holly Landis is a freelance writer for G2. She also specializes in being a digital marketing consultant, focusing in on-page SEO, copy, and content writing. She works with SMEs and creative businesses that want to be more intentional with their digital strategies and grow organically on channels they own. As a Brit now living in the USA, you'll usually find her drinking copious amounts of tea in her cherished Anne Boleyn mug while watching endless reruns of Parks and Rec.
