Learn about Shadow IT

For network managers, just thinking about the unknown IT infrastructure or just not knowing the part of the network is enough to feel shudder. In Shadow IT networks, complex infrastructure can evolve from everyday practice, without the approval or knowledge of the IT department.

These infrastructures can range from a manageable hardware environment to complete ERP solutions that are used daily throughout the company - using official ERP system data, but IT departments. inaccessible.

This independent infrastructure often arises because of poor management or planning. If a department is not provided with the right solution for the job they are assigned or the head of the department does not understand the working needs from the centralized enterprise network, a situation may arise when the solutions are delivered. created without consulting the IT department. Like the creatures in Stranger Things, IT shadow networks can pose a myriad of risks.

1. Expose holes

This is probably the first big risk that comes to mind when thinking about unknown infrastructure on the network. Infrastructure established without the knowledge of the IT department often lacks the endpoint security required to ensure safety against network attacks. In some cases, the hardware may lack updated firmware and may not even have a firewall or antivirus software. This can leave the entire corporate network vulnerable.

2. Data loss

Shadow IT applications and systems are outside the IT department disaster recovery, backup, and recovery plan. This means that important business functions can function without any backup solution. In the event of a malfunction, such as a cyberattack resulting in data loss, corporate critical data can disappear completely without any chance of recovery. In the worst case, this can cause significant damage to company operations or serious financial consequences.

3. The data is not confidential

Even ignoring operational issues without full backup, the Shadow IT network may not provide an overview of potential data access. This means that outside service providers, contractors and even former employees may have access to sensitive data. Without an overview of powers, there is no way to predict who can access the data and what can be done with that data.

4. Inefficient operation

Shadow IT hardware and software are usually installed without the necessary testing. Although these systems can directly benefit individual installers' activities, untested systems can slow down or even stop other important systems on the network. Even Shadow IT networks running smoothly need maintenance and administration to ensure the system continues to run well in parallel with the official enterprise network.

5. Violation of rules to be followed

Creating Shadow IT processes outside the IT department's established protocol may violate company compliance rules. More seriously, introducing Shadow IT systems to specialized departments could be a fundamental breach of regulations, such as data protection laws. In these cases, regulatory violations can result in large fines and even shut down the company.

Thankfully, common Shadow IT issues can be managed if the IT department and senior management devise a suitable strategy. The first step in getting rid of Shadow IT systems is to locate them. Network visibility is the number one factor in detecting and removing 'hidden' networks. Even concealed parallel infrastructure can be detected, for example, by reading abnormal data traffic via a router or switch.

Finally, the IT department must come up with solutions to prevent the creation of parallel networks in the first place. With the right tools and enough visibility, IT departments can be well equipped to combat the threat of Shadow IT.