Understanding Application Control
Application control is one of those cybersecurity practices that often gets overlooked, but it plays a major role in protecting your business. Think of it like having a bouncer at the door of your network. Only approved applications are allowed in, while the rest are kept out. This simple concept can stop a lot of threats before they even get a chance to cause trouble.
At Gray Area Consulting, we often explain application control to our clients using a simple analogy. Imagine your computer is like a restaurant kitchen. You only want trained chefs (approved applications) using the equipment. You definitely don’t want just anyone walking in and turning on the stove. Application control helps make sure only the right tools are used in your environment.
How Application Control Fits into the Essential Eight
The Essential Eight is a cybersecurity framework developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC). It outlines eight prioritized strategies that can prevent up to 85% of cyber intrusions. One of the first strategies on the list is application control, and for good reason. If you can control what software runs on your systems, you can block a lot of malicious activity before it starts.
Let’s break it down a bit more. The goal of application control is to prevent unauthorized or malicious applications from executing. This includes blocking software that could lead to ransomware, data theft, or other forms of cyberattacks. By enforcing a strict list of what can and cannot run, you reduce your attack surface significantly.
Types of Application Control
There are different ways to implement application control, but here are the most common methods:
- Whitelist-based control: Only approved applications can run. This is the most secure approach.
- Blacklist-based control: Blocks known harmful applications, but allows everything else.
- Rule-based control: Uses policies based on file paths, publishers, or digital signatures to decide what can run.
Whitelisting is the recommended approach under the Essential Eight. It may take more time upfront to configure, but it offers the strongest protection.
Steps to Implement Application Control
Setting up application control doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Inventory your software: Start by identifying all the applications currently used in your organization.
- Create a whitelist: Approve only those applications that are necessary and safe for your business.
- Use a reliable tool: Choose software that allows you to manage application control policies effectively. Many endpoint protection platforms offer this feature.
- Test and monitor: Before rolling out company-wide, test your policies in a controlled environment. Monitor for disruptions and adjust the list as needed.
- Educate your team: Let employees know why some applications may no longer be available and offer alternatives.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
One of the biggest challenges with application control is managing exceptions. Sometimes you’ll find a tool that’s needed but not yet on the approved list. This is where having a clear process for reviewing and approving new applications becomes important.
Another issue can be with updates. If your whitelist is too strict, even a simple software update might be blocked. To avoid this, make sure your policies include trusted publishers or digital signatures, which allow updates from known sources.
Why It Matters for Your Business
Cybersecurity threats are becoming more sophisticated every day. Attackers often use unapproved or hidden software to gain a foothold in networks. By implementing application control, you’re putting up a strong barrier that keeps your systems cleaner and safer.
At Gray Area Consulting, we help businesses of all sizes implement the Essential Eight, starting with application control. It’s one of the most effective steps you can take to strengthen your cybersecurity posture without breaking the bank.
Application control may not be the flashiest part of your IT strategy, but it is one of the most effective. It gives you control over what runs in your environment and helps prevent many types of attacks before they start. When done right, it becomes a foundational part of your business’s cybersecurity strategy.
If you’re ready to take the next step in securing your systems, reach out to our team at Gray Area Consulting. We’ll help you build a safer, smarter IT environment—one step at a time.
