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Addressing configuration management in legacy network systems

Legacy network systems keep many enterprises running, but let's be honest—they can be a nightmare to secure. Misconfigurations, outdated protocols, security gaps, or even easy passwords make them easy targets for attackers. If upgrading isn't an option (for financial reasons or because you do not have the resources to refurbish the monolith that your legacy network has become), how do you lock them down?
That's where Site24x7 comes in. With continuous network configuration management, firmware vulnerability management, compliance insights, and network automation, Site24x7 helps you secure your legacy networks without any fuss.

Are your configurations making your network an easy target?   

Most legacy systems weren't built with today's cyberthreats in mind, making them particularly vulnerable to configuration flaws. Think about it—how many older devices on your network still use default passwords (admin, password, or 12345, to name a few)? Or outdated authentication methods? Attackers actively look for weak spots like these:
  • Default or weak credentials: Many older devices still use factory-set usernames and passwords that never got changed.
  • Overly permissive access controls: If users have more access than they need, attackers can easily move laterally.
  • Unpatched services and protocols: Running outdated protocols is like leaving your doors unlocked.
  • Hard-coded IP addresses and static routing: These make your network rigid and predictable, which is great for attackers but bad for security.
A configuration audit can help you uncover these risks. For instance, Site24x7 continuously scans network device configurations; detects misconfigurations due to unapproved, unauthorized changes; and provides easy ways to upload a backed-up or edited configuration version.

Strengthening authentication and access controls   

Still using single-factor authentication? That’s inviting trouble. Enforce multi-factor authentication where possible, and if your legacy devices can’t support it, enforce strong password policies. Shared credentials should be eliminated.
For access control, the principle of least privilege should be applied so that users and services have access only to what they absolutely need. Network segmentation and role-based access control can also help contain potential threats.

Why outdated protocols are a hacker's best friend   

Older networking protocols stick around because "they've always worked." But guess what? That doesn't mean they're secure. If you're still using any of these, it's time to upgrade:
  • Replace Telnet with SSH: Telnet transmits data in plaintext, making it easy for attackers to hack credentials. In contrast, Secure Shell (SSH) encrypts all device communication, protecting your networks against eavesdropping or unauthorized changes. With SSH, IT teams can securely manage network devices, enforce key-based authentication, and reduce the risk of credential theft. If your legacy systems still rely on Telnet, switching to SSH should be a top priority.
  • Deprecate SNMPv1 and SNMPv2c: These older versions of the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) lack proper encryption, allowing attackers to intercept and manipulate network device communications. It's better to upgrade to SNMPv3, which supports authentication and encryption.
  • Upgrade encryption standards: If you're still using MD5 or SHA-1, it's time to move on. AES-256 offers far better security.
Are you unsure where these outdated protocols are hiding? Site24x7's network traffic analyzer can help you pinpoint their usage and prioritize replacements.

Automating configuration management to reduce human error   

Manually tweaking network configurations? That's nothing but a fast track to misconfigurations. 
A good network configuration management tool should:
  • Track changes in real time.
  • Help compare configuration versions to identify discrepancies.
  • Allow configuration file edits and uploads to fix errors quickly.
  • Provide an option to create and execute configuration templates. Automation is the way to go—it minimizes human errors and helps maintain consistency across your systems.  
Additionally, it helps if it allows users to track firmware vulnerabilities and compliance. 
 

Continuous monitoring: The key to staying ahead of threats   

Even with all the best security measures in place, any system needs constant monitoring, and that is true for legacy systems as well. Site24x7's network configuration management capabilities can flag devices running unauthorized configurations, detect firmware vulnerabilities, and automate configuration changes. With automated alerts, IT teams can respond to threats before they turn into full-blown security incidents. 
Let's not forget compliance—standards like HIPAA require secure configurations. Regular audits and comparisons with data from the National Institute of Standards and Technology ensure adherence and minimize risk exposure.
You can even set up configuration templates that can be provided as a step in your organization's network automation guidelines. For instance, if the device status changes to critical, you can create a configuration template to configure the interface speed on multiple devices simultaneously. 

How to secure legacy network infrastructure 

While replacing legacy systems entirely may not be an option, tightening configurations is a practical way to reduce risk in the meantime.
Site24x7 plays a key role in this strategy by offering continuous monitoring, automated configuration updates, and real-time security insights. This helps IT teams maintain a secure, compliant network even with infrastructure that is past its prime. With proactive monitoring and strategic upgrades, even your oldest systems can stand up to modern threats. Contact us for a demo to see if our tool helps you manage your network configurations easily.