The ICT Security Department (DBICT) protects PCSS, as well as the POZMAN and PIONIER networks, by performing internal infrastructure protection tasks and ensuring security against external threats. This protection is implemented, among others, through Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), which are characterized by high performance, reliability, and High Availability. They feature a built-in Intrusion Detection and Prevention (IDP) system that utilizes real-time databases of the latest security threats provided by the system manufacturer. The NGFWs used allow for the separation of both network resources (through advanced QoS – Quality of Service mechanisms) and hardware/logical resources using virtual instances, which guarantees proper network isolation between infrastructure segments.
DBICT provides internal security services within PCSS, such as firewall system configuration, internal security audits, security assessments in research and development projects, and the configuration of physical access control systems. As part of the PIONIER CERT team’s work, DBICT also protects the infrastructure of the PIONIER national broadband research network. Since 2002, PIONIER CERT has been listed by Trusted Introducer as the second Polish CERT/CSIRT team chronologically, after CERT Polska. Poznan Supercomputing and Networking Center also provides security services on the commercial market.
The ICT Security Department spreads awareness among PCSS staff by preparing internal training, warning all employees about phishing campaigns, and informing system administrators of the latest threats. It operates within the PIONIER-CERT group for the security needs of the PIONIER national broadband research network. DBICT employees played a significant role in the implementation of the Integrated Management System at PCSS, based on ISO 27001:2017 (information security) and ISO 9001:2015 (quality management) standards. The implementation process, carried out through the great effort of the entire organization, lasted nearly 3 years and concluded with PCSS joining the ranks of certified units in May 2020.
PCSS raises awareness of cybersecurity issues among a much broader group of users. Following the principle that “as the twig is bent, so grows the tree,” it begins by sharing knowledge with youth, maintaining established cooperation with, among others, the Communication School Complex in Poznan. Representatives of PCSS DBICT also prepare and conduct lectures for Poznan University of Technology students on 5G network security as part of the Modern Computer Networks course.