Deep Packet Inspection: A Novel Solution to Modern Cyberthreats and Malware Attacks

Key takeaways:

• Introduction
• Reasons for the growing popularity of DPI tools
• Innovative product launches by major companies

The rising pace of Internet penetration across the globe has been the major driver behind the increasing digitalization of various services. Furthermore, the launch of 5G technology in almost all countries around the world has led to further expansion of online platforms and solutions. While this shift has improved the overall living standards of the common masses, certain problems have emerged in the last few years, which if not addressed, are expected to threaten the security and privacy of the people. The growing threats of cyber fraud and malware attacks in one of the major issues faced by the global community today. To deal with this challenge, IT and telecommunication companies have devised advanced solutions such as deep packet inspection systems that aid in monitoring the safety of the data that is being transmitted or received over a network.

Role of deep packet inspection in the security of telecommunication operations

Deep packet inspection (DPI) is a sophisticated technology for analyzing network traffic, allowing for an in-depth examination of the data being transmitted between users. For this, the DPI runs on certain rules and parameters that are programmed by the user, the internet service provider, or the administrator in advance. Through this examination, DPI identifies, classifies, and locates based on the details of the data packet. Due to its ability to accurately scrutinize the details of the network, DPI is widely used for various applications including software program baselining, troubleshooting, and system performance analysis.

In the last few years, the adoption of DPI tools has increased significantly. The deep packet inspection industry, which was valued at $9.9 billion in 2023, is estimated to amass a revenue of $25.4 billion by 2033, rising at a CAGR of 9.6% during 2024-2033. The main reason behind the growing popularity of these tools is the surge in cybersecurity threats that put the integrity of digital public infrastructure at risk. For instance, in today’s world, with the expanding scope of social media, e-commerce platforms, and online banking services, the role of DPI tools has become even more important.

Apart from detecting obvious threats, DPI solutions are able to detect attacks that are hidden within the data, thus providing comprehensive security coverage. For this, these tools generally rely on certain techniques that boost the overall performance, productivity, and overall health of the network infrastructure. One such advanced mechanism is pattern or signature matching which helps the administrator or internet service provider to analyze the data packets and match its pattern to a list of previously identified threats. Similarly, protocol anomaly is another methodology used by DPI tools to secure the perimeter of the network from incoming attacks. Unlike pattern detection, this technique involves restricting all access to the network system and permitting only those data packets that have been explicitly authorized by the administrator.

Increasing investments in DPI tools improving industry revenue

In the last few years, several leading IT companies have invested in R&D activities to design advanced DPI solutions that cater to the evolving demands of the ICT domain. Some businesses have even launched innovative products to expand their operations globally and increase their footprint in the sector.

For instance, in April 2024, NEC Corporation, a Japanese IT corporation, announced the launch of a new User Plane Function (UPF) solution for telecom enterprises to ease their data analysis processes over 5G networks. The in-built data packet inspection technology helps the administrator to visualize the quality of the communications and collect data on network traffic seamlessly. Furthermore, the flexible analysis and multi-platform compatibility offered by this product make it ideal for 5G and 6G applications. As per the company’s press release, this new UPF system has been developed keeping in mind the increasing adoption of IoT-enabled devices in various smart cities and Industry 4.0 initiatives. The product addresses the basic requirement of low latency, stable throughput, and high reliability needed for the efficient functioning of IoT-powered gadgets, thus facilitating a smooth transition toward this emerging technology.

In September 2024, Mobileum, a major analytics solutions provider, unveiled Roaming DNA, a DPI-powered roaming solution designed to provide network analytics for its customers traveling globally. The technology has been developed especially for frequent travelers who require high-performance and personalized roaming services. The main distinguishing feature of this product is that it offers telecom operators with granular QoS/QoE insights to enhance overall customer care and manage network issues proactively.

Winding up, the deep packet inspection industry is anticipated to increase its revenue share in the coming period due to the rising threats of cyber fraud and malware attacks. In addition, the launch of innovative products by leading companies in the sector is predicted to create numerous profitable opportunities in the landscape.

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