What I want to do: Setup a PC with two routers. One router is directly connected

Question

What I want to do:

Setup a PC with two routers. One router is directly connected to the internet, the other is connected to an offline workspace server. My client will be connected to both via a physical ethernet switchbox. The purpose of the server is to act as a database/webserver for various research. I would like to have the capacity to securely store my data away from my regularly used computer, but still have on-the-fly access when its needed.

My question:

What potential threats could be posed (by a remote attacker) to the offline server if the connecting device is temporarily not connected to an outside connection?

Possible Threats I see:

1. Any persistant spyware on the system would still be able to access anything recorded on my client machine and possibly see cached information about the server connection.

Other considerations:

2. Server and client will not have wifi/bluetooth hardware installed, only cable ethernet.

Explanation / Answer

Any malware you get on your workstation can then do whatever you could do to the server, including copying any files, saving credentials, etc. Additionally, while you're connected to the internet, the malware could essentially proxy attacker traffic to the server.

The setup you've described is arguably more secure if your client is not compromised. Your server is essentially segregated from the internet, so reduces its vulnerability to attack. Of course, you're also adding complexity: how will you install new software, patches, etc.? You'll need some way to get that traffic to/from the internet.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse W
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.