Defending our digital frontier

How SSC helps protect GC networks and safeguard Canadians’ access to online programs and services

In today’s ever-connected world, where Canadians increasingly access federal services online and public servants depend on digital tools to serve the nation, safeguarding the Government of Canada’s (GC) digital infrastructure has never been more important. Every day, increasing amounts of data pass between the Internet and GC networks—and standing guard at this digital gateway is Shared Services Canada (SSC).

The GC’s network perimeter is the boundary where government systems meet the vast world of the Internet and the cloud, and perimeter security serves as the first line of defence against cyber threats. It is here that SSC plays a vital role in protecting sensitive information, maintaining uninterrupted services and keeping operations secure.

The online front line

SSC’s perimeter security services work 24/7/365 to safeguard the GC’s network perimeter and ensure that threat actors do not disrupt the operations of GC departments and agencies. Whereas the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) focuses primarily on external perimeter security threats, SSC complements the Cyber Centre’s operations while also providing visibility into the internal networks, systems, business applications and digital services the department manages.

To help shield the GC from cyber attacks, SSC operates a complex network of high-tech security devices designed to monitor, filter and control incoming flows of Internet traffic. These tools act like a virtual fortress, scanning and analyzing data from around the globe to detect suspicious activity and stop threats before they can cause harm. But SSC doesn’t stop there. Using advanced analytics and data monitoring, the department carefully assesses anomalies in real time. If a cyber event is detected, SSC works closely with its security partners to launch swift investigations, neutralize threats and prevent future incidents.

In 2024 alone, SSC’s perimeter security operations blocked 135 billion cyber events, including more than 60 billion attacks on GC websites that could have impacted service delivery to Canadians. These astonishing numbers highlight just how essential SSC’s dedication is to protecting the GC’s digital infrastructure.

By diligently defending the GC’s digital frontier, SSC actively reduces the potential risks to sensitive data and IT assets and helps ensure the continuity of the GC’s operations.

In the long run, SSC’s perimeter security services will remain a key element in protecting the government’s networks and systems from cyber threats and in Delivering Digital Solutions Together for Canada.