SDP: Software-Defined Perimeter in Cybersecurity

Cloud Security
ByDecipherU Editorial
How is it pronounced?
ess-dee-pee

SDP stands for Software-Defined Perimeter. A software-defined perimeter creates an invisible boundary around applications by authenticating and authorizing users before granting network access. SDP follows a "deny all, allow by exception" model.

How SDP Is Used in Cybersecurity

Security teams deploy SDP to hide internal applications from unauthorized users and scanners. The controller verifies identity and device trust before opening a one-to-one connection to the target application. SDP architectures form the foundation of many ZTNA products.

Read the full glossary entry: Software-Defined Perimeter in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Roles That Work with SDP

Related Cybersecurity Acronyms

Frequently asked questions

What does SDP stand for?

SDP stands for Software-Defined Perimeter. A software-defined perimeter creates an invisible boundary around applications by authenticating and authorizing users before granting network access. SDP follows a "deny all, allow by exception" model.

What is SDP used for in cybersecurity?

Security teams deploy SDP to hide internal applications from unauthorized users and scanners. The controller verifies identity and device trust before opening a one-to-one connection to the target application. SDP architectures form the foundation of many ZTNA products.

Last verified: April 2026?Report an inaccuracy