What is required for an entity that accepts e-commerce payment card transactions and has the database server and web server in the same secured DMZ network segment?

For an entity accepting e-commerce payment card transactions, the best practice for securing sensitive information is to ensure that the database server—where cardholder data is stored—does not reside within the same DMZ as the web server. By moving the database server out of the DMZ and into the more secure internal network, the risk of exposure to external threats is significantly reduced.

The DMZ, or Demilitarized Zone, is designed to be accessed from the public internet, which inherently presents a higher risk of cyber attacks. Keeping the database server in the DMZ could allow potential attackers a pathway to sensitive cardholder data. By placing it instead in a secured internal environment, along with proper access controls, monitoring, and firewalls, the data is better protected.

This approach complies with the PCI Data Security Standards, which emphasize the need to protect cardholder data by minimizing exposure to unauthorized access and reducing the attack surface. Therefore, placing the database server in the internal network enhances security by isolating it from direct internet accessibility.