Strategies to Maintain Network Security

Network security is the process of instituting data and network safety measures to preserve the integrity, privacy, and availability of the network's computer systems. It encompasses a wide range of technologies, equipment, and processes, and employs both software and hardware-based solutions. Every firm, regardless of its industry or infrastructure size, needs extensive network security strategies to safeguard itself from the myriad of cyber threats that exist in this modern world.

Layers of Network Security

Physical Network Security       

Physical network security measures are aimed at restricting unauthorized individuals from physically accessing the workplace and connected devices, including firewalls and routers. Physical barriers, ID verification, and biometric verification are just a few of the safeguards in place to address such concerns.

Technical Network Security

Technical security measures address network devices and data stored and in transit. Technical security must safeguard information and systems from unauthorized individuals and harmful staff activity.

Administrative Network Security

Administrative security measures are concerned with security protocols and user behavior compliance processes. It involves user authentication, permission levels, and modifying the current infrastructure.

Network Security Best Practices 

Conduct a network audit.

A vital step in securing a network is to conduct a comprehensive audit to uncover flaws in system structure and architecture. A network audit identifies and evaluates:

    • The existence of security flaws
    • Unused or superfluous applications
    • Allow access to ports
    • Hazardous traffic monitoring technology and anti-virus/anti-malware software
    • Backups

Third-party vendor evaluations should also be performed to discover further security weaknesses.

Install network and security equipment

All firms need a firewall and a web application firewall (WAF) to safeguard their information and defend their website from different online-based assaults. Numerous other systems, including intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), security information and event management (SIEM), and data loss prevention (DLP) software, should help the organization monitor traffic and maintain a maximum level of security.

Turn off the file-sharing functions

Even though it seems like a practical way to exchange data, it's best to limit file sharing to a small number of separate private servers. File sharing must be deactivated on all devices used by workers.

Upgrade your antivirus and anti-malware programs

Companies buy computers with the newest antivirus and anti-malware software but neglect to update them with new guidelines and upgrades. One may be confident that the machine is operating an antivirus with the most recent bug patches and security upgrades by making sure antivirus and anti-malware are up to date.

Protect your routers

Simply pressing the network router's reset button might cause a security incident or breach. Therefore, it is crucial to think about relocating routers to a safer area, such as a secured room or closet. Additionally, CCTV and video surveillance systems can be put in the server or network room. The router should also be set up to change the default network usernames and passwords, which are readily accessible online to attackers.

Utilize a private IP address

Private IP addresses should be allocated to key network devices and servers to prevent unauthorized users or devices from accessing them. This technique allows the IT administrator to easily monitor any illegal attempts to connect to your network.

Develop a network security management system.

It is necessary to develop a robust network security maintenance system that includes procedures like:

    • Frequent backups.
    • Software upgrades
    • Change the network name and passwords regularly.

Once you've built a network security maintenance system, record it and share it with your staff.

Segregation and segmentation of networks

By segmenting and splitting the network into various trust zones, networks are kept isolated in the event of a security breach, lowering the impact and dangers of network attacks.

Educate Personnel on Network Security Benefits

It is vital to create a security-focused culture by teaching and training employees on the importance of network security, how they may assist safeguard business networks and how they can prevent common security concerns.