Network security

Network security is a branch of Information Security that involves the implementation of measures to secure a computer network from unauthorized access, misuse, malfunction, modification, or denial of service. It includes both hardware and software technologies that work together to ensure that only authorized users gain access, and that the data they access is secure and available when needed.

Overview

Network security is a critical aspect in any organization's security posture. It involves the application of policies and procedures to prevent and monitor unauthorized access, misuse, modification, or denial of a computer network and network-accessible resources. Network security also involves the authorization of access to data in a network, which is controlled by the network administrator.

Types of Network Security

There are several types of network security, including:

• Firewalls: These are systems designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network. They can be implemented in both hardware and software, or a combination of both.

• Intrusion Detection System (IDS): This is a device or software application that monitors a network or systems for malicious activity or policy violations.

• Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN is a private network that uses a public network to connect remote sites or users together. It uses virtual connections routed through the internet from the company's private network or a third-party VPN service to the remote site or person.

• Antivirus and Antispyware Software: These are programs designed to prevent, search for, detect, and remove software viruses, and other malicious software like worms, trojans, adware, and more.

Network Security Strategies

Effective network security strategies include:

• Access Control: This ensures that only trusted devices are given access to your network and that they can only access resources for which they have permission.

• Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Organizations must make sure that their staff does not send sensitive information outside the network.

• Email Security: Email gateways are the number one threat vector for a security breach. Attackers use personal information and social engineering tactics to build sophisticated phishing campaigns to deceive recipients and send them to sites serving up malware.

See Also

• Computer Security
• Cybersecurity
• Information Security
• Internet Security