Network security is a wide term that covers a wide number of technologies, devices, and processes.
It is a set of rules and configurations designed to protect the integrity, confidentiality, and accessibility of networks and data using software and hardware. Every organization, disregarding of size, industry, or infrastructure, requires a proven level of network security solution in place to protect it from the ever-growing landscape of cyber threats.
The current network architecture is complex and faces an ever-changing threat environment, Attackers always try to find and exploit vulnerabilities. They can find these defects and weaknesses in any number of areas; this includes devices, data, applications, users, and sites. The most important for network security management, tools and applications address individual threats and exploits in use today.
Consider that a few minutes of downtime causes widespread disruption and serious damage to the organization and its reputation, we realize that setting these safeguards in place is imperative.
How does network security work?
There are many layers to consider when addressing network security. Attacks can occur at any layer in the network security layer or model, so the design of network security hardware, software, and policies must cover each side.
Network security comprises three different controls: physical, technical, and administrative.
Here is a brief description, of how each control works in different network security types:
- Physical network security
We design physical security controls to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing network components such as routers, cable cabinets, and others. Controlled access, such as locks, biometric authentication, and other devices, is imperative in any organization.
- Technical network security
Technical security controls protect data we store and transmit over the network, on or off the network. Protection is two-fold. It needs to protect data and systems from unauthorized individuals; besides, it needs protection from the harmful activities of employees. - Administrative network security
Administrative security controls comprise security policies and processes that control user behavior, including how to authenticate users, their level of access, and how IT personnel implement changes to the infrastructure.
Types of network security
As we went through different network security controls
Now let us look at the different methods you can secure your network.
- Network Access Control (NAC)
We have to make sure that potential attackers cannot infiltrate your network. Comprehensive access control policies must be in place for both users and devices. Network Access Control (NAC) we can set it at the most precise level. For example, you can give administrators full access to the network but deny access to defined secret folders or prevent their devices from joining the network.
- Antivirus and malware programs
Anti-virus and malware programs protect the organization from a range of malicious programs, including viruses, ransomware, worms, and Trojans. The best software not only scans files when entering the network but besides that, it scans and tracks files.
- Firewall Protection
Firewalls, as their name suggests, act as a barrier between untrusted external networks and your trusted internal network. Administrators configure a set of specific rules that block or allow network traffic. For example, firewall software provides seamless and managed control of network traffic, whether it’s physical, virtual, or in the cloud. - Virtual Private Networks (VPN)
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) create a network connection from an endpoint or other location. For example, users who work from home connect to an enterprise network via a VPN. It encrypts the data between the two points, and the user needs authentication to allow communication between their devices and the network. SD-WAN enables enterprises for fast creation of VPNs using the cloud and protects sites with a next-generation firewall solution. - Network security for businesses and consumers
Network security should be a top priority for any organization that works with network-connected data and systems. Besides protecting assets and data integrity from external exploits, network security can manage network traffic, enhance network performance, and make sure secure data sharing between employees and data sources.There are many available tools, applications, and services that can help you secure your networks from unnecessary attacks and downtime. Renad Al Majd offers a range of network security solutions that centralize and simplify often-complex operations and make sure to enforce strong network security in your organization.