A fundamental definition of network security is the operation of safeguarding data, applications, and systems that are connected to a network. Network security can be defined as follows:
Even though network security and cybersecurity are closely related in many ways, network security is most often considered a subset of cybersecurity. Assuming a classic “castle and moat” metaphor, or a perimeter-based security approach – in which your organization is your castle and the data stored within the castle is your crown jewels – network security is most concerned with ensuring that the data stored within the castle walls are protected from intrusion.
In this perimeter-based scenario, the area within the castle walls can represent an enterprise’s information technology infrastructure, which includes its networking components, hardware, operating systems, software, and data storage systems, among other things. Network security safeguards these systems against malware/ransomware, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, network intrusions, and other threats, thereby providing a safe environment for users, computers, and programs to carry out their tasks within the information technology environment (IT).
Because of the widespread adoption of hybrid and multi-cloud environments, organizations’ data, applications, and devices are increasingly dispersed across multiple locations and geographies. Users expect to be able to access enterprise systems and data from any location and on any device. As a result, the traditional perimeter-based approach to network security is gradually being phased out of use. It is quickly becoming the new standard for enhancing the security posture of organizations to take a zero-trust approach to security, in which they never rely on and always verify access.
Types of Network Security
Unauthorized users are prevented from accessing your network employing a firewall, which prevents suspicious traffic from entering while allowing legitimate traffic to pass through. A firewall can be either a software program or a physical device. There are many different types of firewalls, each with a different level of security, ranging from simple packet-filtering firewalls to proxy servers to complex, next-generation firewalls that use artificial intelligence and machine learning to compare and analyze the information as it attempts to pass through the firewall.
Learn more about the security of a firewall.
The detection and prevention of intrusions
The second layer of protection against malicious actors can be provided by installing intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) directly behind a firewall. An intrusion detection and prevention system (IDPs), which is typically used in conjunction with its predecessor, the more passive intrusion defense system (IDS), acts as a barrier between the source address and the destination address, preventing traffic from entering the network. An advanced IDPS can even use machine learning and artificial intelligence to analyze incoming data in real-time and initiate an automated process – such as sounding an alarm, blocking traffic from the source, or resetting the connection – if it detects suspicious behavior.
Learn how to manage intrusion detection and prevention systems.
Access control on the network (NAC)
Network access control, which serves as the first line of defense, does exactly what it says on the tin: it controls access to your network. As a result of “endpoint health checks,” NAC can screen an endpoint device, such as a laptop or smartphone, to ensure it has adequate anti-virus protection, an appropriate system-update level, and the correct configuration before it can be allowed to access the network. NAC can also be configured for “role-based access,” in which a user’s access is restricted based on their profile, allowing them to only access files or data that have been approved by the network administrator once they have entered the network.
Cloud security is important.
Cloud security is the process of protecting online resources – such as sensitive data, applications, virtualized IP addresses, and services – from leaking, loss, and theft. The implementation of sound security policies, as well as the layering of security methods such as firewall architecture, access controls, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), data encryption or masking, threat-intelligence software, and disaster recovery programs, are required for the protection of cloud-based systems.
More information on cloud security can be found here.
VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) are a type of network that allows you to connect to the internet anonymously (VPNs)
Using a virtual private network (VPN), a user’s identity can be protected by encrypting their data as well as masking their IP address and location. When someone connects to the internet through a virtual private network (VPN), they are no longer connecting directly to the internet, but rather to a secure server that connects to the internet on their behalf. The use of virtual private networks (VPNs) is commonplace in businesses, and they are becoming increasingly necessary for individuals, particularly those who access public wifi in places like coffee shops or airports. VPNs can protect users from hackers, who could steal anything from emails and photos to credit card numbers and even a user’s identity if they have access to their computer.
Preventing data loss is important (DLP)
Data loss prevention (also known as “data leak prevention”) refers to a set of strategies and tools that are implemented to ensure that endpoint users do not accidentally or maliciously share sensitive information outside of a corporate network or network perimeter. Data loss prevention (DLP) policies and software are frequently implemented to ensure compliance with government regulations surrounding critical data (such as credit card, financial, or health information), and they monitor and control endpoint activities on corporate networks and in the cloud. They use alerts, encryption, and other actions to protect data in motion, while in use, and at rest.
Investigate data security alternatives.
Endpoint security is important.
Endpoint security is concerned with protecting all of the endpoints – laptops, tablets, smartphones, wearables, and other mobile devices – that are connected to your network. It frequently necessitates a multi-layered approach. However, securing endpoints is a difficult task that can be made easier by a managed security service that can help keep your devices, data, and network safe by utilizing antivirus software, data loss prevention, encryption, and other effective security measures
Examine the various options for endpoint security.
Threat management in a unified environment (UTM)
Businesses can reduce costs and improve manageability by deploying Unified Threat Management (UTM) appliances in conjunction with a variety of network security tools, such as firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection systems (IDS), web-content filtering, and spam software.
The web-based gateway is protected from unauthorized access.
This security technology prevents unauthorized network traffic from entering the internal network protects users and employees who may visit malicious websites that contain viruses or malware, as well as protects the network itself. Security controls for web applications are typically included in secure web gateways, in addition to Web filtering technology and other security features.
How does network security work?
Securing a network is based on two fundamental principles: authentication and authorization. These principles are the foundation of secure networking. To put it another way, you must first ensure that every user on your network is an authentic user who has been granted permission to be there, and then you must ensure that each user on your network has been granted permission to access the specific data that they are accessing before you can proceed.
Network security basics
From establishing and enforcing enterprise-wide policies and procedures to implementing software and hardware that can automatically detect and block network security threats, to hiring network security consultants and staff to assess the level of network protection you require and then implement the security solutions required, network security encompasses a wide range of activities and tasks.
Managed security services (MSS)
Managed security services are services that are provided by a third party (MSS)
Managed security services can assist in the protection of today’s increasingly complex hybrid multi-cloud networks. Advanced managed security services can even provide around-the-clock monitoring, management, and response to advanced threats, risks, and compliance requirements, as well as proactive risk mitigation.
