There are a number of technologies, processes, and devices that come under the umbrella of Network Security.
In the simplest of terms, it could be defined as a set of configurations and rules that protect the Confidentiality, Integrity, and Accessibility of computer networks and data using both software and hardware technologies. Regardless of the size, infrastructure, or industry of an organization, it requires a degree of network security solutions, so that it is protected from the ever-growing landscape of cyber threats in the world today.
The network architecture today is confronted with a complex threat environment that is constantly changing and the attackers are always trying to find and exploit the vulnerabilities. There are vulnerabilities in different areas including data, applications, devices, users, and locations. Therefore, to address these individual threats and exploits, various network security tools are brought into the market today.
How Does Network Security Work?
When you are addressing the questions of network security across an organization, there are many layers that are to be considered. The software, hardware, and policies must be designed to address each layer as the attack can happen at any layer.
It mainly consists of three different controls:
- Physical Network Security
- Technical Network Security
- Administrative Network Security
Physical Network Security
If any unauthorized official has gained physical access to network components such as cabin cupboards, routers, etc. this could be prevented by the Physical Security Controls. These include controlled access such as biometric authentication, locks, and other devices, which are very important for the safety of an organization.
Technical Network Security
The data that is stored on the network or which is in transit across, into or out of the network is protected by Technical Security Controls. They are protected from the malicious activities of the employees and unauthorized personnel.
Administrative Network Security
Administrative Network Security consists of the security processes and policies that control the behavior of the users. This includes how the users are authenticated, how much access they are granted, also how IT staff members implement the changes to the infrastructure.
What is a Network Security Attack?
A malicious attempt to compromise network security is called a Network Attack. Network Security is a preventive measure taken to defend against or prevent network attacks across a given network infrastructure. Depending on the techniques and methods used for the attack, it could be categorized as an active cyberattack, passive type attack, or a combination of both.
Types of network security
There are different ways you can secure your network, let’s take a look at them.
Network Access Control
There have to be comprehensive access controls policies for both users and devices so that the potential attackers cannot infiltrate your network. Here the NAC or Network Access Control can be set at the most granular level. For instance, full access to the network can be granted apart from a few specific confidential folders to the administrators or you could prevent their personal devices from joining the network.
Antivirus and Antimalware Software
A range of malicious software, be it viruses, worms, trojans, or ransomware; an Antivirus and Antimalware software protects an organization from all of them. The best software keeps looking for malicious files throughout.
Firewall Protection
Firewalls, act as the walls, as their name suggests, between the untrusted external networks and the trusted internal network. Generally, a set of defined rules is configured by the administrators that block or permit traffic onto the network.
Virtual Private Networks
VPNs or Virtual Private Networks create a connection to the network but it is from some other endpoint or site so that it cannot be traced. For instance, a person logging in from home would generally connect to the organization’s network over a VPN.
Between two points, the data is encrypted, and if any communication has to happen between the device and the network the user would first need to authenticate.
Network security for businesses and consumers
Any organization that works with networked data and systems should give Network Security a high priority. Not only does it protect the assets and integrity of data from external exploits but it also helps to manage network traffic more efficiently, enhance the performance of the network, and ensures secure data sharing between the data sources and the employees.
Network Security Jobs
Companies are now paying more than ever to secure their most vulnerable assets by recruiting highly qualified cybersecurity professionals, especially after the reported success of popular cyberattacks like WannaCry and Adylkuzz.
Out of the cybersecurity jobs, the job of the Network security analyst and that of an engineer are listed as the highest-paid earning an average of $90,000-$150,00 every year.
