Network security is the practice of protecting computer networks from unauthorised access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. It is a critical part of any organisation’s security posture, as it can help to protect sensitive data, intellectual property, and other valuable assets.

Contents

• Why is Network Security Important?
• First Steps in Network Security
• Essential Technologies for Network Security
• Cutting-edge Firewall Features
• Network Security Considerations
• Network Configuration
• FAQs
• Conclusion
• Next Steps

Why is Network Security Important?

Network security is important because it protects computer networks from unauthorised access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Businesses of all sizes need this to protect sensitive data, intellectual property, and other valuable assets.

Network security can mitigate a number of threats, including:

• Viruses: These are malicious software programmes that can spread from computer to computer, damaging files and systems.
• Worms: These are similar to viruses, but they can spread themselves without the need for human interaction.
• Trojan horses: These are malicious programmes that masquerade as legitimate software. Once installed,  data can be stolen or access granted.
• Phishing: This is a type of social engineering attack that involves sending emails or text messages that appear to be from a legitimate source. The emails or text messages will often contain a link that, when clicked, will take the victim to a fake website that looks like the real website. Once the victim enters their personal information on the fake website, the attacker can steal it.

First Steps in Network Security

In addition to specific technologies, there are a number of general security practices that can help to protect networks. These include:

• Firstly, using strong passwords and password management practices.
• Keeping software up to date.
• Educating users about security best practices.
• Monitoring network traffic for suspicious activity.
• Lastly, backing up data regularly.

By following these practices, organisations can help to protect their networks from a wide range of threats.

Essential Technologies for Network Security

Firewalls are the first line of defence for most networks. They work by filtering incoming and outgoing network traffic based on a set of rules. These rules can be used to block unauthorised access to the network, as well as to prevent the spread of malicious traffic. See more on firewall and their many benefits via our recent cybersecurity article

Intrusion detection systems (IDS) are used to detect malicious activity on a network. They do this by monitoring network traffic for suspicious patterns. If an IDS system detects malicious activity, it will typically alert the network administrator.

Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) are similar to IDS systems, but they can also take action to prevent malicious activity from occurring. For example, an IPS system could block a malicious packet from entering the network.

Virtual private networks (VPNs) provide a secure way for users to connect to a network remotely. They do this by encrypting all traffic between the user’s device and the network. Therefore making it much more difficult for attackers to intercept and read the traffic.

By using a combination of these technologies, organisations can create a comprehensive network security solution that can help to protect their networks from a wide range of threats.

Cutting-edge Firewall Features

In recent years, a number of cutting-edge firewall features have been developed. These features include:

• Deep packet inspection (DPI): DPI allows firewalls to inspect the contents of network traffic at a much deeper level than traditional packet filtering. This helps to identify and block even the most sophisticated malicious attacks.
• Machine learning: Firewalls can learn from past attacks and adapt their behaviour accordingly. This helps to improve the effectiveness of firewalls in detecting and blocking new threats.
• Cloud-based firewalls: A firewall that is hosted in the cloud. This makes them easier to manage and update, and it also allows them to scale to meet the needs of large organisations.

Network Security Considerations

In order to have the most comprehensive security strategy, there are issues to consider. Firewalls work best after their networking requirements are met and work best when accompanied by appropriate configuration.

• Bandwidth: Firewalls need to be able to handle the amount of traffic that is expected on the network. This means that they need to have enough bandwidth to process all of the packets that are coming and going.
• Throughput: Firewalls also need to be able to process packets quickly. This is important because it can help to prevent attacks from slowing down the network.
• Latency: Firewalls should have low latency. This means that they should not add too much delay to the packets that are passing through them.
• Packet filtering: Firewalls need to be able to filter packets based on a variety of criteria. This includes the source and destination IP addresses, ports used, and traffic type.
• Application-layer inspection: Some firewalls can also inspect the contents of network traffic at the application layer. This can help to identify malicious traffic that is trying to hide in plain sight.
• Logging: Firewalls should be able to log all of the traffic that they are processing. Consequently, this helps when troubleshooting problems and detecting attacks.

Network Configuration

In addition to these networking requirements, firewalls also need to be configured correctly. This includes setting up the appropriate rules and policies. Therefore, if configured incorrectly, it may not be able to protect the network.

Here are some additional tips for choosing a firewall:

• Consider the size of your network. If you have a large network, you will need a firewall that can handle a lot of traffic.
• Think about the types of threats that you are facing. If you are concerned about specific types of attacks, you should choose a firewall that can detect and block those attacks.
• Make sure that the firewall is compatible with your existing network infrastructure.
• Finally, consider the cost of the firewall.

FAQS

What is network security?

Network security is the practice of protecting computer networks from unauthorised access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. It is a critical part of any organisation’s security posture because it can help to protect sensitive data, intellectual property, and other valuable assets.

What are the benefits of network security?

There are many benefits to network security, including:

• Firstly, protection from unauthorised access to sensitive data
• Prevention of data breaches
• Mitigation of malware attacks
• Improved network performance
• Increased employee productivity
• Finally, compliance with industry regulations

What are the different types of network security?

Presently, there are many different types of network security, including:

• Firewalls
• Intrusion detection systems (IDS)
• Intrusion prevention systems (IPS)
• Virtual private networks (VPNs)
• Data loss prevention (DLP)
• Encryption
• Security awareness training

What are some common network security threats?

Some common network security threats include:

• Phishing attacks
• Malware attacks
• Denial-of-service attacks
• Ransomware attacks
• Zero-day attacks

How can I protect myself from network security threats?

In addition to implementing network security tools, there are many things you can do to protect yourself from network security threats, including:

• Firstly, be careful about what links you click on in emails and websites
• Keep your software up to date
• Use a strong password and change it regularly
• Be suspicious of any emails or websites that seem too good to be true
• Lastly, back up your data regularly

Conclusion

Firewalls are an essential part of network security. They help to protect networks from unauthorised access, viruses, worms, and other malicious attacks.

Next Steps

Finally, if you require an experienced and knowledgeable IT consultation, our experts are waiting to hear from you. We have the product and managed security service offerings to neutralise potential threats, empower your workforce and protect your business. Fill out the form below to get in touch.

Alternatively, check out SonicWall’s next-gen firewall products for their cutting-edge firewall offering.