What is Network Security? Definition, Threats and Best Practices

Network security is a critical component of modern information technology infrastructure. In today's interconnected world, networks are a central part of how we communicate, conduct business, and share information. Hence, protecting these networks from security threats is vital to maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and services. 

In this post, we'll explore the basics of network security, including common threats and best practices for protecting your network.

What is network security?
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Network security refers to the practice of protecting computer networks from unauthorized access, misuse, modification, or destruction. Network security involves a combination of hardware, software, policies, and procedures that work together to prevent and mitigate security risks. 

Overall, the goal of network security is to create a safe and secure environment for users to access and share information over a network, while minimizing the risks of unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security threats.

Common threats & vulnerabilities

​Effective network security requires a comprehensive approach that addresses various types of threats and vulnerabilities, including:

1. Unauthorized access: The risk of unauthorized access to a network is one of the most significant threats. Hackers and other malicious actors may try to gain access to a network to steal sensitive information, disrupt services, or plant malware.

2. Malware: Malware, or malicious software, is a common threat to network security. Malware can be used to steal information, damage systems, or disrupt network services.

3. Phishing: Phishing is a social engineering technique that involves tricking users into revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, and credit card numbers.

​4. Denial of service (DoS): A DoS attack is an attempt to overwhelm a network with traffic, rendering it inaccessible to users.

5. Data breaches: A data breach is the unauthorized access to, or disclosure of, sensitive data, such as customer information, financial data, or intellectual property
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How to protect your network

​Protecting your network requires a multi-layered approach that addresses various security threats and vulnerabilities. Here are some best practices for securing your network:
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1. Strong passwords: Passwords are a critical part of network security. Ensure that all users choose strong passwords that are difficult to guess, and change them regularly. 

2. Use firewalls: Firewalls are a network security tool that can help prevent unauthorized access to your network. Ensure that your network has both hardware and software firewalls in place. Also ensure that they are regularly updated. 

3. Use Endpoint Detection and Response [EDR] & Endpoint Protection Platforms [EPP] solutions: Firewalls helps you control large groups of computers, however precise device security is essential. These device security solutions helps secure laptops and BYOD devices by creating security layers. They are complementary tools - EPP acts as a preventative security measure (1st line of defense - identifying and blocking malware), while EDR supports incident detection and response (2nd line of defense - proactively identify threats and protecting from them). It is best to use a solution that offers both EPP and EDR to protect you from cyber threats. 

4. Audit regularly: Perform regular audits to identify vulnerabilities in your systems and confirm the overall efficacy of your security infrastructure. This is akin to regular health checkups to ensure that your systems are protected, and help point out any vulnerabilities that you can fix in your systems. Security audits can be done via third party penetration testing and vulnerability assessment.

5. Implement access controls: Access controls limit the ability of users to access sensitive data or systems. Implement access controls based on the principle of least privilege, where users are only given access to the minimum resources necessary to perform their job.

6. Encrypt sensitive data: Encryption is the process of converting data into a secret code to prevent unauthorized access. Use encryption to protect sensitive data, such as credit card numbers, passwords, and customer information.

7. Educate users: Employee education is a critical component of network security. Ensure that all users are aware of security risks, best practices, and policies.

Takeaway 
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​In today's digital age, network security is more critical than ever. A single security breach can result in significant financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities. Protecting your network requires a comprehensive approach that includes hardware, software, policies, and procedures. By following best practices for network security, you can minimize the risks of security threats and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your data and services