The Basic Steps of Security in Networking

The focus on digital transformation continues to grow, effective security in networking has become the backbone of business operations. Business owners and small IT departments must recognize that the landscape of threats is ever-evolving, with attackers using more sophisticated techniques every day. So, it’s essential that that your sensitive data is protected and your network security work. Fortunately, with a proactive approach, you can shield your business and valuable data on its computer systems and networks from most cyber threats. But where should you begin?

Steps for Security in Networking

Adopting proactive measures and network security controls isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential for all businesses. Let’s dive into the fundamental steps your organization should take to make network security solutions work and safeguard your network.

Step 1. Regularly Update and Patch Systems

Ensure that all software and hardware devices connected to your network, including servers, computers, and routers, are frequently updated with the latest security patches. This not only helps in enhancing your application security and network performance, but more importantly, it addresses vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals.

Step 2. Implement Strong Authentication Methods

Implementing strong authentication typically requires combining multiple types of evidence (or factors) to validate the identity of users or systems. This creates a network shield that is difficult to compromise and includes robust, unique passwords and two-factor authentication, minimizing the chances of unauthorized access or remote access to network resources.

Step 3. Firewall Deployment

Firewalls act as the first line of defense virtual private network, and serve as a critical component in network access control. They function as gatekeeps by determining which traffic can enter the computer network and which traffic cannot enter based on predefined network security rules; thus filtering out malicious traffic before it can penetrate your computer networks or company network infrastructure.

Step 4. Regularly Monitor Network Traffic

Continuously monitoring network traffic, organizations’ security analysts can achieve several critical objectives. They can detect unusual patterns or behaviors early on, possibly indicating an impending cyberattack or data breach, thereby enabling timely interventions to prevent potential breaches. Furthermore, this vigilant scrutiny offers insights into the network’s performance, pinpointing bottlenecks or areas that require optimization.

Step 5. Employee Training

Many security breaches arise from simple human errors, such as misconfigured settings, weak passwords, or inadvertent downloads of malware infected software. Through consistent and proper training, employees can become adept at recognizing evolving threats like phishing scams and be better equipped to counter them. Understanding the profound importance of network security encourages them to adopt safer online habits, including cautious browsing, using robust passwords, and being wary of email attachments.

5 Types of Network Security

Understanding network security strategies is a lot like understanding the layers of an onion. Each layer has its function, and when combined, they offer comprehensive protection. Knowing the different layers that network security involves helps in developing a well-rounded security strategy.

1. Access Control. Determining who can access control of the network and what they can do once inside. Many companies have implemented a Zero Trust network access which treats every request as if it originates from an untrusted network and takes the approach of “never trust, always verify.”
2. Antivirus and Antimalware Software. Tools designed to detect, halt, and remove malicious software from networked devices.
3. Firewall Protection. Filters incoming and outgoing traffic based on predetermined security policies.
4. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Encrypts internet traffic, ensuring data sent and received remains confidential.
5. Behavioral Analytics. Tools that detect abnormal network behavior, indicating potential threats.

For a deeper dive into these strategies of security management, Forbes recently published the do’s and don’ts of internet safety and network security solutions.

Why Consider a Managed IT Services Provider

Even with the best in-house resources and security teams, it can be challenging to stay updated on the rapidly changing world of cybersecurity. While in-house web security solutions can provide a degree of protection, the complexities of cybersecurity often require a specialized touch. Managed IT Services Providers offer expertise security solutions and security tools that might be out of reach for most businesses. Why should they be on your radar?

• Expertise: They bring specialized knowledge that your business might not have in-house.
• Proactive Monitoring: 24/7 monitoring ensures threats are detected and mitigated promptly.
• Cost-Effective: In many cases, leveraging their services can be more affordable than maintaining a large in-house IT security team.

According to a recent article by TechTarget, businesses that use managed IT services can receive reliable access to enterprise-level IT and networking expertise and prevent IT problems from disrupting business operations. Furthermore, as highlighted by AllBusiness.com, outsourcing IT security management can allow your business to focus on its core competencies while leaving the intricacies of cybersecurity to the experts.

Final Thoughts of Security in Networking

Every business, irrespective of its size, is vulnerable to unauthorized network access and a network security breach. For business owners and small IT departments in the US, taking a proactive stance on data breaches, security information and network security is crucial.

Are you confident about your current computer network security and its ability to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information? Don’t leave things to chance. Consider a reliable and robust network security solution for data loss prevention. A good place to start is with an audit of your network security tools and vulnerable areas for access to the network. With the help and expertise of a Managed IT Services Provider you can ensure that your business remains protected.

Visual Edge IT, Inc. (VEIT) specializes in managed IT services and security, cloud computing, and print/copy solutions for businesses across the U.S. including remote office locations. We offer a full line of office technology and services including 24/7 remote monitoring and administration of networks, service desk, and data backup and restore to improve business processes across a variety of industries. Plus, Visual Edge IT™ represents the industry’s leading manufacturers of office technology allowing businesses to get equipment, supplies and service from a single source. Backed by more than 20-years of technology service and a national network of expert engineers, VEIT is uniquely positioned to support business technology needs. The company is headquartered in North Canton, OH, USA. Request your no-obligation assessment today and get a free dark web analysis.