Understanding Network Security

Your Computer Network and its Security

Network is an interconnected system. It is defined as any set of interlinking lines similar to a net. A computer network is simply a system of interconnected computers. Knowledge in computer networks is basic in understanding the principles of network security.

Computer network allows computers to connect with many other and to share resources and information. It can be classified according to the hardware and software technology that is used to link the individual devices in the network, such as Optical fiber, Ethernet, Wireless LAN, HomePNA, Power line communication or G.hn.

Knowing how computer network works, Network Security is but typical to learn about next. Network Security is dedicated to solve network security problems in system-specific detail. It is interchangeably used with Information Security. It is a protection at the boundaries of an organization by keeping out intruders (hackers) threatening the business databank. It protects data resources from malware attack or simple mistakes by people within an organization and requires employees who cross these boundaries to be authenticated when attempting to access protected information. It therefore eases the worries of computer users from threats that can alter or worse, destroy databases.

Managing Risks

Unfortunately, freedom to access the internet is one thing that should not be taken lightly. Internet can be very useful and harmful at the same time. We can get almost all important data and information through it and we can also lose them in an instant. The Internet is a bad neighborhood nowadays. This is because of those people who are too intelligent to mess up with other people. It may be long from now when something will just pop up and with an unwise click of the button may instruct the computer to something like self-destruct. This is one of the risks of accessing the Internet. Risk is present everywhere. This is no different from daily lives. Decisions involve risks that after weighing are worth taking. This is the same with networking. Learning about network security is as important as knowing what types and sources of network threats are there in the cyberspace. Knowing these threats will be helpful to counteract them.

Dealing With Network Security

Different situations entail different network security management. A particular security software may be costly for a school and cost effective for some companies. Compared to large businesses, a small home or an office would only require basic security. While a high maintenance and advanced software and hardware will be required for large businesses to properly deal with malicious attacks from hacking and spamming.

Different software suits different clients. Here are options that will best serve and manage security needs:

1.   Small Homes

• Basic firewall or a unified threat management system.
• Basic Antivirus software and an anti-spyware program for Windows users.
• A robust password or the strongest security supported by your wireless devices for wireless connection users.
• Change the Default SSID network name, also Disable SSID Broadcast for wireless users.
• Review Router or Firewall logs to help identify abnormal network connections
• Create passwords for all accounts.
• Have multiple accounts per family member
• Educate children on security information

2.   Medium Businesses

• Strong firewall or Unified Threat Management System
• Strong Antivirus software and Internet Security Software
• Create strong passwords and change it often
• Create a robust password for wireless connection
• Increase awareness of employees about physical security
• Use an optional network analyzer or network monitor.

3.    Large Businesses – same with medium businesses with the following additional options

• For entry areas and restricted zones, use physical security management like closed circuit television
• Mark the perimeter of the company using security fencing
• Have fire extinguishers for fire-sensitive areas like server rooms and security rooms.

4.    Schools

• Adjustable firewall and proxy to allow authorized users
• Strong Antivirus software and Internet Security Software packages.
• Wireless connections that lead to firewalls.
• Compliance to Children's Internet Protection Act
• Supervision of network for updates and changes
• Constant supervision by teachers and concerned authorities to guarantee protection against attacks

5.    Government

• Strong firewall and proxy
• Strong Antivirus software and Internet Security Software packages
• Strong encryption.
• Whitelist authorized wireless connection and block all else.
• Place all network hardware in secure zones.
• Create a private network for all host to invisible from the outside.
• Put web servers in a DMZ, or a firewall
• Mark perimeter and set wireless range using security fencing

Various network security services are available in T1everywhere.com. So choose the service most appropriate for your network requirement. The important thing is for you to avail of a software to protect data sources, block intruders and recover data in case of slight damages caused by any break-in.