The Fundamentals of Network Security

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When it comes to protecting your network, you can always be doing more. In an ever-changing security landscape, securing your network quickly becomes a full-time job. From recognizing and mitigating industry-specific threats to ensuring your threat detection systems are working as intended, comprehensive network security is an ongoing process that requires continuous refinement.

Without a strong security foundation, however, even the most concerted security efforts may be in vain. If you want to maximize your network’s threat intelligence platform, you need to start with a strong security foundation. In this post, we’ll take a look at some fundamental network security strategies and tools that are critical to protecting your day-to-day operations.

Firewalls

A firewall acts as a barrier between your internal network and external networks. Network firewalls are typically physical devices you install as part of your network infrastructure and are generally the first line of defense for your network. At the same time, individual computers also have virtual firewalls built in to protect user data and your system. In today’s world, installing a physical firewall on your network is a critical security strategy businesses of all sizes and in any industry should be using.

Email Security

One of the easiest ways for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to your network is through targeted emails. That puts email attacks such as phishing among the No. 1 threats to your network security. Developing a comprehensive email security platform is essential if you want to block attacks, keep your network protected, and your team on track.

Application Security

As your business grows, your team will inevitably rely on an increasing number of programs for mission-critical operations. As more applications run on your network, more potential security holes open up as well. With an application security platform securing hardware, software, and data, you can give your team the confidence to grow their processes without worrying about security loopholes giving unauthorized access to cybercriminals.

Antivirus and Antimalware Software

Viruses and malware can infiltrate your network and lie dormant for extended periods without you even realizing your data may have been compromised. Using antivirus and antimalware software to scan for malware on your network while monitoring file traffic to find anomalies, remove malware, and restore data is a fundamental security strategy for any business.

Wireless Security

Securing your wireless networks is substantially different than securing your wired network. Wireless networks are not as secure as wired ones, so if your organization relies on Wi-Fi, you need to make sure you’re deploying tools that keep your wireless access points protected.

Access Control

Not all users on your network should have access to the same data. An access control platform allows you to control which users can access particular data and applications. At the same time, an access control solution allows your network to recognize specific users and devices, making it easier to pinpoint where and how unauthorized access has occurred. You also can use access control systems to block unauthorized devices or users before they even gain access to your network.

Springfield IT Support

If your organization is already using one or more of these strategies to secure your network, you’re off to an excellent start. But if you’re looking for ways to move your security to the next level, PCnet’s managed security service experts are here to help. Get in touch with our team today to begin exploring how much more we can do to keep your network protected at every level.