Network Security

In today's high-tech world, computers take center stage. Whether you are at work, at school, or enjoying quiet time at home, it is almost certain you will run into a computer, or another high-tech device that depends on one. Although the Internet has made network security a top priority in many mainstream technology magazines, many people still do not know enough about network security, nor what it takes to truly stay vigilant against ever-changing threats.

Network security is more than just spot-checking or half-heartedly updating programs – it is about constantly monitoring your network to prevent intruders, malware, and other threats now commonplace in such a digital age. True security means reading up and educating oneself about potential threats and understanding what to do in case of a security breach. Network security can mean one computer in relation to the Internet, or a cluster of computers that interact with each other (such as a LAN) and the Internet as well. Below are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to network security.

Network security is critical to a great experience while using the Internet or just maintaining the good health of a machine that is used for connecting to the Internet. One issue to keep in mind when thinking about network security is the prevalence of the “always on” Internet connection. Many homes and businesses now have high-speed Internet connections such as DSL and cable. These connections allow the computer user to access the Internet continuously, as long as the computer is on. This is a sharp contrast from dial-up connections that went on and off periodically, and didn't allow computer users to be on the phone and the Internet at the same time.

So the everyday computer user pays the price for the convenience of being able to be on the phone and the Internet at the same time through having to be very protective of their computers. An “always on” connection means that there is more time for a potential intruder to scope out your computer system, and even more opportunity to take advantage of the computer itself. Proper network security can drastically decrease your chances of an attack by an outside force.

Everyone that uses the Internet or a computer that has been used to connect to the Internet should worry about network security. Unfortunately, the issue usually only gets brought up after a virus or a worm destroys valuable (and often irreplaceable) data, or when an intruder gains control of a computer and uses it to send unsolicited e-mails to hundreds of thousands of people. While personal computer users should remain vigilant about the security of their networks, it is also important for companies to take computer and network security seriously as well. When companies fail to realize the importance of hardening their network against potential attacks, the consequences are usually quite severe, and end up as national news. Network exploits have led to thousands of records being exposed to an intruder, sensitive records that have often led to identity theft problems for employees and company representatives.

Everyone needs to worry about this growing problem because one weak link in the chain affects everyone else. If one person has their machine infected and taken over by a malicious intruder, then countless others will be put at risk. The intruder can use the compromised machine to exploit and conquer other machines, breeding more and more problems for everyone. The best thing to do is to continue to stay ahead in the network security game.

We have discussed so many aspects of network security, but how does one truly minimize their chances of attack, thus creating a secure network? Well, there is no network in the world that can truly be called 100% secure – the only computer that is secure is the one that is in a room with no doors or windows, and no possible way to get in whatsoever. Obviously, security is a must, but the computer must also remain functional for the user. Therefore, we must turn to tools that lower the chances of infection by malware of spyware, protecting the system from intruders, and still giving the user the freedom they need to get their work done.

The first tool necessary in the creation of a secure network is a strong password. In the event of an attack, you want to make it as difficult as possible for the intruder to actually pierce your account. Do not base your password on a name, a number like a social security number, a birth date, or a child's name – all of those examples are common passwords, and intruders will use that type of information to try to guess what your password is. If you use one of these common passwords, you are basically handing over your computer on a silver platter.

A good password also protects the network from more physical threats – such as the people around you. Friends, family, passersby, or even other co-workers may have their own agendas for attempting to breach your network security. If you have any sensitive information on your machine, it is best to use strong passwords – passwords that have a mix of upper and lowercase letters and numbers, as well as symbols or underscores – to deter them.

Keeping logs is also a great idea. Logs help you track what is happening on your system – without logs, in the event of an attack, how do you really know what is happening on your machine? Even when your system is not compromised, logs are a great way to just keep an eye on the system as a whole.

You will want a strong anti-virus program, as well as a good software firewall. Those attempting to secure a business network may wish to invest in a hardware firewall, to take the strain off generally already overwhelmed machines. There are so many anti-virus and firewall programs out there, so you will need to do your due diligence and see which programs fit what you're trying to accomplish. Many programs have features that you do not need, so take the time to read carefully to save time in the long run. Remember that you are investing your time and/or money into building a secure network – and you deserve the very best when it comes to protecting your systems from intruders!

For a person new to the vast world of network security, it can be overwhelming to try to figure it all out for yourself. Although they generally are associated more with business networks than residential ones, a good network security company will be happy and able to assist you. A network security company will be able to analyze your current network's strengths and weaknesses, and generate a list of actions you will need to take in order to make your network secure again. They can offer one-on-on consulting, or even lead a small training seminar, to not only make sure that your network is secure, but also to ensure that you can keep the security factor high – even after they're gone!

Many network security companies have websites that spell out exactly what they offer, so be sure to check out what they are really offering. Look for credentials and experience as well – many security professionals are certified, but just because some are not does not mean they are not worth hiring! Look at their experience and technical background to guide your decision. While many network security companies list their prices on their websites, some prefer you to contact them for a personalized quote. Do not be afraid to contact them with your personal scenario – they will be glad to help you!

Due to the sensitive information that business networks usually contain, it is important to be even more vigilant about business network security. Numerous lives can be destroyed in one fell swoop if an intruder were to gain access. This is not to downplay the importance of securing a residential network, but there are different concerns to keep in mind. For example, how many residential networks will have people logging in remotely? This is a common scenario when it comes to designing a secure business network. To speed along the process, businesses should consult a security engineer. If none exist in the organization, they should look up a freelance security engineering consultant. Like hiring a network security company, you should always check for references, credentials & certifications, as well as experience. Security engineering benefits businesses and their networks because it deals with physical network security as well as designing a flexible and secure structure that is clearly outlined by a policy. This type of in-depth analysis is invaluable to a company trying to truly build a robust, secure network.

The journey to a secure network does not end once you install the necessary software. On the contrary, it is a never-ending journey that requires constant education and constant updating of software programs, hardware, and accessory equipment. A network, after all, does not update itself automatically – you must be proactive in keeping your network strong and secure. Left unmonitored, it can lead to an insecure network very quickly. Aside from software, if you are determined to build a better network you will need to read constantly about network security. New vulnerabilities and threats are found everyday. Changing threats require constant vigilance, but you do not have to spend hours reading – if you make the concept of keeping a network secure a real habit, then it becomes routine, saving you time in the long run. Also, the programs you install to protect your computer will need to updated. Do not forget to also update the operating system itself; there are always new patches to be installed. However, this can be set to update automatically, as with most programs.

Asking a representative from a network security company questions is the best way to keep a secure network strong. While you may have to pay for a lengthy consulting session, talking to a security professional is a step in the right direction. Other than asking what programs you should use, you should also ask a security professional how to do advanced tasks like tweaking specific details in your operating system of choice. Or you can ask them to explain how intruders get into your system in the first place. As you read more about network security, the right questions to ask will pop out at you. After all, there is something to be said about human expertise in an area – use it to your advantage to enhance what you are reading about network security.

As more threats come onto the digital landscape, there will always be people that will use these threats to take advantage of other people. Network security is an eternal concept, one that must always be given proper thought as long as one is using a computer to connect to the Internet. Keeping your system free of threats and vulnerabilities is an ongoing process, but once a routine is established, a tidy system will allow you to get work done faster.

The future of network security can be described as both dim and bright. It is easy to get jaded when one thinks of the myriad of threats that can creep into one's system and be used by third parties to steal information, or destroy it completely. However, the future is also bright – there is plenty of information and qualified professionals out there to make sure that your computer system stays healthy. It is to everyone's benefit to practice good network security – you never know when the next attack will occur, but you definitely do not wish it to hit your system!