Network Security VTU Notes. The Internet has become the main source of information and communication for millions of people around the globe. As such, it is essential to ensure that your network is protected against cyber attacks.
There are several ways to improve network security. In this article, we will discuss seven techniques that can help you achieve this goal.
#1. Use Antivirus Software
There is a variety of antivirus software available for your computer. Some of them are free and others are paid. In any case, you should make sure that you have some form of antivirus installed on your computer.
#2. Use A Firewall
A firewall is security software that blocks unauthorized access to your network by hackers. If you do not have a firewall on your network, install one of the many available free firewall programs. (e.g. ZoneAlarm, Comodo Internet Security Suite) or purchase a firewall software package such as Norton Internet Security or McAfee Total Protection.
#3. Use A VPN For Remote Access
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts all data sent to and from your device. Even while connected to a public network such as the internet. For example, if you are using public WIFI at the airport, with a VPN, all info sent and received will be encrypted.
Further, using strong encryption algorithms such as 128-bit AES protocol (Advanced Encryption Standard). And 256-bit 3DES protocol (Triple Data Encryption Standard). This will significantly improve network security. Because it will prevent hackers from stealing sensitive information such as credit card numbers, usernames, and passwords. And other personal information through packet sniffing or man-in-the-middle attacks.
Network Security VTU Notes continued
#4. Use A Hardware Firewall
Hardware firewalls are generally more secure than software firewalls. Because they cannot be disabled unless the hardware itself is physically removed. As such, this improves network security by ensuring that unauthorized access to your network is blocked.
#5. Enable Secure Browsing
Enabling secure browsing prevents hackers from injecting malicious code into your web browser. By manipulating the data received from your web browser. This is a very important step in improving network security. Because it will prevent hackers from redirecting you to a fake website. Whereby they can steal your personal information or infect your computer with malicious software such as malware.
#6. Don’t Open Suspicious Emails & Attachments
Many people make the mistake of opening emails and attachments from unknown senders because they think that it might be important or interesting. Unfortunately, this is a very dangerous practice because some emails contain malicious links and attachments that can infect your computer with malware. Therefore, it is essential to never open emails and attachments from unknown senders online.
#7. Update Your Software Regularly
It is important to keep all software on your computer up-to-date. To avoid exposing your computer to vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. For example, Microsoft regularly issues security patches for Windows operating systems (e.g. Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7).
Alos, the Internet Explorer web browser and other Microsoft products to fix bugs and security flaws discovered by their security teams. Therefore, you should make sure that you keep these programs updated regularly so that you do not end up exposing your computer to hackers.
Conclusion
There are many other ways to improve network security. However, the seven techniques listed in this article will give you a strong foundation from which to start building a secure network.