What are network security protocols? Why is it important that companies today follow these protocols? To find out, keep reading this blog.
What Are Network Security Protocols?
Network security protocols refer to the set of rules and procedures that ensure the security of computer networks. Network security protocols are designed to protect against intentional or unintentional information leaks and to maintain the privacy of sensitive data.
Here are its other purposes:
- The protocols are designed to prevent information from getting into the wrong hands, as well as to protect it from being misused or altered.
- It includes a method of transmitting information between two entities in a network in such a way that only the two entities can understand it.
- It also includes a method of verifying the identity of the entity with whom one is communicating.
What Does Network Security Protocols Include?
Secure Socket Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) Protocols
SSL and TLS provide a way for two applications to communicate across a network in such a way that eavesdropping cannot happen. They encrypt all communication between the parties by using symmetric encryption techniques. So that both parties are required to have the same key (password).
Then, the data is encrypted using an algorithm, which requires several processing steps on the part of each party before data can be transmitted over encrypted channels. These processing steps make an eavesdropper’s task difficult. All without having access to cryptographic keys that are used for encryption.
Internet Protocol Security (IPSec)
It provides Internet-layer security services for IPv4 and IPv6 and is an integral part of IPsec suite standards defined by IETF. In essence, IPSec is used to define how security will be implemented when creating communication securities between two points on an internet protocol (IP) network.
Then, it is most commonly used with Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and Remote Access Services (RAS).
Secure Shell (SSH)
SSH provides secure remote login and other secure network services over an insecure network. It allows users to log into a remote machine and securely run commands. Also, it encrypts all traffic and tunnels it through SSH protocol on TCP port 22. SSH uses public-key cryptography. So that users can be authenticated via their private keys, which are stored in their authorized_keys files.
Then, this allows users to remotely access systems over an insecure network, and also to securely copy files between the systems.
Secure Copy Protocol (SCP)
SCP is a file transfer protocol. It uses SSH for authentication and hence, provides a secure way to transfer files between systems. SCP allows one system to securely transfer files to another over an insecure network. Then, it is commonly used in file archiving and mirroring, as well as upgrading or installing software on remote systems.
What Are Network Security Protocols Used For?
Network security protocols are used for different purposes. They are used in many applications that require specific security implementation. These include internet banking, social media, protecting data while traveling, and more.
So, if you are interested in this field, you will find that having a career in network security is fun.