In Network Security Success. What is the next step in network security success?
Network security has become an important part of our lives. From the Internet to mobile devices, we rely on networks to connect us to each other and the rest of the world. Unfortunately, these networks are vulnerable to attacks from hackers who want to steal information or disrupt services.
Here are six things you should consider to ensure your network security is successful.
1. Conduct regular network security assessments.
Network security can be difficult to protect. Hackers can get inside your network and remain undetected for months or even years, stealing information and disrupting services. The only way to detect a breach is to conduct a regular network security assessment.
2. Use software to monitor and control access to data.
A major part of network security is controlling access to data. You should use software to monitor and control access while still allowing employees to do their jobs.
A good example is using Microsoft’s Forefront Identity Manager 2010 R2 (FIM). Further, to help manage access rights and permissions across a wide variety of platforms, including Active Directory, Exchange Server, SharePoint, SQL Server and Windows file servers.
3. Use the latest version of operating systems and software.
New versions of operating systems and software often include new features that are designed to improve network security. Check with your vendors regularly to find out if they are planning any new releases that might improve network security.
4. Know who has access to your network resources
So you can add or remove access as necessary.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with network security is not knowing who has access to your resources. Especially sensitive ones such as databases containing customer information. Or credit card numbers or intellectual property such as trade secrets. Also, research data that could be used for competitive advantage over the competition.
You should set up an automated system that will notify you when someone gets access or loses access so you can keep an eye on who’s doing what on your network. FIM 2010 R2 can help you track access rights and permissions across a wide variety of platforms, including Active Directory, Exchange Server, SharePoint, SQL Server and Windows file servers so you’ll have one system that tracks all activity on your network.
5. Implement a multi-layered approach to security
that includes firewalls, anti-malware software, anti-spam software and other internet security measures.
6. Invest in ongoing training for employees.
Your most important line of defense against cyberattacks are the people working in your organization every day from executives reporting directly to the CEO down to customer service representatives answering the phones at the help desk level – they’re all part of your organization’s first line of defense against cyber-attacks!
You need their buy-in if you want them to follow the rules designed to protect your organization. Also, you need to provide ongoing training for all employees and make certain everyone is following the procedures you put in place to protect your information.
You need to get everyone educated about cyber attacks and how to protect their computers and files from tampering. Since most cyberattacks begin with an email or web link. Make certain employees know to be leery of links in emails that aren’t from someone they know personally. Or even from someone, they do know but that they’ve never heard of before. Especially if the email is asking them to click on a link or open an attachment.
If you’re not sure whether a link or attachment is safe, contact your security team. It’s better to be safe than sorry!