The 5 main types of network security (and how your MSP executes them)

The 5 main types of network security (and how your MSP executes them)

The rising threat of cybercrime, whose resultant costs had risen to $2.1 trillion in 2019, have made network security more vital than ever for organizations to invest in. Regardless of the nature or scale of your organization, a cyberattack can severely compromise its operations and can result in irreversible harm to it.

A robust network security system is your best line of defense against cyberattacks, effectively identifying threats early and barring them access from your data and network.

Components of network security

Below are five crucial elements to a strong network security system:

1. Network access control (NAC)
NAC works to protect your network as a whole by giving you control over which individuals have access to it and which don’t. It enables you to implement security policies that screen devices based on a given set of criteria, and provides a view of all the users and devices that attempt access to your network.

Behavior analytic tools that identify unusual or suspicious behavior within your network can also be put in place. If set up correctly, NAC becomes an invaluable tool for identifying threats within and without.

2. Application security
Security measures that are specifically for your suite of applications will protect them against hackers. Many applications have flaws that are vulnerable to being exploited by these hackers, potentially compromising your entire network. Effective application security systems will ensure that these potential holes are covered.

3. Anti-malware software
Viruses and malware, such as phishing, spyware, and Trojans, are among the most nefarious forms of cyberattack, embedding within your network like a disease and springing attacks that will cripple your systems at inopportune moments. Software that continually scans your network and can detect the presence of these threats in various parts is therefore essential to an effective network security system.

4. Email security
Businesses that deal with a high volume of emails are particularly vulnerable to attacks in this avenue. Phishing attacks are very common, and can compromise personal and financial information. Cybercriminals will often impersonate the email addresses of legitimate companies and create a sense of urgency to trick users into clicking on an unverified link.

Robust email security solutions filter potentially dangerous emails to minimize the risk of data breaches via phishing scams. It accomplishes this through domain reputation checks, URL link monitoring, and sender intent analysis. First-rate email security solutions even use sandboxing techniques, in which email attachments are tested in an isolated environment to detect malware and other threats.

5. Wireless security
More and more businesses are using the cloud, which necessitates wireless networks and access points. These too are vulnerable points that hackers will target, so it’s essential to have measures specifically aimed at protecting these as part of your network security system if this is the case for your business.

This entails setting strong wireless network passwords, staying up to date on the latest router firmware patches, and keeping your network SSID from broadcasting itself to other nearby devices. What’s more, virtual private networks are the best way to defend against these attacks because they create a secure connection to the internet, encrypting your data and the users’ web activities. This way, hackers can’t intercept sensitive information that may be transmitted along a network.

How it combats hackers

With each of these in place, your complete network security system will protect your network from cyberattacks by performing each of these functions:

  • Deterrence – The first, and arguably most important, function of a network security system is to discourage potential hackers from attacking your network in the first place. When hackers see how much your business prioritizes security, and all the measures you have in place, your viability as a target increases due to the risk and effort.
  • Prevention – If hackers do decide to access your network without authorization, an effective security system will make the proposition difficult. They will be forced to contend with special access requirements, encrypted communications, and a constantly updated security system.
  • Detection – Your network security system will enable you to recognize breaches to security, or even attempted breaches ahead of time, enabling your business to deal with them accordingly.
  • Correction – Part of an effective network security system is responding to any breaches that do occur. If implemented correctly, your system can be updated to protect itself against methods of attack that have proven successful in the past.

outsourceIT can serve as your advisors when it comes to developing a network security system that will effectively shield your business from all manner of cybercrime. To do this, we ensure that your network security has coverage over various areas that serve as a potential avenue of attack. Consult with us today for all your network security needs.


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