Computer network security breaches are frequently highlighted in the news, resulting in significant financial losses for affected organizations, with IBM reporting an all-time high average cost of $4.35 million for a data breach in 2022. This cost may even include potential lawsuits, making it a truly daunting prospect for businesses.
Ensuring the protection of your system and assets is of the utmost importance. However, understanding how to effectively secure a network can be challenging, especially for small- and medium-sized organizations without dedicated IT staff. Business owners can implement computer network security best practices today to safeguard their data and establish robust protection against hackers and viruses. Let’s explore network security and ways together. how to improve it.
Best practices for securing network
#1 Firewall
A firewall is designed with the purpose of preventing unauthorized access to computers and networks. Essentially, it acts as a rule-based system that regulates incoming and outgoing network traffic. Access is granted to computers and networks that comply with these rules, while those that don’t are denied access.
Firewalls have evolved to become increasingly sophisticated, mirroring the advancements made by hackers. Modern firewalls are comprehensive network security platforms that employ various techniques and encryption methods to counteract breaches and malicious activities.
#2 Access control
The access control feature ensures that unauthorized individuals are prevented from gaining access to your network. It keeps potential hackers at bay by carefully monitoring and recording user and device information. By enforcing security policies and parameters set by you, it safeguards the integrity of your network. This process is commonly known as network access control.
#3 Install VPN
Most users use a local VPN for Android or their Mac. Although there is nothing stopping you from continuing to use the VPN extension, you can go the other way. For example, you can install VeePN on your router and all devices that will connect to your secure Wi-Fi network will also be protected. The service offers a free trial version and an option with a paid subscription. If you choose to use a paid subscription, you will be able to connect up to 10 devices to your account. Need a VPN for Steam to unblock Netflix on your TV or protect your iPhone while traveling? Not a problem, one subscription is the solution to many problems.
#4 Advanced endpoint detection
Advanced endpoint detection and response technology is designed to tackle the ever-changing online threats prevalent in today’s world. By utilizing artificial intelligence, this technology monitors for any signs of compromise and takes appropriate action.
Collecting and analyzing data from network devices, endpoint logs, and threat intelligence feeds, this technology efficiently identifies security incidents, policy violations, fraudulent activities, and other potential threats. These solutions employ a high level of automation, enabling security teams to swiftly detect and respond to any issues, ensuring a more rapid response time.
#5 Train your employees
Effective preparation alone may not suffice if system users fail to adhere to security best practices. Regular reminders can help maintain network security by raising awareness about potential risks and necessary mitigation steps. Some organizations host mandatory meetings to emphasize the importance of security. You should train employees to use VeePN Chrome or another work browser at all times while they are doing their work. Educating employees on avoiding security risks and identity theft serves as a powerful tool in bolstering overall security.
#6 Work with passwords wisely
Employees should be aware of the importance of avoiding default passwords or common phrases like “password,” “12345,” or their dates of birth. To enhance security, it is recommended to use strong passwords that include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, symbols, and numbers. Additionally, it is advisable to require employees to regularly change their passwords.
Recent recommendations suggest changing passwords whenever there is reason to suspect a compromise, and annually even if they still appear secure. However, changing passwords too frequently can result in confusion and delays, prompting employees to seek assistance from IT in retrieving their login credentials.
#7 Data loss prevention (DLP)
Data loss prevention has emerged as a critical network security concern, especially in light of numerous ransomware attacks that result in data theft and exfiltration. To address this issue, advanced features are employed to detect potential breaches at an early stage. Notably, such measures effectively block attempts to extract data, encompassing network DLP, endpoint DLP, and cloud DLP.
#8 Shut down computers when not in use
Leaving the computer on and ready for the next day of work may seem like a convenient option. However, when the computer remains idle overnight while connected to the internet or a network, it becomes more susceptible to hackers. To mitigate this risk, it is recommended to shut down the computer for the night, thereby limiting access and blocking unauthorized users.
Conclusion
One cannot deny the fact that systems can never achieve 100% security. However, following fundamental principles as best practices is essential for network security. To avoid falling victim to cyber-attacks, one should be prepared and take measures to secure their networks. It is crucial to be aware of cybersecurity and implement methods to stay updated with the latest software, technologies, and techniques, thereby staying one step ahead of potential threat actors.