Network Security focuses on managing and securing information that travels across a network and the devices (computers, servers, phones, etc.) that connect to it.
Much like a city has multiple paths to take from one destination to another and the means to keep its pedestrians safe – a network provides the means to transfer information and should be secured to make sure that those on the network remain safe.
The main focus of network security is two fold:
- Access – making sure only those authorized can be on the network or access its resources
- Enforcement – ensuring that any user or device on the network follows the expected security policies (like connecting using the specified ports and protocols.
While these are the main two focus of Network Security – there are several topics and components that make up an “Enterprise” (corporate) Network Security program. Some of the standard topics those looking to learn more about Network Security should consider are:
- Access Control – Managing who and what can access a network and/or it resources.
- Antivirus Software – Much like Endpoint Security, the start of any good network security program should ensure that things like viruses or malware is not permitted on the network.
- Encryption – The means of encoding data so that only those authorized can read it.
- Firewalls – Like a barrier, or wall, between your network and the rest of the world. Mainly focuses on only allowing specific traffic to pass through it.
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) or Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) – Systems that monitor the network in real time for suspicious events or potential threats.
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) – VPNs provide the means to create secure, encrypted connections over an otherwise unsecured networks.