Elements of Network Security

Security is almost certainly the most difficult aspect of a network to perfect. It is important to have the correct procedures and components in place to make certain network security is being accounted for and addressed on any given network. The journal, “Future Generation Computer Systems” elaborates on this necessity for an information system. “Future Generation Computer Systems”, this component of a network is discussed thoroughly. “Essentially securing an Information System (IS), involves identifying unique threats and challenges which need to be addressed by implementing the appropriate countermeasures” (Dimitrios Zissis, Dimitrios Lekkas, 2012). This was achieved through configuring access lists as well as CHAP configuration on the routers connecting to the edge

Network inventory – know exactly how many printers, computers, switches, hubs, etc. are connected to the network. You cannot secure what you cannot see. This is also a great

Network Security Issues – major threats and the means to fight them Network security issues are the top priority of all who want to protect their data.

The computer networks should be made secure such that the hackers could not access the interior of the network. This should be achieved through the strong authentication, antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems.

Security services are an integral part of any network design. Assessing the vulnerability of network infrastructure to disruptive events is recognized as an important component of network planning and analysis. This section provides an overview of common network infrastructure vulnerabilities, essential network security concepts analysis and present. It illustrates the possible placement of servers including access paths to the Internet, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and firewalls. This paper also describes a comprehensive security policy for a company including ethical aspects related to employee behavior, contractors, password usage, and access to networked resources and information.

Network security, in this technological age, should be one of the most important items of concern for any business owner or network administrator. Since just about every company out there is connected to and conducts some sort of business over the Internet, just about every one of them is at risk from outside threats. This means that they should take certain steps in order for them for them to conduct their business securely. Beyond the initial steps, it must be known that there is no end to network security as it is a process that is continuous. The goal of this paper is to discuss some “best practices” that companies should follow in order to provide adequate protection.

In order to design and construct a well-secured network, many features must be taken into consideration, such as the topology and placement of hosts within the network, the selection of hardware and software technologies, and the successful arrangement of each component. I will discuss securing a LAN from the viewpoint of the network architect considering two main areas: the network topology which comprises the physical and logical design of the network; and securing the routers and switches which connect segments and hosts to form the network.

With a multitude of changes occurring in the technology field, it is critical that hospitals maintain the highest levels of security for their internal network as well as their public access network. Hospitals contain vital information about patients, treatment styles, employees and staff, as well as pharmaceuticals that are kept on the premises. The importance of protecting this information cannot be understated and a breach in security could cause a breakdown in all areas of the network, having a catastrophic effect on the entire hospital.

Moreover, IPS systems are a great technology that reduces the threats of cyber-attacks. IPS is responsible for detecting intruders breaking into the network systems, or detecting misuse of network resources by authorized users. In addition, when a threat is detected, IPS performs an action in respond to the threat. In such incidents, IPS performs various actions to include sending an alarm to the administrator, stop the traffic coming from the source address, and/or resetting the connection.6

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) are software or hardware designed to automatically monitor activities within a network of computers and identify any security issues . IDS have been around for at least 30 years since increased enterprise network access produced a new challenge, the need for user access and monitoring. As day-to-day operations grew increasingly dependent upon shared use of information systems, levels of access to these systems and clear visibility into user activity was required to operate safely and securely.

Network Security is a very dynamic and technical field dealing with all aspects of scanning, hacking and securing systems against intrusion. It is more than just encrypting user data, virtual private networks or installing firewalls. Network security consists of the provision, policies adopted by a network administrator to prevent and monitor unauthorized access, misuse, modification, or denial of a computer network and network-accessible resources (Xie, 2013).

With Network Security, networking technicians use multiple layers of security, so that if one layer fails the others are there to pick up the slack until the first layer is fix. Some parts of the security of a network involve these items: Antivirus and Antispyware, Firewalls, Intrusion Prevention Systems(IPS), and Virtual Private Networks(VPNs) (“How Does Network Security Work?” np). With this layer system that is used the ability to maintain the integrity of the network.

The attempt to disrupt the services to a specific person or a system. (Lau, Simon Fraser Univ., Rubin, Smith, & Trajkovic, 2000)

The study of security has been based on the insights gained from viewing the many functional areas of networks through the perspective of fault tolerance, authentication, advanced connectivity and the development of data structures that enable communication and collaboration (Adams, 1986). My passion is in the area of computer networks and security, which is an area I will continually strive to excel in, relying on

The cyberspace has become a major concern to all stakeholders in view of persistent threats and attacks to IT infrastructures around the globe. Individuals, corporate entities and even governments have become victims of anonymous attacks in one form or the other. As a result of these, security professionals have continued to design and implement policies that can help protect valuable assets and vital information for business continuity. The seven domains of IT infrastructure are always subject to attacks because they are connected to either a network or the internet. Most IT infrastructures cannot operate efficiently without this connectivity, so if we have to protect these assets then we must use the tools available.