Five Ways to Defend Against Network Security Threats (2024)

The Importance of Network Security

Before we discuss specific methods for thwarting network threats, it’s essential to understand the importance of network security. Having a secure network is vital to protecting data and preventing unauthorized access to systems. Additionally, maintaining a secure network can be part of meeting compliance requirements and protecting brand reputation (Bailkoski, 2021). Businesses that neglect network security are more likely to experience data breaches, which can be costly and damaging.

Common Network Security Threats

Businesses can face many types of threats to their networks. Some of the top network security risks include:

• Malware. Malware is a term used to describe a wide range of malicious software, including viruses, trojans, and spyware. Malware can be installed on a system without the user’s knowledge, where it can then cause damage or steal data.
• Spyware. Spyware is software that collects information about a user without their knowledge. It can track what websites a target visits and collect sensitive data, like passwords and credit card numbers.
• Phishing. Phishing attacks involve sending fraudulent emails or text messages to obtain sensitive information from recipients. The messages may appear to come from a legitimate source, such as a bank or credit card company, but are in reality sent by scammers.
• Ransomware. Ransomware is malware that locks users out of their computer or mobile device until a ransom payment is made. Ransomware viruses can be challenging to remove and can damage or delete files on a user’s system.
• Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks. A DDoS attack is one of the most dangerous types of security threats (Mathew, 2021). It is a type of cyberattack in which multiple systems flood a target with traffic, making it unavailable for legitimate users. DDoS attacks can be very costly and difficult to defend against.

How to Prevent Network Attacks

There are many different ways to defend against network-related threats. Here are five of the most effective methods.

1. Install antivirus software.

One of the first lines of defense against malware and other viruses is to install antivirus software on all devices connected to a network (Roach & Watts, 2021). Antivirus software can detect and prevent malicious files from being installed on a system, and it should be updated regularly to include the latest definitions.

2. Create strong passwords.

Another essential step in protecting a network is to create strong passwords. Passwords should be at least eight characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. They should also not be easy to guess—for instance, the user’s name or the name of the company.

3. Enforce security policies.

A third way to reduce risk of attacks on a network is to enforce security policies. Security policies can help ensure that all devices on a network are protected against viruses and malware and that users are using strong passwords. These policies can also restrict access to some network regions and limit user privileges.

4. Use firewalls.

Firewalls are another essential tool in defending networks against security threats. A firewall can help prevent unauthorized access to a network by blocking incoming traffic from untrusted sources. Additionally, firewalls can be configured to allow only certain types of traffic, such as web traffic or email.

5. Monitor activity.

Finally, it’s important to monitor activity on the network. Tracking logs and other data enables suspicious activity to be identified quickly, allowing security personnel to take steps to investigate and mitigate potential threats.

Consequences of Network Breaches

Network security breaches can have severe consequences for businesses, including:

• Data loss. A network security breach can result in the loss of sensitive data, such as customer information or financial records.
• Damage to reputation. A breach can also damage a company’s reputation and make it difficult to regain the trust of customers and other stakeholders.
• Loss of revenue. In some cases, a network security breach can lead to a loss of revenue as customers take their business elsewhere.
• Increased costs. Breaches can also lead to increased costs, such as hiring new staff or upgrading security systems.

How to Become a Network Security Engineer

If you want to learn more about how to protect networks against security threats, consider enrolling to the best network security courseswith accredited program provider EC-Council. EC-Council’s Certified Network Defender (C|ND) program is designed to cover everything you need to know about network security protection, from the basics to advanced techniques.

The C|ND is designed to provide cybersecurity professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to defend networks against various security threats. The program covers a wide range of topics:

• Network security concepts. Get introduced to common security concepts, including viruses, malware, and firewalls.
• Network security threats. Learn about different network security threats, how to protect networks against them, and how to gain security access control.
• Operating system security. Understand the various features that can be used to secure Windows and Linux systems.
• Application security. Find out how to secure applications like web browsers and email clients.
• Networking fundamentals. Explore key networking concepts, such as TCP/IP packets and switches.
• Endpoint security. Learn about the different types of security measures that can be used to protect endpoint devices like laptops and smartphones.
• Traffic analysis. Become proficient in using tools like Wireshark to analyze network traffic and detect security threats.
• Incident response. Find out the steps that should be taken in the event of a security incident.
• Forensic investigation. Learn what occurs in the digital forensic investigation process, including how to collect evidence and identify the source of a security breach.

Kickstart Your Cybersecurity Career

Network security is a critical area of cybersecurity, and there is high demand for qualified professionals. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, the C|ND program can provide you with the skills you need to start your journey. For more information about theC|ND program, visitEC-Council’s websitetoday.

References

Bailkoski, R. (2021, April 30). Why cybersecurity needs to be a top priority for the C-Suite today. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/04/30/why-cybersecurity-needs-to-be-a-top-priority-for-the-c-suite-today/?sh=7489e0361c39

Mathews, L. (2021, March 31). Akamai warns that DDoS extortion attacks are skyrocketing. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/leemathews/2021/03/31/akamai-warns-that-ddos-extortion-attacks-are-skyrocketing/?sh=34c612e959e5

Roach, J., & Watts, R. (2022, February 17). Best antivirus software of November 2021. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-antivirus-software/