The universal connectivity through the web and internet has made it possible for offices to share sensitive data conveniently.
However, this universal connectivity poses some severe threats to network security. The leakage of sensitive data, cyber-attacks, and hacking attempts are rampant. It would not be wrong to say; that every organization can fall prey to network malpractices. According to one statistic, 32 percent of companies have experienced illicit data breaches. Cybercrime has become the second-most reported economic crime. It is essential to ensure network protection through the security best practices listed below.
In addition, these practices will assist you in securing your network and data. So without any delay, let’s dive into the best practices for network security.
Network Security Best Practices:
1. Know the basics of your network infrastructure
Before battling against potential network threats, it is crucial to acquire a piece of basic knowledge about your network infrastructure. These components interact and connect with the devices. Therefore, knowing your infrastructure will assist you in formulating a better network protection strategy.
The primary network infrastructure that you should focus on while configuring your cybersecurity consists of:
- Software devices that include Firewall, IPS, IDS, etc.
- Hardware devices that have switches, servers, routers, and printers
- Digital security certificates like SSL/LoT certificates.
Various hackers and data robbers exploit these devices and commit cybercrimes. Thus, it is important to consider these components while making your network security plan since they also act as a first-line defense. It is also crucial to purchase these network infrastructure devices from authentic and reputable vendors.
2. Maintain regular software and patch updates
It’s essential to keep your software updated since security threats and network attacks are rapidly evolving. Old and worn-out software may not be eligible to combat the new network threats or data breaches. Hence, one of the essential yet vital practices is maintaining your software. Suitable anti-virus software will counter the recent exploits. O keep the software patched up. Newly developed patches can benefit your software. They can fix crashes and flawed security systems and help you browse safely on the web. Hackers love vulnerable and outdated software. Therefore, updating and patching up software is a necessity.
3. Track your logins
Another excellent practice to maintain your network security is to keep track of your login history and increase visibility. By using the login history features, you can easily acquire the following information regarding your network:
- I.P. Address
- Activity time
- URL Address
The activity status, nine login attempts, and successful failed or invalid passwords help you detect suspicious activities. The information mentioned above helps you track suspicious activities. It also assists you in cracking the URL and the I.P. address. In turn, it further aids you in detecting the threats and taking action against it. Another crucial factor linked with tracking your login activity is limiting users. Do not allow data access to a large number of users. Limit the number of users so that you can easily detect unauthorized users.
Furthermore, you can also automate responses when an unauthorized login attempts and block the I.P. and URL addresses. This feature helps to reduce cyberattacks to a great extent. It is important to generate such automatic responses when observing any suspicious activity.
4. Password Management techniques
One of the critical network security solutions includes planning a secure and challenging password. Unfortunately, hacking and data thefts still occur due to weak passwords and poor password management skills. Therefore, it is essential to create a complex and unique password. It should be easy to remember for you yet challenging to guess. Some password management techniques that might help you in cybersecurity are:
- Use a phrase with numbers, upper and lower cases that is complex.
- You may use a password generator to generate a securely generated password.
- You must regularly change your password over a specific period.
- Share your password only with a limited number of employees or users.
5. Use the multiple-authentication factor method.
Multiple authentication factors enable you to add extra layers of security to your networking systems. Even if the hackers or unauthorized users gain access to your passwords or pin codes, they cannot crack the data. They would still require various factors. Multiple-factor authentication uses multiple tools like a fingerprint and new security codes. You’ll receive an alert every time you observe login activity on your phone or emails. You’ll typically use your voice or face recognition. These features mitigate the risk of data exploitation and network malpractices to a great extent. One of the most recommended networking practices has helped reduce network attacks to a great time.
6. Data backup plans
Hackers are always after your company’s sensitive data to harm the company in terms of finances and reputation. In case of data breaches, thefts, or leakages, it is good to keep your data backed up. Your company or organization should have a data backup system to secure your data.
It would be best to regularly keep your data, important files, and documents safe. You can use other devices, external hardware devices, or the cloud. In case of data breaches, you will always have a copy of your data to swiftly cope with any losses.
Moreover, it would be best to formulate and invest in data management planning in case of breaches and losses.
The Bottom Line for Network Security Best Practices:
There is an evolution in network and cyber attacks with increasing advancements in technology. The cyber attackers and hacking experts are constantly foraging for vulnerabilities in your system. If your security system is weak, they can quickly gain your sensitive data. An outdated and poorly maintained network system is prone to hacking attempts tenfold more than an updated and managed network.
Hence, you must deploy the network as mentioned above security best practices to stay safe and secure.
About Cinch I.T.
Since 2004, Cinch I.T. has provided customer-focused I.T. services for businesses of all sizes. Whether you need on-site support or a reliable cloud computing office, our computer support offers the fastest and friendliest service in the industry. Cinch is one of the nation’s fastest-growing I.T. support franchises with 8 locations. To learn more about our computer support service, visit cinchit.com. For more information about I.T. franchise opportunities, visit cinchfranchise.com.
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