What is Network Security?

 

Network security protects your business from breaches, intrusions, employee negligence, and cyber attacks.

 

Today, businesses heavily rely on technology and undergo digital transformation to stay on top of their competition. But the more devices, users, and applications you add, the more vulnerable your network becomes.

 

And it doesn’t help that the threats are constantly changing. Attackers are always trying to find and exploit new vulnerabilities. For these very reasons, network security is a must for any business.

 

Your business can’t afford even a few minutes of downtime because it will cause huge disruptions in your organisation and badly affect your reputation. So, it’s essential that these security measures are in place.
And by prioritising it from the very beginning you are able to quickly apply new technology and be more innovative. Because Network security is all about securing your business and using technology correctly; to your advantage.

 

How does it work?

 

Network security is any activity designed to protect your network and data. With both hardware and software technologies, it will stop a variety of threats from entering and spreading in your network.
There are many layers to consider when addressing network security across a business. Attacks can happen at any place in your network, so your security policies must be designed to address each area.

Benefits of Network Security

 

Inspire customer confidence

By prioritizing the security of your client’s personal data, you boost their trust in your business. You can even increase your revenue by showcasing to your potential customers that you take extra care in protecting their sensitive data. In fact, 48% of consumers have stopped buying from a business because of privacy concerns, meaning that data security matters to them. And 97% of companies have seen benefits such as a competitive advantage or investor appeal from investing in privacy.

 

Mitigate risks

Keeping your business safe from the many threats will give you peace of mind. You will be safe in the knowledge that your business is prepared for any potential cyber attack.

 

Modern workplace

Remote working is becoming the new norm, and with the appropriate safety measures, you can allow your employees to work from any location. Being securely connected online provides many opportunities for your business to grow and expand. Just think about the collaborations and partnerships that you could do. And network security will not slow you down in any way, in fact, it will enable it.

 

Increase profits

Network security will keep your devices operating at peak efficiency, which will boost your productivity. You will no longer have to stress about sluggish systems and downtime that will eat into your profits. Your IT will help you achieve your business goals faster.

 

Be more proactive

We often see businesses take on a reactive attitude when it comes to their network security. And if you care about your business you would avoid this at all costs. By only taking action after something goes wrong you risk your business’s reputation or even becoming bankrupt. You need to be prepared, especially in today’s digital world, where anyone can complete a successful attack since so many resources are readily available online. You have to be proactive with your network security because it’s no longer if you suffer a cyber attack but when.

 

 

How to secure your network?

Educate employees

Keep one step ahead of the cybercriminals by educating your employees about the latest threats to IT security. If your team is aware of what to look out for, they are less likely to fall victim to fraudulent messages or click on dangerous links. They should also have a clear understanding of how to safely use applications, software and how to securely handle data.

 

Backup your data

Losing valuable data through a system failure or cyber-attack can bring your business to its knees. The data can be tough to recover and in severe cases can be lost forever. It could be some time before your business is up and running again. Thankfully, disasters like this can be avoided by simply backing up your business data. We’ve described and explained the different backing up methods read it here to choose the best one for your business.

 

Install anti-malware software

A business without effective antivirus software is a hacker’s dream. As well as inviting all kinds of viruses, it gives cybercriminals easy access to your valuable business data. Needless to say, investing in a solid malware solution is an absolute must. We have some recommendations and tips when choosing one for your business, read them here.

 

Set up a Firewall

A firewall is your first line of defense against cyber attacks. It works by filtering out suspicious information attempting to enter your computer or network via the internet. Your firewall should always be enabled on your company network. Some antimalware software provides firewall protection as well so keep a lookout for that.

 

Carry out IT audits

An IT audit is a review and evaluation of your IT infrastructure, providing helpful improvements that could be made. Crucial for any business that relies on technology to run and function, an IT audit determines whether your company is properly protected and helps to align IT to your business goals. Discover more about IT audits here.

 

Network security cycle

Assess

• Identify your IT equipment, your IT-based services, and your information
• Pinpoint the risks that they could or are exposed to
• Create a list of the most critical assets in your business

Plan

• Brainstorm how you could manage these risks on an ongoing basis
• Think how you could continue business if you were attacked
• Research any legal and compliance requirements your business is subject to

Implement

• Put in place the correct security controls to protect all your IT equipment, systems, and information
• Educate your employees on their responsibilities
• Implement a plan for all your high risks; how would you deal with it and get back to business?

Review

• Review and test all your systems and security controls to make sure that they are working as they should be
• Monitor constantly
• Keep on top of any new threats