Companies small and large are all vulnerable to cyberattacks from hackers. These cyberattacks can immobilise an entire organisation in mere minutes unless your company is armed with the best corporate network security tools to prevent unauthorised network access and recover your valuable data.
What Are the Different Ways of Securing a Computer Network?
Network security is a combination of hardware, software and policies that protect your company’s network from being hacked. Following network security best practices can prevent data loss, phishing, spam, ransomware attacks and other IT security threats.
When ITConnexion develops a network security plan for a new company, we follow four essential steps to ensure a fully secure internal network. Your cybersecurity setup will typically include a firewall, a VPN, antivirus software and cybersecurity awareness training. Here’s a look at what each element entails.
Installing a Firewall
If you’re wondering how to secure your internal network, choosing a firewall that aligns with the size and scope of your business is a vital step. A network firewall monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic and permits or blocks data packets based on predetermined security rules.
Setting Up a VPN
After installing a firewall, the next step to corporate network security is setting up a VPN. A VPN – or virtual private network – is an encrypted tunnel for your data that protects your internet activity and prevents anyone from spying on you.
Installing Antivirus Software
Antivirus software is a vital element of network security best practices as it helps detect threats and block your employees from accessing them. Adware, malware and viruses often sneak onto your network through employees carelessly browsing the internet or opening attachments. Having antivirus software installed can prevent your employees from ever encountering the viruses in the first place.
Conducting Cybersecurity Awareness Training
While your company’s antivirus software is hard at work preventing suspicious files and websites from infiltrating your network, you can also do your part to train your employees to be more mindful of technology. Employee actions are the leading cause of data breaches.
First, your company should establish a technology conduct policy to dictate how your employees use your network and devices. Conducting cybersecurity awareness training gives you a chance to hammer home the ideas stated in the policy.
Your managed IT support team should conduct regular training sessions on how to secure your internal network. This training should cover navigating the internet safely, what to do with suspicious email attachments, how to recognise potential spam and other cybersecurity topics.
Network Security Looks Different for Everyone
Many factors influence how you implement network security at your company – company size, remote work policy, company devices vs. personal devices, etc. However, following the four network security best practices in this article will get you going in the right direction.
For a comprehensive review of your company’s IT infrastructure that includes network security threats, set up a consultation with ITConnexion. Contact Melbourne’s leading IT managed services provider on 1800 06 49 61.
