6 Network Security Best Practices To Keep Data Secure
Network Infrastructure

6 Network Security Best Practices To Keep Data Secure

Network Infrastructure Magazine | Friday, August 21, 2020

Network security is an important aspect that should not be overlooked by companies. Here are some of the best practices that can save enterprises from different threats surrounding their data.

FREMONT, CA: Thanks to innovations in domains like machine learning and automation, security response technologies are improving. However, cybercriminals are equally adept, exploiting technical advances for their malicious interests. This makes it vital for companies to have all their basis shielded with best practices to make sure that they have the right policies, methodologies, and techniques in place to maintain a robust defense against threats.

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The majority of effective IT organizations adopt network security best practices to increase the effectiveness of their security and shield their assets. The following are some of the best practices every company should utilize to safeguard their enterprises today.

1. Revisit and communicate security policies

It is vital to have a pragmatic and authentic security policy. Very often, companies fail to review policies to ensure that they address present business operational requirements and safety conditions. And unfortunately, very often, companies fail to communicate these policies to the IT staff and end-users. Companies like the SANS Institute has published reference documents that IT pros can make use of as they reexamine and update policies like having a formal directive on instituting and executing changes.

2. Encrypt crucial data

Data encryption is an essential element in shielding a company’s most valuable and delicate data. IT companies must periodically access data classification and employ encryption wherever important. VPNs can offer another layer of protection for workers who have to access delicate documents from remote locations.

3. Set appropriate access controls and hire multifactor authentication

Impactful access management initiates with having the right policies in place to dictate which devices and users have the permission of entry to which resources. Incorporating access management systems and privileged access to control who can redeem information is vital. Effective password management is also an essential part of network security best practices. Passwords need to be of 10 characters in length and should be changed frequently. A password management system helps in simplifying this process. The multifactor authentication tool validates that only the proper user has access to the appropriate resource.

4. Update antimalware software

Out-of-date antivirus or antimalware software is the most important issue that needs to be addressed in enterprises. However, it is also the easiest to address. Periodic checking should be done by security professionals on their antimalware software, to make sure that all devices are running the most updated security software. IT should automate its patch management whenever it is possible.

5. Back up data and develop a recovery plan

Unfortunately, enterprises are functioning in a hazardous environment where the question is not if but when their ambiance is going to be exploited. Facing this reality means it is crucial to back up operationally essential and highly sensitive information. The ransomware attacks have become more threatening, and it is affecting enterprises across industries. Hence, it is vital to have within network security best practices a recovery plan that reduces downtime and minimizes cost.

6. Establish and communicate a security governance framework

Compliance does not necessarily equate to security but can offer essential guidance on how to safeguard against threats. Regulatory bodies like Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council and International Organization for Standardization, outline the significance of establishing a company that specifies who is answerable for handling security and responding to cybersecurity events. IT companies need to define the respective responsibilities persons have in handling risks and responding to incidents. Performing periodic risk assessments can also help the companies in prioritizing susceptibility remediation and minimizing downtime.

These above efforts should be ongoing to be successful. Besides, these practices should be reviewed on a daily basis to measure their effectiveness and be adjusted when required. 

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