Network security
Network security is the practice of protecting computer networks and related devices from unauthorized access, malicious attacks, and other threats. The primary goal of network security is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data passing through the network.
Network security includes a variety of measures and technologies that work together to protect the network, including:
Firewalls: Systems that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined rules. They help block unauthorized access and attacks.
Virtual Private Networks (VPN): An encrypted network that extends a private network over a public network, such as the Internet, and allows remote users to securely access network resources.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Systems that monitor the network for suspicious activity and attempted breaches, alerting administrators to potential threats.
Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Like IDS, IPS systems also monitor the network for malicious activity, but differ in that they can proactively counter identified threats.
Encryption: Techniques used to convert plain data into code to prevent unauthorized access. Encryption can be used to protect data at rest and data in transit.
Network Segments: Dividing the network into smaller, logically isolated parts to reduce the risk of widespread attacks and control access to sensitive resources.
User Authentication: Methods used to verify the identity of users before they are allowed access to the network or its resources. Authorization and
Auditing: Mechanisms that verify that users have the necessary permissions to perform specific tasks and record their network activity for security and compliance purposes.
Cloud security: a set of technologies, policies, and processes designed to protect data, applications, and services hosted in cloud environments. Cloud security aims to ensure data privacy, integrity and availability while meeting compliance and governance requirements.
Disaster recovery and backup plans: Processes and technologies used to restore network data and functionality in the event of a disaster, such as a cyber attack or natural disaster.