An Overview of Network Security and Policies for the Aspiring Cybersecurity Professional

The basics of network security within the realm of network fundamentals. Lots of lists in this article, easy to consume info and very skim-able

I suppose you could work this into your network security plan, but it wouldn’t be my first suggestion. Photo by Ralph (Ravi) Kayden

In today’s technology-driven world, network security has become a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. Cyberattacks are on the rise, and businesses need to ensure that their sensitive information remains protected from unauthorized access. A comprehensive network security policy is a fundamental tool to safeguard sensitive information and prevent data breaches.

Developing a Network Security Policy

A security policy is a document that outlines the rules governing access to an organization’s information resources, enforcement of these rules, and steps taken if rules are breached. Developing a security policy requires a thorough understanding of the organization’s information systems, potential threats, and risks. It should be easy for ordinary users to understand and reasonably easy to comply with. A security policy should also be enforceable, as a rule that cannot be reasonably enforced will almost always be broken. Finally, a security policy should clearly state its objectives so that everyone understands its purpose.

Determining Elements of a Network Security Policy

The following are some of the elements that can be included in a network security policy:

1. Privacy Policy: This policy outlines the organization’s privacy practices and how it collects, uses, and protects personal information.
2. Acceptable Use Policy: This policy outlines the acceptable use of the organization’s network, systems, and applications.
3. Authentication Policy: This policy outlines the methods and requirements for user authentication and access control.
4. Internet Use Policy: This policy outlines the organization’s expectations for employee internet use and online behavior.
5. Access Policy: This policy outlines the requirements for granting and revoking user access to the organization’s systems and applications.
6. Auditing Policy: This policy outlines the requirements for monitoring and logging user activity on the organization’s systems and applications.
7. Data Protection: This policy outlines the requirements for protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access, use, and disclosure.

Understanding Levels of Security

When developing a network security policy, it is essential to understand the different levels of security that can be implemented. Some questions to ask when determining the appropriate level of security include:

1. What must be protected? Is there information on the network that would compromise the viability of the company or its customers if it fell into the wrong hands?
2. From whom should the data be protected? Is the biggest threat from people inside or outside the company?
3. What costs are associated with security being breached, and data being lost or stolen?
4. How likely is it that a threat will actually occur? Do you have a high-profile business, or do you have known competitors who are likely to want to sabotage your business or steal trade secrets?

Based on the answers to these questions, organizations can determine the appropriate level of security. There are generally three levels of security:

1. Highly Restrictive Security Policies: These policies are designed to provide the highest level of security and restrict access to sensitive information to only a select few individuals.
2. Moderately Restrictive Security Policies: These policies provide a moderate level of security and restrict access to sensitive information to only those who need it to perform their job duties.
3. Open Security Policies: These policies provide the lowest level of security and allow open access to most of the organization’s systems and applications.

Common Elements of Security Policies

Regardless of the level of security, there are some common elements that should be included in every network security policy, such as:

1. A clear statement of the organization’s commitment to security and the protection of sensitive information.
2. A description of the organization’s information systems and the potential threats and risks.
3. A list of the security policies and procedures in place, including the roles and responsibilities of employees.
4. A description of the consequences of noncompliance with the security policies and procedures.
5. A plan for monitoring and auditing the organization’s information systems to ensure compliance

Conclusion

Network security policies are crucial to ensure the protection of sensitive information and prevent data breaches. Developing a comprehensive security policy requires a thorough understanding of the organization’s information systems, potential threats, and risks. By determining the appropriate level of security and including common elements in the security policy, organizations can safeguard their sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access. A network security policy should be regularly reviewed and updated to keep up with evolving threats and ensure that the organization’s information remains protected. With a strong network security policy in place, businesses can have peace of mind knowing that their sensitive information is safe and secure.