Securing Your Computers Information
Computer/Internet/Software Articles
Add an article Back to Articles
It is no secret that there are computer hackers out there and any information
on our computer systems is susceptible to attack. Ensuring confidentiality of
sensitive information is critical to any organization. Any compromise of
information about your business, customers, employees or partners could lead to
very costly consequences.
Various technologies have been implemented to protect our computers and when
choosing the right security, one can feel protected. But how much do you know
about network security and how to protect your information?
As critical as it is to protect information, industry solutions still remain
a bit behind the times. Rare are solutions that can be applied across an entire
IT infrastructure, helping to secure both infrastructure and business
applications. Many solutions are limited to detecting an anomaly versus
preventing it from happening in the first place.
An effective security strategy requires a holistic approach based on a
framework that extends across applications, middleware and data stores.
Network security starts from authenticating any user, most likely with a
username and a password. Once authenticated, authorization enforces which
resources this user has access to across the enterprise system. Though effective
to prevent unauthorized access, this component fails to check potentially
harmful contents such as computer worms being transmitted over the network. An
intrusion prevention system (IPS) helps detect and prevent such malware. IPS
also monitors network traffic for suspicious content, volume, and anomalies to
protect the network from attacks such as denial of service.
With a large company, managing security policies for thousands of users
across hundreds of applications can be a daunting task. Using automated user
provisioning and de-provisioning, and self-service user functions such as
password resets and delegated administration, dramatically reduces costs and
improves security. Various sized businesses, from a home business to a large
government operation will each have their own unique challenges. Depending on
who you are, your system will have to be tailored to your needs. Below are just
a few quick examples of what you should look for within your system.
Small homes * A basic firewall. * A basic Antivirus software like Norton
AntiVirus, AVG Anti-Virus or Windows Defender. Others may suffice if they
contain a virus scanner to scan for malicious software. * When using a wireless
connection, use a robust password.
Medium businesses * A fairly strong firewall * A strong Antivirus software
and Internet Security Software. * For authentication, use strong passwords and
change them on a bi-weekly/monthly basis. * When using a wireless connection,
use a robust password. * Raise awareness about physical security to employees. *
Use an optional network analyzer or network monitor.
Large businesses * A strong firewall and proxy to keep unwanted people out. *
A strong Antivirus software and Internet Security Software. * For
authentication, use strong passwords and change them on weekly/bi-weekly basis.
* When using a wireless connection, use a robust password. * Exercise physical
security precautions by employees. * Prepare a network analyzer or network
monitor and use it when needed. * Implement physical security management like
closed circuit television for entry areas and restricted zones. * Use security
fencing to mark the company's perimeter. * Provide fire extinguishers for
fire-sensitive areas like serve rooms and security rooms. * Hire security guards
to help to maximize security.
Government * A strong firewall and proxy to keep unwanted people out. * A
strong Antivirus software and Internet Security Software. * Strong encryption,
usually with a 256 bit key. * Whitelist authorized wireless connection, block
all else. * All network hardware is in secure zones. * All hosts should be on a
private network that is invisible from the outside. * Put all servers in a DMZ,
or a firewall from the outside and from the inside. * Security fencing to mark
perimeter and set wireless range to stay within the perimeter.
About the Author
Stephen J. Richards has 25 years experience in Data Management and
Information Technology. This information is provided as a public service by Neon
Enterprise Software, a leading provider of
IMS outsourcing.
For more information, please visit
http://www.neonesoft.com.
