Advo’s IT specialist, Colin Middleton outlines how to keep your IT Network secure.

What is Network Security?

Network Security is a fundamental pillar of cyber security. It involves protecting the usability, reliability, and integrity of your network and data. This includes both hardware and software technologies that guard against a wide range of cyber threats.

Why It Matters

Without proper network security, organisations risk data breaches, ransomware attacks, and system downtime. In today’s connected world, a single vulnerability can compromise an entire business.

Key Components of Network Security:

• Firewalls: Act as barriers between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks.
• Intrusion Detection & Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS): Monitor network traffic to detect and prevent malicious activities.
• Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Secure remote connections over public networks.
• Network Access Control (NAC): Ensures only authorised devices and users can access the network.

Tips for Better Network Security:

• Keep your firewalls and firmware updated.
• Segment networks to limit internal spread of threats.
• Use strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• Regularly monitor network traffic for suspicious activity.
• Educate employees on safe network usage.

Did You Know?

Over 60% of small businesses that experience a cyber-attack close within six months. Network security isn’t just for large enterprises—it’s essential for everyone.

Next Issue: We’ll explore Endpoint Security and how to protect devices like laptops and mobile phones.