Network Security

Overview Any network, from a basic home network to a complex business or academic network, requires security. Without proper security, unwanted visitors--both human and digital alike--can penetrate a network. New threats and security risks are surfacing at a rapid pace, and even the most technically adept network administrator must stay up to date or risk a break-in. Minimizing network security risks requires the proper software and hardware configuration, as well as staying current with security issues.

Network Security Issues What are the main security threats to Internet-enabled networks? What steps are needed in order to secure your network? Answers to these security questions can be found at www.cert.org/tech_tips/home_networks.html. The Web site netsecurity.about.com/mbody.htm provides current network security news articles. It also provides other resources including links to firewall downloads, FAQs, and specific operating system security. The article “Network Security, Filters and Firewalls” by Darren Bolding will help you to become familiar with common network security issues, software, and tools. The site www.windowsecurity.com provides current articles about the network security business. Another site that serves as a major center for network security resources in the form of guides and articles is www.itprc.com/security.htm.

Network Security Resources and Solutions The Internet is full of network security resources. These resources range from tutorials and FAQs to commercial, shareware, and freeware software downloads. Entire companies offer security services specifically designed for businesses with high-security networking needs. A good starting point to learn about network security solutions is the Web site www.pcstats.com. This site provides information on topics  that explain firewalls, encryption, and network security products. 

Are you looking for firewall or other network security software? If so, visit any of the sites in the list below. 

• www.networkintrusion.co.uk
• dir.yahoo.com/Computers_and_Internet/Security_and_Encryption
• www.infosyssec.com
• www.firewallguide.com

If you have a network that is connected to the Internet, you can test your security measures by visiting either The Proxy Connection or Shields Up!. Both of these sites offer free in-browser tools that will try to break into your network. They also offer products to help fill any security gaps that are found.

Three companies, Network-1, Professional Security Services, and RSA Security, offer professional security services for your business networking needs. Visit their home pages to learn about some of the most sophisticated security methods on the market.

Additional Links Are you interested in Linux network security issues? If so, be sure to visit www.linuxplanet.com. At this site, you’ll find a thorough tutorial covering many Linux networking security issues and solutions. A good source of information about Microsoft Windows NT networking security issues is www.ntsecurity.com.