Networks are critical components of cybersecurity, but they are all too often overlooked. Your network is made up of several interconnected components, including routers, servers, switches, and all connected devices, ranging from PCs to printers.

Given that they are linked, a threat to one can be a threat to all. It is not sufficient to simply install a firewall and leave it at that. Since your network spans your entire organisation, protecting it necessitates a comprehensive approach. It is necessary to consider not only the network itself, but also all of its connected components and the people who use them.

Cybersecurity is a continuous process that should be incorporated into any company's daily, weekly, monthly, and future practises. So, what are the best practises to follow to keep network security tight? Here are my top network security recommendations.

The basics

Cybersecurity is a process, not a product. If you get the fundamentals right, the rest will fall into place, and there is never a bad time to review your network security practises. A proactive approach is always preferable, and organisations should cover a wide range of areas when it comes to network security. Consider the following points:

• Develop and communicate a security strategy and guidelines to all employees. Are employees aware of their security responsibilities? What password protocols do you use? Is multifactor authentication required?
• Strengthen security by providing high-quality products and services.
• Conduct regular security audits. Are your access control and video surveillance systems up to date? Is the software and firmware current? Have the firewalls been examined and tested?
• Keep security systems up to date with regular backups and updates to ensure optimal performance.
  

End to end visibility

To have confidence that your network is as secure as possible, you must be fully aware of everything that occurs within it. End-to-end visibility allows you to see how many users, devices, systems, and apps are using your network in real time.

Network Devices

To build a strong network and defend it, it's important to understand the devices that make it up. Understanding what switches and routers do and how to secure them will strengthen your defences. Having complete visibility and understanding of your network keeps you in control and aware of any areas that need strengthening.

Many smaller businesses lack the resources and expertise to handle this in-house. If this applies to your company, I strongly advise you to speak with a reputable IT consultant or managed service provider.

Proactive threat hunting

As I’ve already touched upon, a proactive approach is best. No good can come from waiting for the worst to happen in any situation, and to ensure your network remains secure it’s sensible to take proactive steps to threat hunting.

Network defences

The right solutions and devices will aid in network defence. Your firewall is your first line of defence. Arista provides an excellent, user-friendly solution designed specifically for SMEs.

Robust security necessitates solutions that actively seek out potential threats and weaknesses, whether it's detecting anomalies in your network, detecting non-human patterns, or detecting spikes in activity outside of normal business hours. Any red flags could indicate a potential attack, theft, or destruction of data, which would go unresolved if not protected until it was too late.

Taking a multi-layered approach to proactive security is vital. Heimdal provides a complete cybersecurity solution that includes threat prevention, anti-virus, vulnerability management, and user privilege control. Their one-of-a-kind product offers superior cyber resilience against unknown threats.

Back up data

It is not a matter of if, but of when you will be targeted by cybercriminals. Therefore, it is critical to have a complete working backup of all your data so that your business can continue to operate in the event of an attack.

Backing up a security system and its network devices on a regular basis will aid in recovery if a system fails, human error occurs, or the worst happens, and a breach occurs. Firewalls are also vulnerable, so keeping your firewall and firewall security up to date is critical.

Cybercrime awareness

Returning to the basics, ensuring you and your employees are cybercrime aware is at the top of the list of network security best practises. Keeping software up to date, having appropriate policies in place, and training staff as an ongoing priority are all examples of good security hygiene.

Training

KnowBe4 is a security awareness training company that empowers employees to understand the complexities of phishing, spam, malware, ransomware, and social engineering. This type of training expands employees' knowledge and enables them to apply it in their daily tasks, thereby keeping networks secure.

Password Management

Strong password management is essential. Keeper Security is an all-in-one password management platform that simplifies the safe storage and sharing of credentials. This type of solution reduces password-related risks while increasing efficiency.

Protecting your organisation

Cybersecurity is not to be taken lightly, and it can seem like a minefield when it comes to deciding on the best course of action for your business; however, we are always here to help.

Please contact us if you want to learn more about network security.