- Network infrastructure security is the process of protecting the underlying network infrastructure by installing precautions to deny unauthorised access, modification, deletion, and theft of resources and data.
- Perimeter defence and data protection are two of the most important aspects of network infrastructure security.
- By taking steps to secure their networks, organizations can help safeguard their business operations from a variety of threats.
Network infrastructure security is typically applied to corporate IT environments. Protect the hidden network infrastructure by implementing preventive security measures to avoid unauthorised access, alteration, theft, or deletion of data or resources.
Introduction to network infrastructure security
Network infrastructure security is a key element of any organisation’s security posture. It encompasses the physical and logical components that make up a network, including routers, switches, firewalls, and other devices.
Each of the necessary components (hardware, software, and services) can contain vulnerabilities that can be exploited by intentional or unintentional operations. Network infrastructure security is designed to provide a complex and multifaceted resource to defend against internal or external threats.
One of the most important aspects of network infrastructure security is perimeter defence.
This involves ensuring that all devices connected to the network are properly authorised and authenticated. Firewalls play a key role in perimeter defence by filtering traffic and blocking unauthorised access.
Another important element of network infrastructure security is data protection. This includes encryption of data at rest and in transit to prevent unauthorised access. Data encryption is particularly important for sensitive information such as credit card numbers or personal health records.
Also read: DuckDuckGo bundles VPN with privacy protection
What are the different types of network infrastructure security?
Multiple approaches to cyber infrastructure security exist, and it is best to adhere to multiple approaches to expand cyber defences.
Anti-virus programs: using these programs you can identify, monitor, and remove any software-related problems. Not only viruses, but antivirus programs also protect the system from keyloggers, spam, phishing attacks, adware, and URL threats.
Virtual Private Networks (VPN): to establish a secure communication path over the Internet, a VPN encrypts the bridge between two network endpoints.
Access Control: the prevention of unauthorized users and devices from accessing the network.
Wireless Security: It is a system that keeps unauthorized people from accessing the wireless network
Firewalls: Gatekeeping devices that can allow or prevent specific traffic from entering or leaving the network.
Also read: JPMorgan Chase to move data and applications to the cloud
How to protect and improve the security of network infrastructure security?
Protect the hidden network infrastructure by implementing preventive security measures to avoid unauthorised access, alteration, theft, or deletion of data or resources.
According to The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Administration (CISA) officials, they encourage users and network administrators to implement the following recommendations to better protect their network infrastructure.
Segment and segregate networks and functions. Proper network segmentation is an effective security mechanism that prevents intruders from propagating vulnerabilities or moving laterally through an internal network.
Limit unnecessary lateral communications. Strongly avoid unfiltered peer-to-peer communications (including workstation-to-workstation), which can create serious vulnerabilities. And it may make it easy for network intruders to propagate their access to multiple systems.
Harden network devices. This is a fundamental approach to enhancing the security of cyberinfrastructure. We should periodically test security configurations against security requirements.
Secure access to infrastructure devices. Organisations can reduce unauthorised infrastructure access by implementing security access policies and procedures.
Perform out-of-band (OoB) network management. OoB management provides security monitoring and can implement corrective actions without the adversary observing the changes.
Validate the integrity of hardware and software. Products purchased through unauthorized channels are often known as counterfeit, secondary, or gray market devices. That’s why we need to require distributors to perform integrity checks on the supply chain to verify the authenticity of the hardware and software.
While there are many different ways to protect your company’s data and network, hiring certified professionals is one of the most effective.
Certified cybersecurity professionals have the training and experience necessary to identify potential vulnerabilities in your systems and take the necessary protective measures to prevent attacks.
They also know to stay on top of the latest threats and trends, so you can be sure that your company’s network is as secure as possible.
The significance of network infrastructure security
A strong infrastructure can reduce operational costs, increase output, and protect sensitive data from hackers.
While no security measure can guarantee to stop all attack attempts, efficient and secure network infrastructure protection can help you minimise the impact of a cyber attack and ensure your business is back up and running as quickly as possible.
