3 Types of Network Security and Their Benefits

In our modern age, cyber crime is more prevalent than ever. During the pandemic, digital crime nearly doubled along with the success factor of hackers stealing money or data (or both).

In fact, according to the most recent data, only 25% of cyber attacks on businesses were stopped before the data became encrypted by the attacker. That means a whopping 75% of all cyber attacks on sensitive data were 100% successful.

Clearly, the need to protect your business’s network and data is more important now than it’s ever been. But how does one do this in a way that is both effective and is mindful of costs?

The answer is to invest in various types of network security along with the necessary IT infrastructure and personnel who can maintain and protect the network.

In this article, we’ll explore what network security is, the various methods used to keep networks secure from attackers and how you can use them effectively.

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What is Network Security?

Network security is the process of protecting networked systems, like computers and smartphones, from unauthorized access or theft.

It’s important because it helps to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data and network resources.

Network security also uses a variety of technologies and devices within its processes in order to ensure there are no unauthorized users accessing the network, covertly installing malicious software, invading wireless networks or perpetrating a denial of service attack.

To get started, let’s first break down the network security types into three broad categories.

The 3 Main Different Types of Network Security

There are many types of network security, but they can broadly be divided into these three categories:

1. Physical security is the first line of defense against network attacks. It includes devices like firewalls, routers and switches that are used to create a barrier between the network and potential attackers.
2. Operational security focuses on the processes and procedures used to secure the network. This can include security measures like user authentication, network access control, network segmentation and network activity monitoring. 
3. Application security is the process of securing the software that runs on the network. This includes things like application firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPS) and web filtering. 

What are the Different Types of Network Security Devices and Tools?

While there are many different types of network security devices and tools, some of the most common include:

• Firewalls
• Web filters
• Application firewalls
• Virtual private networks
• Data loss prevention (DLP)
• Intrusion prevention systems (IPS)
• Anti-malware and antivirus software
• Wireless security for endpoint devices

Each type of network security device or tool has its own benefits, but they can all be used together along with network security scanning and encryption to create a more secure network.

Interested in learning more about network security? Check out these blogs:

• Stay Protected From Ransomware
• The Importance of Two-Factor Authentication
• IT Security as a Managed Service Offers Sizeable Benefits to SMEs

Types of Scanning in Network Security

There are two types of network security scanning: active and passive.

Active Network Security Scanning is when the network administrator actively scans network traffic for vulnerabilities. This can be done using tools like port scanners and vulnerability scanners.

Passive Network Security Scanning is when the administrator passively monitors the network for signs of an attack. This can be done using tools like intrusion detection systems and network activity monitors.

When used in combination with one another, which experienced managed IT service providers do, these two types of scanning in network security act as a formidable defense against network, application and web security intrusions.

However, an important and often overlooked added network security strategy is encrypting data.

Types of Encryption in Network Security

Data encryption, in simplified terms, is similar to codifying all your data.

Imagine taking a sheet of paper with sensitive information written on it and making each letter of the alphabet correspond to a random character of your own design. You then create a special “cheat sheet” that only you have, that tells you which random character means which letter in the alphabet.

That, in a nutshell, is what data encryption is, and it can be a remarkably powerful tool for businesses and hackers alike.

As long as you keep your own data encrypted, and the decryption key safe, even if your data is stolen, no one can do anything with it.

There are two main types of encryption used in network security:

1. Symmetric encryption is the most common type of encryption used in network security. It’s fast and efficient, but it can be susceptible to attacks if the key is compromised. 
2. Asymmetric encryption is more secure than symmetric encryption, but it’s also slower and more resource-intensive. It’s often used in conjunction with symmetric encryption to create a more secure network.

Getting the Right MSP Help Implementing Different Types of Network Security

Managed IT service providers are a great option for businesses that want to outsource their network security.

At Cloud9 Solutions, we can provide a comprehensive network security solution that includes all of the different types of network security devices and tools.

We also help businesses effectively use network security by providing 24/7 monitoring and support. This means we can quickly respond to any network security threats to ensure your network runs smoothly.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive network security solution, contact us today for a free consultation.