8 Brilliant Tips to Achieve Better Network Security

Cybersecurity has become one of the most discussed topics these days since many enterprises are falling prey to cybercriminals. The only way one can tackle this issue is to think one step ahead of the hackers or the fraudsters who continuously try to break into your security system. Thankfully, you can save your organization from cybercriminals as well as avoid unintentional security lapses by adopting some simple tips. Here are 8 brilliant tips to help achieve better network security.

Employ strong methods to Authenticate

One of the main reasons that hackers are able to breach your network security is because of the traditional passwords and usernames that are often used. In order to tackle this issue, you will have to employ strong methods to authenticate. For this, you may consider the two-step authentication process. Note that you’ll have to go through a two-step process in order to prove your identity in this case.

It’s usually a combination of something you have. For example, like a key to the locker or a front door, etc., authenticator such as smart card, mobile app, token, etc., which includes a combination of at least 6 characters. Needless to say, with such strong authentication steps, it will be extremely challenging for even the most sophisticated hackers to breach the security.

Upgrade your software using the latest security patch

Software patches are the set of programs that are designed to fix the security vulnerabilities of your network system. This step is extremely crucial irrespective of how big or small the fix is. Please note that a machine that hasn’t been updated with the latest security patch is most likely to have software vulnerabilities. Hence, it can be easily exploited by malware or viruses. To avoid this, set automatic updates on and instruct your staff to accept the update requests when prompted.

Secure the ports and equipment physically

Securing your network alone is not enough to save your company from hackers. For this, you will have to secure your devices and ports as well. When someone steals your laptop, don’t just assume that they did it to cash the hardware. On the other hand, they are likely to cash some sensitive and confidential data on your company such as the customer records, project details, contracts, etc.

To avoid this, always keep your laptops safe and deny access to outsiders by using strong passwords or other authentication methods. Note that a cybercriminal can easily infect your computers or steal the data without going online if it’s not properly secured.

Train your employees on Cybersecurity

Every company needs an exclusive security policy regardless of the size of your business or the number of employees working in your organization. Furthermore, ensure that all your staff is aware of the company security policy and associated rules. This will help them take the right steps when required.

For instance, if a system requested a BIOS password to allow access, your employees must be able to set it up. Make sure that all your employees adhere to your company’s security policy. Note that the employees’ lack of security skills is one of the main reasons that lead to security breaches in many organizations.

Encrypt your data

Another simple way of adding an extra layer of security is to enable a BIOS password. This way, employee’s laptop with vulnerable data is stolen, the criminal will not be able to access it. Plus, keep all your data encrypted so that the information will be secured even in case of a breach of security.

Most high-end organizations use the enterprise version of Windows as their operating system and it includes the Bitlocker system of drive encryption. After the utility is set up, it will encrypt all the data saved on the USB drives or the hard drive automatically.

Protect your gadgets against viruses and other types of malicious codes

Make sure to install the best malware and antivirus protection software on all your company PCs and make sure that the virus protection program is running at all times. Additionally, employ monitoring features so that you will be notified when someone tries to disable the protection. Never allow non-compliant systems to access your company network as well for better security.

Secure access to external network

To make sure that the internet connections to and from your private network are secured, rely only on VPN (Virtual Private Networks). Additionally, employ strong authentication measures to grant permission to your employees to access the network. For this, you may consider using certificate-based smart cards, a one-time password etc.

Furthermore, ensure that your firewall is configured properly. Note that many studies report that firewall breach issues mostly result from misconfiguration of the same rather than a fault within the system. Hence, it is necessary to review your firewall logs regularly and make significant changes as required.

Perform internal security audits yearly

The changes in the technology field are so frequent and drastic that you must review your security policies often. Note that more and more software vulnerabilities and loopholes are discovered almost every day and you can prevent such issues by carrying out internal security audits. These audits should be performed at least once a year in order to grasp a better understanding about your company’s current security.