Network Security
Computer networks are a boon to business enterprises which operate from multiple locations. The ever increasing speed of communication networks makes it easier for organizations to deploy several bandwidth hungry applications over the network and this also includes video and audio conferencing solutions. In addition to these, there are enterprise business applications like ERP, CRM and Supply Chain solutions which use enterprise network as their backbone. While all network applications provide flexibility in the business environment, networks come with their own risks. It is important that all data is secured against hacking and virus attacks. Secondly, the network access systems also have to be made intruder proof so that no external agency or individual is able to enter into the sensitive data area.
One of the most sought after data by network intruders and hackers is the critical financial data and information such as Credit card numbers and PINs. However, advances in technology such as data encryption tools, virtual private networks, password and data encryption techniques have provided the necessary security to data and information moving on the network.
Many other techniques used in data protection and network security are also being regularly deployed by business organizations. These include firewalls, virus shields, etc. and need to be configured according to the requirement of the specific network. One of the most vulnerable categories of networks is that of wireless networks and as wireless networks become popular, securing them becomes the most important and priority activity of corporate network managers and network security experts. Security consulting agencies advocate use of techniques such as 64 bit WEP, 128 bit WEP, WPAT, Mac address filtering etc. As many organizations upgrade to WIFI and WiMAX networks, wireless network security is gaining increased importance and organizations are looking at network security as a priority activity.
Dr. Mark D. Yates, The British American Security Expert says data and network security needs to be reviewed continuously for its effectiveness as intruders and hackers keep upgrading their techniques and methods continuously. Network security is therefore a high priority activity for network managers and technology officers of business enterprises and equally for security consulting firms.