An Introduction to IT Network Security

Much sensitive information is held on computer systems. Governments hold information about national security and some personal information about members of the public. Businesses also hold important and confidential information on computer systems. People have data they may not want other people to gain access to on their home computers, while bank details are another good example of data that needs to be kept secure, either if held on the banks own systems or by people at home. All this means that it is important that IT networks are kept secure.

There are many people and groups who attempt to gain access to secure information. This may be to commit fraud and gain financially or to take advantage of people and businesses in other ways. Terrorist groups may attempt to gain confidential information that they can use, while others will hack into networks purely to cause havoc.

There are many things that can be done to ensure IT Network Security.

The most obvious thing is to use simple antivirus software. There are many brands available and they mostly do a similar job, but there is more advanced antivirus software available. Antivirus software does what it says on the tin, it prevents virus attacks.

Firewall systems are another commonly used security measure used for IT security. This is software that prevents unauthorised users by blocking them if they attempt to gain access. This is a must for highly confidential information, particularly if it is the type of information that someone may want access to for cynical reasons. The difference between firewall and antivirus software in that a firewall is like a wall between a computer and the internet which intercepts security threats while antivirus software scans a computer for viruses and then removes anything that should not be there.

Other simple security measures can also be taken. This includes the use of passwords. This may not be necessary for home computer users if those living in the home are the only ones who would ever want to gain access. Businesses generally do make use of password protection though, to make sure only authorised users can gain access to the network. Some businesses may have the same passwords for all users while others will have separate usernames and passwords for all. This allows them to have separate accounts, either with separate computers or separate accounts on the same network. This means that different types of employees can be given access to what they need, without having access to data or documents not relevant to them. This makes it easier to control who gain access to what, and a system that is especially used by companies who have much sensitive information.

All IT networks should have some sort of protection. Antivirus software really is a must for all systems, including home computers. Whether or not firewall or password protection is necessary depends on the confidentiality of the information stored.

Andrew Marshall (c)