Latest Strategies for Establishing a Secure Network for Businesses in 2024

Everyday, we see a constant barrage of news of various data breaches to large corporations. There are also hundreds of smaller businesses that don’t make the news but that do go bankrupt every month in the US due to getting hacked, and the repercussions that follow (ransomware payments, hit to brand, skyrocketing cyber insurance premiums, lawsuits from breached customers, data forensics costs, etc). In the current risk economy, with cyberthreats evolving at a rapid pace and the enabling technology becoming ever so cheap and easy to use, companies large and small must adopt comprehensive network security strategies to protect their sensitive information and maintain business continuity. This blog provides an in-depth exploration of the latest strategies for establishing a secure network, tailored specifically for businesses looking to make sure that their cybersecurity posture is fit for 2024 and beyond.

1. What is Network Security for Businesses?

Network security for businesses involves implementing both hardware and software solutions to manage access to network resources, protect data integrity, and defend against cyber threats. It encompasses a range of measures designed to secure computer networks from unauthorized access and attacks. Effective network security ensures that business operations run smoothly without disruptions caused by malicious activities.

2. What are the Strategies for a Secure Network?

2.1 Access Control

Access control is fundamental in network security, ensuring that only authorized users and devices can access your network resources. Implementing strict access control measures such as Network Access Control (NAC) helps prevent unauthorized access and can significantly reduce the risk of internal threats. Access Control should also include mechanisms such as Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)  to make sure that the identity of the user is thoroughly verified before granting access to resources. 

2.2 Application Security

Protecting applications from external threats is crucial. Application security includes the use of software, hardware, and procedural methods to protect applications from external threats. Regular updates and security patches are essential to mitigate vulnerabilities. Utilizing a solution like Timus SASE, access to applications can be further fortified via allowlisting the Static IP address of the Timus SASE gateways, and blocking everything else. In such a scenario, stolen or phished credentials will not be enough to gain access to business critical SaaS apps such as business emails. 

2.3 Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware

Anti-virus and anti-malware solutions are critical for detecting, thwarting, and removing malicious software from computer systems. These tools are essential for defending against malware, ransomware, and other potentially devastating attacks.

2.4 Firewalls

Network firewall security is a cornerstone of any robust network defense strategy. Firewalls control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules and are crucial in establishing a barrier between secure internal networks and untrusted external networks. Solutions like Timus SASE offer cloud Firewalls in the form of a Firewall as a Service (FWaaS), in some cases even eliminating the need for on-prem firewalls, or connecting to on-prem infrastructure via secure IPSec tunnels. 

2.5 Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)

IPS are deployed to detect and prevent threats from spreading within a network. These systems actively analyze network traffic to block potential threats before they cause harm.

2.6 Network Segmentation

Dividing a network into multiple segments helps isolate devices, thereby reducing pathways for attackers. Network segmentation is effective in containing potential breaches and limiting the spread of attacks within networks. SASE solutions such as Timus, offer granular segmentation of the network via the cloud FW and ZTNA. 

2.7 Mobile Security

As mobile devices become integral to business operations, securing these devices is paramount. Mobile security solutions protect devices from various threats, including unauthorized access, lost or stolen devices, and malware.

2.8 VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN helps secure and encrypt data transmitted over the internet, providing safe and private connections for remote access, which is particularly important with the rise of remote work environments. Traditional VPNs are exceedingly being replaced by SASE solutions, such as Timus’, as they come with always-on secure connectivity to resources wherever the employees are accessing them from, eliminating the need for employees to turn on their VPNs. 

2.9 Web Security

Web security measures protect users from online threats and block access to malicious websites. It is crucial in preventing harmful software from accessing a network through web browsers.

2.10 Data Loss Prevention

Data Loss Prevention (DLP) technologies prevent users from sending sensitive information outside the corporate network. DLP is essential for maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of critical business data.

2.11 Behavioral Analytics

Using behavioral analytics, businesses can detect abnormal actions within their networks that might indicate a security breach. This strategy is crucial for identifying potential threats based on unusual user behavior. Behavioral analytics is critically utilized in a SASE solution before allowing access to resources. 

2.12 Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

ZTNA operates on the principle that no entity should be trusted by default, even if it is connected to a managed corporate network. This approach ensures strict identity verification for every person and device trying to access resources on a private network.

2.13 Cloud Network Security

Cloud network security is tailored to protect data, applications, and infrastructure involved in cloud computing. Many businesses are moving to cloud environments, making the security of these platforms a top priority.

2.14 Email Security

Protecting against threats that come through email communications is vital. Email security solutions can help mitigate the risk of phishing attacks, malware, and other security threats transmitted via email.

3. What are the Principles of Network Security?

The core principles of network security include confidentiality, integrity, and availability. These principles guide the protection of network data, ensuring that sensitive information is kept secret, data is accurate and complete, and systems are always accessible to authorized users.

4. Possible Risks to the Security of Business Networks

Business networks face numerous security risks, including ransomware, cyber espionage, data theft, denial of service attacks, and the infiltration of malicious software. Recognizing these potential threats is the first step in developing effective countermeasures.

5. How to Set up a Secure Network?

Setting up a secure network involves multiple steps, including conducting risk assessments, establishing security policies, implementing robust security measures such as endpoint security,  firewalls, IPS, solid access control mechanisms such as SASE, regular auditing, and employee training.

6. Why is Network Security Important?

Network security is crucial for protecting business assets, maintaining customer trust, and ensuring the seamless operation of business activities. It helps businesses avoid financial losses and reputational damage caused by cyber incidents. 

7. How Can Timus Networks Help You?

Timus Networks offers a SASE solution for small to mid-sized businesses that incorporates and streamlines many of the network security needs under a single solution, such as a L3-L7 cloud firewall, zero trust network access, always-on seamless connectivity from employee devices to company resources, secure web gateway allowing deep visibility into the network and URL-based filtering of malicious websites, device posture check, dark web monitoring and more. Our expertise in Zero Trust Network Access, Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), and cloud network security can help safeguard your business against the most sophisticated cyber threats.

By embracing these strategies and partnering with experienced network security companies like Timus Networks, businesses can strengthen their defense mechanisms and create a more resilient digital environment.

FAQs

How do you ensure a network is secure?

To ensure a network is secure, implement layered security measures including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and anti-malware software. Regularly update all systems to protect against vulnerabilities, use strong access controls, and educate employees on security best practices. Additionally, conduct periodic security assessments and audits to identify and address potential security gaps.

What are the four goals of a secure network?

The four primary goals of a secure network are to ensure confidentiality, integrity, availability, and accountability. Confidentiality involves keeping sensitive information private, integrity ensures data is accurate and unaltered, availability guarantees system reliability and timely access to data and resources, and accountability means that all operations on the network are attributable to an individual user.

What is the most important part of network security?

The most important part of network security is arguably the implementation of robust access control measures. Ensuring that only authorized users and devices have access to network resources is fundamental in preventing data breaches and unauthorized activities. This foundational security measure supports other layers of defense, making it a critical aspect of comprehensive network protection.

What is the goal of network security in a network?

The goal of network security is to protect network data and resources from unauthorized access, disruptions, or theft, ensuring smooth and secure operations. This includes safeguarding the privacy, integrity, and availability of data as well as providing the infrastructure for secure communications within and outside the organization. Effective network security supports the organization’s objectives by preventing financial losses and reputational damage due to cyber threats.