Whether you’re a large or small business, network security is something you can’t ignore. Threat actors can and will infiltrate businesses of any size, wreaking havoc on computer systems, maliciously encrypting data, and in some cases completely destroying a company’s ability to stay in business. While the latter situation isn’t that common, there have been several recent instances where poor network security has led to significant security breaches.
Consider the Uber breach from September 2022, where an MFA fatigue attack led to a breach of Uber’s systems. A similar attack led to a breach of CISCO’s systems, and Activision ended up being hacked after an SMS phishing attack, which reportedly led to a significant data breach of Activision’s IP and employee data. These breaches signal the need for better network security practices, and they also show how single security measures are not enough. All of the breaches mentioned above happened because of a weakness in each company’s MFA practices, but they could’ve been mitigated by other security measures including zero trust granular access rules. Organizations of all sizes need a network security strategy with modern, cloud-based tools and technologies to stay secure.
One of the most important steps organizations can take to enhance network security is to deploy a Single Sign-On (SSO) identity provider with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) support. SSO allows users to access multiple applications using one login, making it easier for users to integrate network security practices into their daily routine. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to prove their identity. This can include a username and password followed by a one-time code or biometric authentication such as a fingerprint or facial recognition. By implementing SSO with MFA, organizations can reduce the risk of password-related security incidents and make it harder for hackers to access their network.
However, it’s important to note that MFA alone is not foolproof. There are ways to get around MFA security measures, so organizations need to ensure that employees are trained and have clearly defined policies in place. Employees should be aware that IT teams and outside security contractors will never ask them for their MFA security codes. Additionally, organizations can increase the difficulty of MFA for higher privileged accounts and utilize biometric measures, as long as employees understand they should never authorize an MFA request they didn’t initiate.
Another important strategy in modern network security is the deployment of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA). ZTNA assumes that all network traffic is untrusted, even if it originates from inside the network itself. This approach requires users to prove their identity and meet specific security requirements before accessing network resources. Granular access rules and context-based verification allow organizations to limit access to resources based on specific criteria, such as device posture, location of the user, and time of day. Device posture ensures that user devices meet certain security requirements before accessing resources. By implementing ZTNA, organizations can reduce the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data and resources, providing better control over network access.
Malware protection is another crucial aspect of network security. Malware can infect computers and networks, leading to damage, data encryption, and data exfiltration. Malware protection solutions analyze web traffic and employ techniques such as signature-based detection, behavior-based detection, and virtual code emulation to identify and block malware. Implementing a proper malware protection solution can prevent known malware infections and protect against zero-day exploits and advanced persistent threats.
Web filtering is a security mechanism that blocks access to malicious websites and content. This helps reduce the risk of employees accessing malicious websites that can lead to malware infections, data breaches, and other cyber threats. Web filtering can also prevent employees from accessing websites that violate company policies or local laws, minimizing potential legal risks and distractions.
While not directly part of network security, compliance is an important consideration when choosing network security solutions. Many companies are responsible for maintaining records containing private information, such as health data or credit card data. Holding onto this information increases the need for solid network security, as the consequences of a breach can be severe. Zero Trust Network Access and other modern tools can help protect sensitive information and minimize the risk of a breach.
When selecting a network security solution, it’s crucial to consider factors such as scalability, flexibility, cost, and compatibility with pre-existing systems. Cloud-based platforms often offer the flexibility and scalability needed to adapt to new threats and regulatory requirements. Additionally, organizations should consider the total cost of ownership, including ongoing expenses for maintenance, updates, and support. It’s also important to be aware of potential hidden costs, such as additional licensing fees or upgrades. If a team lacks a full-time security expert, outsourcing network security functions to a managed service provider (MSP) can provide access to expertise and resources, including 24/7 monitoring and support.
In conclusion, network security is essential for businesses of all sizes. Implementing a comprehensive network security strategy that includes SSO with MFA, Zero Trust Network Access, malware protection, web filtering, and compliance measures can help organizations stay secure in the face of evolving threats. By choosing the right solution and considering factors such as scalability, flexibility, cost, and compatibility, organizations can protect their networks and mitigate the risk of security breaches.