IT and cybersecurity managers are always on high alert for the next cyberthreat. They have spent countless hours safeguarding their computer networks against unauthorized access and data breaches. They know that securing networks against cyber threats has become more critical than ever with the proliferation of digital assets and sensitive information stored on networked systems.
Organizations are adopting a multilayered approach, called “Defense-in-Depth” — from implementing robust access controls to deploying advanced threat detection technologies — to fortify their cyber defenses and limit the risk of cyber attacks.
Exploring the Layers
Implementing Access Controls
Access controls prevent unauthorized access to computer networks and sensitive data. By implementing access control mechanisms, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and authentication protocols, organizations can regulate and monitor access to their network resources. Role-based access control (RBAC) allows organizations to allow access based on user roles, ensuring that users only have access to the resources necessary for their job functions. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds security by requiring users to provide several forms of identification, like passwords and biometric data, to authenticate their identity.
Securing Network Perimeters
Securing the network perimeter is essential for preventing external threats from infiltrating the network. Firewalls act as the first line of defense, using predefined security rules to filter incoming and outgoing traffic. Next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) provide advanced features, like intrusion prevention systems (IPS) and application-aware filtering, to detect and block sophisticated threats in real time. Virtual private networks (VPNs) provide secure remote access to network resources for remote employees or external partners, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected even when accessed outside the corporate network.
Deploying Threat Detection and Response Technologies
Finding and responding to cyber threats as they happen is critical for limiting the impact of security incidents and preventing data breaches. Security information and event management (SIEM) systems gather, correlate, and review security data from across the network, enabling organizations to quickly identify and respond to potential threats. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions monitor endpoints for signs of malicious activity and provide automated response capabilities to contain and remediate security incidents. Additionally, threat intelligence feeds provide organizations with real-time information about emerging threats and vulnerabilities, allowing them to defend against cyberattacks proactively.
Conducting Regular Security Assessments and Audits
Regular security assessments and audits help organizations identify vulnerabilities in their network infrastructure and security controls. Vulnerability scanning tools scan networked systems for known security vulnerabilities and misconfigurations, allowing organizations to prioritize and fix issues before attackers exploit them. Penetration testing simulates real-world cyberattacks, assessing the effectiveness of security measures and identifying potential security gaps to address. Additionally, compliance audits ensure that organizations comply with industry rules and best practices for data security and privacy.
Educating Employees about Cybersecurity Best Practices
Employees are often the gap in an organization’s cyber “armor,” making cybersecurity awareness training essential for preventing human error and insider threats. Training programs teach employees about common cyber threats, like phishing attacks and social engineering scams, and provide guidance on recognizing and responding to security incidents. Additionally, establishing clear security policies and procedures, such as password management guidelines and data handling practices, helps reinforce the organization’s security culture and empowers employees to play an active role in protecting against cyber threats.
By implementing these essential measures, organizations can strengthen their cyber defenses and protect their computer networks from unauthorized access, attacks, and data breaches. However, it’s critical to recognize that cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and organizations must continuously assess their security measures and update them to adapt to evolving threats.
Helping Protect Your Network
Integrated IT offers comprehensive cybersecurity services in partnership with industry-leading providers. They are a seamless expansion of our general IT management and support services. They include:
- Vulnerability assessments and remediation to identify and resolve security threats and risks
- Implementation of critical security controls for protection against cyberattacks
- 24x7x365 Security Operations (SOCaaS) for threat monitoring, detection, and incident response
- Identity and access management, including installation of multifactor authentication and endpoint and mobile security
