1. Firewalls: Implement firewalls to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic. Firewalls act as a barrier between a secure internal network and untrusted external networks, helping to prevent unauthorized access.
2. Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Utilize IPS to actively monitor network and/or system activities for malicious exploits or security policy violations. IPS can automatically block or allow traffic based on predefined security rules.
3. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Use VPNs to create secure, encrypted connections over the internet, allowing remote users or branch offices to connect to the organization's network securely.
4. Network Segmentation: Divide the network into segments to limit the potential impact of a security breach. This helps contain threats and prevents lateral movement within the network.
5. Network Access Control (NAC): Implement NAC solutions to enforce security policies and control access to the network. NAC ensures that only authorized devices and users can connect to the network.
6. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Use SIEM systems to collect, analyze, and respond to security events in real-time. SIEM helps identify potential security incidents by correlating information from various sources.
7. Vulnerability Management: Regularly scan and assess the network for vulnerabilities. Patch or mitigate identified vulnerabilities to reduce the risk of exploitation by malicious actors.
8. Wireless Security: Secure wireless networks by using strong encryption (e.g., WPA3), implementing secure authentication methods, and regularly updating wireless infrastructure devices.
9. DNS Security: Secure the Domain Name System (DNS) to prevent DNS-based attacks, such as cache poisoning or DNS hijacking. Implement DNS filtering to block access to malicious websites.
10. Email Security: Implement email security measures, including spam filters, antivirus scanning, and phishing detection, to protect against email-borne threats.
11. Network Encryption: Use encryption protocols such as TLS/SSL to secure data in transit. This is particularly important for sensitive information transmitted over the network.
12. Incident Response Planning: Develop and test incident response plans specific to network security incidents. This includes procedures for detecting, responding to, and recovering from security breaches.
13. Network Security Policies: Define and enforce network security policies to govern the use of network resources. This includes access controls, acceptable use policies, and security awareness training for employees.
14. Honeypots and Deception Technologies: Deploy honeypots or deception technologies to detect and deceive attackers. These systems simulate vulnerabilities or assets to lure attackers into revealing their tactics.
15. Regular Audits and Compliance Checks: Conduct regular security audits and compliance checks to ensure that the network security measures align with industry regulations and organizational policies.