Network security involves protecting computer networks from unauthorized access,
misuse, or theft. It encompasses various measures, including hardware and software
solutions, to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and
resources. Key Concepts of Network Security
Definition: Network security is the practice of safeguarding networks and their services
from breaches, intrusions, and other threats.
Goals: The primary goals of network security include:
Confidentiality: Ensuring that sensitive information is accessible only to authorized
users.
Integrity: Protecting data from being altered or tampered with by unauthorized
individuals.
Availability: Ensuring that network services and resources are available to authorized
users when needed.
Components of Network Security
Firewalls: These are security devices that monitor and control incoming and outgoing
network traffic based on predetermined security rules. They can be hardware-based or
software-based.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): These systems monitor network traffic for
suspicious activity and potential threats, alerting administrators to possible breaches.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): VPNs create secure connections over the internet,
allowing remote users to access the network safely.
Antivirus and Anti-malware Software: These programs protect against malicious
software that can compromise network security.
Types of Network Security Threats
Malware: Malicious software designed to harm or exploit any programmable device or
network.
Phishing: A technique used to trick individuals into providing sensitive information by
masquerading as a trustworthy entity.
Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks: These attacks aim to make a network service
unavailable by overwhelming it with traffic.
Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: An attacker intercepts communication between two parties
to eavesdrop or alter the information being exchanged.