The threats to network security are changing at a rapid pace. Each new level of technology that arises, like the cloud, brings a fresh wave of threats to the network. There are a few processes and tools, however, that an Information Technology team can use to adapt to these changes. One of the main tools that any team can have is information, but it will be their ability to use that information that will truly help keep the network secure.
Analyze Network Response
Considering the immense amount of access points into a network these days, from the personal computer to the cloud, the IT team will need to thoroughly analyze a vast amount of information on how the network is responding to each access point, what the devices on the networks are doing, how often each device accesses the network, and so on. According to an Ottawa IT services specialist, this will create a network map for the IT professionals to prevent and adapt to new threats.
Testing
Once a network map is in place, and all the information is gathered, the team could begin to simulate an attack on the network. This is practically a test run for a real attack, but it helps the team see where the network could be vulnerable. Once a weak spot is found, it is a simple matter to use to the previously gathered information to apply new rules to the network in order to keep it in good shape.
Vigilance
Once the network has been tested and strengthened, the network administrators can go in deeper by taking a macro view of each device on the network. Along these lines, the admins will be able to see what the users are doing and which applications are being used to access the network. With this information the administrators and IT team could renew the simulation testing in those areas to check for any further vulnerabilities.
Adaptability
The greatest focus on network security is the ability for adaptability. Since the technological landscape is constantly changing, the network will need to be able to adapt to every new source of threats. This means that any competent network team will not only focus on information gathered from their network, but also on the latest technological news and breakthroughs. This will enable them to properly prepare for any threats from the direction before they happen through using the information they could gather, a macro view of the devices, and the simulation of threats on the network.