Network Security Threats

Network Security Threats

Introduction:

Security plays a very critical role in safeguarding

networks that are connecting more and more

people every day. Information that is being

exchanged between networked computers

is very vulnerable to attacks. This increases

the security challenges for network security professionals to protect the information and identity of users connected globally. Network security is needed in almost every field and includes small and large organizations, governmental entities, homes, and even

countries at large. 

Over the last few years, it has been observed that there is a massive increase in

hacking and other malicious activities. Moreover, many threats are being created for

the sole purpose of acquiring the personal information of users. Therefore, it is important

to use a security program that can provide complete proactive protection, i.e., it can

safeguard you before you get infected.

In this chapter, we look at the categories of network security threats. We Will

understand the different types of threats that are posed to computer networks in the

current scenario. Further, we will examine the solutions that must be implemented

to counter the effect of these threats. Each of the threats that are discussed is

accompanied by a solution to make the discussion more fruitful.

Network Security Threats:

It can be troublesome to get rid of malware like viruses, Trojans, and worms once

they infect computer systems or networks. Therefore, it is always best to prevent,

them from infecting your computer in the first place: Network security aims t

protect information exchanged over a network or the Internet. It deals with aspects,

such as the prevention and detection of unauthorized access, termination of misuse,

Denial of service (Dos) and upholding the confidentiality and integrity of data. A

secure network protects not just your desktops and laptops but also the handheld

and wireless devices (such as smartphones and tablets) that connect to your home

network.

To create a secure network environment where your computers and devices

can be free from attacks, the following measures should be given due consideration.

• Back up the data regularly
• Store the data on a reliable medium
• Update the software patches
• Install SSL certificates to stay ahead of threats
• Upgrade Firewalls with ACLs (Access Control Lists), Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) Proxy and routers

Network security threats are of two types:

Passive threats: Passive threats or attacks involve attempts by an intruder to

monitor communication, or to steal sensitive information that two devices

transmit over a network. During a passive attack, the attacker does not affect 

communication. Email, file transfers, and client/server exchanges are some examples

of transmissions that can be monitored by passive attackers. Passive threats are

sometimes referred to as eavesdropping attacks or sniffing and snooping attacks.

Active threats: Active threats involve modification of transmitted data and attempts

to gain unauthorized access to networked computers. In an active attack, the

attacker alters the information stored on a computer, prevents users from accessing

the network or web resources and pretends to be a legitimate user to gain access to

the network.