I need help ?you are employed as an IT manager in GOTEC ,which is a small sized company (with 20 employers )that is based in London ,the company sells desktop computers and accessories . to help develop your understanding about basics of computer networking ,you have been asked to prepare a report covering various aspects of network that range form describing and explaining the functionality of the different components to the configuration of local area (lan)
in this area cyber warfare ,your company individuals in the company can be prone to various types of security issues .
to the GOTEC management team
a)Describe common machanisms of network protection?
b)Describe common types of internal and external to networks?
a) Common mechanisms of network protection include:
1. Firewalls: Firewalls are software or hardware devices that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined security rules. They act as a barrier between secure internal networks and external networks, helping to prevent unauthorized access and attacks.
2. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): IDS and IPS are security tools that monitor network traffic and detect any suspicious activity or potential security breaches. IDS is a passive system that alerts administrators of potential threats, while IPS actively blocks or mitigates the threats.
3. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): VPNs provide secure remote access to networks by encrypting the data transmitted between the user and the network. This helps protect sensitive information and ensures secure communication over public networks.
4. Access Control: Access control mechanisms, such as strong passwords and user authentication, are essential for protecting networks. This ensures only authorized individuals can access network resources and helps prevent unauthorized access attempts.
5. Anti-malware Solutions: Implementing anti-malware software, such as antivirus and anti-spyware programs, helps detect and remove malicious software that could compromise network security.
6. Regular Updates and Patch Management: Keeping network devices, operating systems, and software up to date with the latest security patches helps protect against known vulnerabilities and exploits.
b) Common types of internal and external threats to networks include:
Internal threats:
1. Insider attacks: These attacks are carried out by individuals within the organization. They may include unauthorized access, data theft, or sabotage.
2. Human error: Accidental actions or mistakes by employees can result in security incidents. This can include misconfiguration, inadvertently sharing sensitive information, or falling for phishing scams.
External threats:
1. Malware: Malicious software, such as viruses, worms, trojans, and ransomware, can infiltrate networks and cause damage, steal data, or disrupt operations.
2. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks: These attacks overload a network, server, or application with massive amounts of traffic, rendering it inaccessible to legitimate users.
3. Hacking and unauthorized access: External attackers may attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in network devices, software, or systems to gain unauthorized access to confidential data or disrupt operations.
4. Phishing and social engineering: Attackers may use deceptive techniques to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details, often through email or phone calls.
5. Man-in-the-middle attacks: In this type of attack, an attacker intercepts and alters communication between two parties, potentially gaining access to sensitive information or injecting malicious code.
It is crucial for the GOTEC management team to be aware of these threats and implement appropriate security measures to protect the company's network and data.