Network security refers to the technologies and policies used to defend any network, network traffic, and network-accessible assets from cyber attacks, unauthorized access, and data loss. It must protect at both the edge and inside the network, with a layered approach.
Networks are continually growing and evolving, and new technologies increase the attack surface and open the door to new threats. At the same time, cyber criminals are launching increasingly sophisticated attacks. The following are common challenges to securing networks:
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Network performance slowdowns
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Sophisticated, targeted attacks
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Lack of visibility into entire network
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Complexity: too many disparate products
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Shortage of IT professionals
Types of Network Security
The largest component of network security is a next-generation firewall. But to truly protect the network, other technologies are required, and effective network security requires a holistic approach. Essentially, to protect an organization’s entire attack surface, a layered approach with security solutions for all areas of the network must work together as an integrated and collaborative security fabric.