1. Antivirus and Anti-Malware:
The use of antivirus and anti-malware programs is essential for any organization as it protects against malicious software, viruses, and other unwanted threats that can damage or steal data from the network. These programs can detect and remove malicious code from systems, thus preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information.
2. Firewalls:
Firewalls are an important part of a network security checklist as they provide additional protection from external threats by controlling access to the network on different levels. Firewalls can be configured to allow only certain types of traffic or block specific IP addresses, thus limiting access and preventing malicious actors from entering the system.
3. Data Loss Prevention (DLP):
Data loss prevention is a security measure that prevents the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data from both internal and external sources. DLP solutions allow organizations to control who has access to what data, ensuring that only authorized personnel are able to view or download confidential information.
4. Consistent Software Updates:
Software updates are critical for any system as they provide additional layers of security and protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities. Organizations should ensure that all software is updated regularly to keep the systems secure from malicious actors.
5. All About Passwords:
Passwords are often one of the weakest links in a network security checklist as they can be easy to guess or crack. Organizations should implement strict password policies, ensuring that all passwords are secure and hard to crack. Additionally, they should also use two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible.
6. Limiting Remote Access and IT Policies:
Organizations should limit remote access and define clear IT policies for employees in order to protect the system from external threats. This includes limiting access to only necessary users and setting up authentication for all remote connections.
7. Phishing and Spoofing Messages:
Phishing and spoofing messages are a common way for cybercriminals to gain access to sensitive information, so organizations should be aware of these techniques in order to protect the network from malicious actors. Organizations should educate their users on how to spot phishing emails and train them on how to respond in case of a suspicious message.
8. Software Patches:
Software patches are necessary for any system as they can fix bugs and vulnerabilities that may have been exploited by malicious actors. Organizations should ensure that all software is up-to-date and regularly patched to prevent unauthorized access.
9. User Account Management:
Organizations should ensure that all user accounts are properly managed and secure. This includes setting up strong passwords, disabling inactive accounts, and monitoring suspicious activity.
10. Train Your Workforce and Protect Against Security Threats:
Organizations should also invest in training their workforce on how to spot and respond to security threats. This includes learning about the latest cyber threats, implementing best practices for data protection, and understanding the importance of staying informed with current security trends. The more informed an organization is, the better they can protect against malicious actors.