The three CRITICALLY IMPORTANT tactics you need to employ to defend your network from internet-based attacks.

The three CRITICALLY IMPORTANT tactics you need to employ to defend your network from internet-based attacks.

Why invite hackers and viruses into your network, when you can take some simple steps to fortify your internet defences? If you are vigilant in following the three CRITICALLY IMPORTANT tactics to defend your network from internet-based attacks, you significantly reduce the chances of a malicious intrusion and your network will run a lot smoother with much less downtime.

As a result, you save the huge costs of damage and lost productivity...and you live to fight another day!

Tactic 1: Install a good firewall solution

A firewall is a dedicated device or computer with special software installed that sits between your internet connection and your local area network. It's purpose is to prevent unwanted intruders or “hackers” from infiltrating your network. Hackers randomly search the Internet for vulnerable computers and networks by sending out “pings”, similar to randomly dialling phone numbers. Computers or networks that respond may become potential targets.

Like the mortgage or loan industry, there are many types of different loans each with their specific features and benefits. There is no one loan that fits all. Similarly, there is no "one perfect firewall". Each product has strengths and weaknesses, and after you've evaluated your needs and decided which features are most important for your organisation, you should carefully compare the capabilities of different firewall products to determine which meet your own needs best.

Firewalls range in price from around $100 for integrated broadband DSL modem/firewalls, to the top-end enterprise class firewalls costing upwards of $30,000. As with all things in life you generally get what you pay for, but with some careful planning and the right advice up-front, you will find a firewall solution that provides you value for money with more than adequate protection.

Tactic 2: Install good quality anti-virus software that automatically updates itself...DAILY!

Many organisations get a false sense of security by purchasing their anti-virus software and simply installing it, believing that it will protect them for ever. They either forget (or neglect) to ensure that the virus updates are scheduled correctly (or even scheduled at all) and then are surprised when they are hit by a virus attack.

With the proliferation of viruses these days, it is critical that your anti-virus software is scheduled to receive or download it's updates on a DAILY basis. According to Symantec, almost 5,000 new viruses and worms were launched at the Microsoft Windows operating system between January and June of this year (2004). This is about 400 percent more than the first half of last year. Given these statistics, if you leave your virus updates for a weekly cycle for example, you could be exposing your network to an avoidable attack.

Tactic 3: Keep your Microsoft Windows updates and service packs up-to-date

Windows Update is the online extension of Windows, designed to help you keep your computer up-to-date. Through this facility, you are able to download the latest Microsoft Windows security patches, system files, device drivers, service packs, and new Windows features. These enhancements are recommended to you based on what is needed for your specific computer.

From our experience, many business concentrate on keeping their Microsoft Windows servers updated, but neglect to keep their workstations updated as well. Remember that the level of security on your network is only as strong as its weakest link. Scheduling a time to do these updates at the same time each week or each month, will make the process easier and keep all your systems operating efficiently (quick tip: make the first week of each month Windows Update Week).

Go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com to get the latest updates and service packs.

Consider the cost in lost time, lost productivity and lost business if your network was damaged through attacks from the internet. It may sound like scare tactics, but unfortunately this is the reality of doing business on the internet today.

Luckily there are only three CRITICALLY IMPORTANT tactics you need to employ to adequately defend yourself from internet-based attacks. They are not expensive solutions in comparison to the damage they may cause (in fact, one of these tactics is absolutely FREE).

If you are interested in discovering ways in which you can align your existing or future technology needs with your business operations, or increase your network's security, please contact us for a no obligation, free assessment.

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