How to Build a Secure Network

Data theft, hacking, malware, viruses and phishing give you all the reasons you need to build a secure network. Creating a secure network comes down to budget and educating those using the network.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Security plan
• Software inventory
• Firewall
• Anti-virus software
• Updated patches
• Strong passwords

1. Conduct a meeting of the team an explain any network security procedures and changes you intend to introduce to make the databases more secure. See Microsoft's "TechNet" website for a list of resources under "Security."
2. Take an inventory of unused or unnecessary software on the system's computers. Having less will reduce your security issues.
3. Delete unnecessary software. Streamlining FTP or HTTP services by using only the software that pertains to relevant tasks cuts potential security breeches.
4. Set up networkwide firewall and anti-virus software with restrictive transfers. Use a proxy firewall to monitor connections and an application level firewall for more control options.
5. Maintain a systematic program to update all server, computer and software patches. Some patches have bugs when first released, so consider waiting for a later version before downloading.
6. Make strong passwords and make it a policy that no one can ever reveal them to anyone. Passwords containing 10 characters with numbers, large and small letters provide more security. Make it policy to change the password at least once each quarter. Send a reminder at the appropriate time.
7. Create a tech team to oversee the network, include an administrator, engineer and security personnel with backgrounds in computer technology. Build or rebuild the system for better security. Ask the tech team to teach everyone secure email practices. Opening up attached files from an unknown source or responding to spam solicitations make the network vulnerable.
8. People who take home notebook computers need to know security measures and passwords for vital documents. Insist that they never leave a company computer in the car or unattended in a public place. Theft can compromise network information. Avoid using wireless access in public places. Secure wireless access with complex passwords.
9. Stress the use of computers for specific tasks, not personal. Build a secure network through rethinking the habits of network users.

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