A communication network is an essential requirement for every organization and company that wants to create their own work environment with access to shared information, updates, cybersecurity, and more. An unsecured network can expose sensitive information, lead to cyber-attacks, and severely damage your reputation.
When setting up a communication network, there are several challenges that can lead to serious security mistakes.
Here are 10 common mistakes and how you can avoid them:
1. Poor Planning of Network Security Setup
One of the most common mistakes is the lack of comprehensive security planning from the start. Security must be designed as an integral part of network creation, not something secondary to be dealt with later. Comprehensive planning includes risk analysis, desired traffic analysis, comparing different security equipment, and setting clear security policies.
2. Using Public Wi-Fi Networks
Open Wi-Fi networks are not secure and are vulnerable to eavesdropping and hacking. Avoid using open Wi-Fi networks and connect devices to secured networks with strong passwords. Implementing an advanced management system to control your Wi-Fi networks is essential.
3. Limiting Access Between Sources and Destinations on Your Network
To ensure that not everyone has access to your network core and sensitive company data, it is necessary to restrict and block unwanted sources. For this, you’ll need a Firewall component on which a rule set will be built, defining exactly who can access where, thus hardening your network to an optimal level.
4. Lack of Endpoint Security
Endpoint security is crucial for ensuring the safety of all devices connected to the network. Without endpoint security, every device can become a vulnerability. Install antivirus software, firewalls, and other security measures on all devices.
5. Using Unsecured Protocols
Using outdated and unsecured protocols like FTP or Telnet can expose the network to risks. It’s better to use secure protocols such as SFTP, SSH, and HTTPS.
6. Using Weak Passwords
Using weak or default passwords is a significant security flaw. Make sure that all passwords are strong and unique and use a password manager or two-factor authentication (2FA) to enhance security.
7. Lack of Security Awareness and Training
People are often the weakest link in the security chain. User training on cybersecurity and proper work procedures can prevent many mistakes. It is important to train users to avoid opening unknown attachments, clicking on suspicious links, and ensure that no unnecessary permissions are granted to systems irrelevant to the user.
8. Lack of Monitoring and Tracking
Constant monitoring and tracking of network activity can identify abnormal behavior and attacks in real-time. Use monitoring tools to quickly detect and address potential threats.
9. Lack of Network Segmentation
Networks that are not physically or logically separated (segmented) allow attackers to move freely through the system after initial access. Network segmentation with VLANs and Security Zones limits the spread of attacks.
10. Lack of a Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP)
A lack of a disaster recovery plan can leave the organization unable to recover quickly in the event of a security breach. A DRP defines clear steps for rapid recovery and minimizing damage.
Correctly implementing these steps can help protect your communication network and prevent common security mistakes. It is important to integrate security measures at every stage of planning and execution.
And always remember—network security is not a choice but a necessity!
By taking proactive steps to secure your network, you can protect your business from costly vulnerabilities.
Let’s talk and make sure your communication network is secure and robust!
