The digital age has rendered us all dependent on the internet for everything from buying groceries to paying back home loans to applying for credit cards and filing taxes. Since the internet controls so much of our lives, why not ensure that our network is secure?

Shocking incidents of network breaches are constantly being reported all over the world. It is not just celebrities and politicians that are at risk anymore, every single one of us needs to be careful. Unwanted network exposure poses threats to your financial and social security and even national security under dire circumstances.

Here are 5 tips that will help you improve your network security:

Use strong passwords

‘Create strong passwords’: this may seem like a redundant statement that has almost become a cliché now. However, this is the most important step towards your network’s security. Despite constant instructions to create a strong password, many people still end up choosing a quick, simple and easy-to-remember password for their network. Do not be one of them. Keep changing your password(s) periodically, and do not share your password on the very network you are protecting with it.

Prevent access to unscanned external devices

A lot of crucial data is lost due to malware that we unknowingly introduce ourselves. As a policy, disallow the use of unscanned external devices such as flash drives, compact disks or external hard drives on your computers. This will prevent the inadvertent introduction of malware into your
system. Educating your workforce on the importance of doing this will further help securing your network.

Create Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

VPNs are safe virtual networks that will help you secure your network. Additionally, they also allow you to access your sensitive data remotely and share them with other VPN users that you trust. The next time you are at your favorite café, avoid using their open Wi-Fi network to share your data.

Restrict access based on Media Access Control (MAC) addresses

Restrict network access to verified devices of the users belonging to your organization. This can be done by filtering and authenticating specific MAC addresses. You can then grant access to your new employees or any third-party users on a need-to basis. Additionally, a two-factor login will ensure that only legitimate users can access your network.

Prevention is better than cure

Let your employees be aware of the harms of an unauthorized network access. They should be vigilant about any phishing emails or harmful websites that may contain malware. Moreover, the IT department at your firm should be quick to identify such anomalies and raise alarm before a breach takes place. If yours is a home-based network, seeking help from an IT professional is still a quick and easy option to pursue.

Conclusion

Securing your network has become equivalent to locking your doors at night. It is just as important and just as easy: all you need are a solid lock and the right key. Grab them now by following our tips.