Network security policy

In today's connected world, companies rely on computer networks for everything from performing daily activities to running business-critical functions. This is primarily to reduce costs and increase convenience. This overreliance on the internet comes with drawbacks. Poor network security practices and a lack of coherence between various teams operating in a network leaves the organization vulnerable to more network security threats.

To overcome this, companies create a network security policy: a set of rules to be followed across the organization to offer a unified front against network security threats. The losses occurring from network security breaches are only growing by the year, and without a strict network security policy, an organization is only adding to them. Losses from cybersecurity incidents are expected to be $8 trillion in 2023 and are predicted to grow to $10.5 trillion by 2025.

A network security policy (NSP) is a set of mandates to monitor, manage, and enforce security in the network infrastructure of your organization. It highlights in detail network security access controls, protocols to follow, and procedures to enact so that the network stays protected from any activities that can threaten security.

Network security policies are broad documents that cover several facets of organizations' network security. These policies are typically prepared and reviewed by management or hired external services. Network security policies cover the following categories in detail:

• Guidelines on the procurement of new devices or technologies
• Rules to be followed when accessing or making changes to the network
• Steps or processes to follow when a security breach happens
• Definitions of user privileges and user access to authorized processes or services they can perform in the network
• Procedures to enforce access controls on network devices

Why is a network security policy important?

An effective network security policy is akin to a blueprint for a very complicated maze. The detailed guidelines it contains act as a framework for maintaining a safe, secure network, highlighting the employees' responsibilities in enforcing that security. A network security policy plays a pivotal role in protecting your organization's network from both internal and external threats.

Without an adequate network security policy, there is no coherence in the security practices enacted by the various teams inside an organization. This in turn can lead to admins overlooking vulnerabilities and security loopholes, which makes them ill-prepared to defend against attacks and security breaches, leading to greater losses.

How can I create an effective network security policy?

An effective network security policy needs to address the unique requirements of the organization's network infrastructure, reduce potential security risks, and guarantee the safety and integrity of the organization's assets and data. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when framing your organization's network security policy:

1. Assess existing security risks and vulnerabilities: It is important to understand the threats that your organization is currently facing before creating a network security policy. With this information, you can create a policy that specifically addresses these threats.
2. Deploy security controls: Security controls are the steps taken to address the risks and vulnerabilities detected. These steps include deploying firewalls, an IDS, and an IPS; enabling access controls and data encryption; and, in some cases, training the employees better.
3. Define roles and responsibilities: Define who has access to what and the changes they are allowed to perform in the network. This has to extend to all employees, including IT staff, end users, C-level executives, and network security staff.
4. Outline incident response practices: Establish procedures for incident reporting, steps to respond to threats, and recovery steps. This includes creating an escalation path, establishing communication channels, and reporting for future audits.
5. Create a review and audit process: Regularly run audits and update the network security policy to ensure it is effective. Audits help you understand potential vulnerabilities in your network and prioritize them for improvement. Armed with this information, you can tackle emerging threats better and address any new vulnerabilities before they create a lasting impact on your network security.

Network security policy management with Firewall Analyzer

Drafting and maintaining a network security policy is a tedious process. However, using a tool such as Firewall Analyzer simplifies this process and greatly aids in ensuring the network security policy is adequately enforced. Firewall Analyzer, an effective network security policy management software, helps you maintain a secure network environment. With its wide range of features, it helps you:

• Create, analyze, and optimize firewall policies.
• Monitor bandwidth and traffic usage.
• Manage VPN connections.
• Comply with industry standards and regulations.
• Understand changes made to firewall configurations.
• Deploy user activity management to regulate end-user activity.
• Generate detailed security and threat reports.

Firewall Analyzer operates as an effective network security policy firewall by assisting with reducing cyberthreats and breaches, streamlining access controls, and improving your overall network security posture. Check out Firewall Analyzer's features in action by signing up for a personalized demo or downloading the product now.