Secure networks: changing business models and complexity of threats force new approaches to network security

Communications News, April, 2004 by Roark Pollock

Finally, research the various products available in each category (remote access, authentication, VPN, personal firewall, antivirus) and select those that best meet your needs, as well as those that work with each other. This is a critical step because not all products interoperate.

Once the security solution is deployed, management and administration tasks-such as version upgrades and configuration changes can be carried out central[y through the various management servers. Users can be moved from one group to another and will automatically conform to the new security policy on their next login. Reports and log files can track any unusual behavior and can be used to further refine the security on the network.

Network security service providers can help to remove the complexity and cost of doing these tasks internally. Such providers have already evaluated best-of-breed Internet access, authentication, VPN, personal firewall and antivirus products and are familiar with their capabilities. These providers can help establish appropriate rule sets and security policies, and typically offer 24x7 monitoring and technical support backed by service-level agreements.

Engaging a network security service provider may result in lower total cost of ownership. An added benefit is that some service providers can deliver a fully integrated, end-to-end managed solution that ensures maximum security and is flexible enough to meet current and future remote-access needs.

Whether taking on the task internally or using a service provider, the layered security approach can combat these evolving network security threats. This integrated solution ensures protection at all times by allowing an Internet connection to a corporate PC only after verifying that all security services on that PC are active and up-to-date. By securing the weakest link through an integrated solution, the entire enterprise network can be effectively guarded against possible attacks.

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Roark Pollock is senior product manager for managed VPN and security services at MegaPath Networks, Pleasonton, Calif.