What is Network Security?

Network security refers to the practices and procedures that are put into place to protect computer systems from unauthorised access.

Generally security involves keeping people away from areas of the computer system that they do not need to access. Not only does this cover files and folders on the network, but also physical access to servers and switch rooms. Does everyone really need to be able to walk up to your main server and log into it? Probably not.

Why Implement Security?

Security isn't implemented solely due a lack of trust. If access to computer based resources is controlled then the risks of accidental file deletion or unintended modification are greatly reduced too. Of course, it isn't a bad thing that a security system will keep malicious intent at bay, but it's important for users to realise they aren't excluded from certain areas of the system due to a lack of trust.

It is a fact that the most reliable systems that we maintain, are the ones where the strongest security is implemented. It is no coincidence that among these systems the most reliable ones are also the ones where very few people know the administrator password.

Passwords

If you have ever used a computer, then you will almost certainly have used a password at some time. Passwords are everywhere, we use them to login at work, to login to websites when we wish to purchase goods online, even when we want to use our credit cards in shops - everything has a password.

Because passwords often form the only barrier between your precious data (or even money) and a would be intruder, it makes sense to look after them. The following points should be borne in mind when using and choosing passwords.

• Always choose a strong password that consists of upper and lower case characters and contains numbers and non alpha-numeric characters such as *, # or @ symbols for example.
• Always make your password as long as you can. 7 characters should be a minimum length. We recommend passphrases over 16 characters for critical accounts.
• Never tell anyone your password. No really, don't. If you find yourself sharing your password with your colleagues then ask your Aquila IT contact or your manager to arrange for a better way of working.
• Never give out your password over the telephone, you may be falling prey to "social engineering". Aquila staff will never ask for your password over the telephone.
• Never send your password in an email, email is not a secure means of communication.
• Change your password regularly, at least every couple of months.
• Don't use easily guessable parts to your password, for example don't use birthdays, family names or pets names.
• Never write your password down.

Your password is all that sits between you and having your identity stolen (and your hard earned cash), look after it well.