The Different Types of IT Security
By Matt Brennan
There are several types of IT security that focus on various aspects of the same goal – to protect an organization’s data. That data can be in a digital or physical form. For example, IT security would encompass all online activity, but also a room full of physical files.
The categories of IT may vary by organization or expert. Below are a few of the key types we can concentrate on.
3 Types of IT Security
Network Security
Network security is simply the interaction between different devices over a network. The role of network security specialists focuses on hardware and software security, as it relates to the network as a whole. The objective is to protect the network from unauthorized access or misuse. When it’s better protected it can provide a more secure work environment conducive to organizational goals.
One method for maintaining proper network security may include monitoring all device logins. This may clue security specialists into irregularities, to flag malicious abuse. When proper protocols for a breach are in place, the threat can be minimized.
Endpoint Security
Endpoint security focuses directly on network devices. It’s critical that only the designated devices are able to access sensitive information or company data. Endpoint security allows companies to understand when an unauthenticated device accesses this key information. Laptops, cell phones, and tablets can all be evaluated. And each new connection increases the risk of the company’s information.
Some ways to accomplish this include:
- Control of privileged users
- Application controls
- Data controls
- Intrusion detection
- Encryption
The software updates for endpoint security measures can be pushed out through the server to each individual device in order to ensure security measures are uniform.
Internet Security
This form of IT security tends to deal largely with the transmission of information. For example, any measures taken to make email communication safer would fall under the branch of internet security. Encryption is one example of a measure that could be taken to make sure that the information gleaned by attackers would remain protected.
Websites with an https at the beginning are usually encrypted in a way that protects the information. Firewalls, tokens, and password managers are additional steps that can be taken.
Bringing IT Together
When you understand the different types of IT security, you can keep company data safer. Your plan may depend on the personnel and resources that are available to you and your organization.
The bottom line is whether you are self-employed, or working as part of a large organization, there are measures that you can take to protect your network, devices, and the information that you send. It’s time to evaluate your processes and determine what steps can be taken to better secure your data.
