11 Essential strategies for secure network design

We understand how business owners and office managers like you need in-depth strategies to safeguard your networks. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated and targeting businesses of all sizes, secure network design has become a necessity.

The strategies laid out in this article will provide a solid foundation for a secure and resilient network to protect data from potential threats and prevent interruptions of business operations.

Discover:

• Why secure network design matters
• 11 strategies and best practices for secure network design
• How partnering with Meter simplifies secure network design

Why secure network design matters

Secure network design is essential for protecting sensitive data, maintaining uninterrupted business operations, and complying with regulatory standards.

Data protection

Effective network design acts as the fortress for your data. It involves using security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and encryption protocols. These tools help safeguard sensitive information from breaches and unauthorized access.

For example, a well-planned network can isolate critical data segments, reducing the risk of exposure during an attack. Regular updates and patch management also play a key role in addressing vulnerabilities and preventing data theft.

Operational integrity

A secure network keeps your business running without hiccups caused by cyber-attacks or system failures. Incorporating redundancy and failover mechanisms into the network design helps maintain continuity and resilience.

Even if one part of the network is compromised, alternative paths and backup systems can take over, minimizing operational impact. Load balancers, for instance, distribute traffic efficiently, preventing overloading and maintaining consistent performance.

Regulatory compliance

Industries such as finance, healthcare, and retail face stringent regulatory requirements for data protection. Secure network design principles help businesses meet these laws, avoiding hefty fines and preserving their reputation.

Compliance involves protecting data and ensuring its availability and integrity.

Network segmentation, access controls, and audit trails are essential components of a compliant network design. These elements help demonstrate adherence to standards like General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), or Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS), to meet all regulatory obligations.

Secure network design is the bedrock of a strong IT setup. The following best practices are essential strategies for secure network design that you can use to protect your data, streamline operations, and comply with regulatory requirements.

1. Assess current network security

Getting a handle on your network security starts with a thorough assessment.

Conducting security audits

Security audits are a must-do for any serious network setup. These audits need to be exhaustive, scrutinizing every part of your network—hardware, software, and configurations.

Focus on:

• Identifying vulnerabilities: Pinpoint outdated software, weak passwords, and misconfigured devices.
• Compliance check: Make sure your network aligns with industry standards and regulations.
• Documentation review: Check that all security policies and procedures are clearly documented and up to date.

Using tools and penetration testing

Advanced tools and penetration testing are key to uncovering hidden vulnerabilities.

Here’s how to go about it:

• Vulnerability scanners: Deploy tools like Nessus to automatically spot known vulnerabilities.
• Penetration testing: Simulate attacks through ethical hacking to identify and exploit weaknesses, helping to understand potential attack vectors.
• Network monitoring tools: Use continuous monitoring solutions to detect anomalies and potential threats in real time. Meter provides advanced network monitoring tools direct from our patented Dashboard that offer real-time alerts and detailed analytics to help identify and mitigate threats swiftly.

A practical checklist

Making network security a priority involves several key practices.

Regular audits should become a routine part of your network maintenance schedule, ideally conducted quarterly or bi-annually to keep security measures current.

Investing in reputable and current security tools is essential, especially those that offer automated, continuous monitoring and alerting features, which can significantly enhance your network’s defense mechanisms.

If your team lacks the necessary expertise for penetration testing and comprehensive audits, hiring external security experts can fill this gap effectively. Their specialized skills can provide deeper insights into potential vulnerabilities.

It’s important to develop a clear plan to promptly address any identified vulnerabilities, making certain that the findings from audits and penetration tests are actionable. Doing so will help maintain the integrity and security of your network.

2. Strengthen your access controls

Limiting who can access various parts of your network is essential for keeping everything secure and running efficiently.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification before access is granted. Typically, this involves two or more of the following:

• A password or PIN
• A physical device like a smartphone or a security token
• Biometric verification such as fingerprints or facial recognition

Demanding multiple forms of verification allows MFA to significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Even if one factor, such as a password, is compromised, additional verification steps keep your data safe.

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) manages user permissions based on their roles within the organization. Here’s how to put it into practice:

1. Define roles: Clearly outline different roles within your organization, such as admin, manager, and user.
2. Assign permissions: Grant access permissions based on these roles. For example, an admin might have full access to all systems, while a user might only access specific applications necessary for their job.
3. User assignment: Assign users to these predefined roles, certifying they can only access the information and systems needed for their job functions.

RBAC minimizes the risk of insider threats by restricting access to necessary resources only. It also simplifies managing user permissions, particularly in large organizations with many employees.

Additional access control measures

To keep your network secure, consider a few additional measures.

First, follow the Least Privilege Principle by granting users the minimum level of access needed to perform their job functions. Limiting access reduces potential damage if an account is compromised.

Conduct regular audits of user access levels to maintain compliance with access control policies. These audits help identify and rectify any unnecessary or outdated permissions.

Finally, use Access Control Lists (ACLs) to define which users, devices, or systems can access specific network resources. ACLs provide granular control over network access and enhance security.

3. Use encryption

Encryption is key to safeguarding sensitive information within a network, especially for network engineers and business owners focused on secure network design. Correct encryption can prevent unauthorized access and data breaches, keeping your data safe both in transit and at rest.

Encrypting data in transit

Data in transit covers any information transmitted over a network, including emails, file transfers, and web traffic.

Protecting this data involves:

• TLS protocols: Using Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols to encrypt data between clients and servers. All web-based applications, email communications, and APIs should utilize TLS to keep transmitted data secure.
• VPNs: Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) create a secure tunnel for data to travel between remote users and the main network.
• Secure email gateways: Secure email gateways automatically encrypt emails and attachments, preventing data leaks through email communications.
• Wireless network encryption: Adopt WPA2 or WPA3, the latest Wi-Fi security protocols, to encrypt wireless traffic and protect data transmitted over Wi-Fi from eavesdropping.

Encrypting data at rest

Data at rest refers to information stored on physical or virtual storage systems, including databases, file systems, and backups. Keeping this data encrypted means that even if storage devices are stolen or accessed by unauthorized individuals, the information remains secure.

Strategies include:

• Full disk encryption: Full disk encryption (FDE) solutions like BitLocker encrypt entire drives on servers, laptops, and other devices, protecting all data stored on these devices.
• Database encryption: Database encryption techniques, such as Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) and application-level encryption, encrypt database files at the storage level without affecting application performance.
• File-level encryption: File-level encryption tools can encrypt specific files or folders that contain sensitive information, adding an extra layer of security for critical data.
• Backup encryption: Backup data should be encrypted both during transfer to the backup location and while stored to prevent data breaches from backup media or cloud storage.

4. Network segmentation

Network segmentation allows for the isolation of essential systems from general traffic to enhance security. Such a strategy limits the spread of potential threats, offering a more secure environment for sensitive data and operations.

Creating subnets

Subnets are smaller sections of a larger network designed to contain specific types of traffic. Start by identifying network areas that handle sensitive data or operations, like finance and HR departments, which should have their own dedicated subnets separate from general user traffic.

Apply strict access controls to these subnets to ensure only authorized personnel can access sensitive areas. Continue to monitor the traffic within and between subnets. Network monitoring tools can quickly identify and respond to suspicious activities, maintaining the integrity of each subnet.

Implementing Virtual LANs (VLANs)

Virtual LANs (VLANs) create distinct broadcast domains within the same physical network infrastructure, offering a flexible and cost-effective way to separate network segments. Confining broadcast traffic to specific VLANs enables you to reduce the risk of broadcast storms and improve overall network performance.

VLANs enhance security by isolating sensitive data and systems. For instance, a VLAN dedicated to financial transactions keeps this data separate from the rest of the network. VLANs also help improve network traffic management and policy enforcement.

5. Implement firewalls and intrusion detection systems (IDS)

Firewalls and IDS/IPS provide necessary layers of defense, keeping network traffic monitored, controlled, and protected from threats.

Deploying firewalls

Firewalls block unauthorized access while allowing legitimate traffic, creating a barrier between trusted internal networks and potentially harmful external networks.

To deploy firewalls effectively, it's important to establish clear security rules based on IP addresses, port numbers, and protocols.

Using multiple firewalls at different points in your network can create additional layers of security. Regularly updating firewall software and reviewing security rules helps adapt to new threats.

Using IDS/IPS

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and alerts administrators, while Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) take immediate action to block or mitigate threats.

To use IDS/IPS effectively, configure IDS for continuous real-time monitoring of network traffic and configure IPS to take immediate action to block or mitigate threats.

Employing both signature-based detection and anomaly-based detection helps identify common attack patterns and unusual traffic patterns that may indicate new or unknown threats. Integrating IDS/IPS with other security tools, such as firewalls and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, creates a comprehensive security posture.

6. Regular software and hardware updates

It’s imperative for a business to keep its network’s software and hardware up to date.

Patch management

Updating software and hardware regularly addresses known vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit. Consider the following:

1. Begin by creating a clear policy outlining the steps for identifying, testing, and applying patches.
2. Automate the detection and distribution of patches using management software to avoid missing any critical updates.
3. Test patches in a controlled environment before deploying them across the network can prevent potential disruptions from incompatible updates.
4. Continuous monitoring and reporting help track compliance and identify any missed updates or failed deployments.

Automatic updates

Automatic updates make network security maintenance easier and more streamlined by promptly applying the latest patches automatically.

You should enable automatic updates for all essential software, including operating systems, antivirus programs, and firewalls, to minimize the risk of exploitation. Make certain updates are tested in a controlled environment to prevent potential disruptions.

Focus on the most at-risk systems and devices, such as servers, routers, and endpoints, to make certain they receive updates as soon as they are released. Keep pace with evolving security threats and organizational needs through regular reviews.

7. Secure remote access

Remote access introduces security risks that need careful management. Some strategies to keep your network safe include:

• Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to protect your data by encrypting it between the remote user and the network.
• Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for VPN access to add an extra step, making it harder for unauthorized users to get in.
• Keep an eye on remote access sessions and logging all activities so that you can quickly spot and deal with any suspicious behavior.
• Set strict rules for what remote users can access based on their roles.
• Equip devices with the latest antivirus software, especially devices used for remote access. Then enable firewalls as well.
• Get your employees up to speed on the importance of secure remote access.
• Schedule regular security audits to find and fix any weak spots in your remote access setup.

These strategies combined can significantly reduce the risks associated with remote access.

8. Implement network monitoring

Active network monitoring is key to swiftly catching and addressing threats.

Real-time monitoring

Use tools that keep an eye on your network traffic and performance around the clock. These tools can spot unusual patterns that might signal security issues. With real-time monitoring, you can catch potential threats as they happen and act fast.

Alert setup

Configure alerts for any unusual activities or potential threats. These alerts will help you respond quickly to security incidents. Tailor your alerts to flag specific anomalies, such as unexpected spikes in traffic, unauthorized access attempts, or unusual data transfers.

Advanced analytics

Incorporate advanced analytics to analyze network data and spot trends over time. Machine learning and AI-based tools can offer deeper insights, predicting potential vulnerabilities before they become threats.

9. Backup and disaster recovery plans

Backup and disaster recovery plans keep your business running when unexpected disruptions occur. Practical strategies to remember:

• Establish a consistent schedule for backups. Whether it's daily, weekly, or monthly, the frequency should match the importance of the data.
• Store your backups in secure, off-site locations or use encrypted cloud services to protect against both physical and cyber threats. Regularly check your backups to maintain their integrity.
• Create detailed disaster recovery plans that cover various disruptions like cyberattacks, natural disasters, and hardware failures. Run regular drills and tests to identify weaknesses and confirm that recovery steps are effective.
• Continuously update your disaster recovery plans based on test outcomes and changes in your network or potential threats.

Keep your business resilient and bounce back quickly from any disruptions using these strategies.

10. Employee training

Employees are your first line of defense against cyber threats. Proper training reduces the risk of the human element negatively affecting your network.

Security best practices training

Regular training sessions are perfect for educating employees on best practices for security.

Focus on instructing them to:

• Use strong, unique passwords and change them frequently.
• Handle sensitive information securely, including encryption and secure data transfer methods.
• Spot potential threats, such as phishing emails, suspicious links, and unverified attachments.

Phishing attacks are a favorite tactic of cybercriminals. Regular phishing simulations are essential to test employees' detection skills, helping to pinpoint areas that need more attention.

Alongside this, it's important to establish clear protocols for reporting suspected phishing attempts so that employees know exactly who to notify and what actions to take.

Continuous learning and updates

Cybersecurity is always changing. Keep your team informed by taking these actions:

• Share ongoing education about new threats and emerging trends in cybersecurity.
• Use engaging methods like workshops, webinars, and online courses to make the material interesting and accessible.
• Set up feedback systems to assess the effectiveness of training programs and make necessary adjustments.

Creating a culture of security within the organization can make a significant difference. Encourage senior management to actively promote cybersecurity, demonstrating that it’s a top priority.

Acknowledge and reward employees who exhibit strong security practices or successfully identify and report threats. This approach reinforces the importance of cybersecurity at all levels of the organization.

11. Partner with network service providers

Teaming up with expert network service providers like Meter can significantly boost network security in various ways. When you work with a provider like Meter, you gain access to comprehensive network management that covers hardware, software, and operational support.

Network service providers often provide specifically designed networks for the unique needs of a business. Customized security protocols are tailored to the specific threat landscape of your business, guaranteeing optimal protection.

Expert network service providers stay abreast of the latest security trends and threats. Outsourcing network security allows businesses to concentrate on their primary operations without being bogged down by security concerns.

Partnering with a network service provider can also be a cost-effective move. It eliminates the need for businesses to invest heavily in in-house security infrastructure and expertise.

For example, Meter's subscription-based models offer predictable costs, making budgeting easier, and you gain access to cutting-edge security technologies without the need for continuous investment.

Next steps: Secure your network design with Meter

Teaming up with expert network service providers like Meter can significantly elevate your secure network design.

With Meter handling your security, your internal network team and engineers can focus on other critical business operations and innovations.

Here’s how Meter can enhance your network security:

• Proactive threat detection: Meter constantly monitors network activities to catch and address threats before they cause any harm.
• Regular security updates: Keep your systems up to date with the latest security patches and software improvements.
• Swift incident response: Meter's expert support team is ready to act quickly in the event of a security breach, minimizing potential damage and downtime.
• Security solutions: Robust DNS security measures and security appliances protect your network from various threats, ensuring safe and reliable connectivity.
• Scalable security measures: As your business grows, Meter can easily expand to match your evolving requirements.
• Intuitive network monitoring: A user-friendly Meter Dashboard offers real-time insights and control over your network security, making management straightforward.

To see how Meter can transform your network security, schedule a demo today or contact us for more information.