You're a network engineer and you're worried about security. What are your options?

Security standards in network engineering are like rules that help keep data and systems safe. Some important ones include ISO/IEC 27001 for managing information security, NIST Cybersecurity Framework for reducing cyber risks, PCI DSS for protecting credit card data, HIPAA for safeguarding patient information, GDPR for privacy, and CIS Controls for common threats. Following these standards helps organizations protect their networks and data from hackers and other risks.

There are numerous network security tools available, each serving different purposes in protecting networks from various threats. Here's a list of some popular network security tools: pfSense: Open-source firewall and router software, Snort: Open-source network intrusion detection and prevention system (NIDPS), OpenVAS (Open Vulnerability Assessment System): Open-source vulnerability scanner for detecting and managing security vulnerabilities, Splunk: SIEM platform for collecting, indexing, and correlating security, Nmap (Network Mapper): Powerful open-source network scanner for discovering hosts and services on a network, ModSecurity: Open-source web application firewall module for Apache, Nginx, and IIS servers.

Security tools in network engineering are essential for protecting networks. Firewalls control traffic, IDS monitor for issues, and IPS block threats. VPNs secure remote access, while antivirus software detects malware. SIEM analyzes logs for threats, DLP prevents data breaches, and penetration testing finds vulnerabilities. NAC ensures only authorized devices connect, and security assessment tools evaluate network security. These tools help engineers defend networks against cyber threats.

Security training in network engineering covers essential topics like understanding network security basics, designing secure networks, using encryption, access control, intrusion detection, incident response, following security best practices, understanding regulations, monitoring, ethical hacking, and promoting security awareness. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CISSP validate these skills.

Engaging with network security communities can be highly beneficial for professionals seeking to stay updated on the latest trends, exchange knowledge, and collaborate with peers. Here are some notable network security communities: Information Systems Security Association (ISSA): ISSA is a global organization providing networking and educational opportunities for cybersecurity professionals. It offers local chapter events, webinars, and resources for members, LinkedIn groups related to network security, such as Network Security Professionals, Cybersecurity Networking Group, and Information Security Community,Engaging with these network security communities can help professionals stay informed,

Network security improves with Zero Trust Architecture, verifying trust at each step. Software-Defined Networking (SDN) enforces strong security rules. Virtualizing Network Functions (NFV) enhances security tool management. Blockchain adds layers of security. AI and Machine Learning detect threats in real-time. Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) combines security and WAN capabilities. Post-Quantum Cryptography prepares for future threats. Threat Intelligence Sharing platforms enable faster threat response. These advancements make networks safer against cyber threats.

Ensure telnet is disabled especially on remote sites, ssh on, ssh certificates up to date on any internal servers, application over port based security for firewalls imo, if vlans are incorrectly configured like everything in one vlan should separate between departments or user security groups. Access should be manageable I prefer Role Based Authentication. Assign specific users and groups to their respective security access rights and drives. Ensure passwords are rotated every 90 days and are of satisfactory standards. IE 16 characters is equivalent to 256bit encryption for brute force applications. Ensure guest wifi is not on same vlan as company wifi. Ensure specific company macs are locked on specific ports, for critical applications.