Top 6 Business Network Security Best Practices

Nearly half of businesses experienced security incidents last year, with 85% caused by employee mistakes. Protecting your network is more critical than ever. Here are six key practices to safeguard your business:

Strong Password Policies: Use complex passwords, enable multi-factor authentication, and lock accounts after failed attempts.
Firewalls and VPNs: Secure your network with layered firewalls and encrypted VPNs.
Regular Updates: Keep software and systems patched to fix vulnerabilities.
Employee Training: Conduct frequent training to reduce phishing risks and human errors.
Network Segmentation: Divide your network into secure zones to limit breaches.
Secure Wi-Fi and Physical Access: Use WPA3 encryption, monitor network activity, and control physical access.

Top 5 Cybersecurity Practices for Companies

1. Set Strong Password Rules

Weak passwords are responsible for over 80% of hacking breaches ^[3]. To prevent this, enforce strict password rules to keep unauthorized users out.

Password Complexity Requirements: Require passwords to be at least 10 characters long, combining uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using personal details or predictable patterns.

For instance, you can turn a familiar phrase like "Honey, I shrunk the kids" into a secure password such as "h0ney1$hrunkth3k!dFor instance, you can turn a familiar phrase like "Honey, I shrunk the kids" into a secure password such as "h0ney1$hrunkth3k!d$" [6]. This approach makes passwords both strong and easier to remember compared to random strings. Strengthen these basics with additional measures.quot; ^[1]. This approach makes passwords both strong and easier to remember compared to random strings. Strengthen these basics with additional measures.

"Current and potential enterprise customers were asking for very detailed security…Our password policies needed to be stronger to meet their expectations."

Steven Stanley, Senior VP of Technology, ePromos ^[2]

Additional Security Measures

Here are some practical steps to enhance your password strategy:

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA wherever possible. Even if a password is compromised, this adds an extra layer of protection ^[3].
Account Lockout Rules: Configure accounts to lock automatically after five failed login attempts, reducing the chances of brute-force attacks ^[3].
Password Management: Use a password manager to create and securely store passwords, addressing the issue of 55% of users relying on sticky notes ^[3].

Ongoing Maintenance

Keep your system secure by regularly reviewing and updating your policies. Conduct audits, maintain a deny list of common passwords, and enforce password expiration every 90 days.

With the average data breach costing organizations $4.35 million ^[2], these steps can significantly lower the risk of credential-based attacks.

2. Install Firewalls and VPN Protection

Firewalls and VPNs are essential tools for safeguarding your network. They help secure sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access.

Combining strong firewalls with reliable VPNs boosts your network's defenses. Firewalls analyze incoming and outgoing traffic based on predefined security rules ^[4]. To maximize protection, consider using perimeter, internal, and application-level firewalls for a multi-layered approach.

Key Firewall Features

Take advantage of features like NAT (Network Address Translation), anti-spoofing, and packet filtering. These tools help hide IP addresses and block disguised attacks ^[4]^[5]. Pairing this with VPNs ensures secure data transmission.

How VPNs Add Security

VPNs work alongside firewalls by encrypting network traffic and creating secure tunnels for data transfer ^[6]. They’re particularly useful for remote workers, connecting branch offices, and enabling secure access for partners.

Steps to Configure Firewalls and VPNs

Strengthen Firewalls
Adjust firewall settings, disable weak protocols, and enable automatic updates. Regularly assess security to identify and fix vulnerabilities ^[8].
Set Up VPNs
Use VPN solutions with updated encryption standards and custom routing. Enable detailed logging to keep track of network activity ^[6].
Control Access
Use role-based access control (RBAC) and require multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all users ^[8].

Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance

Keep your security systems effective by:

Performing regular firewall audits
Updating security rules every quarter
Backing up firewall configurations regularly
Activating automated alerts for unusual activity ^[7]

This layered strategy ensures your network stays secure while providing safe access for authorized users.

3. Keep Software and Systems Updated

Regular updates are your first line of defense against cyber threats. Outdated systems leave openings that hackers actively look to exploit.

Why Updates Are Crucial

Software vendors frequently release security patches to fix newly discovered weaknesses. According to CISA, keeping software up to date and replacing systems that are no longer supported is key to protecting your business from cyber risks ^[10]. Updates not only strengthen security but also improve performance and ensure compatibility. A solid update strategy can help address these risks effectively.

How to Build an Update Strategy

Set up a patch management system to keep updates organized and timely:

Prioritize Updates
Different updates require different levels of urgency. Here's a helpful guide:

Update Type	Response Time	Implementation Method
Critical Security Fixes	Immediate	Automated deployment
Feature Updates	1–2 weeks	Controlled rollout
Non-critical Fixes	Monthly cycles	Scheduled maintenance

This ensures your network stays secure and responsive.

Automate When Possible
Use patch management tools to simplify the process. These tools can:
- Detect missing updates
- Schedule installations during downtime
- Monitor deployment progress
- Generate compliance reports

"One of the most critical reasons for regularly patching and updating software is to address security vulnerabilities." - Technology Solutions ^[9]

Best Practices for Updates

Before rolling out updates, test them in a controlled setting to avoid compatibility issues. Follow these steps to ensure smooth implementation:

Enable automatic updates across all systems
Keep an updated inventory of approved hardware and software
Remove outdated or unauthorized applications
Document update procedures and results
Train employees on the importance of installing updates promptly

Working with Vendors

Include your technology vendors in your patch management plan. Confirm they meet their update commitments and follow security protocols. Request regular reports on their patch processes to ensure compliance ^[10].

"Regularly updating software is not just about enhancing security; it's also about improving overall system functionality." - Technology Solutions ^[9]

Finally, replace any hardware or software that has reached its end-of-life. These outdated systems no longer receive security updates and can become major risks ^[10]. Keep a detailed log of all updates to support security audits.

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4. Train Staff on Security Basics

Employee training is the backbone of network security. Regular awareness sessions can cut phishing breaches by 50% ^[11]. However, annual training alone isn’t enough - ongoing education is key to staying ahead of cyber threats.

Building an Effective Training Program

Focus your training efforts on these key areas:

Training Component	Frequency	Key Focus Areas
Phishing Simulations	Monthly	Spotting fake emails, handling suspicious links and attachments
Security Workshops	Quarterly	Password management, data protection, incident reporting
Threat Updates	Weekly	New scams, emerging threats, real-world examples
Compliance Reviews	Bi-annual	Policy changes, regulatory updates, best practices

Creating a Culture of Security

Statistics reveal that 33% of employees still click on suspicious links ^[12]. To embed security into daily routines, consider these steps:

Include cybersecurity responsibilities in job descriptions.
Set up clear processes for reporting security incidents.
Recognize and reward employees who show strong security awareness.
Encourage open discussions about potential security risks.

Measuring Training Effectiveness

Track metrics like phishing click rates, response times, policy adherence, and employee feedback to gauge how well your program is working.

Keeping Training Engaging

Ditch the annual marathon sessions. Instead, opt for bite-sized monthly modules. Use interactive workshops, online lessons, phishing simulations, and team exercises to keep employees engaged and security top-of-mind.

"Security awareness training is a program designed to educate employees about the risks associated with cyber threats and teach them how to protect sensitive information. It is crucial because informed employees are less likely to fall victim to phishing scams, data breaches, and other cyber attacks, ultimately safeguarding the organization."
– Network Elites ^[11]

Even with solid training, a small percentage - 1% to 2% - of phishing attempts may still succeed, leaving your business exposed ^[12].

Staying Ahead of New Threats

Cybercriminals constantly refine their tactics. Update your training every quarter to address the latest phishing scams, malware, social engineering tricks, and industry-specific risks. Regularly ask employees for feedback to ensure the program stays relevant and effective.

5. Divide Networks into Secure Zones

Network segmentation helps protect your systems by dividing your network into smaller, isolated areas. This limits the impact of breaches and keeps critical systems safer.

Why Segmentation Is Important

Without segmentation, hackers can move freely across your network. Segmentation acts like walls, keeping breaches confined. As CompTIA puts it: "Ultimately, there is no substitute for network segmentation when protecting your data" ^[13].

Key Segmentation Zones

Zone Type	Purpose	Security Controls
Guest WiFi	Public internet access	Captive portal, separate subnet
Payment Systems	Credit card processing	PCI DSS compliance controls
Internal Systems	Employee workstations	Role-based access
Critical Data	Sensitive information	Multi-factor authentication
Industrial Controls	Operations technology	VPN-only remote access

How to Build Effective Segments

To set up strong network segmentation, start by identifying your most critical assets and applying tailored security measures:

Zero-Trust Approach
Require all users and devices to verify their identity before accessing any segment.
Strict Access Controls
Use the principle of least privilege. This ensures users only access the areas they need for their roles, reducing the risk of exposing sensitive data.
Active Monitoring
Configure network devices to send logs to Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems. This allows quick detection and response to threats while improving overall network efficiency ^[13].

Real-World Example

Many healthcare organizations successfully use identity-based segmentation to secure patient data. By restricting access based on user identity and adding multi-factor authentication, they’ve greatly reduced their vulnerability to attacks ^[14]. These steps not only protect sensitive data but also limit how far a hacker can move within the network.

"Network segmentation limits the impact of data breaches by restricting the hackers' movement to an isolated area." - Dashlane ^[14]

Boosting Network Performance

Segmentation doesn’t just improve security - it makes your network run better, too. It reduces congestion, simplifies troubleshooting, and focuses monitoring on high-priority areas. Plus, it makes compliance with standards easier to manage.

6. Lock Down Wi-Fi and Physical Access

Protecting your wireless networks and physical infrastructure is key to reducing cyber threats.

Wi-Fi Security Basics

Start with WPA3 encryption and configure your network with these settings:

Security Feature	Implementation	Purpose
SSID Broadcasting	Disabled	Keeps your network hidden
MAC Filtering	Enabled	Limits access to approved devices
Remote Admin	Disabled	Blocks unauthorized changes
Network Separation	Guest/Employee	Keeps business data isolated

Password Best Practices

Use passwords with at least 12 characters, mixing uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
Update passwords every 60–90 days.
Set unique passwords for guest and employee networks.
Store passwords securely with a password manager.

"A robust WiFi password is the first line of defense in securing a business wireless network" ^[15].

Network Monitoring Tools

Network monitoring solutions, like the Meraki platform used by CAMPUS USA Credit Union, provide detailed network visibility.

"The Meraki platform makes our networking better, more manageable, simpler, and more structured" ^[16].

These tools work hand-in-hand with physical controls to ensure constant oversight.

Physical Access Security

Beyond monitoring, secure your hardware setup:

Configure switches to allow only one MAC address per port.
Enable IEEE 802.1X authentication for physical port access.
Set up automatic port shutdown for unauthorized connection attempts.
Log and monitor all physical access events.

Using the IEEE 802.1X standard for port-based network access control (PNAC) adds another layer of security ^[17].

Active Network Monitoring

Set up alerts for:

Unauthorized devices trying to connect.
Strange traffic patterns.
Multiple failed login attempts.
Changes to network configurations.

Securing Remote Access

For remote access, take these steps:

Disable UPnP.
Use a VPN.
Enable firewall rules.
Regularly review and turn off unused services.

Conclusion

A layered security approach helps address evolving threats effectively.

Unified Security Strategy

The six core security practices work together to form a strong defense system:

Security Layer	Key Focus	Impact
Password Management	Use MFA and update regularly	Blocks unauthorized access
Network Protection	Firewalls and VPNs	Secures the perimeter
System Updates	Apply regular patches	Fixes vulnerabilities
Staff Training	Build security awareness	Reduces human errors
Network Segmentation	Zone-based access controls	Limits the spread of breaches
Physical Security	Protect hardware	Prevents tampering

These layers combine to create a cohesive defense system. Start securing your network today.

Taking Action Today

"Security is an enabler that unlocks innovation and helps to safeguard the future – for all of us" ^[18]

Here are some immediate actions you can take:

Switch security settings from detection to prevention mode
Set up role-based access controls
Enable multi-factor authentication
Apply network segmentation
Establish regular backup processes

Maintaining Long-Term Security

Once these steps are in place, focus on ongoing monitoring and updates. Use frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK to identify and address potential threats. Regular security audits, system monitoring, and change control processes will keep your defenses strong.

Building cybersecurity resilience ensures your business can continue operating even during an attack, keeping your network secure while supporting growth and progress.