Network Security Basics

• Network security aims is to ensure all networked machines function optimally and that users only have authorized rights.
• It includes preventing unauthorized access, protecting against involuntary harmful actions, securing data against failures, and ensuring uninterrupted services.

Basic Network Security

• Securing a machine involves preventing unauthorized access once it's connected to a network.
• Even seemingly unimportant machines can be targeted by automated network scans seeking out security vulnerabilities.
• Disabling unnecessary network services can enhance security.

Need for Network Security

• While hacking formerly required advanced programming skills, readily available tools have made it accessible to a broader range of individuals.
• Complex attack tools combined with open networks have increased the demand for robust security measures and adaptable policies.
• Disconnecting a network entirely from the outside world is the most effective defense against external attacks.
• Closed networks limit connectivity to trusted parties and disallow connections to public networks.

Types

• Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) authenticates users and encrypts data.
• WPA ensures only authorized users access the network and verifies the security key hasn't been altered.
• Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is an older, less secure method that sets up a network security key for encrypting data.
• WEP is vulnerable and easily cracked.

Authentication

• One-factor authentication relies on a single element, like a password.
• Two-factor authentication uses two elements.
• Three-factor authentication uses three elements.

Network Attack Methods

• Eavesdropping involves intercepting network communications.
• Data modification entails altering data in transit.
• Identity Spoofing (IP Address Spoofing) involves masquerading as another entity.
• Password-based attacks aim to compromise user credentials.
• Denial-of-Service attacks disrupt network service availability.

Advantages of Network Security

• Protects clients' personal data stored on the network.
• Secures information exchanged between networked computers.
• Prevents hacking attempts, viruses, and spyware from harming physical computers.

Problems

• Computer networks are shared resources used by diverse applications with varying interests.
• The Internet, due to its open nature, is used by entities with conflicting interests, increasing security risks.
• Without security measures, network communications and distributed applications are vulnerable.
• Websites can be defaced via unauthorized remote access and modification of website content.

Network Security Architecture

• Network infrastructure undergoes years of evolution in response to changing business needs.
• Security is often addressed as an afterthought during network infrastructure evolution.
• Advanced security technologies are ineffective if the fundamental security architecture is flawed.
• Evaluating the current state involves a thorough review of architecture, technology, security policies, management practices, and planned changes.

Conclusion

• Network security grows in importance with increasing internet usage.
• Security threats and internet protocols must be analyzed to determine the necessary security technology.
• Current developments in network security are not very impressive or significant

Install Network Cables

• Cable routes are planned based on network design and the specific installation site.
• Obtain necessary network materials, verified them against system requirements and follow established protocols.
• Obtain necessary tools, equipment, and testing devices, ensuring proper operation and safety via established protocols.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment and adhere to OHS policies and procedures.
• Perform copper cable splicing according to Electronic Industries Alliance/Telecommunications Industry Association (EIA/TIA) standards.
• Install network cables and cable raceways following established procedures and requirements.
• Ensure installation work avoids unnecessary damage and complies with requirements.
• Follow OHS standards and 5S principles as per enterprise requirements.
• Dispose of excess components and materials adhering to WEEE directives and 3Rs waste management program.

What is Network

• A network is a collection of interconnected computers and devices that allows data exchange.
• Even a single computer connected to the Internet is considered part of a network.
• The Internet can be seen as a network of networks.

Network Hardware

• A Network Interface Card (NIC) provides the physical connection between a computer and the network.
• A Router forwards data packets between Local or Wide Area Networks.
• A Network Switch determines data movement within large networks.
• A Repeater strengthens network signals to extend their range.

Network Cable

• Cable is the medium through which information moves from one network device to another.
• Networks use different types of cables, determined by the network's topology.

Examples of Network Media

• Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable
• Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable
• Coaxial Cable
• Fiber Optic Cable
• Wireless LANs

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable

• UTP Cable is the most affordable and commonly used network media.
• RJ-45 connectors are the standard for UTP cabling.

Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable

• STP Cables can help extend the maximum distances of cable.
• STP cable is less susceptible to interference.

Coaxial Cable

• Coaxial cable features a central copper conductor insulated from a braided metal shield.
• The metal shield blocks external interference.
• Coaxial Cable Commonly used by television industries.

Fiber Optic Cable

• It Transmits light, not electronic signals, to eliminate electrical interference.
• Ideal for environments with high electrical interference.

Wireless LANs

• Wireless LANs use radio signals, infrared light, or lasers for communication.
• Each device has a transceiver/antenna for data transmission and reception.

Cable Installation Guide

• Straight Through Cable is connected from PC to switch/hub.
• Crossover cable is connected from PC to PC (limited to two computers only).

What is RJ45?

• RJ stands for Registered Jacks
• RJ-11 is a 6-position, 4-conductor jack used in telephone wiring
• RJ-45 is a 8-position, 8-conductor jack used in 10BaseT and 100BaseT Ethernet wiring.

Wiring Standards

• T568A
• T568B

RJ45 Wiring Guide

• Guide on how to wire RJ45 connectors

Network Configuration

• Network configuration involves defining network controls, flow, and operation.
• It supports network communication and includes setups for hardware, software, and supporting devices.

Patch Panel

• Used for connecting and routing circuits for monitoring, interconnecting, and testing.
• Commonly found in computer networking, recording studios, radio, and television.

Patch Panel Cable Management

• Systems storage solution that maintains industry standards.
• Telecom/datacom industry standards, and supports proper bends radius requirements.

Router Configuration

• A router forwards data packets between computer networks and directs internet traffic.
• Users should change the WIFI name and password in order to protect the wireless network.

How to change the WIFI name and WIFI password

• Step 1: Login the homepage of the router
• Step 2: Change the SSID and wireless password
• Step 3: Reboot the router

Testing your Computer Network

• It is important to verify that the network works as expected after setting up network infrastructure.

Testing your Computer Network - Checks to Conduct:

• Check the physical connections by verifying link lights on computers, switches, and routers.
• Verify that you can log on using valid domain user accounts.
• Check the network configuration by using the command “ipconfig” or “ipconfig /all”
• Verify that the computers can ping each other via command prompt "ping" command.
• Ping another computer (LAN ONLY) using the command PING 192,168.8.100.
• Ping a website (WAN-Internet) using the command PING WWW.GOOGLE.COM.

What is an IP Address?

• An IP Address is the address given to your computer when it’s connected to a network
• The IP Address is a 32-bit number that signifies the address of both the sender and receiver of packets on a network.

The two main types of IP Address

• Static IP Address does not change once assigned to a device.
• Dynamic IP Address changes each time the device logs in to a network.

Dynamic IP Address

• Assigned using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), and are tough to trace.

How to set a Static IP Address

• Find out your computer’s Dynamic IP: click the Start button, type cmd and press Enter. Then, enter the command IPCONFIG and press Enter.

How to Permanently set it as your Static IP

• Right click on Wifi Icon(Laptop) or Network Icon (PC) at the notification bar and select Open Network and Sharing Center.