Network Security Degree

What is a Network Security Degree?

A Network Security degree studies how to protect information. So, you often learn about safety protocols. These keep networks secure. And prevent data loss at the same time. As this is the focus, you might also gain comp sci skills. One might be learning to install software. Another, to make system upgrades. These help boost a computer network’s chances of staying secure.

While you learn learn these things, it may help you gain key skills. For instance, you are likely to problem solve. And may also learn to analyze. One thing you may analyze is risk. And this means knowing how to check issues with data communication. Then, to also pin point weak areas in the data protection.

What are The Different Types of Network Security?

There are three parts of network security. Each of these parts needs specific tools. And, entails an understanding of how to use them. 

1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Cloud services

So, in a broad sense, network security refers to many counter measures.

As a result, network security aims to keep data safe from cyber attacks. But people use it to prevent many things. Like hacking, phishing and unauthorized access. Here are a few types of network security to know about. Often, you learn to leverage these tools. Then also, to set up and keep an effective line of defense.

Network Access control (NAC)

NAC creates compliance standards and practices. And is in place so that only authorized network users have access. It also ensures there are security policies. Also, that these enforce limits to access. So, it often uses tools like anti virus and anti malware software.

Application security

Software applications can have holes. As such, attackers can use them to infiltrate your network. So, it is vital to check apps for security. And install firewalls to protect them from compromise.

Behavioral analytics

To spot abnormal network behavior, you need to know “normal” behavior. Luckily, there are behavioral analytics tools for this. These tools find activity that veers from the norm. And, help companies detect security issues. Then also help them to remediate the threats.

Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

The largest culprit when it comes to data loss is through staff. As such, a business must act. DLP tools are part of this process. They set up staff protocols. And prevent them from sending private data outside the network. Some of the other things DLP tools do is manage process. For instance, any time staff uploads content. Or tries to forward it.

Email security

A number one threat for security breach are email gateways. This is because attackers use social engineering tactics. One is to deceive recipients. And then send them to malicious sites. Thanks to hacked data and sold email lists, security is key. So, there are many email security tools to use. These can block attacks. Also, they can also control and edit outbound messages. And thus prevent loss of email data.

Firewalls

Firewalls are an internal network fortress. As such, they presume that all info outside the networks isn’t trustworthy. In creating a firewall one can do a few things too. One is to set defined rules. And, so  allow or block traffic.

Computer Forensics

Hacks and breaches happen. So, a business may need to do a few things. First, they need to prepare for the worst. Second, they also need to prep how to handle when it happens. That’s what forensics covers. It investigates after a hack or breach. And looks for ways to contain it or remediate it.

Network Segmentation

Segmentation classifies network traffic. So, it makes it easier to enforce security policies. For example, it sets up categories and IP addresses. As such, it bases access rights on role and location. And thus may help a network spot suspicious activity.

Security Information and Event Management

After a crisis there are tools to help restore order. Some are of them are forensic security products. For instance, SIEM products. These gather information. So, may help to identify and respond to threats.

Types of Network Security Degrees

There are Network Security degree programs at all levels. From associate and bachelor’s. To master’s, and doctorate degrees.

Undergrad Degrees

Associate degrees are usually two year programs. They may help you enter the work force. Or, provide transfer credits for a bachelor’s. Bachelor degrees are college degrees. And, usually take four years to complete. They also aim to provide skills for entry level jobs.

Grad Degrees

Masters degrees are often for people who want to advance. They usually take two years. And, may help you learn to lead and manage projects. PhDs are research degrees. And, the highest level of info sec degree. As such, they are often for people who want to innovate.

Network Security Degree Course Curriculum

No two network security degree programs are the same. But they usually cover three key concepts. And are sometimes called the “CIA triad.” These elements are as follows.

1. Confidentiality
2. Integrity
3. Availability

A network is secure only when it has all three elements in play. They also need to be in play at the same time. As such, you may study each in depth. And, how they interact.

Core Curriculum:

Information Systems Security Careers