Advantages and Disadvantages of Network Security
Advantages of Network Security
1. Protect data
As discussed, network security keeps a check on unauthorized access. A network contains a lot of confidential data like personal client data. Anybody who breaks into the network may hamper this sensitive data. So, network security should be there in place to protect them.
2. Prevents cyber attack
Most of the attack on the network comes from the internet. Some hackers are experts in this and then there are virus attacks. If careless, they can play with a lot of information available in the network. Network security can prevent these attacks from harming computers.
3. Levels of access
The security software gives different levels of access to different users. The authentication of the user is followed by the authorization technique where it is checked whether the user is authorized to access certain resources. You may have seen certain shared documents password protected for security. The software knows which resources are accessible by whom.
4. Centrally controlled
Unlike the desktop security software, the network security software is controlled by a central user called network administrator. While the former is prone to worms and virus attacks, the latter can prevent the hackers before they damage anything. This is because the software is installed in a machine having no internet.
5. Centralized updates
The anti-virus software must be timely updated. An old version may not offer you enough security against attackers. But it is not guaranteed that every user of the network follows it religiously. A network security system that is centralized offers this advantage of timely updates without even the knowledge of the individuals.
Disadvantages of Network Security
Network security is a real boon to the users to ensure the security of their data. While it has many advantages, it has some disadvantages as well. So let us discuss some of them.
1. Costly setup
The set up of a network security system can be a bit expensive. Purchasing the software, installing it, etc can become costly especially for smaller networks. Here we are not talking about a single computer, but a network of computers storing massive data. So, the security being of prime importance will cost more. It cannot be ignored at any cost!
2. Time-consuming
The software installed on some networks is difficult to work with. It needs authentication using two passwords to ensure double security which has to be entered every time you edit a document. It also requires the passwords to be unique with numbers, special characters, and alphabets. The user may have to type several sample passwords before one is finalized which takes a lot of time.
3. Requires skilled staff
Manage large networks is not an easy task. It requires highly skilled technicians who can handle any security issue that arises. A network administrator needs to be employed to ensure the smooth working of the network. He must also be trained adequately to meet the requirement.
4. Careless admin
When the best software is installed and everything required is done, it is natural for the admin to be careless at times. It is his job to check the logs regularly to keep a check on the malicious users. But sometimes, he just trusts the system and that is when the attack happens. So, the admin must remain vigilant always.
