Network security combines a range of technologies, processes, and tools into a comprehensive strategy to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of computer networks.
No matter the size, industry, or type of infrastructure, every organization needs strong network security to defend against the constantly evolving landscape of network security threats.
This is part of a broader series on cybersecurity.
Network Security Threats and Attacks
Malware
Malware refers to malicious software designed to compromise information systems. It comes in many forms, each with a specific harmful purpose. For example, ransomware encrypts files and demands payment for their release, spyware secretly monitors user activity, and Trojans disguise themselves to gain unauthorized access. Cybercriminals use malware to steal or duplicate sensitive data, block file access, disrupt operations, or render systems unusable.
Phishing
Phishing is a form of cyber fraud in which attackers pose as trustworthy entities through email, messages, or other communication channels. These scams often contain malicious links or attachments that can steal account details, capture login credentials, or execute other harmful actions on the victim’s system.
Bots
A bot is a lightweight software program that automates web requests for various purposes, often without human involvement. Tasks can range from scanning website content to testing stolen credit card details. In a bot attack, these automated requests are used to defraud, manipulate, or disrupt applications, websites, end users, or APIs. While bots were once mainly associated with spam or denial-of-service attacks, they have evolved into sophisticated operations with organized infrastructures capable of launching far more damaging and targeted assaults.
DDoS Attacks
A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack harnesses multiple compromised systems to overwhelm a targeted resource, preventing legitimate users from accessing it. This is typically achieved by flooding the target with excessive messages, malformed data packets, or connection requests, forcing it to slow down drastically or shut down entirely. DDoS attacks can impact websites, servers, or any network resource, causing widespread disruption and downtime.
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a highly targeted, prolonged cyberattack in which intruders gain unauthorized access to a network and remain undetected for an extended period. Unlike quick smash-and-grab attacks, APTs are carefully executed to maintain long-term access, often to steal sensitive data. Due to the resources and effort involved, attackers typically focus on high-value targets such as major corporations and government entities, ensuring the potential for significant payoff.
Drive-by Download
A drive-by download occurs when malicious code is unknowingly downloaded onto a computer or mobile device, leaving it vulnerable to cyberattacks. Unlike most attacks, it does not require the user to click a link, open a file, or take any deliberate action. Instead, it exploits vulnerabilities in applications, browsers, or operating systems—often due to missing or failed updates—making it one of the stealthiest infection methods.
DNS Attack
A DNS attack occurs when cybercriminals exploit weaknesses in the domain name system (DNS), which was originally built for convenience rather than security. Because DNS communication between clients and servers often happens in plaintext, attackers can intercept, manipulate, or redirect traffic. In some cases, they may gain access to a DNS provider’s account using stolen credentials and alter DNS records, directing users to malicious sites. These exploits can result in phishing, malware distribution, or significant service disruptions.
Misconfiguration Exploits
Misconfiguration exploits take advantage of improperly set up network systems, applications, or devices, creating security gaps for attackers to exploit. Common causes include leaving default settings unchanged, failing to apply timely updates, and simple human errors. For example, default passwords or configurations on devices can leave entire networks vulnerable if not addressed. Systems lacking regular patches remain exposed to exploits targeting known flaws. Additionally, unnecessary open services, ports, and weak access controls—such as excessive user permissions or missing multi-factor authentication—can give attackers an easy path into sensitive systems. Proper configuration management, network segmentation, and minimizing the attack surface are critical defenses against these threats.
Network Security Threats Best Practices
Audit the Network and Security Controls
Regular network audits are vital for accurately evaluating an organization’s security posture and uncovering areas that need improvement. Through audits, companies can:
- Detect vulnerabilities requiring immediate attention.
- Identify unused or unnecessary applications running in the background.
- Evaluate and fine-tune firewall settings for optimal protection.
- Review the condition of servers, software, applications, and network equipment.
- Verify the effectiveness of the overall security infrastructure.
- Check the reliability and status of server backups.
- Consistent and scheduled audits ensure ongoing security, helping organizations stay ahead of evolving threats.
Use Network Address Translation
Network Address Translation (NAT) not only addresses the shortage of IPv4 addresses but also strengthens network security. By translating private internal IP addresses into a single public IP address, NAT allows multiple devices to share one internet connection while hiding individual host identities.
This works hand-in-hand with firewalls to create an additional barrier for external attackers. While internal devices can initiate communication with the outside world, inbound connections from unknown sources must pass through the NAT system before reaching internal hosts.
This process not only reduces the number of required IP addresses but also makes it more difficult for attackers to identify and target specific devices.
Implement Centralized Logging and Real-Time Log Monitoring
Organizations should maintain detailed records of suspicious logins and system events to detect unusual activity. This information is vital for reconstructing incidents—whether ongoing or historical—so that security teams can strengthen detection capabilities and respond faster in the future.
Cybercriminals often attempt to bypass logging systems. For instance, they might target a decoy machine that performs seemingly harmless actions while secretly observing system behavior. This allows them to determine safe activity thresholds that won’t trigger alerts.
Develop a Robust Backup and Recovery Strategy
In today’s threat landscape, the question is not whether a breach will occur but when. A solid backup and recovery plan aims to reduce downtime and minimize the financial and operational impact of cyber incidents.
Regularly backing up critical and sensitive data is essential to maintain business continuity and prevent data loss. Such plans are particularly crucial for building resilience against ransomware, system failures, and other disruptions.