Network security methods

Overview

Authentication, encryption, firewalls and MAC address filtering, what each protects against, example firewall rules, and why the four methods are used together.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   Why is network security important?

   Model answer

   Networks hold valuable personal and business data that attackers want to steal or damage. A security breach can cause financial loss, legal penalties and loss of trust.

2. 2

   Why does a network need more protection than a standalone computer?

   Model answer

   A network has many entry points, and one infected device can spread malware to the others. Networked devices can also be reached remotely from outside.

3. 3

   What is authentication?

   Model answer

   Authentication is checking that a user or device really is who it claims to be. Only verified users are then allowed onto the network.

4. 4

   Give three ways a user can be authenticated.

   Model answer

   A user can be authenticated by something they know, such as a password. A fingerprint scan and a one-time code sent to a phone are two further ways.

5. 5

   When would a network use authentication?

   Model answer

   Authentication is used whenever someone logs on to a network or opens a protected account. A school network asks each pupil for a username and password.

6. 6

   What is encryption?

   Model answer

   Encryption is scrambling data using a key so that it cannot be understood if intercepted. Only someone with the correct key can decrypt it back to its original form.

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