Best Ways to Secure Your Network

Are you looking for better ways to secure your network? Being proactive and keeping a secure network can potentially save you from experiencing the dreaded, “crashed network.” Sadly, many hackers assume your network is not defended; so, all networks are at risk of acquiring worms and hackers. Let's explore two vulnerable computer network areas: the endpoint and the perimeter.

What is the endpoint? “ In computer science, in discussions of communications protocols, an endpoint is the name for the entity on one end of a transport layer connection” (Wikipedia). The (communication) endpoint is the communication channel between your computer and the computer connected on the other end. For example, if you are subscribing to an online newsletter and only want to receive automated email correspondence on a certain subject, you can expect to receive a subset of messages from the website you subscribed to. Computer network communication protocols work by a set of communication rules to ensure reliable interchange of data over imperfect communication channels. In order for data to successfully flow between two end points, transport layers are required: “In computing and telecommunications, the transport layer is the second highest layer in the four and five layer TCP/IP reference models, where it responds to service requests from the application layer and issues service requests to the network layer. It is also the name of layer four of the seven layer OSI model, where it responds to service requests from the session layer and issues service requests to the network layer” (Wikipedia). Therefore, the transport layer takes care of transferring data between hosts (or computers) and ensures data flow reliability within networks. The transport layer also controls and error recovery by making sure the data gets to the intended destination point. Centralized monitoring and event correlation systems which allow multiple end points to be used at the same time within a network necessitate a powerful multifunction network security appliance.

Both hardware appliances and software applications work in conjunction. The phrase, “ perimeter based security” describes “the technique of securing a network by controlling access to all entry and exit points of the network. Usually associated with firewalls and/or filters” (Texas State Library and Archive Commission). Perimeters are typically protected with software applications. With software programs, you can monitor, block, and destroy spam, viruses, worms, and Trojans too.

Installation of the right security network-technology platforms are the key to secure networks. Genesis Global is a global provider for Cisco's Adaptive Security Appliances and PIX Firewall Appliances. Used Cisco PIX-525-R-BUN and ASA-SSM-AIP-10-K9 are excellent multi-user appliances at filtering all threats, at all gateways, in all directions—and is affordable! To get all the facts, call Genesis Global's Sales Accounts Managers at 1-800-908-9665 (or email sales@genesisglobalinc.com).

Are You Scrambling to Comply to FCC's May 2007 Wiretaps Deadline?

On August 5, 2005, the press release, “The FCC Requires Certain Broadband and VoIP Providers to Accommodate Wiretaps” is about to actualize for Broadband and VoIP providers! The FCC has approved of a set of new policies for court approved and official wiretap regulations for Internet phone services and Broadband providers. From the original release which states, “the Commission [FCC] established a deadline of 18 months from the effective date of this Order [August 5, 2005], by which time newly covered entities and providers of newly covered services must be in full compliance” (FCC News). This new regulation requires Internet phone services and Broadband providers to “preserve the ability of law enforcement agencies to conduct court-ordered wiretaps in the face of technological change” (FCC News).

In this instance, “wiretap-able” applies to wireless technology too. Being that the purpose behind this regulation is to track terrorists and criminals for the purpose of “homeland security,” certain Broadband and Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers are to build backdoors into their networks to enable law enforcement wiretaps. The wiretaps must convert technical information, billing information, service destination, call volumes, customer account information, telephone subscriber's records, and service plans agreements into readable formats on demand.
The intent of this regulation is to prevent migration of criminal activity onto networks, phone calls, and the Internet. Even though compliance to this new regulation is challenging, it is one of those necessary evils. Time is running out: Internet phone services and Broadband providers need to send their reports of compliance to the FCC by May 14, 2007.

If you are concerned about getting FCC's new “wiretap-able” policies in place for your Broadband and Dial Access systems, call Genesis Global. At Genesis Global, you will find the latest, up-to-date solutions! One of the Cisco uBR7299 Universal Broadband Routers, Cisco uBR switches, or Cisco Voice Network Management appliances could be the solution. For any of today's web technologies problems, you can rely on Genesis Global to take the guesswork out as you comply to the new FCC regulations for Broadband and Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers. To get all the facts, call Genesis Global's Sales Accounts Managers at 1-800-908-9665 (or email sales@genesisglobalinc.com).

Is Your Network Really Protected ?

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Maintaining Your IT Equipment

Take pride in your IT equipment, and it will serve you well! Keeping your network equipment clean, not only reduces maintenance costs, but it reduces “down time” and increases equipment longevity. Here are three basic tips to remember: keep it clean, cool, and secure. As a general rule, clean the outside of network equipment with a slightly damp cloth and followed by a soft dry cloth on a weekly basis. Most importantly, read the manual about cleaning instructions. However, cleaning the motherboard and chips are much different. Chips and motherboards must be free of ESD and static electricity and should not be touched unless proper procedures are followed. ESD and static electricity shorten the life expectancy of electronic parts of all computer equipment.

In general, computers and particularly larger network systems tend to generate tons of heat. Pay attention to the room's environment: the temperate, humidity, and air flow. Dust is the enemy. As you have probably already heard, “Computers don't wear out, they burn out.” Often times, dust is the culprit for causing your computer to overheat. Since dirt and dust are abrasive to moving parts such as printer gears and drive heads, professional maintenance is needed for the chips and motherboards.

Physically secure your computer equipment in locked rooms when possible. Many businesses today put their network equipment in designated Telecom Rooms monitored by badge/access systems, specialized fire suppression systems, CCTV camera systems, enhanced air-conditioning, and alarm systems. For smaller businesses experiencing budget constraints and unable to afford in-house video surveillances of their network equipment, consider outsourcing your surveillance instead. Keep your network from data loss from UPS Power surges and interruptions by using back-up generators. Unfortunately, electricity cannot be completely harnessed.

Water is another problem for IT equipment. Putting your hardware on storage racks to allow air flow to equipment not only keeps the equipment cooler; but in the unforeseen event of flooding and water damage, you can better protect network equipment by raising the level of your equipment. If you are not using racks as of yet, Genesis Global carries a variety of new and used storage racks and network equipment accessories. Never minimize the measures it takes to protect your network equipment. Remember, maintaining IT equipment has three basic areas of maintenance to consider. The process of prolonging the life-cycle of network equipment doesn't end here, if you are experiencing problems with your hardware; ask about our 20-Point testing process. Repairing network equipment or even trading equipment are other options to consider. Faulty equipment can break older networks. At Genesis Global, network technicians can help you configure your equipment to your particular network.

To get all the facts, call Genesis Global's Sales Accounts Managers at 1-800-908-9665 (or email sales@genesisglobalinc.com).