Genesis Global

Best Ways to Secure Your Network

2007-03-15T08:12:00.000-07:00

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?

2007-03-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

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 ?

2007-03-13T12:54:00.000-07:00

Who are you really concerned about? Who are you protecting your network from? Obviously, you are protecting your corporate network from intruders outside the network, but are you protected from those within the network? When security policies are not perfectly observed or your network infrastructure is compromised, you may need to establish a formal web policy or upgrade your firewall appliance. As employees leave their jobs, standard protocol is not always perfectly observed. Cutting the lines (to network access) of former employees in a timely manner can easily be overlooked or postponed. When network access (or their entry point) is not cut off in a timely manner, your network security may become jeopardized. Elizabeth Millard, the author of “Identity & Access Management” wrote, “Many people would be surprised to see how many former employees are still in the system somewhere and able to get in if they really wanted” (February 16, 2007). Typically, employees have access to multiple repositories and directories. Therefore, keeping up-to-date with employee's status and network access is most effective when management has specific, detailed knowledge about each employee's access privileges. Often times, it is a tedious process to “cut the lines” to each accessible area—which if not taken care of in a timely manner, can lead to unnecessary security risks. For many companies, IT security is the weakest link in maintaining ideal identity and access management. “Breaches of identity and access management (IAM) lead to billions of dollars of losses each year both reported and unreported. On the flip side, there's the confusion, frustration, and lost productivity organizations have to deal with as they struggle to manage legitimate [network] access for their employees, partners and customers to the electronic systems they genuinely need” (garter.com). Dual identity methods (i.e. biometrics such as fingerprint sensors) may be a plausible alternative as compared to passwords. Passwords can easily be obtained by unauthorized employees, whereas biometrics and ridged, formal access policies give tighter network security.

Ask Genesis Global's Sales Accounts Managers about new ways to gain tighter control over your business network. Genesis Global carries a variety of brands of both new and refurbished network hardware equipment. Let them tighten-up and streamline your network infrastructures with affordable prices! To contact Genesis Global, call this toll-free number 1-800-908-9665 or email them at sales@genesisglobalinc.com . Remember, Genesis Global is a trusted global leader for business network connectivity and renowned for finding networking solutions.

Maintaining Your IT Equipment

2007-03-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

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).

Firewalls vs. Barbarians at the Gates

2007-02-22T08:27:00.000-08:00

As they are plotting against you and going in for the attack, what is your strategy? How well are you at keeping them out? Are you putting too much stock in your firewall? According to Mick Johnson, a product marketing manager with Sensory Networks, "The definition of a firewall has changed over the years, compounding this issue, but most commercial 'firewalls' out there just don't dig deep enough into the network traffic to provide any real security. They'll certainly block a lot of basic attacks, but as soon as someone tunnels an exploit over HTTP or targets an older SMTP server, an enterprise can be considered completely unprotected (sensorynetworks.com)." Is one firewall enough to protect your network traffic?

Actually, when it comes to computer networks, one firewall is not enough. "There is no one-size-fits-all security solution, and most IT managers spend a large chunk of time creating multi layered, process-driven security strategies. . . ." as found in Elizabeth Millard's article called Weighing in on Security Services. Each firewall is different, and since there is such a wide range of firewalls to choose from (software programs to hardware devices), it's important to have the firewall protection you are looking for. For instance, irregardless of what firewall(s) you are using, if you have open unattended ports, you are undermining your firewall(s).

Unfortunately, there is no single way for the barbarians to intrude into your computer network. Computer viruses are another huge predicament for networks today. Since there are 25 to 35 new viruses occurring everyday on the Internet, your virus software should be scheduled to update on a daily basis.

Genesis Global, Inc. provides a wide variety of security equipment. Cisco hardware and accessories, as well as other leading network equipment manufacturers, have much to offer. Cisco's PIX Firewalls and Adaptive Security Appliances brilliantly transform traditional network management into state-of-the-art secure communication networks where worms, hackers, and other threats are proactively controlled through the combination of firewall, application security, and intrusion prevention services.

To adequately secure your computer network, part of covering your basis is to hire a security consultant and have him or her take an assessment of your network vulnerabilities. Once you know where the gaps are in your software, firewall appliance, or business policies, you will be in a better position to fight the ongoing war of keeping the barbarians at the gates!

When you are ready to improve your network system, don't forget about Genesis Global's wide selection of new and used network equipment. If you need help in upgrading your security for your business network, the professionals at Genesis Global are happy to help. Give us a call at 1-800-908-9665 or email sales@genesisglobalinc.com and let us help you reduce your network vulnerabilities.

How Used Cisco Can Save Your Company Money.

2007-02-12T07:48:00.000-08:00

Do you want to stretch your purchasing power? Switch to used Cisco and take advantage of the gigantic savings! It is no secret that used Cisco has become America 's favorite computer network equipment. If your company is expanding or upgrading their network, Genesis Global will compensate you for old equipment and save you substantial money on your next purchase. Yes, this means that you can get cash for your used network equipment even if it doesn't have the Cisco brand name.

According to David Willis, the author of the article, The Soft Side of Networking , Once every desktop gets Gigabit Ethernet, once every IP phone and wireless access point has Power over Ethernet, once every core trunk has moved to 10 Gigabit, and once nearly every bottleneck on the campus is removed, you might think that the job of networking would be 'done.' But it won't be, by any means (Network Computing).

As the software side of networking becomes more expensive and sophisticated, hardware becomes more sophisticated too. Willis noted, "[S]witches and access routers that hit the market this year may well work for seven years, given advances in processing power and memory." This is so true-Genesis Global Cisco is so reliable and durable that businesses everywhere are holding onto their hardware for longer periods of time.

Everybody loves Cisco! Today's businesses are building their networks with used Cisco due to the technologically advanced features, and this is why older Cisco products can be salvaged and reused again. Cisco's life cycles can easily be compared to that of a cat. Cisco components may be integrated and reconfigured over and over again. Often times, there is nothing wrong with the equipment we receive due to the fact that businesses are in the constant state of flux. Some businesses outgrow their network systems while other businesses are down-sizing.

The real question is: Do you want to stretch your purchasing power? If you do, then give us a call and see for yourself that the Genesis Global Cisco Account Managers know how to get the most for your dollar. The process of selling your used network equipment and replacing or upgrading to used Cisco is simple and painless at Genesis Global! Just send us an itemized list of your network products you have available to sell, and we'll help you with the rest.

As you strive for excellence, call Genesis Global and let us think of ways that you can save your company money with used Cisco. At Genesis Global, we not only buy used equipment such as routers, switches, VPN and security applications, gateways, storage, cables, and accessories, but we give you a fair price too! All you have to do is email us at sales@genesisglobalinc.com or call our toll free line at 1-800-908-9665, and ask for a quote from one of our knowledgeable and professional Genesis Global Cisco Account Managers.

Why Buy Used Cisco or Refurbished Cisco Equipment from Genesis Global?

2007-01-29T11:42:00.000-08:00

Over 75% of businesses today are purchasing refurbished computer and network equipment. Why so? Because it cuts costs dramatically and our customers receive high quality, excellent condition, reduced cost Cisco Systems hardware! At Genesis Global, we confidently stand behind all of our Cisco and other networking products. We are confident, because our used equipment goes through a 25-Point refurbishment process. This proven method assures that all of our used network equipment is restored to its original, like new condition.

Some customers have asked, “Does all used equipment such as routers, servers, switches, network, and storage equipment go through the 25-point refurbishment process?” Yes, all used equipment is carefully tested with our state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, and every fan tray, every module, and every cable is checked for data-transfer and packets received. Our Genesis Global Quality Control Department maintains extremely high standards, and individually tests all used network parts. This is why quality refurbished equipment from Genesis Global is so phenomenally successful.

Even if you want to upgrade your existing Cisco Systems network, we can extend the life of your Cisco equipment. We can trade in your old Cisco for new Cisco – saving you the hassle of going through your finance department while still supplying you with the new Cisco equipment you want and need. You’ll never find another bargain like this one! We are inspecting each system for their imperfections whether it’s cosmetic or internal each and every day!

Genesis Global Cisco equipment is built to last. By shopping at Genesis Global Inc. (where used network equipment is predominantly sold), you will experience rock-bottom prices, outstanding customer service, and quality network equipment that will grow with your network. All you have to do is email us at: sales@genesisglobalinc.com or call our toll free line at 1-800-908-9665, and ask for a quote from one of our adept and courteous Genesis Global Cisco Account Managers! They are experts at finding the right equipment for you and your network.

Back to the Basics: Communication Devices

2007-01-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

Since today's communication technology can be confusing for many people, Genesis Global, Inc. wants to go back to the basics and take a brief look at the various types of communication channels available. This article addresses eight basic factors which affect data transmission: "transmission rate—frequency and bandwidth; line configurations—point-to-point versus multipoint; serial versus parallel transmission; direction of transmission—simplex, half-duplex, and full-duplex; transmission mode—asynchronous verses synchronous; packet switching; multiplexing; and protocols."

Transmission Rate—Frequency and Bandwidth Frequency:
Transmission rate (or speed) of information traveling through a channel can be effected by wave frequency. For example, twisted-pair telephone wires, coaxial cables, and fiber-optic cables are channels that send data at different speeds due to their different wave frequencies.Bandwidth: Bandwidth is a channel that can send several speeds of frequency all at the same time. The more bandwidth there is, multiple frequencies of data can be transported at a faster speed. “The rate of speed of data through the channel is expressed in bits per second (bps), kilobits per second (Kbps), or megabits per second (Mbps).”

Line Configurations - Point-to-Point vs. Multipoint:
Point-to-Point: “A point-to-point line directly connects the sending and receiving devices, such as a terminal with a central computer.” This method keeps data private and secure since data is transmitted from one device to another. A router connected to a PC is a simple example of a point-to-point connection.

Multipoint: “A multipoint line is a single line that connects several communications devices to one computer.” For instance, one line of coaxial cable can transmit data to three or more routers.

Serial vs. Parallel Transmission Serial:
Bits of data travel through channels sequentially—one bit of data follows the next (as in the case of twisted-pair telephone lines). This is equivalent to cars moving down a one-lane road, one behind the other. Parallel Transmission: Bits of data “are transmitted through separate lines simultaneously. The arrangement resembles cars moving in separate lanes at the same speed on a multilane freeway.”

Direction of Transmission - Simplex, Half-Duplex, and Full-Duplex Simplex:
When two computers are in communication, data can flow through a channel in only one direction. For example, the traditional television only sends information out. Half-Duplex: When two computers are in communication, data can flow in both directions. CB and marine radios can send and receive information, but not at the same time. Full-Duplex: When two computers are in communication, data can flow in both directions at the same time as seen in telephone conversations.

Transmission Mode - Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Asynchronous:
(also called start-stop transmission) In this mode, data is sent one byte (or character) at a time. "Each string of bits making up the byte is bracketed, or marked off, with special control bits. That is, a "start" bit represents the beginning of a character, and a "stop" bit represents its end." Synchronous: (timed transmission) "Instead of using start and stop bits, synchronous transmission sends data in blocks. Start and stop bit patterns called sync bytes, are transmitted at the beginning and end of the blocks. These start and end bit patterns synchronize internal clocks in the sending and receiving devices so that they are in time with each other."

Packet Switching:
Messages are broken or divided into packets when sent and pieced back together to form the original message within a network. This is not suitable for real-time video and voice transmission.

Multiplexing:
Multiplexing allows a single communications line to carry multiple signals at the same time. For example, trunk networks transmit thousands of telephone calls on a single line at the same time.

Protocols:
Protocols are the rules that govern the exchange of information between software and/or hardware in a communications network. To conclude, communication technology does not have to be confusing. As technology continues to evolve through time, so does our language. By expanding your technical vocabulary, you will be able to make more informed decisions on network hardware and network peripherals. Occasionally reviewing these basic terms, helps us to be more aware of the different data channels required for communication devices.

Why Have a Computer Network?

2007-01-26T09:04:00.000-08:00

What exactly is a computer network?

According to Wikipedia: "A computer network is two or more computers connected together using a telecommunication system for the purpose of communicating and sharing resources."

Arguably, network experts debate about this—they feel a computer network should be defined as a minimum of three or more computers connected together, not two.

Whether it's a minimum of two or three computers to constitute a computer network, clearly the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. What are some of the advantages? Let's briefly cover the five advantages of computer networking. As Hutchinson & Sawyer brought out in Computers, Communications, & Information, the advantages of computer networks are: "sharing peripheral devices, sharing of programs and data, better communications, security of information, and access to databases." Sharing Peripheral Devices Print sharing (where multiple users share the same printer) can cut operational costs. For example, large and expensive laser printers are used by multiple users within company networks. Providing a business has a network, large in-house printers can affordably be leased or purchased. Sharing of Programs and Data File sharing in the business environment is important, because it saves space, time, and paper. Digital files on a share drive are not only cost effective and convenient, but a company's database is accessible to only authorized personnel and inaccessible to unauthorized personnel. Network-linked employees can share groupware and work together on shared projects. Purchasing network versions of software is yet another advantage of having a company network. Better Communications Schedules and task assignments can be easily shared and organized in a network. When emailing within a network, group settings and contact lists are easily kept up-to-date. Attaching scanned documents and emailing business communication is cheaper and easier than faxing information to another department at a different location. Security of Information When information is shared on a network and accidental data loss occurs, data recovery is much more likely to occur when working on a network. When shared information is stored on multiple computers and databases, it stands to reason that if a hard drive fails, others will have the shared information residing in another repository. Firewall appliances that are built for networks go far beyond what a consumer grade firewall can do. Access to Databases Typically, extensive databases (whether public or private) are shared on a network. Sophisticated databases have built-in parameters to protect the data from accidental overwrites or misuse by disgruntled employees.

As you can see, computer networks have many advantages and are understandably gaining popularity for small-medium sized businesses. It is no wonder why computer networks are notable for their cost-saving features and ease-of use for end-users worldwide. If you are concerned about your budget and need to set-up or improve your home or business computer network, call us at Genesis Global, Inc.: 1-800-908-9665. We can help you meet your networking equipment needs, as well as work with your financial budget in conjunction with getting you improved network communication devices.