In today's society, use of networking security software should be one of the highest priorities when it comes to protecting internal data from unauthorized access, especially with the rise of data intrusion and identity theft. Companies that do business through the Internet such as retailers, banks, the stock market and even the government have had to deal with hackers and unwanted access to their data.

Networking security should include:

1. Provisions made in infrastructure for business network security
2. Policies to be used as outlined by the network administrator to protect the network
3. Protection from unauthorized access
4. Reliable, continuous monitoring and measurement of the network's overall security

There are many different ways to secure your network, including hardware protection and computer network security software protection. Things to take into consideration when finding sellers of networking security software and business network security software should include:

1. Loss of critical data such as company information, financial information or even trade secrets
2. Protection from destructive viruses
3. Unproductive downtime due to extra expense to undo damage caused from unauthorized access

Business network security for networks is different depending on the situation. A small home or an office should just need basic security while large businesses will need advanced software and hardware to prevent attacks from hacking and spamming.

When considering providers of network security software, consider the following:

1. The scope and size of the network
2. The cost of providing business network security
3. Attainability of software needed for a secure network
3. Ease and cost efficiency of keeping software up-to-date and ahead of the ever-changing needs of network security

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

How to find providers of networking security software covering encryption software

Encryption software helps protect unauthorized access to network data.

I recommend: McAfee data protection safeguards against loss of customer data, employee information, and intellectual property, using strong encryption, authentication and policy-driven security controls. Aladdin offers an AES 128-bit encryption software package that allows the user to choose from a variety of hardware- or software-based protection keys. TrueCrypt offers free open-source disk encryption software packages aimed at providing security for Windows Vista and XP, Mac OS X and Linux operating systems. You can also go to download.com for a variety of free trials of encryption software that includes packages that cover AES-256, Blowfish, Serpent and Twofish.

Find suppliers of networking security software that contain firewall protection

A firewall is one of the most important defenses against unwanted intrusions. Firewall software includes programs aimed to monitor and control traffic flow between computers and networks. They generally prevent unauthorized access. These programs can allow, restrict, encrypt or proxy traffic based on settings determined by the user.

I recommend: Microsoft's Windows Live One Care package of security software packages. McAfee also provides an excellent firewall protection software package. Norton provides a firewall package as well.

Find providers of networking security software that cover antivirus software protection

Virus protection should be a top priority. There are many vendors and software packages available to fight off these viruses. Use software packages that continuously scan your PC and network peripherals.

I recommend: McAfee virus protection software, which is one of the top selling virus protection packages on the market today. Microsoft's Windows Live One Care also includes a virus protection system. Software Reviews lists the top 10 virus packages and provides details on each of these packages. Most of these packages have free downloads with free trial periods.

Buy software for network security to maintain security while surfing the web

Internet security software helps to protect against spamware, spyware and adware. These little nuisances attack your network and slow down the processor speed of the network.

I recommend: Network Solutions, which provides protection against identity theft and credit card fraud. Firewall Guide provides a list of providers of protection software packages. Consumer Search analyzes reviews of Internet security software and provides detailed information on vendors and packages. PCSecurityShield offers affordable internet security software

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When using a wireless connection, passwords are of utmost importance. Try to use the strongest security supported by your wireless devices, such as WPA or WPA2.
• •  Raise awareness about physical security to employees. Use an optional network security management software or network security monitoring software.