Chapter 13: Managing Network Security

---

13.1 Introduction

The rise in Internet attacks and growing awareness of network vulnerabilities has enterprises taking security more seriously than ever before. While access to distributed data networks and Internet resources improves productivity by making information, applications, messaging, and collaboration tools readily available to employees, customers, and partners, it also makes the enterprise more vulnerable to attack by hackers intent on information theft, malicious file tampering, and service denial—all of which can result in harmful publicity, lawsuits, financial loss and, in the long term, damage to competitive position if security precautions are not taken. To determine what vulnerabilities the enterprise faces, a threat assessment should be performed so that effective security measures can be taken.

---