Network security refers to the tools, technologies, policies, and processes used to protect computer networks and the data that flows through them from cyber threats. Its core purpose is to keep networks secure, accessible only to authorized users, and resilient against attacks.
According to UCPI University, network security involves:
Below are the key types of network security solutions commonly used today, based on Cisco’s portfolio and industry best practices:
A firewall is a foundational network security device that monitors incoming and outgoing traffic and decides whether to allow or block specific activity based on defined security rules. Firewalls help create a secure barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external environments.
Read also: The importance of firewalls in healthcare security
Workload security protects data and applications that move across cloud and hybrid environments. As distributed workloads expand across multiple platforms, their attack surface grows. Workload security tools ensure these environments remain protected, without compromising business agility or performance.
Network segmentation divides a network into smaller, isolated sections to improve security and control. Software-defined segmentation classifies traffic based on endpoint identity rather than IP address alone, making it easier to enforce security policies.
Organizations can assign access rights based on user role, device type, or location, ensuring only the right people have the right level of access while containing suspicious devices.
A VPN encrypts the connection between an endpoint and the network, often over the public internet. Remote-access VPNs typically use IPsec or Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) to authenticate communication, ensuring data remains confidential and secure when accessed remotely.
Not every user or device should have unrestricted access to the network. Access control verifies the identity and compliance status of users and devices before granting entry. Using network access control (NAC), organizations can block noncompliant devices or give them limited access until they are remediated.
Read more: Access control systems in healthcare
Antimalware solutions detect, block, and remove malicious software such as viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Modern antimalware tools continuously monitor files and system behavior to identify anomalies, remove threats, and repair affected systems, even if the malware lies dormant before executing.
Application security involves hardware, software, and processes designed to identify and close security gaps. This includes application performance monitoring, code scanning, vulnerability assessments, and continuous testing to protect against misuse or infiltration.
Behavioral analytics tools help organizations understand what normal network activity looks like. Using this baseline, they can quickly detect deviations that may signal a compromise. This allows security teams to identify threats early and respond before significant damage occurs.
Cloud security protects data, applications, and services that operate in cloud environments. It uses policies, technologies, and tools to defend against cloud-based threats, secure user access, and protect sensitive information no matter where users are located.
DLP technology prevents employees from improperly sending or exposing sensitive information. These tools monitor and block unauthorized uploads, email forwarding, and even printing of critical data. This helps organizations protect intellectual property and comply with regulatory requirements.
Email is the number one threat vector for cyberattacks. Attackers frequently use phishing and social engineering tactics to trick users into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information. Email security tools block incoming threats and control outgoing messages to prevent data loss.
As industrial operations adopt more connected technologies, their operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS) face increased exposure to cyberthreats. Industrial network security provides visibility into OT assets, segments industrial environments, and integrates with IT security tools to ensure safe and resilient operations.
With more organizations supporting corporate applications on personal mobile devices, securing mobile endpoints is essential. Mobile device security tools verify device integrity, manage access rights, and protect network traffic to ensure smartphones and tablets do not become entry points for attackers.
Related: Mobile device security for HIPAA compliant email communication
SIEM solutions collect, correlate, and analyze security event data from across the organization. They help security teams detect threats faster and coordinate an effective response. SIEM systems can be deployed as physical appliances, virtual appliances, or server software.
Web security protects your organization from web-based threats by controlling web usage, blocking access to malicious sites, and securing the web gateway—whether on-premises or in the cloud. It also includes practices to protect your own website from attacks.
Wireless security tools and protocols ensure secure Wi-Fi access, protect data confidentiality, and prevent unauthorized use.
Related: Making Wi-Fi HIPAA compliant
Strengthening network security requires more than deploying tools; it depends on consistent, proactive practices that reduce risk and keep systems resilient. Below are best practices organizations should follow to protect their networks from evolving threats.
Ensure only authorized users and devices can access sensitive resources:
This limits the attack surface and prevents unauthorized entry.
Unpatched systems are among the easiest targets for attackers. Regularly update:
Enable automatic updates where possible to reduce the risk of human oversight.
See also: Software updates to prevent cyberattacks
Use network monitoring, SIEM solutions, and behavioral analytics to identify suspicious activity early. Real-time visibility helps detect anomalies, prevent breaches, and respond faster during incidents.
Encryption protects sensitive information from interception or unauthorized access, especially when data moves across public or unsecured networks. VPNs and TLS/SSL are essential for secure remote access.
Every connected device is a potential attack path. Use:
This is especially important for remote and BYOD environments.
Clear policies guide user behavior and create consistency across the organization. Include:
Regular training ensures staff understand and follow these policies.
Read more: A guide to cybersecurity policies
Backups help organizations recover from:
Store backups securely, encrypt them, and test them regularly.
Learn more: How to develop a backup and recovery plan
Conduct:
These uncover weaknesses before attackers can exploit them.
Read also: What is the OCR's Security Risk Assessment Tool?
Human error is still a leading cause of breaches. Ongoing training helps employees recognize:
A well-informed workforce is one of the strongest network defenses.
Read also: What does cybersecurity training look like in 2025?
When a security incident occurs, organizations must respond quickly and effectively. A documented, rehearsed incident response plan ensures teams:
A strong plan minimizes downtime and damage.
See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide (2025 Update)
Strong network security prevents data breaches, cyberattacks, downtime, and unauthorized access. It helps organizations maintain trust, comply with regulations, and ensure their systems remain available and operational.
Security tools, systems, and applications should be updated regularly to patch vulnerabilities. Automatic updates and routine maintenance help reduce exposure to new threats.
Cybersecurity is a broad discipline covering all aspects of digital protection. On the other hand, network security is a subset focused specifically on protecting networks, traffic, and connected devices.
Automation can significantly improve detection and response, but human expertise is still essential for strategic decision-making and handling sophisticated threats.