Reply To: OCU C)OST C Discussion Lesson 08
Networks connect a user and their device, which contain a lot of sensitive data about the user and organization. As a result, vulnerabilities like insecure technologies and user behavior, as well as attack threats like malware, should be prevented.
Malware can come in many different forms, but it is essentially a way to spread malicious software throughout a system, which could spread to other systems as well. One way to prevent the installation of malware is to have antimalware installed so that it can detect suspicious files before installation and notify the user.
Insecure technologies could occur from older equipment and protocols. For example, using an older version of Windows could make it susceptible to forced access attacks from a rainbow table. If a more modern version of Windows was installed, it would make it more difficult for attacks to be successful. Also, updating the hardware on a device would make it stronger as well.
The behavior of users can leave a device vulnerable if they are not educated in preventing attacks and using safe techniques while online. Teaching users how to use their devices safely would prevent threats from users such as installing malware. Additionally, restricting user controls would prevent some users from being able to install malware in the first place.