Thinking Right About Network Security

Abstract Computer network security is one of those negatives that few spend time thinking about. Even so, few ever would secure a home the way networks are secured. One would not build a new home and wait until it is completed to think about adding a security system. The security system would be an integral part of the design. One would not buy windows without latches or doors without locks. Yet often this is exactly what is done with networks. Applications, operating systems, and servers are bought with inadequate security. Then after reading a few Internet horror stories, one decides he or she is living in a really bad neighborhood and tries to fit security into the system. A firewall (or some other security device) is purchased with the idea that it resolves the problem - but it does not! In reality all that has been created is a false sense of security. Sure, the doors are locked, dead bolted and barred, but the windows are still wide open!