Networks are computer networks, both public and private, that are used every day to conduct transactions and communications among businesses, government agencies and individuals. The networks are comprised of “nodes”, which are “client” terminals (individual user PCs) and one or more “servers” and/or “host” computers. They are linked by communication systems, some of which might be private, such as within a company, and others which might be open to public access. The obvious example of a network system that is open to public access is the Internet, but many private networks also utilize publicly-accessible communications. Today, most companies’ host computers can be accessed by their employees whether in their offices over a private communications network, or from their homes or hotel rooms while on the road through normal telephone lines.
Network security involves all activities that organizations, enterprises, and institutions undertake to protect the value and ongoing usability of assets and the integrity and continuity of operations. An effective network security strategy requires identifying threats and then choosing the most effective set of tools to combat them.A specialized field in computer networking that involves securing a computer network infrastructure. Network security is typically handled by a network administrator or system administrator who implements the security policy, network software and hardware needed to protect a network and the resources accessed through the network from unauthorized access and also ensure that employees have adequate access to the network and resources to work.
A network security system typically relies on layers of protection and consists of multiple components including networking monitoring and security software in addition to hardware and appliances. All components work together to increase the overall security of the computer network.The computer networks and security helps students to enter or advance in computer networking fields where industry-standard certifications are commonly used to show skills or knowledge level and are considered essential in hiring and promotion decisions. The curriculum focuses on the techniques, policies, operational procedures, and technologies needed to design, implement, administer, secure, and troubleshoot enterprise-level networks. It prepares students for careers as network managers, systems administrators, and network security analysts. It is designed to combine the benefits of a traditional college education with the benefits of hands-on training in state-of-the-art computer technology. The computer networks and security curriculum integrates technical skill with communication skills, superior general education knowledge, and breadth of knowledge in the information technology field, particularly in networks and security.
