Basic Requirements for a Local Area Network
Here is a list of things you must have to run a local area computer network. See if you’ve all of them.
Anti-virus
Most businesses now have anti-virus applications installed on their PCs. Two things you must remember. Generally, when the licence runs out it will stop automatic udpates. So make sure you’ve current license. Second is to ensure that all computers are shut down at the end of the day so that any updates will be applied when the PC is re-booted.
Content Filtering
To prevent any liability issues, you must have a content filtering system preventing going to unauthorised sites. Some ISPs provide this at extra cost but if you have your own mail server, then you can get one of the products available in the market place including Digital Armour’s Yellow Proxy.
SPAM filter
To stop email spam it has now become a necessity for all organisations to have a spam filter. Again, ISPs can provide this for extra charge or you can buy the commercial products. Digital Armour email servers come with a spam filter and if the email is hosted with Digital Armour, then the spam filter is given FREE.
Spyware Removal Utility
Spyware/Malware is becoming more problematic now. Many users don’t even know that they are infected with a spyware…it is that sneaky. There are commercial products available that will not only remove the spyware but alert the users when a spyware is being installed on their PC, without the user’s approval. Digital Armour gives a FREE spyware removal utility to its customers.
Firewall
This will stop unauthorised people getting into your network. Not having a firewall is like leaving your house wide open, when you’re not in.
Physical access control
Firewall may keep the outsiders out but it is equally important to keep any unauthorised personnel out of the important area to avoid any damage by inattentive or malicious employees.
Back-up system
A system to regularly back-up the important data is important. Disasters occur at the least expected time. We generally don’t know the value of the data until we lost them.
Policies and education
Put in policies for computer use explaining why they need to follow the policies. Examples: when you leave the workstation area, ‘lock’ the monitor; change the passwords when the system asks but don’t use passwords like their date of birth or their middle name or even worse the word ‘password’.