How do you create secure networks for wireless, mobile, and IoT devices?

1 Understand the risks

The first step to create secure networks for wireless, mobile, and IoT devices is to understand the risks and threats that they face. Wireless networks are vulnerable to eavesdropping, spoofing, jamming, and denial-of-service attacks, as well as weak encryption and authentication protocols. Mobile devices are exposed to malware, phishing, data leakage, and theft or loss, as well as insecure apps and configurations. IoT devices are often targeted by botnets, ransomware, and remote hijacking, as well as poor firmware updates and default passwords. By assessing the risks and identifying the assets and data that need protection, you can design a network security policy that suits your needs and goals.

2 Implement encryption and authentication

The second step to create secure networks for wireless, mobile, and IoT devices is to implement encryption and authentication mechanisms that ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your network traffic and data. Encryption is the process of transforming data into an unreadable form that can only be decrypted by authorized parties. Authentication is the process of verifying the identity and credentials of network users and devices. You should use strong encryption standards such as WPA2 or WPA3 for wireless networks, SSL/TLS or VPN for mobile networks, and AES or RSA for IoT networks. You should also use robust authentication methods such as passwords, biometrics, certificates, or tokens for network access.

3 Apply segmentation and isolation

The third step to create secure networks for wireless, mobile, and IoT devices is to apply segmentation and isolation techniques that limit the scope and impact of potential attacks and breaches. Segmentation is the process of dividing a network into smaller subnetworks or zones based on factors such as function, location, or access level. Isolation is the process of separating a network or a device from other networks or devices that are not trusted or relevant. You should use segmentation and isolation to create different network zones for wireless, mobile, and IoT devices, and enforce strict firewall rules and access control policies between them. You should also isolate any devices that are compromised, infected, or suspicious from the rest of the network.

4 Monitor and update

The fourth step to create secure networks for wireless, mobile, and IoT devices is to monitor and update your network devices, software, and configurations regularly and proactively. Monitoring is the process of collecting and analyzing network data and events to detect and respond to any anomalies, errors, or incidents. Updating is the process of applying patches, fixes, or upgrades to network devices, software, and configurations to address any vulnerabilities, bugs, or performance issues. You should use network monitoring tools and software such as Nmap, Wireshark, or Splunk to scan, audit, and troubleshoot your network devices and traffic. You should also use network update tools and software such as Ansible, Puppet, or Chef to automate and manage your network updates and changes.

5 Educate and train

The fifth step to create secure networks for wireless, mobile, and IoT devices is to educate and train your network users and administrators on the network security policies and best practices that they need to follow and enforce. Education is the process of providing information and guidance on the network security risks, threats, and solutions that affect your network devices and data. Training is the process of developing skills and competencies on the network security tools and techniques that enable your network devices and data protection. You should use network security education and training programs such as courses, webinars, or workshops to raise awareness and knowledge on network security topics and issues. You should also use network security testing and evaluation methods such as quizzes, simulations, or audits to measure and improve network security performance and compliance.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?