This post concerns Cybersecurity and Network Security. Additionally Anti-virus applications.
This post explains Cybersecurity, Network security and data security. The roles within an organisation responsible for security, alternatives if data security is not something you can manage within your business, and what you can do protect yourself locally.
I am using AI to provide answers to many of my questions, but what is important here is asking the right questions. That means putting myself in the business seat. AI is also helping hackers. Could an AI chat bot be your new threat!
My experience has taught me a great deal. I studied network management some time ago, and as a web developer, I’ve learned that data security is something I must always consider when building a website. For sites that collect and use data, security is critical — it’s a fundamental requirement. While databases are typically managed by a DBA and integrated into websites by backend developers, the reality is that data security is difficult for small businesses to manage in-house. Even for medium to large organisations, it can be costly and complex. That’s why many now rely on specialist companies to manage their data securely.
I won’t talk about desktop security here although it is the responsibility of the network manager, that is another page in due course.
This guy could be in your building now. Be vigilant.
Content…..
🚨 How Cyber Attackers Are Becoming More Effective in 2025
Cyber attackers are no longer just lone hackers in basements—they’re part of a fast-evolving, global cybercrime ecosystem. Thanks to new tools, smarter tactics, and commercialisation of cybercrime, attackers are more effective than ever. Here’s how:
🔹 1. AI-Powered Attacks
Attackers are using artificial intelligence to craft convincing phishing emails, automate vulnerability scans, and even bypass traditional detection by imitating real user behavior.
🔹 2. Sophisticated Social Engineering
Phishing isn’t what it used to be. Today’s scams are hyper-targeted—using information from social media and business websites. Some criminals now deploy deepfake videos or AI-generated voices to trick employees into handing over data or money.
🔹 3. Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)
Cybercrime has become commercialised. With RaaS, even non-technical criminals can “rent” powerful ransomware toolkits. Profits are split with the developers—creating a thriving, dangerous marketplace.
🔹 4. Supply Chain Attacks
Rather than target companies directly, attackers now go after their trusted suppliers—especially software vendors and service providers. This allows them to compromise multiple victims in one go (e.g., SolarWinds, MOVEit breaches).
🔹 5. Zero-Day Exploits & Rapid Exploitation
Hackers monitor vulnerability announcements closely and strike within hours of a new exploit becoming public—often before businesses have time to patch their systems.
🔹 6. Credential Stuffing with Leaked Data
With billions of usernames and passwords leaked in past breaches, attackers use automated tools to try these credentials across popular platforms. Password reuse makes this technique alarmingly effective.
🔹 7. Insider Threats and Access Brokers
Cybercriminals are paying employees or contractors to provide access. Some sell login credentials or sensitive information on dark web marketplaces, creating a new insider threat dynamic.
🔐 Final Thought
Cyber attackers are getting smarter, faster, and more organized. The best defence is an informed and proactive team, updated systems, and a strong security culture. Stay ahead by staying aware.
🔐 What Is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting systems, networks, programs, and data from digital attacks. These attacks—often called cyber threats—aim to access, change, destroy, or extort sensitive information, disrupt services, or gain unauthorized access to systems.
🧱 Key Areas of Cybersecurity:
- Network Security
Protects internal networks from intruders (both outsiders and insiders). - Application Security
Ensures software and apps are free from vulnerabilities through secure coding, patching, and testing. - Information Security (InfoSec)
Protects the integrity and privacy of data, both in storage and in transit. - Endpoint Security
Focuses on protecting devices like computers, phones, and tablets from threats. - Identity and Access Management (IAM)
Controls user access to resources and ensures authentication is enforced. - Cloud Security
Safeguards cloud-based systems, including data, apps, and services. - Operational Security (OpSec)
Covers the processes and decisions for handling and protecting data assets.
🦠 Common Cyber Threats:
- Malware – malicious software like viruses, ransomware, worms
- Phishing – deceptive emails or messages that trick users into revealing information
- DDoS Attacks – flooding a network or service to cause disruption
- Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) – intercepting communications between two parties
- Zero-day exploits – attacks on software vulnerabilities before a fix is available
🛡️ Why Cybersecurity Matters:
- Protects personal data
- Secures financial information
- Maintains business continuity
- Preserves trust in digital systems
- Prevents espionage and nation-state attacks
Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field, with professionals needing to stay updated with the latest threats, tools, and defense mechanisms.
Now you know why Cybersecurity is important, because it is a businesses biggest threat.
This report regarding a recent Cyber Attack at Marks and Spencer’s will certainly give you an idea of what is at stake and the consequences of poor data or network security. “M&S is grappling with the unfolding impact of a cyberattack.”
The role of the Network Administrator.
I was offered the role of Network Admin twice in my job history but it did seem rather boring at the time. Of course, I didn’t realise how important that role would become to the business. Cyber Security has made the role a very valuable one. This function is the businesses guardian, the gate keeper.
Lets look at the role in detail: What is the role of the network admin in Cyber security?
🧩 Role of a Network Administrator in Cybersecurity:
I will explain each component and the application used to secure a network using YouTube videos, including describing a Firewall, the video will be placed toward the end of this section.
1. Securing the Network
- Configure and maintain firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS).
- Set up secure network architectures, including segmentation and access control.
2. User Access Control
- Manage user permissions and implement least privilege policies.
- Enforce strong authentication (e.g. multi-factor authentication).
3. Monitoring Network Traffic
- Use tools to detect unusual or unauthorized activity.
- Monitor logs and alerts for early signs of intrusion or malware.
4. Patching and Updating
- Ensure all network hardware (routers, switches) and connected devices are up to date with the latest firmware and security patches.
5. Backups and Disaster Recovery
- Set up and test regular data backups.
- Prepare and help implement incident response plans in case of a breach.
6. Training and Policy Enforcement
- Help enforce security policies (e.g. password requirements, acceptable use).
- Often assist in educating users about phishing, safe browsing, etc.
7. Network Design with Security in Mind
- Choose hardware/software configurations that minimize vulnerabilities.
- Design the network to isolate sensitive systems (e.g. using DMZs or VLANs).
🛠️ Common Tools a Network Admin Might Use in Cybersecurity:
- Wireshark – for packet analysis
- pfSense or Cisco ASA – for firewall and routing
- Nessus or OpenVAS – for vulnerability scanning
- SolarWinds, Nagios, Zabbix – for network monitoring
In short: While a network admin’s traditional focus is uptime and performance, today they are also a guardian of security, helping prevent breaches and ensure a resilient network environment.
Worth noting here, that the role of the Network Administrator, along with the Security Specialist, and an Ethical Hacker are vitality important. It’s one of the key areas that insurance providers will look at when looking to cover a business. Qualified people in this role are almost as important to a business as Airline pilots are to an aeroplane. Even insurance companies — who sell risk management — need to buy insurance to manage their own cyber risk. In fact, insurers are some of the biggest buyers and sellers of cyber insurance today.
🔐 How Network Management Supports Cybersecurity
Network management isn’t just about uptime and performance — it’s a frontline defence system for identifying, isolating, and preventing cyber threats.
Ways that a company may manage it’s network to ensure security.
- Dividing a network into smaller segments (e.g., public, internal, admin, guest) limits how far an attacker can move if they gain access.
- Managing who can access which devices, services, and data.
- Network monitoring tools (like Nagios, SolarWinds, or Zabbix) track traffic and detect anomalies (e.g., unusual data flow, unexpected login attempts).
- Network administrators ensure routers, switches, firewalls, and other devices are updated regularly.
- A well-managed network keeps detailed logs of:
- Login attempts
- File transfers
- Admin changes
- Admins configure perimeter and internal firewalls, as well as intrusion detection/prevention systems.
- Secure remote access is configured using VPNs with encryption and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Here’s a summary of the above actions and the benefits.
| Network Management Task | Cybersecurity Benefit |
|---|---|
| Segmentation | Limits attack spread |
| Monitoring & Alerts | Early threat detection |
| Access Control | Prevents misuse |
| Patch Management | Closes vulnerabilities |
| Logging & Auditing | Enables investigation |
The network admin. The security specialist. The ethical hacker. 1 you should have the other 2 you should know.
Here’s a clear comparison between a Network Administrator, a Security Specialist, and an Ethical Hacker — all vital but with different focuses in cybersecurity:
👨💻 1. Network Administrator
Primary Role: Keeps the network running smoothly and securely.
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Network Configuration | Sets up routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs. |
| Uptime & Performance | Ensures network reliability and speed. |
| Basic Security | Implements firewalls, access control lists, and basic intrusion protection. |
| Monitoring | Keeps an eye on network traffic and alerts. |
✅ Goal: Prevent security problems by managing a stable and secure network.
🛡️ 2. Security Specialist (Cybersecurity Analyst/Engineer)
Primary Role: Protects systems, data, and users from cyber threats.
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Threat Detection | Uses SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk) to detect suspicious activity. |
| Vulnerability Mgmt | Scans for weaknesses in software, devices, and configurations. |
| Policy & Compliance | Enforces security standards like ISO 27001, GDPR, or NIST. |
| Incident Response | Investigates and responds to security breaches. |
✅ Goal: Reduce attack surface and protect digital assets from compromise.
🕵️♂️ 3. Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester)
Primary Role: Finds and exploits vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do.
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Pen Testing | Simulates cyberattacks to find weaknesses. |
| Reconnaissance | Gathers information like an attacker would. |
| Exploitation | Tests if vulnerabilities can be exploited. |
| Reporting | Documents findings and gives remediation steps. |
✅ Goal: Think like a hacker to help organizations harden their defenses.
🧩 Summary of Differences:
| Role | Focus Area | Tools Used | Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network Admin | Network health & access | Cisco tools, Wireshark, pfSense | Preventative |
| Security Specialist | Threat protection & defense | Splunk, Nessus, CrowdStrike | Defensive |
| Ethical Hacker | Attack simulation | Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap | Offensive (safe) |
These roles often work together in a well-rounded IT security team. Many professionals transition from network admin → security specialist → ethical hacker as they gain experience.
How important is any of this to an insurance provider and what type of insurance would a business need in the advent of an attack?
Great question — and very important in today’s digital landscape.
🏢 Cybersecurity & Insurance Companies
Insurance companies handle vast amounts of sensitive personal and financial data, making them prime targets for cyberattacks. Here’s why cybersecurity is critical for them:
🔐 Why Cybersecurity Matters to Insurers:
- Data Protection – They store names, addresses, medical histories, and financial info.
- Regulatory Compliance – They must comply with laws like GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, or FCA rules in the UK.
- Reputation Risk – A data breach could destroy trust and brand credibility.
- Financial Risk – A breach can cost millions in legal fees, settlements, and downtime.
- Customer Obligation – Customers expect their data to be handled securely and responsibly.
🛡️ Types of Insurance a Business Might Need (Cybersecurity-Related)
1. Cyber Liability Insurance
- Covers: Data breaches, ransomware attacks, legal costs, notification expenses, and recovery.
- Two main types:
- First-party: Covers the business’s own losses.
- Third-party: Covers claims made by customers or partners affected by a breach.
2. Technology Errors and Omissions (Tech E&O)
- For IT and tech service providers.
- Covers liability if their software or services cause a client to suffer a security breach or data loss.
3. General Liability Insurance
- Not focused on cyber risks, but still useful for physical events (like theft of devices).
- Usually does not cover data breaches or cyberattacks.
4. Business Interruption Insurance (with cyber extension)
- Covers lost income due to cyber incidents that disrupt operations.
5. Crime Insurance
- Covers things like employee fraud, theft, and social engineering scams (e.g., fake invoice payments).
🧾 Real-World Example:
An insurance company hit by ransomware could face:
- Costs to recover systems
- Fines for regulatory violations
- Lawsuits from clients whose data was stolen
- Loss of customers and reputation
🔄 Bottom Line:
Even insurance companies — who sell risk management — need to buy insurance to manage their own cyber risk. In fact, insurers are some of the biggest buyers and sellers of cyber insurance today.
Would you like a guide to what cyber insurance typically covers or how a small business can assess its cyber risk?
🛡️ Cyber Insurance: What It Covers + How to Assess Cyber Risk
📦 What Does Cyber Insurance Typically Cover?
✅ First-Party Coverage (Your Own Costs After an Attack):
| What it Covers | Example |
|---|---|
| Data Recovery | Restoring data after a ransomware attack. |
| Business Interruption | Lost income if operations are halted due to a breach. |
| Ransom Payments | If ransomware demands are paid (though controversial). |
| Notification Costs | Informing customers of a data breach (often legally required). |
| Reputation Management | PR firm or crisis communication support. |
| Forensics | Experts investigating how the breach happened. |
| Legal Fees | Costs to deal with regulatory bodies or customer lawsuits. |
✅ Third-Party Coverage (Claims against you):
| What it Covers | Example |
|---|---|
| Customer Lawsuits | Clients sue you for exposing their data. |
| Regulatory Fines | Fines under GDPR, HIPAA, etc. |
| Network Security Liability | Your systems infect a partner’s network. |
🧮 How to Assess Cyber Risk for a Small Business
Use the following checklist to evaluate your business’s cyber exposure:
🔍 1. What Data Do You Store or Process?
- Do you handle customer names, emails, addresses, or financial info?
- Do you store employee or client medical records?
More sensitive data = higher risk
🔐 2. How Do You Protect It?
- Firewalls, antivirus, secure passwords, encryption?
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) in place?
Better security = lower risk
🌐 3. Do You Use Cloud Services or Remote Work?
- Are staff accessing systems from personal devices or public Wi-Fi?
Remote access increases exposure
👥 4. Are Employees Trained?
- Are staff aware of phishing attacks, social engineering, or scam emails?
Training reduces the chance of human error
🛠️ 5. Do You Have a Backup and Recovery Plan?
- How long would it take to recover if you lost access to data?
Downtime is costly, even with insurance
📄 Should You Buy Cyber Insurance?
You should seriously consider it if:
- You store any customer data online or on a server
- Your business could not afford days of downtime
- You accept credit cards or online payments
- You are legally required to report data breaches (e.g., GDPR)
Even freelancers or small web developers working with client data may want basic cyber coverage today. It’s made a significant difference to businesses today. No longer can you just have server on site, it’s one reason why providers such as AWS are in such demand.
Here’s a then and now comparison.
Let’s look at the Network components.
Firewall and the options for a small business.
Home users will have a firewall built into their home router. most home routers include a firewall, and that gives you a good first line of defence.
But for full protection, pair it with antivirus software and safe browsing habits. For most home users, Microsoft Defender (formerly Windows Defender) is sufficient and reliable, especially when kept up to date. Browsers also provide some defence for you and you should only visit sites that use HTTPS web addresses. There are some exceptions. But if you want added layers of protection or advanced tools, consider a dedicated antivirus suite.
As I have mentioned earlier. A firewall is a security system—either hardware, software, or both—that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
It acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network (like your office or home) and untrusted external networks (like the internet), blocking unauthorized access while allowing safe communication.
Just to clarify the difference between firewall software and antivirus software. Antivirus software protects the endpoints of a business network — where users interact with the system — and is vital in detecting and neutralizing malware threats that perimeter defences might miss.
Where antivirus software sits in the network which includes home computers. For Windows PC system users you can depend on MS Defender.
- Endpoint Protection: Installed on employee computers and company servers.
- Email Filtering: Scans attachments and links to block threats before they’re opened.
- Network Integration: Often managed centrally through a security dashboard for visibility and control across the business.
- Defence Layer: Works alongside firewalls and intrusion detection systems to catch threats that get past perimeter defences.
The Key purpose of a Firewall is to::
- Prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network.
- Allow legitimate traffic and block potentially dangerous data.
- Help defend against malware, hacking, and data breaches.
- Again, to be clear, a firewall protects a business from external interference which includes your visitors who maybe on site.
🛡️ A brief visit to the subject of Antivirus Software (Simple Summary)
For Home Users
- Runs quietly in the background to keep your PC or laptop safe
- Protects your personal files and photos from being damaged or stolen
- Stops viruses or scams from emails, dodgy websites, or downloads
🏢 For Small Business Owners
- Keeps all business computers protected — especially if you store customer details or financial info
- Helps prevent costly downtime caused by malware or ransomware
- Can be managed from one dashboard, so you don’t have to check each computer separately
- Builds trust with your customers by keeping their data safe
✅ Why It’s Worth Having:
- Stops viruses before they do damage
- Catches fake websites or email scams
- Keeps your computer running smoothly
- Gives peace of mind while you work or browse
Windows Defender.
“Yes, Microsoft Defender is good — much better than it used to be.
But if you want added layers of protection or advanced tools, consider a dedicated antivirus suite.”
When you might want more.
- You or family members often click on unknown links or download random files
- You handle sensitive data (e.g., financial or client info)
- You want extra features like VPN, password manager, or webcam protection
- You’re running a small business and want central control over multiple PCs
More detail will be found in a post that deals specifically with Antvirus applications.
🧱 Key Areas of Cybersecurity:
- Network Security (Firewall)
Protects internal networks from intruders (both outsiders and insiders). - Application Security (IDS/IPS, VPN)
Ensures software and apps are free from vulnerabilities through secure coding, patching, and testing. - Information Security (InfoSec)
Protects the integrity and privacy of data, both in storage and in transit. - Endpoint Security
Focuses on protecting devices like computers, phones, and tablets from threats. - Identity and Access Management (IAM)
Controls user access to resources and ensures authentication is enforced. - Cloud Security
Safeguards cloud-based systems, including data, apps, and services. - Operational Security (OpSec)
Covers the processes and decisions for handling and protecting data assets.
Let’s focus on the key areas of cybersecurity.
Where Is the Biggest Hacker Vulnerability in a Business Network?
When it comes to cybersecurity, most people think hackers go after firewalls or servers. But the truth is, the biggest vulnerability in any business network isn’t a device—it’s people.
Human error is responsible for the majority of successful cyberattacks. Employees unknowingly click malicious links, use weak passwords, or fall victim to social engineering. But people aren’t the only weak link. Let’s break down the top areas of vulnerability in a business network.
🔐 1. Endpoints (User Devices)
Laptops, desktops, tablets, and mobile phones—these are the entry points hackers love to target. Why? Because they often lack proper security, especially if they’re used remotely or by non-technical staff. You should never share logins or passwords, even between manager and subordinate.
Common Risks:
- Clicking on phishing emails.
- Downloading malicious attachments.
- Using outdated software or antivirus.
Tip: Invest in strong endpoint protection and regular user training.
👤 2. Poor Access Control
Too many businesses give employees more access than they need. Once a hacker gets in, they can do serious damage if access controls aren’t tightly managed. A new employee must be treated as an untrusted individual if the have access to critical data or systems.
Common Risks:
- No multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Shared admin passwords.
- Lack of role-based access restrictions.
Tip: Use the principle of least privilege and enforce MFA across all systems.
⚠️ 3. Unpatched Software and Systems
Hackers constantly scan for known vulnerabilities in outdated software. If your business skips updates or uses legacy systems, it becomes an easy target. Saving money by using outdated software is not an option, it’s a risk. An insurer may find you at fault in any claim. You’re business could be bankrupted.
Common Risks:
- Ignoring system updates or security patches.
- Running old operating systems or web apps.
- Using unsupported software.
Tip: Keep all software updated automatically where possible and replace legacy systems.
☁️ 4. Misconfigured Cloud Services
Cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft 365, or Google Workspace offer great flexibility—but misconfigurations can leave sensitive data exposed to the world.
Common Risks:
- Publicly accessible storage buckets.
- Poorly configured remote access tools.
- Weak cloud security policies.
Tip: Perform regular cloud audits and follow platform-specific security best practices.
✅ Conclusion: People Are the Weakest Link
While firewalls and antivirus software are important, your biggest vulnerability is still human behavior. That’s why a solid cybersecurity strategy must include:
- Staff training
- Regular security audits
- Patch management
- Strong access controls
User education and awareness programs can help prevent phishing attacks and other social engineering threats. Furthermore, internal controls and procedures can help prevent accidental data breaches or unauthorized access. Sharing a password should be a disciplinary action, even with your manager who should not ask you to.
Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time setup—it’s an ongoing commitment to protecting your business from evolving threats.
🏢 Why AWS and Cloud Services Have Become Essential
In days gone by a company could have a server onsite with lots of data stored. Today, because of hacking there is much greater risk of data being stolen. Is this one reason why companies such as AWS are so necessary.
💾 Back Then Y2K: On-Premises Servers
Companies often had:
- Their own physical servers on-site.
- In-house IT staff maintaining hardware and software.
- Data stored locally, often with minimal off-site backups.
- Security was often basic, relying heavily on firewalls, antivirus, and passwords.
✅ Control was high, but 🔻 security could be patchy and 🛠️ expensive to maintain.
🌐 Now: Cloud Infrastructure (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
Companies increasingly use cloud providers like AWS because they offer:
🔒 1. Superior Security
- AWS invests billions annually in cybersecurity.
- Features include data encryption, automated threat detection, firewalls, and zero-trust access models.
- Constant security updates and monitoring by experts.
📈 2. Scalability & Flexibility
- Instantly adjust storage or computing power.
- Great for startups or growing companies.
- No need to buy new hardware.
💰 3. Lower Cost of Ownership
- Pay-as-you-go pricing (no upfront server costs).
- Less staff needed to manage infrastructure.
🧯 4. Built-in Disaster Recovery & Backups
- Redundant systems across data centers and regions.
- Automatic backups and quick recovery options.
⚖️ 5. Regulatory Compliance
- AWS and similar providers support compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, ISO 27001, etc.
- Easier for businesses to meet legal requirements.
🧠 So, Why Are AWS and Similar Providers Necessary Today?
Because:
- The cyber threat landscape has exploded — ransomware, phishing, DDoS, etc.
- Most companies can’t afford to match cloud providers in terms of security or uptime.
- Modern business demands 24/7 access, mobility, and rapid scaling — hard to do with on-site servers alone.
🧮 Reality Check:
On-premises servers are still used — especially in government, finance, or high-security industries — but they are often paired with hybrid or cloud-first strategies now.
A simple comparison between on-premises, cloud, and hybrid setups.
☁️ Cloud vs. On-Premises vs. Hybrid (for Business Infrastructure)
| Feature / Factor | On-Premises | Cloud (e.g., AWS, Azure) | Hybrid (Mix of Both) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where Data Lives | On-site servers (owned by business) | Off-site in provider’s data centers | Split across on-site and cloud systems |
| Ownership | Full ownership & control | Provider owns/maintains infrastructure | Shared ownership (internal + external) |
| Upfront Cost | High (hardware, setup, licenses) | Low (pay-as-you-go) | Medium (costs for both environments) |
| Scalability | Limited (buy new hardware) | Instant scaling (on-demand resources) | Scalable via cloud portion |
| Maintenance | In-house team needed | Cloud provider handles it | Shared responsibility |
| Security Responsibility | Fully your responsibility | Shared (provider handles core infra security) | Split depending on data location |
| Access & Mobility | Local access or VPN required | Accessible from anywhere | Varies by setup |
| Compliance Control | Full control over compliance steps | Many tools provided, but shared compliance duty | High control where required |
| Reliability | Dependent on local setup | High availability with redundancy built-in | Enhanced reliability with smart design |
| Disaster Recovery | Requires offsite backups | Often built-in | Strong if architected well |
🧠 Which One Should a Business Choose?
| Business Type / Need | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Small startup or flexible team | Cloud (affordable, fast to deploy) |
| Highly regulated industry (e.g., banking) | On-prem or Hybrid (more control) |
| Existing investment in servers | Hybrid (gradual cloud adoption) |
| Want rapid scaling or global reach | Cloud |
| Need to keep sensitive data onsite | Hybrid or On-prem |
🛠️ Example Use Case:
A law firm may store sensitive client files on-premises (for control) but use cloud apps like Office 365 or AWS backups — a classic hybrid setup.
Back to the job roles.
Perfect! Here’s a clear comparison between a Network Administrator, a Security Specialist, and an Ethical Hacker — all vital but with different focuses in cybersecurity:
👨💻 1. Network Administrator
Primary Role: Keeps the network running smoothly and securely.
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Network Configuration | Sets up routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs. |
| Uptime & Performance | Ensures network reliability and speed. |
| Basic Security | Implements firewalls, access control lists, and basic intrusion protection. |
| Monitoring | Keeps an eye on network traffic and alerts. |
✅ Goal: Prevent security problems by managing a stable and secure network.
🛡️ 2. Security Specialist (Cybersecurity Analyst/Engineer)
Primary Role: Protects systems, data, and users from cyber threats.
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Threat Detection | Uses SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk) to detect suspicious activity. |
| Vulnerability Mgmt | Scans for weaknesses in software, devices, and configurations. |
| Policy & Compliance | Enforces security standards like ISO 27001, GDPR, or NIST. |
| Incident Response | Investigates and responds to security breaches. |
✅ Goal: Reduce attack surface and protect digital assets from compromise.
🕵️♂️ 3. Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester)
Primary Role: Finds and exploits vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do.
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Pen Testing | Simulates cyberattacks to find weaknesses. |
| Reconnaissance | Gathers information like an attacker would. |
| Exploitation | Tests if vulnerabilities can be exploited. |
| Reporting | Documents findings and gives remediation steps. |
✅ Goal: Think like a hacker to help organizations harden their defenses.
🧩 Summary of Differences:
| Role | Focus Area | Tools Used | Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network Admin | Network health & access | Cisco tools, Wireshark, pfSense | Preventative |
| Security Specialist | Threat protection & defense | Splunk, Nessus, CrowdStrike | Defensive |
| Ethical Hacker | Attack simulation | Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap | Offensive (safe) |
These roles often work together in a well-rounded IT security team. Many professionals transition from network admin → security specialist → ethical hacker as they gain experience.
Now you know who does what. But what can you do to protect your business.
You should provide your employees with awareness training
Providing information security training is essential for a company because people are often the weakest link in cybersecurity. Here’s why offering this training is not just good, but critical for any modern business:
🔒 Top Reasons to Provide Information Security Training
1. Reduce Human Error – the #1 Cause of Breaches
Most security breaches are caused by mistakes, such as clicking on phishing links or mishandling data. Training helps employees recognize threats and respond correctly.
2. Protect Company Data and Reputation
A single breach can expose sensitive customer, employee, or financial data, damaging trust and credibility. Training helps safeguard this data and prevents costly incidents.
3. Comply with Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Regulations like GDPR, ISO 27001, and the UK Data Protection Act require evidence of employee security awareness. Training helps demonstrate compliance and avoid fines.
4. Build a Security-Aware Culture
Training fosters a proactive mindset, making employees part of the defence—not just potential risks. This builds a culture of accountability and vigilance.
5. Strengthen Your First Line of Defence
Employees are often the first to encounter cyber threats—via emails, links, or suspicious activity. Security training empowers them to act appropriately and report incidents early.
6. Lower Financial Risk
Cyberattacks cost UK businesses millions annually. Investing in training is a low-cost, high-impact way to reduce the risk of expensive breaches and downtime.
7. Prevent Insider Threats
Training helps employees understand the importance of handling data responsibly, and discourages careless or malicious activity from within the organization.
✅ Summary
Information security training is not just an IT concern—it’s a business priority. It empowers your people, protects your assets, and ensures long-term resilience.
Would you like this turned into a short article or downloadable checklist for your website?
UK based training providers.
Certainly! Here’s a curated list of reputable cybersecurity training providers in the UK, offering a range of courses from foundational awareness to advanced technical certifications:
🔐 Top Cybersecurity Training Providers in the UK
1. Cyber Management Alliance (CM-Alliance)
Offers NCSC-assured training, including incident response, crisis simulations, and executive cyber awareness programs. (CyberSec Training & Consulting UK)
2. SANS Institute UK
Renowned for in-depth technical courses covering areas like cloud security, digital forensics, and offensive operations. (SANS Institute)
3. Security Blue Team
Provides practical, hands-on training focused on defensive cybersecurity skills, including threat intelligence and incident response. (Security Blue Team)
4. Immersive Labs
Delivers interactive, gamified training modules to enhance cyber resilience and security awareness among employees. (Immersive Cybersecurity Training)
5. The Security Company (TSC)
Specializes in creating bespoke cybersecurity awareness programs aimed at reducing human error within organizations. (TSC)
6. Raytheon UK
Provides comprehensive cybersecurity training solutions for government, military, and commercial sectors. (Home)
7. Right Turn Security
Offers a range of cybersecurity training modules, from basic to advanced levels, catering to various organizational needs. (Right Turn Security)
8. Boxphish
Focuses on cybersecurity awareness training through simulated phishing campaigns and interactive learning modules.
9. KnowBe4
Provides extensive security awareness training and simulated phishing platforms to help organizations manage the ongoing problem of social engineering.
10. Hoxhunt
Offers personalized cybersecurity training experiences that adapt to individual learning needs and behaviours.
11. Skillcast
Skillcast provide comprehensive training solutions to equip you with the tools to strengthen your team and protect your business.
✅ Choosing the Right Provider
When selecting a cybersecurity training provider, consider the following:
- Certification Needs: Determine if you require industry-recognized certifications like CISSP, CISA, or NCSC-assured training.(CyberSec Training & Consulting UK)
- Training Format: Decide between in-person, online, or hybrid training sessions based on your team’s preferences and logistical considerations.
- Content Relevance: Ensure the training content aligns with your organization’s specific cybersecurity challenges and industry regulations.
- Budget Constraints: Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the training programs in relation to the value they provide.
Before I continue I want to mention Alienvault.com
The website https://otx.alienvault.com/ hosts the Open Threat Exchange (OTX), a free, community-driven threat intelligence platform developed by AlienVault, now part of LevelBlue. OTX enables security professionals, researchers, and organizations to share, access, and collaborate on real-time threat data, enhancing collective cybersecurity defences. (Open Threat Exchange™ FAQ – AlienVault OTX – LevelBlue, OTX: Free Security Tools for Real-time Threat Detection – LevelBlue)
🔍 Key Features of OTX
1. Community-Powered Threat Intelligence
- OTX boasts over 100,000 participants across 140 countries, contributing more than 19 million threat indicators daily, including IP addresses, domains, file hashes, and malware signatures. (AlienVault OTX – Maltego)
2. OTX Pulses
- Pulses are curated collections of threat data related to specific cyber threats. Each Pulse includes:
- Indicators of Compromise (IoCs): IPs, domains, file hashes, etc.
- Contextual Information: Details about the threat, targeted software, and attack vectors.
- Detection Guidance: Information to help identify and mitigate the threat. (OTX | World’s Largest Threat Intelligence Community – LevelBlue, Alienvault OTX | Marketplace and Integrations – ThreatConnect, LevelBlue – Open Threat Exchange)
3. OTX Endpoint Security
- A free tool that scans endpoints for known IoCs cataloged in OTX, helping identify potential compromises without requiring additional security products. (LevelBlue – Open Threat Exchange)
4. Integration Capabilities
- OTX offers APIs and integration options to incorporate its threat intelligence into various security tools and platforms, facilitating automated threat detection and response. (OTX | World’s Largest Threat Intelligence Community – LevelBlue)
🧩 Use Cases
- Threat Hunting: Leverage community-shared IoCs to proactively search for threats within your environment.
- Incident Response: Access real-time threat data to inform and expedite response strategies.
- Security Research: Collaborate with a global community to analyze emerging threats and attack techniques.
- Security Tool Enhancement: Integrate OTX data to enrich the capabilities of existing security solutions. (OTX | World’s Largest Threat Intelligence Community – LevelBlue, Alienvault OTX | Marketplace and Integrations – ThreatConnect, AlienVault OTX – Maltego, Alien Labs Open Threat Exchange (OTX) Endpoint Security – CISA)
🛡️ Getting Started
To utilize OTX:
- Sign Up: Create a free account at https://otx.alienvault.com/.
- Explore Pulses: Browse or subscribe to Pulses relevant to your interests or organizational needs.
- Use Endpoint Security: Download and deploy the OTX Endpoint Security tool to scan your systems.
- Integrate: Connect OTX with your security infrastructure using available APIs and integration guides. (OTX: Free Security Tools for Real-time Threat Detection – LevelBlue, OTX | World’s Largest Threat Intelligence Community – LevelBlue, Alien Labs Open Threat Exchange (OTX) Endpoint Security – CISA)
For more detailed information and resources, visit the OTX FAQ.
OTX represents a collaborative approach to cybersecurity, empowering users to share and access vital threat intelligence freely, thereby strengthening collective defenses against cyber threats. (OTX | World’s Largest Threat Intelligence Community – LevelBlue)
Phillip Donnelly and ChatGPT.
