Network Security vs Cyber Security: What’s The Difference

Today’s business environment is dominated by digital interactions and data-driven operations.

While this has proved to be a fantastic evolution in terms of innovation, productivity, and efficiency, businesses have become heavily reliant on the continued operation of these technologies for their everyday operations. This makes technological breaches a serious concern.

With confidential information, finances, and entire companies all vulnerable in the case of technological breaches, the security of online activities is of paramount importance.

So, before taking steps toward boosting the technological security of your business, it’s important to first understand the basic terms and concepts that surround this field to avoid confusion.

More specifically, the terms “Network Security” and “Cyber Security” are often used interchangeably, but they refer to completely distinct aspects of online protection.

This article will delve into the significance of safeguarding your business online, defining network security and cyber security, and exploring the differences between the two to underscore the critical role they play in preventing data breaches.

Why Do You Need to Protect Your Business Online?

Today, businesses are largely based online and the importance of safeguarding your business against cyber threats cannot be overstated. From financial transactions to confidential business communications, a vast amount of sensitive data is transmitted and stored digitally.

In the same way that brick-and-mortar businesses would be vulnerable to break-ins without proper physical security, digital businesses are vulnerable to a range of cyber threats.

What is Cyber Security?

When it comes to discussions of network security vs cyber security, it’s best to think of cyber security as the broader of the two terms. Cyber security refers to the broad practices that protect your business from cyber threats to maintain the integrity of a business’s networks, programs and devices.

Cyber Security involves a comprehensive approach to information protection that includes network security but extends to safeguarding against a wide range of cyber threats, including:

spyware
malware
ransomware
phishing attacks
social engineering
human error

Cyber Security uses a variety of unique measures to prevent these attacks, ranging from detailed encryption technology to robust firewalls and even antivirus software.

To be implemented correctly, cyber security teams must stay updated on the latest common threats and defence strategies to reduce cyber risks and prevent the devastating consequences of a successful attack.

What is Network Security?

Network security is a subset of cyber security. It uses measures and policies to prevent unauthorised users from accessing confidential business data and information in the network.

It involves both hardware and software solutions that are specially designed to bolster the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data within a business’ technological network.

Network security teams will use a combination of measures to protect a network, such as:

firewalls
software updates
antivirus software
encryption algorithms
intrusion detection systems
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

Network Security vs Cyber Security? What’s the Difference?

When it comes to comparing network security vs cyber security, the fundamental difference between the two fields can be found in their scope.

On one hand, network security is a subset of cyber security, focusing specifically on the protection of a business’ computer network. Comparatively, cyber security is a more holistic approach to information protection that considers the security of a business’s entire digital ecosystem, including:

networks
systems
applications
data

Explained visually, network security is the equivalent of locking the doors and windows of a home to ensure intruders can’t get inside.

Cyber security, on the other hand, involves securing the entire property beyond, including the house, yard, and garage to protect against a broader variety of attacks.

Why Cyber Security and Network Security are Must-Haves for SMBs.

1. Preventing Catastrophic Data Loss or Breaches

For small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), a data breach can be disastrous.

Beyond the immediate financial losses, a breach can also result in reputation damage, a loss of customer trust, and significant legal consequences – especially if negligence or recklessness can be substantiated.

Implementing robust cyber security measures, including effective network security, is therefore crucial!

2. Maintaining Business Functionality

Cyber security measures, and by extension network security protocols, play a pivotal role in maintaining the functionality of critical business systems and operations.

Not only does this ensure the financial stability of a business, but this is especially important for SMBs which don’t have as many resources to get themselves back online after an incident.

3. Regulatory Compliance

Most industries, such as aged care, are subject to some level of regulations governing the protection of sensitive data and information. While specific rules will vary between industries, non-compliance in any instance can result in severe penalties and significant reputation damage.

That’s why implementing robust cyber security measures, including network security practices, ensures compliance with the relevant regulatory frameworks that govern your business.

Get in Touch with OneCloud IT Solutions

When it comes to cyber security vs network security, OneCloud IT Solutions aren’t just informed on the difference between the two – we know what it takes to successfully implement both protection methods into your business.