Identifying & Preventing Threats to Computer Systems & Networks (OCR GCSE Computer Science): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
Methods of Preventing a Network Attack
There are various methods used to protect networks and systems from cyberattacks. Each method focuses on reducing vulnerabilities and limiting the damage if an attack occurs.
Network Security Measures
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Penetration Testing | What it limits/prevents: Identifies vulnerabilities in a network by simulating an attack. How it limits the attack: By discovering weak points before real attackers can exploit them, penetration testing helps fix security flaws. |
| Anti-Malware Software | What it limits/prevents: Prevents malware (e.g., viruses, trojans, spyware) from infecting devices. How it limits the attack: The software scans files and downloads, removing or quarantining malware before it can cause harm. |
| Firewalls | What it limits/prevents: Blocks unauthorised access to or from a private network. How it limits the attack: Firewalls philtre traffic, preventing harmful data and unauthorised users from accessing the network. |
| User Access Levels | What it limits/prevents: Controls which parts of the system users can access based on their role. How it limits the attack: Restricts access to sensitive data, reducing the risk of theft or accidental leaks by limiting exposure. |
| Passwords | What it limits/prevents: Prevents unauthorised access to accounts and systems. How it limits the attack: Strong passwords make it harder for attackers to guess or use brute-force methods to access accounts. |
| Encryption | What it limits/prevents: Protects data from being read or stolen during transmission. How it limits the attack: Encryption scrambles data, ensuring intercepted data cannot be understood without the key. |
| Physical Security | What it limits/prevents: Prevents unauthorised physical access to network hardware, such as servers or routers. How it limits the attack: Physical barriers like locked rooms and CCTV protect hardware from tampering or theft. |
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Key Points to Remember
- Penetration testing identifies vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.
- Anti-malware software and firewalls prevent malware and unauthorised access to networks.
- User access levels, strong passwords, and encryption help protect sensitive data by limiting access and securing communications.
- Physical security ensures that network hardware is protected from unauthorised physical interference.