According to American Banking and Trust, 68% of business leaders feel their cyber security risks are increasing. As digital threats grow more complex, many people confuse cyber security with network security.

Let’s take a closer look into cyber security vs network security, exploring how each approach addresses different aspects of protecting your digital assets and keeping your data safe from cyberattacks.

What is Cyber Security?

Cyber security involves protecting digital systems, networks, and data from attacks.

There are three core areas within cyber security:

  • Data protection
  • System security
  • Online safety strategies

Data protection

Data protection is at the heart of cyber security. It means keeping personal, business, and financial information out of the hands of hackers. From credit card details to business trade secrets, cyber security methods aim to keep this data secure.

System Security

System security goes beyond data and ensures that the devices and software you use remain protected. It defends against malware, ransomware, and other types of attacks that can disable or damage systems. Keeping your devices and software up to date is one way to protect them from these threats.

Online Safety Strategies

Online safety strategies involve a combination of tools, such as firewalls, encryption, and user education. They work together to reduce the chance of unauthorized access to sensitive information or networks.

What is Network Security?

Network security focuses on protecting the internal infrastructure of a network. There are three primary aspects of network security:

  • Device protection
  • Traffic monitoring
  • Access control

Device Protection

Device protection is about securing all devices within the network. Whether it’s computers, servers, or mobile devices, ensuring they’re safe from malicious actors is key to keeping the entire network secure.

Traffic Monitoring

Traffic monitoring involves tracking the data flowing through the network. It helps detect suspicious activity and stop attacks before they cause damage. By analyzing network traffic, administrators can spot unusual patterns that might signal a threat.

Access Control

Access control limits who can get into the network and which parts of it they can use. By managing access, network security reduces the chance of unauthorized users entering sensitive areas.

Cyber Security vs Network Security: Key Differences

The first key difference is the scope of protection. Cyber security deals with threats that target any digital system, from personal devices to corporate servers, focusing on preventing hacking, phishing, and malware attacks. Network security is more focused, aiming to secure the network itself from unauthorized access or breaches.

Another difference is the tools and techniques used. Cyber security employs strategies such as encryption, antivirus software, and identity management to protect data across different platforms. Network security relies heavily on firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), and intrusion detection systems to keep the internal network secure.

IT Security Comparison: Digital Protection Methods

Understanding the differences between cyber security vs network security is essential for protecting both data and networks.

At Inception Network Strategies, we’ve been proudly serving small businesses and financial institutions across middle Tennessee, southern Kentucky, and northern Alabama since 2001. Headquartered in Franklin, TN, we offer personalized expertise with a focus on innovation and emerging technologies.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your IT needs!