Windows NT TCP/IP Network Administration

Summary

Network access and computer security work at cross purposes. Attaching a computer to a network increases the security risks for that computer. Evaluate your security needs to determine what must be protected and how vigorously it must be protected. Develop a written site security policy that defines your security procedures and documents the security duties and responsibilities of employees at all levels.

Network security is essentially good system security. Good user authentication, up-to-date software, effective system monitoring, and well trained system administrators are the best security. Track the security updates released by Microsoft and use the system monitoring tools available with Windows NT to help with these tasks. The Event Viewer, NTFS file security, encryption, and firewalls are all tools that can help.

Like troubleshooting, network security is a neverending task. It is an ongoing process. In the final chapter we discuss another ongoing process—learning. The network administrator never finishes learning. In the next chapter we look at ways you can keep abreast of the most current information in network administration.