Computer Network Security
Web design will encompass the inception of a site including the very first idea for the site, strategies used to develop the site and all the activities which are needed to see the site through the whole development process until it is operational. It also requires that a web developer will be able to manage and update the site once it is up and running and being used by the Web 2.0 community. There are several different aspects of web site security for those developers who are either creating and designing a new site, or modifying an existing one. It is important to look at website security from a holistic perspective. It’s not just about preventing damage or theft, it also includes making sure that the site remains available, runs properly and complies with any legal or regulatory requirements. The content on your site is intellectual property and data pertaining to your business. It must be protected from inappropriate use. These are just some of the reasons internet security is an important matter. Here are some ways to ensure your site remains secure for all involved.
Carefully Define and Assess Potential Security Risks
Take a look at what types of security requirements the website has including how information is classified. Also consider the security policy, who will be responsible for the security policy and how it will be monitored. Make a detailed list of everything that will be used, interacted with or potentially altered by the site. Then classify each of these based on the sensitivity and the effect any unauthorized changes might have on the business. This will help you determine where to focus the most effort on protection. For simple setups that contain no kinds of sensitive data baseline security will most likely be adequate. But for websites or web applications that are more complex, or those which contain sensitive data look at how vulnerable the site is and assess possible vulnerabilities and threats. This analysis will help develop proper security measures.
Don’t Just Stop at Function
When developing a website it is important to produce high quality code. There can always be software errors, but with proper training and use of high standards and guidelines security risks can be kept to a minimum. Make sure that adequate time is dedicated to properly develop the website securely not just get it to a functional state. Be sure to integrate security testing into site development. Security testing will involve checking out what is not allowed as well as how you desire the site to work. This will require a different mindset from the way most website developers test their websites.
Audits and Alerts
Be certain to include the capability of auditing activities on a website. This can help point out any abnormal activity as well as give you a clue about identifying how any problems occurred. This can mean early warnings on issues which can help reduce the overall impact of an incident should it occur. Make sure that the site’s logs cannot be altered and that the logs use numeric user identities that can be monitored.
Predetermine Security Measures
Discuss what types of security measures you will need from suppliers, sub-contractors or partners. Then use the exact same process to assess their security measures as you do your own. Be sure to identify the security monitoring that you need and how you will detect and disclose any breaches in security. It is also important to have a plan for disaster recovery. This can be a major issue as with Hurricane Sandy when it hit New Jersey and the surrounding areas. Web site development should include what will be done in the case of the loss of site availability. Remember to examine what actions, if any, will be taken in these situations and how recovery will occur.
