Ensure that authentication and encryption are applied to all protocols that carry important information to and from the outside world. Log and review all traffic denied at the firewall. This can reveal suspicious activities that indicate the early stages of an attack, which can evolve into a security vulnerability. Also review any denied traffic originating from inside the network for evidence of attempted attacks or serious security incidents. Install security patches on hosts.
Attackers can quickly identify or develop exploits against vulnerabilities in software products.
Check with manufacturers for the frequent patches and updates that protect their products. Establish secure remote connections for the network. Many security breaches take advantage of weaknesses in remote access. For more secure remote connections to the network, use strong passwords and authentication, such as that provided by tokens and smart cards, a VPN, or private network with encryption. Use honeypots or decoy technology.