Definition
Network security controls are safeguards or countermeasures designed to protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of computer networks and data. These controls operate by implementing a combination of hardware, software, and policies to prevent unauthorized access, misuse, modification, or denial of network resources. Implementing effective network security controls is crucial for maintaining business operations, protecting sensitive information, and complying with regulations. For instance, a firewall acts as a network security control by monitoring and filtering incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Unlike endpoint security controls that focus on individual devices, network security controls protect the entire network infrastructure. These concepts are fundamental to certifications like CompTIA Security+, CySA+, and CISSP.