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A company stores data about employees on networked computers - Edexcel - GCSE Computer Science - Question 8 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 8
A company stores data about employees on networked computers. Discuss the methods available to maintain network security and protect the data from cyberattacks.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A company stores data about employees on networked computers - Edexcel - GCSE Computer Science - Question 8 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Validation and authentication techniques
Answer
To secure networked computers, companies should implement robust validation and authentication techniques. This includes measures such as access control through strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and regular updates to authentication protocols. Employing these measures ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive employee data.
Step 2
Security issues related to cloud and data storage
Answer
When utilizing cloud services for data storage, it's critical to understand the potential security issues involved. Companies should ensure that cloud providers follow stringent security protocols. Encrypting data both in transit and at rest can help mitigate risks associated with unauthorized access and data breaches.
Step 3
Understanding different forms of cyberattacks
Answer
Organizations must educate their employees about various types of cyberattacks, such as phishing, shoulder surfing, and malware infiltration. Awareness training can help employees recognize suspicious activities, reducing vulnerability. Regularly updating software and operating systems helps protect against exploits targeting known vulnerabilities.
Step 4
Identifying vulnerabilities through penetration testing
Answer
Conducting regular penetration tests allows organizations to identify and rectify vulnerabilities in their network. These tests simulate cyberattack scenarios, enabling security teams to discover weak points and address them before they can be exploited by malicious actors.
Step 5
Utilizing security analysis tools
Answer
Implementing commercial security analysis tools is crucial for maintaining network integrity. These tools provide real-time monitoring and analysis of network traffic, helping to detect anomalies and potential breaches early. Additionally, conducting regular audits and enforcing network policies strengthens overall security posture.
Step 6
Best programming practices
Answer
Incorporating modular testing and effective network programming practices is essential. Developers should adhere to secure coding standards to minimize vulnerabilities in applications. Code reviews at different stages of development also help in identifying weaknesses that could be exploited in cyberattacks.