Best Network Security Software

Businesses rely on their computer networks more than ever before. Hence, it’s crucial to have reliable and effective network security software in place.

This blog post will discuss the different types of network security software solutions and what businesses should consider when purchasing. We will also look at some of the latest industry trends so businesses can stay ahead of the curve.

What Is Network Security Software?

Having computer security software prevents anyone who shouldn't have access from getting into your system.

This also safeguards against viruses and other online threats. The software offers protection against application vulnerabilities, network exploits, information theft, and general cyberattacks.

One of the primary purposes of computer security systems is to automate workflows, such as network management or monitoring cyber threats, on different types of networks. They also typically come with access control and protection against malware and data loss. This helps keep your operating systems secured,

Evolution of Network Security Software - Market Size & Growth

The market for network security is only estimated to grow with the growing security threats. Here are some statistics that indicate the same:

• In 2021, the global network security market size was valued at $20.30 billion. 
• 2022 showed a growing network security market size of $22.60 billion.
• Forecasts indicate that by 2029 these numbers will be around $53.11 billion. 
• 2020 experienced a 10.2% growth in the network security market from the 2019 figures.
• During the period between 2014-2022, the region of Europe invested approximately $707.6 million in research for information and network security.

The Benefits Of Network Security Software

When using network security solution, businesses can benefit from improved network performance, increased productivity and efficiency, better data protection and privacy, and cost savings.

1. Improved Network Performance

   Network security monitoring tools help to ensure that the system is working at its best by constantly updating itself with the latest security updates.

2. Increased Productivity and Efficiency

   With the best network security software tools and network penetration testing services in place, businesses can rest assured that their networks are always secure, which allows them to focus on other tasks.

3. Better Data Protection And Privacy

   When it comes to data protection and privacy, network security software, and network security tools help to protect businesses from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. There are several data privacy platforms programmes accessible to protect your personal information.

4. Cost Savings

   Enterprise network security monitoring solutions can help businesses save money in the long run by reducing the need for expensive IT staff or upgrades due to threats.

Key Features Of Network Security Software

Here are some of the primary network security software features you need to consider when selecting the right network security software.

1. Data security

   Safeguards against data loss through measures such as encryption and authentication.

2. Endpoint protection

   Keep your devices secure from any possible danger by monitoring and protecting them with security features.

3. Network security

   Network security solutions monitor and protect networks from potential network security threats, such as intrusions, breaches, and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks. It also provides users with protection against ransomware, viruses, and identity theft.

4. Patch management

   This software scans your network for missing patches and updates them automatically. It also fixes any vulnerabilities in your software that could make it susceptible to cyberattacks.

5. Real-time monitoring with security monitoring software

   Network systems can be monitored in real-time with this software, helping users to identify and stop malware, improve performance issues, and respond more quickly to incidents.

6. Threat intelligence

   This software aims to help security professionals understand and react to cyberattacks by classifying data on attacks as strategic, tactical, or operational.

7. Vulnerability scanning

   To keep networks and applications secure, it constantly monitors them for vulnerabilities.

The Cost Of Network Security Software

The cost of most network security software tools can vary significantly depending on the features offered and the size of your network. Generally, you’ll be looking at a few hundred to thousands of dollars for a basic setup, with the most expensive plans costing tens of thousands of dollars.

However, many businesses consider it a worthwhile investment due to its ability to save time, effort, and money in the long run.

Network security software cost is based on different models, which include:

1. Per Device Pricing Model

   In this pricing system, you would be charged a flat fee for each system for which network security is applicable. For example, network security per device would cost around $0.96 to $4.50 per month.

2. Monitoring Only Pricing Model

   Pricing based on monitoring means nothing else besides network scanning and monitoring is carried out. Notifications are provided to  clients about issues, but solving them will be the client’s responsibility). Monitoring service levels can differ from an in-house IT staff providing basic monitoring and warnings to specialized support and resolution of incidents. It can cost around $720 - $2800.

3. Tiered Pricing Model

   Here, the pricings are more simplified and based on the customized features of network security that are opted for. Its pricing generally comes to around $20- $20,000 per month.

4. Per User Pricing Model

   With this model, the number of users in a network is calculated against the number of devices.  It helps adapt to account for different devices, and consumers pay to depend on the number of users—all while servicing remains constant. Pricing includes $4-130 monthly.

5. All-You-Can-Have Pricing Model

   In this model, all the services available with network security in online and offline support and more are all available at a monthly flat fee which can be paid annually. The pricing can cost upwards of $7000 and higher.

Considerations When Purchasing Network Security Software

With the number of computer security tools on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is right for your business. Use the following criteria while evaluating options to help you narrow down your choices:

1. Password management features

   Passwords play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of your personal information and the system. Password management capabilities within computer security software encrypt passwords so only authorized individuals can access them. Invest in a top-of-the-line computer security solution with end-to-end encryption, advanced password sharing, password generation, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and role-based permissions for optimal password management.

2. Privacy Protection

   Ensure that the software provides privacy protection through various means such as intrusion detection systems, SIEM Software, zero trust processes, and more that process the privacy of your sensitive data.

3. Malware and Phishing Protection

   Safeguard your networks and connected devices by opting for network security software with antivirus software. This helps in staving off viruses, malware, ransomware, trojans, and more from infecting your devices and networks.

4. Real-time security monitoring

   To protect your business with network security monitoring software against current and future attacks, real-time security monitoring is key. By identifying potential threats as they're happening, you can lead off big problems before they have a chance to start. When researching computer security platforms, look for products that offer periodic vulnerability scans and real-time alerts—that way, you'll be able to rest easy knowing your business is safe.

5. Firewalls

   As a widely used security tool, they are required in multiple arenas of a network. Next-generation firewalls give better protection against application-level attacks and malware defenses.

6. Remote monitoring capabilities

   With the current state of many employees working remotely or in a hybrid capacity, computer security risks are at an all-time high. Luckily, there is software that can give your IT team full control and surveillance of networks, servers, endpoints, and devices from afar. That way, you can rest assured that your data is safe from external dangers..

7. Virtual Private Networks

   This feature helps secure connection from one endpoint to an organization’s network using encryption. It can also be enabled remotely, thus providing employees access to network resources remotely. 

Network Security Software Trends to Look Out For! 

With the world's ever-advancing and digitizing, cybersecurity should be of utmost importance for all businesses - no matter their size. Everyone is utilizing computer systems as part of their daily operations, from large corporations to small family-owned businesses. However, this creates a bigger risk for online attacks such as data breaches or hacking. Here are some major trends and tips of cybersecurity you'll want to stay up-to-date on in 2024.

1. Potential Of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

   The incorporation of AI and machine learning has had a huge impact on the cybersecurity industry.

   While this technology has allowed for automated security systems, natural language processing, face detection, and automatic threat detection, malware and attacks that utilize these same technologies to bypass security protocols are becoming more widespread.

   However, using AI-enabled threat detection systems can forecast new attacks and stop data breaches before they manifest.

2. Automation And Integration

   The amount of data increases every day, and to be able to manage it all effectively, automation has become essential. With work life becoming more chaotic, professionals must find ways to deliver solutions quickly; therefore, automation is now more valuable than ever. 

   Automation and cyber security are two of the most important concepts in software development, especially for those who build large web applications. The agile process emphasizes taking extra measures ensures web security from all possible angles.

3. Mobile Is The New Target

   As mobile phones become more popular each year, so does the risk of being targeted by malware and attacks. In 2019, experts predicted a 50 percent increase in such activity, which puts our personal photos, financial transactions, emails, and messages at greater risk of being hacked. By 2024 smartphone viruses or malware may become the biggest concern for security experts.