subject: Server Security: Don't Get Pwned By Hackers! [print this page] Server Security: Don't Get Pwned By Hackers!
A secure console server is necessary when an organization requires encrypted communication for their network. Unauthorized users and intruders are prevented from accessing a network when this technology is in use, and the network operates smoothly from a safe access point. Depending on the information that is transferred, the security levels will vary. A typical organization will employ professional administrators to run the secured network and keep it free of malware and hackers.
Certain protocols are used by the server to make data unreadable to outsiders. This is called "encryption", and only authorized users on the network will be able to access and read the encrypted data. The data is also decrypted by the protocol so that authorized users are able to read it. One of the more widely used protocols is Secure Sockets Layer, known to most as SSL. It was developed by a well-known Internet browser company for security purposes and most current browsers still use this protocol. SSL employs two separate encryptions for data transferred. All users will know one of them, and the person receiving the message will know the other one. Online merchants protect credit card information and other private customer data from hackers by using this protocol. SSL is not the only one used these days, however.
S-HTTP was designed for the purpose of sending encrypted messages. There are times when an administrator will deploy this on the network alongside the SSL. This is only possible of if it is capable of decrypting S-HTTP, however, as not all networks can do this. Many Virtual Private Networks use the Ipsec protocol, which can only be successful if both users sending and receiving the data have Ipsec. It is used often by government agencies and the military for official data transfers that might contain sensitive information. The level of security afforded by a certain protocol should be consistent with the type of information transferred on the secure console server.
A console server looks like a PC tower but it runs on a different software platform and generally has more power and storage capability. In many organizations, there will be a rack of these units to service many network users. At least one of them will have a monitor attached for the administrator's use. They are usually locked away in a room for added security in this case. On a smaller level, the server could be a single PC, as in a home network server or small business. It all depends on the amount of files that are stored and the size of the user base. Large networks would probably need more than one console to keep communications running smoothly.
The central hub of all network operations is the secure console server. No matter what type of information or level of sensitivity is required, this essential piece of equipment will ensure that the data is unreadable to outsiders. Large corporations, government agencies, and home computer users all need some level of protection from virus attacks and intruders, so it is important to have some knowledge about the equipment and security protocols available.
