Host Security
Host Security Definition
Host security refers to the various methods used to secure individual host devices on a network. A host is any device that provides services, like resources or data, to other devices on the network. It can include desktop computers, smartphones, or servers.
Host security focuses on protecting these devices from potential threats, such as malware, data breaches, or cyberattacks. Methods are implemented directly on each host device in the network. That way, every host device has an independent security system, and one compromised device doesn’t necessarily endanger others.
Host Security Methods
- Access control: Sets limitations on who can access a host device. Controls are usually backed up by strong authentication methods, like two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Least privilege permissions: Grants users and software only the minimum necessary permissions on a host device, limiting the amount of damage they can do.
- Zero trust model: Requires authentication from users and devices every time they request access to a host. This reduces the risk of compromised devices that have been previously verified.
- Security baseline: Standardizes a minimum level of security for all hosts in a network, removing potential weak points. It also helps prevent less secure devices from accessing the network.
- Attack surface reduction: Identifies and removes possible entry points for attackers. That can include unnecessary programs, open ports, or outdated software.
- Patch management: Updates software regularly to fix known vulnerabilities on host devices.
- Host-based firewall: Monitors and restricts incoming and outgoing traffic to prevent data breaches and cyberattacks.
- Data encryption: Protects data stored on hosts against potential snoops who don’t have the proper decryption key.
- Antivirus suite: Guards the host device from malicious software. Catching malware at the host level prevents it from spreading across the network.
- Log monitoring: Tracks access to host devices, helping admins notice suspicious activity and take appropriate action.
- Regular backups: Lets admins roll back a compromised system to a previous, secured state.
Read More
- What Is Endpoint Security?
- What Is a Host Intrusion Prevention System?
- What Is a Host-Based Intrusion Detection System?
FAQ
They overlap. An endpoint is any device used to access a network, like a laptop, smartphone, or server. Hosts are also endpoints, so host security falls under endpoint security.
The difference is in their scope. Network-based security covers the entire network. It’s usually a multi-layered defense system that uses tools, such as firewalls, routers, and gateways, to protect all connected devices and secure the communications between them. Host security is implemented on individual devices. It acts as a second layer of defense, independent from the main network's security.
A host security baseline is a secure configuration for a host device, standardized across the entire network. The baseline can include various host security methods, such as antivirus software, a firewall, and data encryption. Admins usually combine these baselines with access control. This way, devices that don’t meet the security baseline can’t connect to the network or can connect with very limited access.
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