Security Best Practices

Keeping your systems and data secure requires a blend of strong policies, reliable tools, and disciplined habits. This guide outlines essential practices you can adopt to protect your organization against common threats.

Password Management
Multi‑Factor Authentication
Secure Coding
Patch Management
Network Security
Incident Response
Additional Resources

Password Management

Strong, unique passwords are the first line of defense.

Use a reputable password manager.
Enforce a minimum length of 12 characters.
Avoid common words and patterns.

Multi‑Factor Authentication (MFA)

Require MFA for all privileged accounts and remote access.

Authentication Flow:
1. User enters password.
2. System triggers OTP via authenticator app.
3. User provides OTP.
4. Access granted.

Secure Coding Practices

Integrate security directly into the development lifecycle.

// Example: Parameterized query to prevent SQL injection
const sql = 'SELECT * FROM users WHERE email = ?';
db.query(sql, [email], (err, rows) => {
  if (err) throw err;
  // handle rows
});

Patch Management

Maintain an up‑to‑date inventory of software and apply patches promptly.

Automate patch deployment where possible.
Test patches in a staging environment.
Document and track patch status.

Network Security

Secure the perimeter and internal segmentation.

Deploy firewalls with least‑privilege rules.
Enable intrusion detection/prevention systems.
Use VPNs for remote connections.

Incident Response

Prepare a clear plan to react quickly to security events.

Identify and contain the breach.
Eradicate malicious artifacts.
Recover systems to normal operation.
Conduct a post‑mortem and improve controls.