Top Common Network Security Threats & Solutions for Each

As a business in 2025, chances are you rely on some form of IT system, whether it’s managing a website, CRM, cloud platform, or other digital tools that help keep your day-to-day operations running smoothly. And while these technologies make managing your business easier, they also open the door to something a less convenient: cybersecurity and network threats.

We’re not just talking about the occasional slip-up or outdated software. We’re talking about deliberate attacks – targeted efforts by cybercriminals to access, steal, or compromise your data. And yes, even small businesses are at risk. In fact, cyberattacks cost businesses worldwide billions of dollars every year.

At CRT Network Solutions, we’ve seen firsthand the damage that data loss can cause to Australian businesses and just how effective the right security solutions can be. With proactive management and the right protective measures, you can dramatically reduce your risk and safeguard your valuable business information.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common network security threats, the solutions that actually work, and simple, practical steps you can take to protect your business.

Understanding Network Security As The Foundation of Protection

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, understanding the basics of network protection is essential for business survival. Surveys show that breaches can cost one business an average of AU$60,000 dollars. And, if you are a small business with limited funds, that kind of financial hit can be devastating.

The scary part? Many of these attacks are entirely preventable.

So, What Is Network Security?

Cyber threats are malicious actions aimed at stealing data, damaging systems, or disrupting your day-to-day operations. These threats come in all shapes and sizes, such as malware, ransomware, phishing, DDoS attacks, and even unauthorised access attempts.

Network security, on the other hand, is your business’s defence system. It includes the technologies, policies, procedures, and people that work together to keep your data safe. More specifically, it protects the usability and integrity of your network by preventing cyber threats from entering or spreading within your systems.

At its core, effective network security focuses on three key goals:

Confidentiality: Ensuring data is only accessible to authorised individuals.
Integrity: Maintaining data accuracy by preventing unauthorised alterations.
Availability: Guaranteeing network resources remain accessible when needed.

This is a protective approach that works on two levels: 1. stopping threats at the perimeter and 2. containing anything that slips through. It’s called a “defence in depth” strategy, and it’s one of the most reliable ways to stay ahead of cybercriminals.

Why Network Security Matters More Than Ever

With global cybercrime costs projected to hit over AUD 16 trillion annually, and the average data breach now costing upwards of USD 4.88 million, the financial risks are simply too big to ignore.

But it’s not just about money. Here are a few more reasons why your business should care:

More Devices, More Risk: From smartphones to smart fridges, the Internet of Things (IoT) has created even more entry points for hackers. Every connected device adds a new layer of vulnerability.
Remote Work Is Here to Stay: When employees log in from home, cafés, or airports, your network perimeter becomes much harder to control, making secure access protocols a must.
Legal & Regulatory Pressure: With stricter data protection laws like GDPR and the CCPA, businesses that don’t take security seriously risk not only fines but also lawsuits and damage to their credibility.
Protecting Your Business Operations: Cyberattacks can bring your business to a standstill. Downtime, lost productivity, and reputational damage can cost far more than just money.
Earning (and Keeping) Customer Trust: Clients want to know their personal information is safe with you. A single breach can erode trust in a heartbeat – and it’s hard to earn that back.

The Rise of Zero Trust Security

Today, many businesses are moving toward Zero Trust security frameworks. This model assumes that threats could exist both inside and outside the network, and requires strict verification every time someone tries to access a system or data, no matter who they are or where they’re logging in from.

It’s a smarter, more agile way to think about cybersecurity in a hybrid, remote-first world.

The Importance Of Mitigation

Cyber threats aren’t a matter of if – they’re a matter of when. It might not necessarily be your business, but a software or a system that you use might have suffered a breach, leaving you also vulnerable. That’s where mitigation comes in.

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), mitigation means taking deliberate action to reduce the level of risk linked to specific threats or vulnerabilities. Simply, it is a strategic approach to reducing the risks that come with cyberattacks and network security breaches, and protecting your business from disruption before it spirals out of control.

Proactive vs Reactive

When it comes to risk, how you approach mitigation is just as important as the tools you use. While reactive steps are necessary, relying on them alone can leave your business constantly playing catch-up. So, rather than waiting for something to go wrong and trying to clean up the mess afterwards, mitigation aims to minimise the damage before it happens.

Proactive mitigation is all about prevention. This includes updating software regularly, training employees, monitoring systems continuously, and identifying vulnerabilities before attackers do.
Reactive mitigation kicks in when something has already gone wrong, things as containing an active threat, restoring data, or recovering from a breach.

The Importance of Mitigation

Implementing effective strategies to mitigate cybersecurity incidents provides numerous benefits beyond basic protection:

Financial Protection: The cost of a data breach continues to rise every year. Mitigation helps reduce downtime, prevent revenue loss, and protect against costly recovery efforts.
Business Continuity: Rapid detection and response keep your operations running smoothly, even in the face of an attempted attack.
Customer Trust: Demonstrating that you’re actively protecting user data builds trust, and that’s priceless in today’s digital-first world.
Regulatory Compliance: A solid mitigation strategy helps you stay compliant with privacy laws and industry standards, avoiding fines and boosting your overall security posture.
Brand Reputation: Preventing breaches before they happen helps you maintain your hard-earned reputation. One slip-up can cause long-term damage, so mitigation helps you avoid that.

What Goes Into a Strong Mitigation Strategy?

To be effective, mitigation needs to be multi-layered. Here are some of the key factors to consider:

Risk Assessment & Visibility: You can’t protect what you can’t see. Start by identifying weak points across your systems, networks, devices, apps, and users to understand where the threats lie.
Access Controls: Implement strict controls that verify users before granting access to systems and data. A zero-trust approach (where nobody is automatically trusted) adds a strong line of defence.
Threat Detection Tools: Firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection tools help catch suspicious activity before it becomes a full-blown crisis.
Incident Response Plans: Having a clear playbook means you won’t be scrambling in a crisis. Everyone knows their role, making it easier to contain and recover quickly.
Continuous Monitoring: Automated tools and real-time analytics help you stay ahead of threats and respond the moment something seems off.

Common Network Security Vulnerabilities To Be Aware Of

Network vulnerabilities are entry points that attackers can exploit to gain access to your systems. These weaknesses can exist in how your network is designed, how it’s maintained, or even in how people within your organisation interact with technology.

But knowing where your weak spots are is half the battle. To stay ahead of threats, it’s important to understand the most common types of vulnerabilities and how they can affect your security posture.

1. Outdated Software and Unpatched Systems

One of the most common culprits of an unsecure system is software that hasn’t been updated. Developers release patches and updates for a reason, usually to fix bugs and close up known security holes. However, when these patches aren’t applied promptly, it leaves the door wide open for attackers.

Discovered in 2021, Log4Shell is a critical flaw in a widely used Java logging library called Log4j. It allows attackers to remotely execute code on affected systems, essentially giving them full control if exploited. Despite being publicly disclosed years ago, it remained one of the most exploited vulnerabilities in 2023, largely because many systems were still running unpatched versions.

2. Misconfigured Firewalls and Systems

Firewalls are your frontline defence, but only if they’re set up correctly. Misconfigurations can happen all too easily, whether it’s from using default settings, applying generic security rules, or simply overlooking network-specific needs.

In fact, studies show that 95% of firewall breaches come down to misconfiguration. And it’s not just firewalls, default settings on operating systems and applications can be exploited just as easily if they’re not tailored and locked down properly.

3. Authentication Weaknesses

Weak or reused passwords are still one of the easiest (and most common) ways attackers gain access to systems. Combine that with single-factor authentication, and it’s a recipe for disaster.

Without additional verification methods (like MFA), even a moderately strong password can be compromised through social engineering or brute force attacks. Strengthening authentication methods is an essential step toward better network security.

4. Unsecured Access Points

Wireless networks and guest Wi-Fi may be convenient, but without proper configuration, they’re also vulnerable to attack. Default settings, outdated protocols like WEP, or a lack of segmentation can all lead to unwanted access.

Think of these access points like back doors, if they’re left open or unlocked, anyone can wander in (with the right knowledge, that is). Tightening wireless security settings and properly managing guest access can make a big difference.

5. Human-Centric Vulnerabilities & Social Engineering

Even the best technology can’t protect against human error. Over 90% of cyberattacks involve some form of human mistake. Common human-driven vulnerabilities include:

Phishing and social engineering: Tricking users into clicking malicious links or giving up sensitive info.
Insider threats: Legitimate users misusing their access, either intentionally or accidentally.
Shadow IT: Employees installing unauthorised software or tools that haven’t been vetted by IT.

Ongoing training, strong policies, and a culture of security awareness are key to addressing these risks.

6. Physical Vulnerabilities

It’s easy to focus on digital defences and forget the physical side of things. But if your servers are in unsecured locations or your infrastructure isn’t protected, someone could bypass your entire cybersecurity strategy by simply walking in.

Implementing physical access controls, secure storage, and surveillance can help prevent this often-overlooked risk.

7. IoT Device Vulnerabilities

Smart devices are everywhere, from fridges and tablets to security cameras and manufacturing equipment. The downside? Many IoT devices are built with convenience in mind, not security. They often lack strong protections, making them attractive targets for attackers looking to breach your network through less obvious channels.

Common Cyber Threats To Watch Out For

The online world is full of opportunities for individuals and businesses alike, but it also comes with risks. From clever phishing emails to attacks coming from inside your own team, cyber threats are constantly evolving.

Let’s break down some of the most common threats businesses face today:

1. Internal Threats

We often think of network security threats, we think of what’s portrayed in the movies. Attackers on the other side of the world, in a bunker with screens and gadgets everywhere. But despite what we see in the movies, cyberthreats don’t always come from the inside. Often, they are internal threats that involve people who already have access to your systems, whether they are intentionally being harmful or just a bit careless.

These fall into three main categories:

Malicious insiders: Think of a disgruntled employee misusing access for revenge or personal gain.
Negligent insiders: Well-meaning staff who unintentionally put your data at risk through mistakes or ignoring policies.
Compromised insiders: Legitimate users whose login credentials have been stolen by cybercriminals.

Unfortunately, a lot of these issues come down to simple human error, with more than half of insider threats caused by negligence, not malice. That’s why it’s so important to have strong access controls, regular staff training, and smart offboarding practices when employees leave.

2. Malware

Malware is the catch-all term for malicious software designed to damage systems, steal information, or cause disruption. It can sneak in through phishing emails, dodgy downloads, or vulnerabilities in outdated software.

Some of the usual suspects include:

Ransomware: Locks your data and demands payment to unlock it.
Spyware: Quietly tracks what you do and sends that info back to attackers.
Trojans: Disguised as legitimate files or programs but packed with harmful code.

Once malware finds a way in, it can open the door for even more attacks. That’s why a multi-layered defence is key: reliable antivirus protection, regular updates, secure backups, and ongoing training to help your team spot the warning signs.

3. Phishing

Have you ever gotten an email, or even a phone call, that feels a bit… off? It might be a phishing attempt. These attacks masquerade as legit communications, like a bank or a co-worker, and try to trick you into handing over sensitive details or clicking a malicious link.

Common red flags include:

Urgent or unexpected requests
Email addresses that don’t quite match the sender
Grammatical errors or odd formatting

Phishing is sneaky but preventable, and often easily spotted if you know what you’re looking for. Strong spam filters, multi-factor authentication, and regular awareness training go a long way in keeping your team safe from these scams.

4. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks

A DDoS attack floods your network with traffic, making it impossible for legitimate users to access your website or services. These attacks are often powered by botnets, large networks of compromised devices (like computers, smart TVs, or even baby monitors!) that are secretly controlled by cybercriminals. They direct all these devices to hit your site or server simultaneously, effectively clogging it up and making it crash or freeze.

DDoS attacks can cause serious disruptions, including:

Website outages
Slower performance
Interrupted customer service
Lost revenue and reputation damage

They’re especially dangerous for organisations that rely heavily on online operations, eCommerce stores, online platforms, and even government services. Fortunately, they can be protected against using:

Rate Limiting: This restricts the number of requests a user can make within a certain timeframe, helping to block the flood of fake traffic before it overwhelms your systems.
Cloud-Based Protection Services: Providers like Cloudflare or AWS Shield absorb and filter malicious traffic before it ever reaches your network, offering a strong front line of defence.
Specialised DDoS Mitigation Tools: These systems are designed specifically to detect, analyse, and neutralise DDoS threats in real-time, keeping your services up and running smoothly.
Network Redundancy: Spreading your resources across multiple servers or data centres means that if one part of your network is targeted, the others can help balance the load.

5. Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks

Imagine you’re having a private conversation with a friend, and someone quietly slips in between the two of you, listening, maybe even altering your messages, without either of you noticing. That’s essentially what happens during a Man-in-the-Middle attack, or MITM for short.

Cybercriminals intercept the data being sent between two parties, like you and your bank, or you and a colleague, and either eavesdrop or manipulate the information without raising any red flags. One of the most common places these attacks occur is on public Wi-Fi networks. So free café Wi-Fi might be convenient, but it can also be a playground for attackers looking to snoop.

How to Protect Yourself:

Only share sensitive info on secure sites. Look for “https://” and the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar before entering passwords or personal data.
Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). This encrypts your internet connection, making it much harder for anyone to spy on your activity, especially when you’re on public Wi-Fi.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). Even if someone gets their hands on your login credentials, MFA adds an extra layer of security that can stop them in their tracks.

How to Mitigate Network Threats

A lot of factors go into building a safe network for your business. It’s about having the right tools and building a culture of security from the inside out.

Start with Your People: We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: a majority of cybersecurity breaches happen because of human error. That’s why training, education and awareness is essential. And not just one-time workshops, but constant education, reminders and training. These include simulations, education on common threats and more. Organisations that invest in structured cybersecurity training programs experience 50% fewer incidents than those that don’t.
Layer Your Security: Modern threats require modern defences. Gone are the days when a simple antivirus was enough. Now, you need a layered, enterprise-wide approach to fend off everything from ransomware to spyware. Look for solutions that offer real-time threat detection and automated responses, comprehensive coverage for endpoints, networks, and cloud services and regular scans and cleanup of malicious software.
Use Firewalls + Intrusion Detection: Firewalls control who comes in and out of your network. But they’re even more effective when teamed up with Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), which monitor everything inside for suspicious activity. These systems work by analysing network traffic and spotting irregular patterns, flagging unusual log activity from critical servers and detecting and alerting you to potential breaches in real time.
MFA & Role-Based Access: Passwords alone aren’t enough anymore, especially when over 80% of breaches come from stolen or weak credentials. Pair something users know (like a password) with something they have (a token or app), or something they are (like a fingerprint). You can also use phishing-resistant options like hardware FIDO keys for critical accounts and implement privileged access management so only the right people can access sensitive data or systems.
Penetration Testing: Want to know where your vulnerabilities are, before the attackers do? Penetration testing is one step to do this. They scan for unpatched software or system flaws, evaluate employee readiness with phishing simulations and social engineering tactics as well as provide a realistic picture of your organisation’s resilience under pressure.
Prepare for the Worst with a Breach & Recovery Plan: Even with the best defences in place, no system is bulletproof. That’s why having a clear data breach and recovery plan is essential. Without a plan, downtime, data loss, and reputation damage can hit hard. With one, you can recover faster and minimise the fallout. Your plan should include a risk analysis to prioritise your most critical data and systems, clearly defined roles and response steps for your team and communication protocols to notify internal teams, affected users, and regulators.

A Look At A Real World Example

In May 2017, one of the most widespread and disruptive cyberattacks in history made headlines around the world – WannaCry.

In just a single day, this ransomware cryptoworm swept through more than 230,000 computers across 150+ countries, locking up data and demanding payment in Bitcoin. But what made WannaCry so devastating? It targeted a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows, specifically through a flaw in the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol, a vulnerability that had already been patched by Microsoft two months earlier.

That’s one of the big takeaways right there: timely patching matters.

The ransomware used a leaked NSA-developed tool called EternalBlue to spread like wildfire. Once a machine was infected, WannaCry would encrypt the user’s files and demand payment, roughly AUD$ 458 in Bitcoin, before doubling the ransom to around AUD% 917 if not paid within three days. Victims were threatened with permanent data loss if they didn’t comply.

One of the hardest-hit sectors was healthcare. In the UK, over 80 hospital trusts were affected, with 34 completely locked out of their systems, and around 8% of GP practices left unable to access vital information. Operations were cancelled, ambulances were diverted, and staff had to fall back on pen-and-paper methods.

So, how was the spread stopped?

A young security researcher named Marcus Hutchins discovered a “kill switch” built into the malware. By registering a specific domain that the malware checked before executing, he inadvertently halted the attack’s progress, potentially saving millions more systems from being infected.

What Can We Learn From WannaCry?

Patch early, patch often: Microsoft had already released a fix before the attack hit. Applying updates promptly can stop vulnerabilities from becoming disasters.
Backups matter: Organisations with solid backup procedures were able to restore their data without paying a cent.
Segment your network: Proper segmentation can limit the spread of malware and keep critical systems isolated.
Don’t wait until it’s too late: Proactive prevention is far more effective and less costly than reactive recovery.

Outsourcing Your Security Needs To A Managed IT Provider

For many organisations, managing it all internally can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing complex security challenges, don’t have a full in-house IT team, or simply need a more cost-effective way to stay protected, outsourcing your cybersecurity to a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) might just be the smartest move you make.

Cost Efficiency: Hiring and retaining skilled cybersecurity professionals is expensive, not to mention the cost of security tools and infrastructure. Partnering with a managed provider gives you access to all of this without the overhead, helping you budget more predictably and avoid surprise expenses.
Immediate Access to Expertise: Managed IT providers live and breathe cybersecurity. Their teams are made up of experienced professionals who stay across the latest threats, trends, and tools—so you don’t have to. That means your organisation can instantly tap into high-level security knowledge and skills, without needing to build it in-house.
24/7 Threat Monitoring & Rapid Response: Cyber threats don’t clock off at 5pm, and neither do MSSPs. With round-the-clock monitoring, managed providers can detect, respond to, and neutralise threats in real time, helping to reduce risk and downtime if something goes wrong.
Built to Scale: As your business evolves, so do your security needs. One of the biggest advantages of outsourcing is scalability; you can easily adapt and expand your security coverage as your operations grow or change, without having to constantly reconfigure internal resources.

Key Takeaways

Network security threats are constantly evolving, and so should your approach to defending against them. From phishing and ransomware to insider threats and outdated software, every vulnerability is an opportunity for attackers. But with the right knowledge, tools, and strategies in place, you can dramatically reduce your risk.

Need help tackling your organisation’s network security? Whether you’re just starting to think about cybersecurity or you’re ready to level up your existing defences, CRT Network Solutions are here to help.

Our team of experts can assess your current setup, identify vulnerabilities, and tailor a security solution that fits your business. Your network’s safety is too important to leave to chance. Reach out today for a free consultation or security health check.

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