Radio over Internet Protocol is an innovative technology that enhances commercial communications. The solution increases interoperability, audio quality, and cost savings. But just like any new technology, RoIP is prone to security challenges. Here is how to secure your Radio over Internet Protocol networks.
Conduct a Network Audit
The first step is to audit the entire system to identify vulnerabilities. An audit can also reveal the following:
- Strength of the firewall
- Unnecessary or inactive applications
- General status of applications, software, and servers
The depth and size of the security audit will depend on the number of connected radios. You can either do the audit internally or hire a third party to do it for you.
Use Layered Defense
Layered defense is the combination of several security measures to safeguard Radio over Internet Protocol networks. Most of these measures focus on vulnerable points within the radio system. The aim of layered defense is to keep the system running even after security compromises.
Common components of layered defense include firewalls, backup and recovery, and physical security. Frequent password changes and employee training also form part of the multiple defense strategies.
Implement Network Access Control
Security challenges to Radio over Internet Protocol networks may happen because users have unlimited access to the system. The solution is to implement network access control and limit the system’s availability. Network access control creates procedures and compliance policies for endpoint users and devices. This solution also introduces authentication processes and enforcement regulations.
Network access control lets your business know the identity and activities of everyone accessing your RoIP network. Here’s how:
- Pre-admission controls access requests and only permits authorized users.
- Post-admission conducts additional verification for users trying to access another section of the radio over an IP network.
- Remote access servers manage remote logins and create connections between authorized users.
Network access control also includes load balancing, resource management, and user session management.
Install Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
Antivirus software can detect security threats in real time and prevent intrusions. Some software also has automatic upgrades and updates to protect against the latest malware and viruses. Schedule frequent upgrades and virus scans if the software doesn’t do automatic upgrades. Once you install the software, remember to run it.
Use Complex Passwords
The radios and online accounts must have secure and complex passwords to deter network compromise. Secure passwords are long and use a combination of characters like computer symbols, lowercase letters, uppercase letters, and numbers. If your passwords are simple, hackers can use various tools to decrypt the password in a few minutes.
Secure passwords also don’t use common or recognizable words. Using common knowledge like birthdays or phone numbers may also not work. And if you have to store multiple passwords, choose a password manager for all your passwords.
Segment the Network
Create groups of networks and radios with similar roles, risks, and functions in your organization. If a problem happens within any of the groups, segmentation prevents the problem from spreading further. Segmentation also prevents data leaks by creating gateways to control data transmission. Even within the groups, define additional boundaries to control data movement further.
Encourage Sandboxing
Sandboxing is a practice where new files and software first open and run in an isolated and secure environment that resembles your Radio over Internet Protocol system. During the sandboxing, you can look out for any suspicious and malicious elements in the files and software. This helps prevent the introduction of malware and viruses into the system.
Choose the Most Secure System for Your RoIP
Radio over Internet Protocol is a sensitive system that requires round-the-clock security. That is why you must implement multiple security defenses to protect the system. Choose a reputable RoIP provider for the best operations for your company.