Overview
This project aims to demonstrate foundational cybersecurity skills by securing a small network environment. The focus will be on implementing essential security measures to protect against common threats and vulnerabilities.
Objectives:
Network Assessment:
Identify and document all devices on the network.
Perform a vulnerability assessment to identify potential security weaknesses.
Network Segmentation:
Implement network segmentation to isolate critical systems from potential threats.
Configure VLANs to enhance network security.
Firewall Configuration:
Set up and configure a firewall to monitor and control incoming/outgoing network traffic.
Define and implement firewall rules to restrict unauthorized access.
Intrusion Detection System (IDS):
Install and configure an IDS to detect and alert on suspicious activities.
Create custom rules to enhance detection capabilities.
Endpoint Security:
Implement antivirus software on all endpoints.
Configure endpoint protection policies to ensure real-time scanning and threat detection.
Secure Wi-Fi Configuration:
Set up WPA3 encryption for Wi-Fi networks.
Implement strong authentication protocols and change default credentials.
Patch Management:
Develop a patch management strategy to ensure all systems are up-to-date.
Regularly update and patch operating systems and software.
Logging and Monitoring:
Configure centralized logging to monitor network activities.
Set up alerts for suspicious events and establish a routine log review.
Security Awareness Training:
Develop and deliver a brief security awareness training for network users.
Emphasize best practices for password management and social engineering prevention.
Specifications
1. Network Assessment:
Identify and document all devices on the network.
Utilize tools such as Nmap or Wireshark for network discovery.
Create an inventory including device type, IP addresses, and open ports.
2. Network Segmentation:
Implement VLANs to separate network segments logically.
Isolate critical systems (servers, databases) on dedicated VLANs.
Document the VLAN configurations and rationale for segmentation.
3. Firewall Configuration:
Set up a dedicated firewall appliance or utilize built-in firewall capabilities.
Define and implement inbound and outbound rules based on the principle of least privilege.
Test firewall rules to ensure proper traffic filtering.
4. Intrusion Detection System (IDS):
Choose and install a suitable IDS solution (e.g., Snort, Suricata).
Configure the IDS to monitor network traffic for suspicious patterns.
Create custom rules to enhance detection capabilities based on the network assessment.
5. Endpoint Security:
Install and configure antivirus software on all endpoints.
Define and enforce endpoint protection policies.
Conduct a simulated malware attack to validate endpoint security measures.
6. Secure Wi-Fi Configuration:
Implement WPA3 encryption for Wi-Fi networks.
Configure strong authentication methods (e.g., WPA3-Enterprise with EAP-TLS).
Change default SSID and credentials.
7. Patch Management:
Develop a patch management strategy, including regular patching cycles.
Use tools like WSUS (Windows Server Update Services) or Linux-based solutions.
Document the patching process and schedule.
8. Logging and Monitoring:
Set up centralized logging using tools like ELK Stack or Splunk.
Define log retention policies.
Create alerts for specific security events and incidents.
9. Security Awareness Training:
Develop a short presentation or training material.
Cover topics like password security, phishing awareness, and social engineering.
Conduct a brief training session for network users.
Milestones
1. Project Kickoff (Week 1):
Define project scope and objectives.
Set up communication channels and collaboration tools.
2. Network Assessment (Week 2-3):
Complete network discovery and documentation.
Identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
3. Network Segmentation (Week 4-5):
Implement VLANs and document configurations.
Isolate critical systems.
4. Firewall Configuration (Week 6-7):
Set up and configure the firewall.
Define and test firewall rules.
5. Intrusion Detection System (Week 8-9):
Install and configure the IDS.
Create and test custom rules.
6. Endpoint Security (Week 10-11):
Install antivirus software on all endpoints.
Implement and test endpoint protection policies.
7. Secure Wi-Fi Configuration (Week 12-13):
Implement WPA3 encryption and strong authentication.
Change default Wi-Fi credentials.
8. Patch Management (Week 14-15):
Develop and implement a patch management strategy.
Document the patching process.
9. Logging and Monitoring (Week 16-17):
Set up centralized logging.
Create and test alerts for security events.
10. Security Awareness Training (Week 18):
Develop training materials.
Conduct a security awareness training session.
11. Documentation (Week 19-20):
Compile network diagram, configuration documentation, and incident response plan.
Review and finalize all project documentation.
12. Presentation (Week 21-22):
Prepare a presentation covering project objectives, methodologies, findings, and recommendations.
Rehearse the presentation for clarity and effectiveness.
13. Project Review and Wrap-Up (Week 23):
Conduct a final review of the project.
Ensure all documentation and presentation materials are ready.
Submit the project for evaluation.
Conclusion
This project will provide a hands-on demonstration of fundamental cybersecurity skills, showcasing the ability to analyze, implement, and maintain security measures in a small network environment. The documentation and presentation will serve as valuable artifacts to showcase to potential employers or educational institutions.
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