Network security managers (NSO) are responsible for writing, implementing and managing the IT security policy of an organization. The responsibilities of the Network Security Manager also involve ensuring that updates are made to the security policy as network security threats change and new information security solutions become available.
A NSO is also in charge managing, and in some cases recruiting, a team of IT security professionals that may include engineers and technicians.
Skills and Qualifications of an Network Security Officer
NSOs must thoroughly understand computer systems, network infrastructure and networking concepts as well as related computer and network security best practices, intrusion prevention methods and any other enterprise security measures.
Responsibilities of a Network Security Officer
Manage network and computer security personnel – Manage the IT professionals including contract workers, consultants and vendors to safeguard the company’s assets including that may include intellectual property and computer systems. The network security officer may also be involved in the recruitment of IT personnel to work in the organization.
Manage the development and implementation of the security policy - Manage the creation, adoption and implementation of the standards, procedures and guidelines that will make up the organization’s security policy. The security policy development process may also involve the identification of protection and security goals to support and facilitate the overall corporate strategic plan.
Policy enforcement – Ensure the ongoing maintenance of network security measures.
Manage security related assets – In addition to ensuring that network equipment are properly secured, network security specialists have the responsibility to oversee the proper running of: access control systems, video surveillance equipment, and any device that has a bearing on the organizations information or network security.
Educate employees – Ensure that employees are aware of the network security policy and security measures that are in place. If staff members are properly informed of security relate procedures and policies, they should be better able to identify security issues and therefore act as agents to spot trouble.
Manage incidence responses – Plan for and manage security breaches and threats such as hacking attempts. The network security manager has to also prioritize the assignment of resources to deal with security incidences, including alerting law enforcement authorities and calling in consultants and support staff to combat a threat.
Monitor the network – Use network security software and monitoring equipment to find breaches, vulnerabilities, suspicious activity and intrusion attempts. The manager may also assign another network security officer to monitor the network on his behalf.
Maintain relationships with law enforcement officials - Communicate with and generally relate to local, state and federal law enforcement agencies on security matters that may affect the organization. This includes lobbying for changes in the law, reporting breaches, and asking for the investigation of security breaches.
Responsible for all Aspects of Network Security
As can be seen, the responsibilities of Network Security Managers are quite wide. It includes all areas that can affect the security of an organization’s security measures and policy, including the development, implementation and enforcement of those policies. Neither is it limited to network management and breach detection but the management of IT personnel and the education of staff members.
Source:
Whitman, Michael E., Herbert J. Mattord. "Principles of Information Security." Cengage Learning EMEA, 2007: 477
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