When Boredom Strikes

There are other ways to improve network security, and it comes in the form of security mechanisms. These security measures are more focused on prevention rather than a "cure". Among the most common security mechanisms are cryptography, access control lists, and authentication.

Cryptography - involves taking clearly understandable information and translating it into a ciphered (i.e. coded) unintelligible form using an algorithm and a key. Anyone who intercepts the information may find out which algorithm the source used; but without the key, it cannot be translated.

Access-control-lists(ACLs)- these are usually implemented in the router-level of the network, albeit a layer-3 and layer-2 mechanism. Any computer trying to access the network will be checked according to and(/or) its MAC address in reference to the access control list. If it does not coincide with the allowed addresses therein, it is denied access to the network.

Authentication - is basically trying to let a user identify himself, usually by use of a password, key card, or in more extreme cases, biometrics. If the user cannot provide the necessary information, he is denied access.