Sharing and Security

  Most business users do not want to have to think about computer security. To them, logging into their system is a necessary evil. As stated by J. Johansson, Senior Project Manager at Microsoft Corporation (2004), “Users, unlike many administrators, are not interested in technology for technology's sake. In fact, they are not interested in technology at all. The users just want the technology to work, so they can get their jobs done, without having to think of why or how. The ultimate challenge for information technology is to be invisible – completely transparent to the user” (para. 3). In fact, many users will be happy to spend hours discussing how security actually gets in the way of their jobs, their day-to-day tasks. According to K. Beaver of TechTarget (2009), “Users say they are advised to change passwords every 30 to 45 days, are unable to connect and sync their smartphones, receive email attachments, use instant messaging and connect removable storage so they can back up their own laptop (which is typically their responsibility)” (para. 4) We must have security in this day and age. There is so much sensitive information located in business’ computers, there must be some type of protection to prevent unauthorized access. Yet, users need to be able to access their files and even share their files with colleagues. Is there a balance between convenient resource sharing and protection against unauthorized access? I think one solution to allowing resource sharing and protecting the network against unauthorized access is a Virtual Private Network. According to M. Eddy of PCMag (2018), “a VPN creates a virtual encrypted tunnel between you and a remote server operated by a VPN service. All external internet traffic is routed through this tunnel, so your data is secure from prying eyes” (para. 2). This allows you the balance between accessing your data when you are away from the office and yet still keeps your data secure. My husband works for a company that uses a VPN since he is viewing highly sensitive data. When he is away on a business trip, he does not need to worry when he logs into his office. To Do Describe any security issues or benefits that you envision with the proposed solution. Describe any file access issues that may exist with the proposed solution