Basic Network Security Check List

If your ethernet cable is plugged in you are technically in a network. You are in a network that can be comprised by malicious internet activities. The following are checklists for each type of network environment you are in for proper network security management.

Small Homes Network Security Checklist

Make sure you have a basic firewall turned on like Window's firewall or a unified threat management system.
For Windows users who want a 3rd part firewall, basic Antivirus software like AVG Antivirus, ESET NOD32 Antivirus, Kaspersky, McAfee, Avast!, Zone Alarm Security Suite or Norton AntiVirus. An anti-spyware program such as Windows Defender or Spybot – Search & Destroy would also be a smart choice. There are many other types of antivirus applications or anti-spyware programs out there to be considered.
When using a wireless connection, use a robust password combining numbers, characters and symbols. Also try to use the strongest security supported by your wireless devices, such as WPA2 with AES encryption.
If using Wireless: Change the default SSID network name, also disable SSID Broadcast; as this function is unnecessary for home use.
Enable MAC Address filtering to keep track of all home network MAC devices connecting to your router.
Assign STATIC IP addresses to network devices.
Disable ICMP ping on router.
Review router or firewall logs to help identify abnormal network connections or traffic to the Internet.
Use passwords for all accounts but not the same password for every account.
Have multiple accounts per family member, using non-administrative accounts for day-to-day activities. Disable the guest account (Control Panel> Administrative Tools> Computer Management> Users).
Raise awareness about information security to children

Medium Businesses Network Security Checklist

Deploy a fairly strong network firewall in your network such as A juniper SRX firewall or a Cisco ASA firewalls
Strong Antivirus software and Internet Security Software.
For authentication, use strong passwords and change it on a bi-weekly/monthly basis. Windows has scheduler tools for passwords for multiple accounts. This will allow notifications to be sent out to all users to update their passwords.
When using a wireless connection, use a very creative password filled with numbers, characters and symbols.
Raise awareness about physical security to employees.
Use an optional network analyzer or network monitor.
An enlightened administrator or manager.
Do not leave your computer open, press the windows key + L.
Do not open attachments in your email box.

Large Businesses Network Security Checklist

A strong firewall and proxy to keep the bad people out.
A strong Antivirus software package and Internet Security Software package.
For authentication, use strong passwords and change it on a weekly/bi-weekly basis.
When using a wireless connection, use a robust password.
Exercise physical security practices to employees.
Prepare a network analyzer or network monitor and use it when needed.
Implement physical security management like closed circuit television for entry areas and restricted zones.
Security fencing to mark the company's perimeter.
Fire extinguishers for fire-sensitive areas like server rooms and security rooms.
Security guards can help to maximize security (Also known as a graduated hall monitor with a beatstick)

School Network Security Checklist

An adjustable firewall and proxy to allow authorized users access from the outside and inside.
Strong Antivirus software and Internet Security Software packages.
Wireless connections that lead to firewalls.
Children's Internet Protection Act compliance.
Supervision of network to guarantee updates and changes based on popular site usage.
Constant supervision by teachers, librarians, and administrators to guarantee protection against attacks by both internet and sneakernet sources.

Large Government Network Security Checklist

A strong firewall and proxy to keep unwanted people out.
Strong Antivirus software and Internet Security Software suites.
Strong encryption.
Whitelist authorized wireless connection, block all else.
All network hardware is in secure zones.
All host should be on a private network that is invisible from the outside.
Put web servers in a DMZ, or a firewall from the outside and from the inside.
Security fencing to mark perimeter and set wireless range to this.
Ensure your network security staff is up to date on all required certifications.