How can cross-training with other IT professionals improve your network security?

To Jason’s point, the shared accountability for delivering services that are resilient, available, and secure rest primarily with the builders of those services. In the construction industry, electricians are expected to know how to deliver electricity to a home according to code. You wouldn’t want a contractor that installed an outlets at the bottom of your bathtub because it was convenient for the user to plug in a hair drier.

Cross-training can help you become more efficient and effective in your work, as well as communicate better with other IT professionals. Ultimately, cross-training can foster a culture of collaboration and learning.

I forgot what movie it was from, but it summed it up very well. It went something like "We are all replaceable, and it's inevitable that we will all come to an end". Do you really want to be the sole bearer of information, creating that protective silo that so many love to create? By cross-training, you're sharing your knowledge, and protecting your organization from loss if they do lose you for whatever reason. You've heard the phrase, "Two heads are better than one". It's true, that by cross-training, people will have different view points, and ideas, that contribute to the broader good of the organization.

Compartir las experiencias y concocimientos es la base en la que se crearon las nuevas tecnologías i formativas, lograr crear una red de intercambio tecnológico permitiría aume tar de forma exponencial el ámbito de trabajo seguro y la aplicación de nuevas formas de trabajo que permitiría a cada miembro mantenerse a la vanguardia de los nuevos cambios

Collaborating and learning from individuals with different roles, backgrounds, and skills helps to diversify expertise through cross-training.This initiative enriches your knowledge, encourages diverse perspectives, and develops adaptable skills.

Some developers presume security controls are at the network. Conversely, some network administrators presume the control is only at the application. Bringing both together, with security is foundational to DevSecOps. It can easily be done with a white board, good markers and a threat modeling session

Network security flourishes when it combines with different IT areas.Working together across different fields can enhance your approach to network security. For example, adopting secure coding methods, strong configuration management, and thorough risk assessments gathered from various disciplines strengthens network security measures. This comprehensive approach not only reveals weaknesses but also encourages a proactive mindset in identifying vulnerabilities. Additionally, by promoting trust and collaboration through cross-training, you facilitate smooth information sharing, effective issue-solving, and resilient incident response strategies, enhancing the overall network security landscape.

Your security posture is only as effective as your weakest links. Training will help strengthen those links and reduce, but not eliminate, the likelihood that the human factor will be the source of your next incident.

Improving your network security skills goes beyond the usual boundaries. Collaborating and gaining insights from experts in various fields can offer valuable information. Every aspect contributes to enhancing network security, from secure coding techniques to robust configuration management and risk evaluation. This multidisciplinary approach uncovers security weaknesses and promotes a culture of trust and teamwork, which are crucial for efficient incident response and issue resolution.

Fundamentally it will always be a great idea to train your technical teams in security technology and design. Security is everyone's responsibility and you are the leader should be seriously considering having multi-skilled and knowledgable teams in your business.

We often do a lot of knowledge sharing and cross training in our client engagements. Our penetration testers are not afraid to share their screens for some over the shoulder training or explaining the various tools they utilize. We believe that offensive (red) and defensive (blue) teams working together can create great learning opportunities and various “a-ha” moments!

Cross training need not exclusively be formal training courses. Regular “brown bag” or lunch and learn format training can accomplish the same objectives.

Cross-training or awareness training? If you are cross-training you are leveraging a new and different skill for the technician. This may require additional certification and will require a conversation of remuneration for the additional skills brought to the business by the technician.

Identify key skills needed across teams, create tailored training plans, and encourage collaboration through mentorship programs and cross-functional projects. Utilize online learning platforms, rotate job responsibilities, and assess skills regularly.

Network security can be effectively leveraged through online training programs i.e. Fortinet NSE. There is no need to run programs face to face if you are seeking to better skill your staff in network security. having said that, to properly bed in these new skills the employee will need time on the tools and further development and experience to become efficient.

Broadening expertises Fostering a security culture Shared best practices Vulnerability Assessment Red teaming Collaboration for problem solving Enhanced incident response Increased resilience