Network Management Policy

Network Management Policy for ResTech Services

1. Purpose
   The purpose of this Network Management Policy is to ensure the integrity, confidentiality, availability, and security of the ResTech Services (ResTech) network. This policy defines the framework for managing, monitoring, and maintaining the network infrastructure, aiming to prevent outages, reduce vulnerabilities, and ensure high-performance network services for internal operations and customers.
2. Scope
   This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and third-party vendors who access, manage, or interact with the ResTech network, including the following network components:

• • Local Area Networks (LAN)
  • Wide Area Networks (WAN)
  • Wireless Networks
  • Internet and VPN connections
  • Network hardware (routers, switches, firewalls, etc.)

3. Responsibilities

• • Network Engineers:
    Responsible for configuring, monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting network devices and infrastructure, ensuring that all security measures are up to date.
    Responsible for implementing security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and encryption to protect against unauthorized access and threats.
  • Employees/Customer Support Representatives:
    Responsible for adhering to network usage guidelines and reporting any suspicious activity or potential security threats. Troubleshooting End-User support issues and reporting possible issues and/or outages with the network. 

4. Network Architecture and Configuration

• • Standardized Network Configurations:
    All network devices must follow standardized configuration procedures. Configurations must be documented and stored securely for future reference and recovery.
  • Segmentation:
    Network segmentation is required to separate critical systems and sensitive information from general network traffic. This will help limit the impact of security incidents and improve network performance.
  • Access Control:
    Access to the network must be role-based and require appropriate permissions. Remote access, such as VPN usage, must require multi-factor authentication (MFA).

5. Security Protocols

• • Firewall and IDS/IPS:
    Firewalls and Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS) must be deployed and configured to monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic. Network security policies must block unauthorized traffic while allowing legitimate business-related communications.
  • Encryption:
    Sensitive data transferred across the network must be encrypted using industry-standard protocols (e.g., SSL/TLS, IPsec).
  • Patch Management:
    Regular patching of network hardware and software is required. Critical patches should be applied within 48 hours of release, while less critical updates should be deployed within two weeks.
  • Regular Audits:
    Periodic network security audits must be conducted at least twice a year to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. Audit logs should be retained for a minimum of one year.

6. Network Monitoring and Performance Management

• • Monitoring Tools:
    ResTech must deploy network monitoring tools to provide real-time monitoring of traffic patterns, bandwidth usage, and device health. Automated alerts should be configured for any anomalous activity or hardware failure.
  • Bandwidth Management:
    Network bandwidth must be prioritized for mission-critical applications and services. Non-essential traffic, such as streaming or personal downloads, may be restricted during peak hours.
  • Performance Benchmarks:
    ResTech must define performance benchmarks for critical services. Network performance must be measured against these benchmarks, and actions should be taken when performance drops below acceptable levels.

7. Incident Management

• • Incident Response:
    Any network security breach or performance degradation must trigger the Network Incident Response Plan. The plan includes immediate notification of IT Security, isolation of affected areas, investigation, and recovery steps.
  • Incident Reporting:
    All network incidents must be logged, including the time, nature of the incident, affected systems, and resolution. A post-incident review must be conducted to prevent future occurrences.

8. Backup and Disaster Recovery

• • Regular Backups:
    Network configurations, system images, and critical data must be backed up regularly. Backups should be stored off-site or in a secure cloud environment.
  • Disaster Recovery Plan:
    A detailed disaster recovery plan must be maintained, including recovery objectives (RTO/RPO), key contacts, and recovery procedures for the network infrastructure. The plan must be tested at least annually.

9. Wireless Network Security

• • SSID Management:
    Wireless networks must be secured, and SSIDs should not be broadcast publicly. Separate SSIDs must be used for employees and guests.
  • Encryption:
    WPA3 encryption must be enforced on all wireless connections. Legacy encryption standards (WPA2 or WEP) are prohibited.
  • Guest Access:
    Guest network access must be segregated from internal networks. Bandwidth usage and access time for guests should be limited to prevent abuse.

10. Third-Party Vendor and Contractor Access

• • Vendor Access:
    Third-party vendors who require network access must be pre-approved. Vendors must follow all security protocols.
  • Limited Access:
    Vendor access should be limited to only what is necessary for the specific service or task. Access must be monitored, and it should be revoked immediately after the task is completed.

11. Policy Compliance and Enforcement

• • Compliance Audits:
    ResTech will conduct compliance audits to ensure that this policy is being followed. Non-compliance will result in corrective actions, including retraining or disciplinary action.
  • Penalties for Non-Compliance:
    Employees or vendors found to be violating this policy may face disciplinary action, including termination or legal action, depending on the severity of the breach.

12. Review and Updates
    This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to reflect changes in technology, threats, or business requirements. All employees will be notified of updates, and any changes must be implemented within 30 days of approval.

Approval and Effective Date:
This policy is approved by the ResTech Services Executive Board and is effective as of [Date]. All employees and vendors are required to comply with this policy immediately.

This policy sets the framework for secure, efficient, and compliant network management at ResTech Services.