What is the primary goal of network security?

The primary goal of network security is to protect networking infrastructure from threats. This includes safeguarding both the hardware and software involved in networking processes, ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data as it moves across networks. Network security incorporates various measures, such as firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection systems, and secure access protocols, all designed to defend against unauthorized access, data breaches, and other forms of malicious activities.

In security practices, the focus is primarily on identifying vulnerabilities and mitigating risks that could be exploited by cybercriminals. This means creating a resilient network environment where sensitive information is secured, and systems are protected against various threats like malware, phishing, and denial-of-service attacks. By ensuring that the network’s infrastructure is secure, organizations can maintain trust and reliability in their operations.

The other choices focus on aspects that, while important, do not primarily define the purpose of network security. Enhancing data processing speed, managing network traffic flow, and increasing user accessibility may contribute to the efficiency or usability of a network, but they do not address the fundamental aspect of network security, which is protection from threats.