What does network security involve as a technical skill?

Network security as a technical skill is fundamentally about protecting the integrity and usability of networks and data. This involves implementing measures that safeguard networks against unauthorized access, misuse, or damage, thereby ensuring that data remains confidential, intact, and accessible to authorized users.

Practitioners in this field work with various protocols, firewalls, encryption methods, and monitoring tools to defend networks from threats such as cyberattacks, malware, and data breaches. By focusing on these protective measures, network security specialists ensure the reliable operation of systems that are critical for personal, organizational, and national infrastructures.

The other choices provided do not align with the main objectives of network security. Enhancing internet speed relates more to network performance optimization rather than security. Developing new software applications focuses on creating programs rather than securing existing systems. Creating user-friendly interfaces is about usability and design, which is distinct from the protective measures required in network security.