Network security is important to protect vital information while allowing authorized access. Key aspects of network security include identifying vulnerabilities, threats like hackers and methods of attack, and implementing appropriate countermeasures. Common attacks include password attacks, viruses, and packet sniffing. Effective countermeasures include firewalls to control access, intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploits, IPsec and encryption to secure communications, and user education to address social engineering vulnerabilities. Comprehensive security requires backups, encryption, virus protection, firewalls, monitoring, training, and testing defenses.