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Network Security: A Top Priority at NETWARCOM

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070727-21
Release Date: 7/27/2007 6:47:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kieshia Savage, Fleet Public Affairs Center Atlantic

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- With predators out there looking for a weak link in military computer and communication networks, information security is more important than ever.

The Naval Network Warfare Command (NETWARCOM) on Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek is taking greater measures to ensure network protection globally throughout the fleet and ashore.

“Information warfare is our primary job,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey Ball, battle watch captain for the Maritime Operations Center. “We want to keep our information superiority over any adversary.”

NETWARCOM provides the first line of defense in keeping Navy lines of communication free of viruses, hackers and “worms.” The command is broken down into a system of cells which monitor and direct lines of communication, provide constant updates in information and correct any abnormalities found on the network immediately.

“It’s vital that we keep the lines of communication open because we have troops on the ground in harms way and serving overseas,” said Chief Information Systems Technician(AW/SW) Sharon Bonner, systems control officer at NETWARCOM. “It’s important for them to get their requirements and all the services they need to do their jobs and protect us. In return, this helps us protect our network from foreign enemies.”

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Gene Marc, watch officer at NETWARCOM, also expressed why the services provided to the fleet are important and how they pertain to the “everyday” Sailor.

“We’re a warfighting unit that provides updated information,” said Marc. “We are responsible for everyone out there. If an incident occurs, we implement certain ‘signatures’ that will allow us to clean up a command’s compromised workstations and get them back online.”

“With the way situations are right now, we can’t afford a break in operations. By monitoring 24 hours a day, seven days a week, we’re providing everyone out there with the most up-to-date information that will allow them to get back home safe,” he added.

One of the most visible signs of the impact of NETWARCOM’s work is the morale of deployed Sailors.

“Keeping the lines of communication open between Sailors and their family and friends through e-mail provides them with the motivation and foresight they need when away,” said Ball.