Ocean County's Computer Network Gets Good Grade For Election

An independent review by a division of Homeland Security found that Ocean County's computer network should perform well during today's Presidential Election, according to a county press release.

Ocean County’s computer network recently underwent a “cyber hygiene assessment” by the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center for Homeland Security in preparation for the Nov. 8 election.

“No vulnerabilities were detected in the assessment of the computer network used in the upcoming election,” said Edward Bavais, Information Technology Director for Ocean County.

The assessment included testing for accessibility and penetration, he said.

“They reviewed our software, network and other areas,” he said. “The testing showed we are in great shape.”

The Information Technology Department requested the assessment.

“This assessment was important to determine whether any problems may have existed,” said County Clerk Scott Colabella. “The results show our network is secure and we can assure our voters their vote also is secure.”

The department upgraded the network that connects municipalities and the county by installing new firewalls and switches for higher performance and greater security earlier this year, Bavais said

“It’s imperative we continually upgrade, monitor and assess the computer network,” Bavais said. “We have put extensive safety measures in place for this election and have added all the safeguards possible before the election and will do so during the election. The independent assessment adds another layer of security.”

Image: Patch file photo