Keep Your Small Business Network Secure With These Tips
We cannot deny that some small businesses are lax in terms of network security. But with the risks of data breach and digital dangers, it is critical to be knowledgeable on how to protect your sensitive data.
Many small business owners think they are exempted from being ravaged by hackers. After all, why would cybercriminals waste their time going after a business that does not make millions of dollars? In reality, being negligent with your security policies makes you an easy target for skilled hackers.
Fortunately, there are a number of things that you can do to protect your business. With the help of your employees (who will be the first line of protection) as well as data backup services in Hagerstown, you can keep your company data safe and secure.
1. Create cybersecurity strategy
What you need to do first is to determine what things are applicable to your particular organization. Ask around for suggestions from key leaders and IT representatives and write policies that will protect your organization. This protocol must cover the appropriate use of personal mobile devices, password protection, and the process that needs to be done in case of a data breach.
2. Use strong passwords
Using strong passwords can be a problem to those who have short-term memory. On the other hand, recycling passwords and using easy to remember codes make you more prone to hacking. Having unsafe passwords is like leaving your door opened while sleeping. You never know who will try to get in and steal your stuff.
To respond to this issue, you can use a password manager for your company that will securely keep a list of all your passwords. Since your employees do not have to think about memorizing passwords anymore, you may require them to change theirs every three months. Pick the app that makes the most sense for your organization and then explain your expectations to employees.
3. Cybersecurity training for employees
Take the time to educate your employees regarding the unique risks of cybersecurity and how it can harm your business. This will allow you to communicate the employee’s responsibility for helping the organization protect itself. Through this training, they will better understand cybersecurity policies as well as the best practices to manage data. By having sufficient knowledge about these areas, you can hold them accountable for following company guidelines.
4. Protect your Wi-Fi network
Secure your Wi-Fi by encrypting the network name and using a robust password on the router. To heighten safety, create a separate Wi-Fi access for customers. This will limit their access to your business network.
5. Limit data access
Consider which employees will have access to certain data. For example, the accounting staff may need access to financial records but may not need access to personal data of employees. Determine whom you will grant access to and maintain strong controls over that access.
6. Use updated software
Cybercriminals are always looking for vulnerabilities in your system. By installing reliable security software, you can protect your business from viruses or malware. Also, make sure that all programs installed in your PC are constantly updated to correct security concerns and improve functions.
7. Perform regular data backups
You need to hire data backup services in Hagerstown and other locations to ensure your files are always available when needed. Have a backup solution that provides maximum ease of use and compatibility across all mediums. See to it that you backup all computers and files on a regular basis and keep that data locked. You may store copies of your data in an off-site location and in the cloud.
8. Get help from IT services
While many small businesses can't afford to hire a full-time IT team, you can get the same level of help from managed IT services. By collaborating with an MSP, you can ensure optimal network performance and business continuity. Furthermore, you can minimize network downtime, protect the data that is critical for operations, and help you plan and deploy a disaster recovery strategy.
A managed IT services provider (MSP) can provide several proactive security services including:
- 24/7 monitoring of systems
- Data backup services
- Network protection
- Employee cybersecurity training
- Threat elimination
Swift's Best Data Backup Services Hagerstown
Swift Systems uphold the highest standards when delivering customer’s IT needs and requirements. We can help you prepare against the growing threat of cyber threats by providing data backup services. Get high-performance, resilient, and scalable backup systems by calling us at (301) 579-7776.