61% of data breaches in 2016 targeted small businesses, according to Verizon study, while 39% of breaches targeted large enterprises and other organisations. Further Verizon research indicates that, as of 2017, 90% of all small businesses lacked sufficient network security safeguards. It’s horrible since most small businesses would have had to close down as a result of attack-related losses.
Network security best practises protect both small and large businesses from hackers. Any small business network security check list should include the ten criteria listed below.
1. Computer software updates
The deadly Wannacry ransomware attack in 2017 had an effect on millions of businesses and organisations throughout the globe, including the NHS in the UK. It was later determined that the NHS could have easily stopped this attack by updating its operating systems.
Google, Microsoft, and other IT companies often make updates to remedy software bugs. These updates will reinforce your systems, making it more difficult for hackers to access your network. As a result, make sure your software systems are updated. Also, it won’t cost you anything to keep a look out for updates and install them as soon as they become available!
2. Upgrades to the hardware
The underlying hardware that supports your network and IT applications should be checked, much like how software is scrutinised for network security. Because they are aware of this, hackers frequently upgrade to newer, more powerful equipment with more processing power. To stay updated, you should update your hardware systems as necessary. Both the general utility and security of your networks will rise.
3. Security of computer systems
Software updates can only partially thwart hackers. You also need specialised, dedicated IT security systems to protect your users and add an additional degree of security.
harm. Given the capabilities of the numerous types and brands, picking the finest IT security systems should be simple.
You might want to consider utilising a VPN to protect both your talks and your online activity. Software updates can only partially thwart hackers. You also need specialised, dedicated IT security systems to protect your users and add an additional degree of security. Listeners who might be able to get beyond your firewall and other security measures are unable to use the data since it is encrypted while being transmitted through a VPN.
4. Data archiving
Even without hacking, data loss frequently occurs for a variety of reasons. It was anticipated that the victims of the WannaCry assault would have their data frozen until they paid.
If they didn’t, the data was locked and could not be recovered.
Because data is growing more sensitive and some firms have been collecting data for years, depending on it for planning, marketing, and many other purposes, this caused a large degree of disturbance.
As a result, it’s essential to often backup your data in a safe area outside of the network of your business. Think about purchasing a second server that will be used solely for data backups. Also, you can use the cloud as a data backup. Regular backups should exist, especially for
5. Consistent Audits
When was the last time your company’s IT systems were audited? Unfortunately, most small businesses are unaware of the benefits of evaluating their network and IT infrastructure. Due to a lack of auditing, they are practically unaware of the health of their network security.
To identify any undiscovered vulnerabilities, a network and IT infrastructure assessment is required. Then, before hackers exploit them, these holes can be fixed. By auditing, you can find outdated hardware and software. Audits ultimately improve the efficiency and security of the network and IT systems. Auditing should be carried out at least twice a year, while there should be exceptions if there are present network security problems.
