There are no shortages of threats online that have the capability of seriously harming your business. Think of the repercussions of having a customer’s financial information stolen, or someone getting wind of a product under development. Viruses slow down productivity, and can damage hardware. While you may not be able to develop a bullet-proof strategy that will offer 100 percent protection without question, you can certainly shore up your network and greatly minimize exposure to these various threats. Here are just a few of the best ways to accomplish this goal.
Take a Data Inventory
The first step in keeping data safe and sound is taking a thorough inventory on exactly what data you have floating around in your system, where it is stored and who has access to it. Only then can you begin taking the necessary steps to protect it to the best of your ability.
Don’t Just Choose any Antivirus Software
Sure, all antivirus solutions aim to protect computers against the countless viruses trying to worm their way into it system, but they are certainly not all the same. For example, the best antivirus solutions for mac may not be the same as the best ones for Windows. A particular program may be great for an individual computer used for personal reasons, but not for a business that is running a whole network. Some programs will be better suited for protecting against certain types of threats. Do your homework before settling on a provider.
Maximize Protection against Malware
Not securing your business computers properly is kind of like leaving all the doors unlocked in your home when you are not there, or when you retire for the evening. Because small businesses tend to be a bit more ‘lax’ with security measures, those in the cyber world with ill intentions are increasingly turning to them as the ideal target.
We already discussed the importance of the proper anti-virus software. You can also shore up protection to the max by taking a few more steps. Make sure your firewalls are on. Use programs that allow you to monitor all the computers and mobile devices in your company from a single console. Get a good anti-spam program to stop potentially dangerous emails from even reaching inboxes in the first place.
Write Up a Security Policy
Don’t underestimate the effects of a well-written policy aimed at protecting your business from security breaches. Educating your employees about the importance of these measures, and the problems that can result from failing to implement them will make them more aware of their actions, and they will be more likely to heed these instructions. Make rules regarding the creation of complex passwords. Explicitly outline what sorts of applications can be downloaded onto company computers and which ones are forbidden. Outline what constitutes proper use of the computer, and what sorts of actions are not allowed. Clarify what types of emails should not be opened or forwarded. Outline the consequences for violating these procedures. Let employees know who they can speak to specifically about the policy and any questions they may have about security overall.
