With the increasing reliance on technology in today’s world, there is an urgent need to secure any and all data online. As businesses grow, their computer networks expand, and this means even more data to be shared and transferred across computers. All of this results in an even greater need to secure and protect networks and the data within it. Let’s take a look at the importance of network security for businesses and how you can achieve a sound network security plan.
Why Having A Network Security Plan is Important
No matter if your business is small or large, network security should be one of the top priorities to consider. No one system or plan is full-proof, but having a network security plan that is dependable can save you from losing critical information, including keeping your customers’ information secure. An effective network security plan will reduce the risks of network threats, cyber-attacks, and stolen or lost data.
A network security plan can protect your computer network from spyware, ransomware, malware, and other harmful viruses, brute-force hacks, and other cyber-attacks. These terms may sound straight out of Hollywood but there are real threats in this day and age.
A network security plan also ensures that your data will be protected in the event that an attack occurs. Your clients trust that any information they give you will be safe and secure, and it your job as a business to keep it protected at all times. This is one of the biggest reasons it’s important for you to make it a priority.
Some businesses hire a single “IT specialist” to do the job of an entire team of IT professionals, giving them the responsibility of managing your business network. However, a 1-man IT shop, in today’s environment, cannot effectively manage or secure an entire network. This is why it is important to have a team of certified technicians with expertise in a multitude of areas to help manage your IT systems and networks.
Components of a Network Security Plan
Create a Firewall
A firewall will filter the incoming and outgoing traffic that your network receives. It will restrict certain data from entering into your network if it seems it is unsafe or harmful. Today firewalls need to be provided and configured by an IT services company as these are real-time threat management appliances – your business cannot “pick one up” at the local electronics store.
Education Training
When implementing a network security plan for your business, it is crucial that all of your employees understand the new elements of the plan and feel capable of abiding by them. Employees do not want to feel that they are being unnecessarily restricted, but should also understand that they play a vital role in protecting the network in their daily roles. Engaging in a service that “tests” your employees abilities to recognize fake emails or other phishing attempts is critical in keeping a secure network.
Incident Reporting
If an employee suspects the threat or risk of viruses, SPAM, email/data breaches, etc., they should have proper training in reporting these occurrences to their management team or I.T. team/department. This is a process that can be set up for you.
Internet/Email Usage
This component includes monitoring, managing, limiting, and reporting on email flow which is the entry point for most all network breaches. Further limiting, monitoring and reporting on employee internet access and restriction of company resources is critical in managing the growing threats.
Password Security/Authentication
The use of protective software, such as organizational password managers, that will encrypt passwords company-wide in order to safely store and control them within your network. Further, enforcing the use of complex passwords and installing two-factor/multi-factor authentication can also protect this sensitive data even further.
Software and Hardware Protocols
As a business, you should have established software and hardware protocols on how to access certain data online, changes to devices, and any restrictions when using the company’s devices.
All of these components make up a safe, secure network security plan that will combat network threats to your business. At Axiom Solutions, we cover all aspects of a comprehensive plan so you don’t have to worry about it. We also customize network security plans for each customer ensuring that it meets all of your needs and keeps your data secure at all times.
If you have any current network issues you would like to address, or are ready to build a new network security plan for your business, you can schedule a free systems overview or consultation with us now.
