5 Basic Network Security Tips for Small Businesses

May 21st, 2024

Even if you believe you are at low-risk for cyber attacks, your business in , does always face a threat of being broken into. As a matter of fact, nearly 45% of attacks are geared to small businesses meaning 1 in 40 small businesses are prone to attack and being hacked. How do you ensure online security today?

1. Gear up your employees (train them)

Human errors are a major flood gate for attacks, so prompting and training employees in , is key to business protection. Even something as simple as leaving an account open when going to lunch posses a threat, so keep on top of employees. Simply informing them of attacks and security will help bridge the gap and lessen the likelihood your business is attacked. Keep employees updated and teach them to spot signs of phishing online. Security and network policies should also be in place for security.

2. Update software regularly

Outdated software, such as inventory trackers, is a key area where attacks occur. Update software, update and look for leaks or patches, seek out vulnerabilities, and spot signs of malware and threats. They are there, so make sure you look for them and keep things up to date.

3. Protect your wi fi

A main point for cyber attackers is your wi fi connectivity in , , especially if it is not secure, password protected. Use firewalls and make sure everything is encrypted for optimal security. Even routers and broadcast names should be secure and password protected. If you have public wi fi for customers, set up a second network, and pay the costs to password secure it and encrypt it. It will pay off in the long run, even if it does cost a bit more up front.

4. VPN

Virtual private networks block your IP address. It provides "masks" so attackers won't know where information is coming from or being transmitted to and from. Especially with on the go software and technologies, the more secure, and the more you can safeguard your business and employees, the better. Although there are free VPN providers, they aren't as reliable, so if you choose this route, consider a paid for provider.

5. Two-factor (point) authentication

When the opportunity is offered, take it. It is basically a second protection in place, if the hacker gets through the first road block you have set up for your business, in order to protect yourself online. So if authentication isn't turned on, or something is outdated, this is a second point of protection which is provided to your business in , , you otherwise don't have without two-point authentication.

It is important to safeguard yourself online; especially as a mid-sized or small business. Even if you think things are safe, and no one is after your business's information, you'd be surprised just how many threats are out there. So consider a few, or all of these points, as a starting point to add more security to your networks, and to ensure your company in , (as well as your clients' information) is as safe as possible when it is on the web.