5 Ways to Protect Your Business Network From Online Threats

Staying on the cutting edge of technology is essential for any business trying to grow and prosper. Businesses in North America invest around $700 billion a year on technology. While most business owners understand the benefits of having the latest technology in place, many fail to realize how many threats are lurking around online.

Failing to adequately protect your business network can lead to lots of sensitive information falling into the hands of cyber-criminals. Instead of waiting for one of these catastrophic events to take place before safeguards are put in place, a business owner needs to take proactive measures.

Investing in things like network scanning tools is essential when trying to assess where weaknesses in your IT infrastructure exist. Once you have this information, you can begin the process of strengthening your security. Read below to find out more about how to protect your business from online threats.

How to protect your network from online threats

1. Data Encryption is Extremely Important

The biggest misconception most business owners have is that protecting themselves from online threats is an expensive and grueling job. In reality, there are a few basic things that can be done to keep hackers at bay. One of the best things a business owner can do when trying to keep sensitive data out of the hands of hackers is to encrypt all of their files.

If all of your data is stored on cloud-based servers, encryption is a must. By encrypting this data, you can rest assured that hackers won’t be able to intercept emails or infiltrate your network and wreak havoc on your files. Luckily, there are a number of programs that can make data encryption easy and successful. Consulting with IT professionals is the best way to ensure data encryption is performed quickly and correctly.

2. Create and Enforce a Companywide Security Policy

Some business owners think that data security is only something they should worry about. If you run a company with a number of employees, you will have to get everyone on board when it comes to data security. The best way to do this is by taking the time to create a cyber-security policy.

This policy should include detailed information about how to handle emails with attachments from unknown senders and an all-out ban on downloading any files that are not work-related. You should also think about putting a block on social media websites. Not only will this ban help to keep your team off of social media, but it can also help you avoid falling victim to fishing scams that are common on these platforms.

3. Bring-Your-Own-Device Policies Can Be Problematic

Using remote workers is something most businesses do. By using remote workers, you will be able to hire the best person for the job instead of having to settle on a candidate because they are close to your physical location. One of the biggest mistakes most businesses make when it comes to their remote employees is allowing them to use their own mobile devices to access sensitive information.

While a bring your own device policy can save a business money, it may also lead to their data being compromised. The best way to avoid this problem is by investing in secured devices for these employees. With these devices, you can rest assured that any data accessed from a mobile phone or tablet will be safe.

4. Keep Your Wireless Network Protected

Working in a large building presents challenges when it comes to offering a strong and reliable Internet connection. A wireless router is generally the best way to ensure all workers can get the Internet speed and power they need. However, if these routers are not properly secured, a knowledgeable hacker can get into your network and steal sensitive information.

Routinely changing the password for the network connection is vital. You also need to make sure that employees are not writing this password down and posting it where anyone can see it. By staying on top of wireless network security, you can provide your team with a safe and fast wireless connection.

Provide a safe and fast internet connection

5. Restrict Access to Certain Parts of Your Network

Another mistake you need to avoid making when it comes to data is providing administrator-level access to all of your employees. This access may come back to haunt you in the long run.

Instead of letting a disgruntled employee obtain sensitive data to use for nefarious purposes, you need to restrict access. Only a handful of people will need administrator-level access to your data. Choosing these individuals should only happen after extensive research is performed.

Allow IT Professionals to Help

Instead of trying to handle the complexities of network security on your own, you need to seek out the help of knowledgeable IT professionals. With their assistance, you should have no problem securing your data.