With the increase in cyber-attacks, keeping your IT network safe is not a luxury but a necessity. Regardless of the size of your business or the kind of online activities you engage in, it’s important to take measures to ensure that your network is secure. In this guide, we’ll delve into some of the most effective ways to keep your network safe.
Keep All Your Software and Operating Systems Up to Date:
More often than not, cyber-attacks occur because of outdated systems and software. Keeping all your software and operating systems up to date gives you the latest security patches and bug fixes. It eliminates any vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. Ensure that your IT team is aware of these updates and make sure they’re installed on all relevant devices.
Use Strong Passwords:
A weak password makes it easy for hackers to breach your network. The best way to create a strong password is to make it long and use a mixture of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. Also, avoid using obvious information like your name or date of birth. Change your passwords often and don’t reuse old passwords.
Invest in Quality Anti-Virus and Firewall Software:
Anti-virus software helps to protect against viruses, malware, and other cyber threats. Firewalls can help reduce the risk of unauthorised access to your network. Invest in quality software that’s regularly updated to ensure maximum protection.
Keep Data on Secure Servers:
Data should be stored on a secure server and encrypted to protect it from unauthorised access. It’s important to regularly review the security of your servers and make sure that they’re configured securely.
Implement Access Controls:
Access controls help to limit who can access sensitive data on your network. Implementing access controls can help prevent unauthorised users from accessing sensitive data or making changes to your network without permission. Choosing the most secure and reliable connectivity solution is a constant challenge for most businesses. Securus Communications can help to maximise your technology investment. Whether you have a multi-site organisation or want to improve your network’s speed and reliability.
Conduct Regular Risk Assessments:
Risk assessments can help you identify potential vulnerabilities in your network and determine the best security measures to put in place. Regularly assessing your networks for potential risks can help prevent data breaches.
Train Your Staff on Cybersecurity Best Practices:
Employee errors are one of the most common causes of network breaches. Ensure that your staff knows how to handle sensitive data and personal information. Train them on identifying phishing emails and other scams that could compromise your network. Educate them on the importance of strong passwords and the consequences of using insecure networks.
Monitor Your Network:
Regular monitoring helps to detect any suspicious activities and allows you to take corrective action before they become major problems. Monitoring your network involves analysing log files, setting up alerts for unusual activity, and tracking user logins. Knowing what’s happening on your network allows you to spot and address potential issues more quickly.
Conclusion:
Keeping your IT network safe involves adopting a multifaceted approach that includes some of the tips outlined above. It’s a continuous process that requires vigilance and collaboration between IT teams and employees. Remember, your network’s security is only as strong as its weakest link, so don’t neglect any aspect of cybersecurity. By investing in the right tools, training your staff, and keeping everything up to date, you can create a strong defence against cybercrime.