How To Lock Down Your IT Network: A Guide For Small Business Owners

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How To Lock Down Your IT Network, A Guide For Small Business Owners-Chispa MagazineSecurity is a hot topic in business. Many companies are getting worried about the vulnerability of their IT systems and data. There are always media reports of how hackers steal sensitive data from firms. Plus, there’s also the issue of physical theft to contend with, not just in a digital sense.

The shocking truth is many businesses aren’t taking enough steps to secure their networks. In fact, it’s often easy for even a novice to hack into a business network.

Encrypt your computer systems. Theft of IT equipment is a growing problem for businesses. It can happen by opportunists and employees alike. As a company owner, it is your duty to make sure sensitive data doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.

One way to safeguard your data is by encrypting your computer systems. It’s a step I’ve long advocated, and it’s one you need to take as soon as possible.

You might not know this, but you can encrypt your systems at an operating system level. In Windows, you can use BitLocker encryption. And if you’ve got some Macs in your office, there’s the built-in FileVault encryption.

Secure your wireless networks. Wireless routers and access points offer a plethora of configuration options. You should ensure that you are using at least WPA2-AES encryption for all connections. That way, data transmitted between devices and the router cannot get intercepted.

If you’re unsure how to check those settings, look at your device’s user manual for details. You could also hire a firm that provides network security services to configure your WiFi for you.

Wireless security should be on your priority list when it comes to locking down your IT networks.

Improve your physical security. Do you have nothing more than a flimsy lock on your office doors? Are you based in a rough part of town? It’s important you improve your physical security at your premises. Examples of things you could do include:

  • Installing access control systems, especially for rooms with IT equipment;
  • Have a CCTV security camera system fitted in and around your premises;
  • Hire a security company to patrol your premises when it’s unattended.

Install security software on your computers. Any system at your business that connects to the Internet should have security software. For instance, you could install Norton Security or the excellent Sophos software.

Their job is to prevent malware and viruses from attacking your systems. Security software is also used as a firewall, preventing unauthorized access to your networks.

Of course, you should make sure that the software gets updated on a regular basis.

Educate your employees. Last, but not least, you should train your staff on the best practices of computer and Internet usage. For example, make sure they don’t open suspicious emails or click questionable links.

Education is a powerful tool in the fight against security vulnerabilities. Make sure your employees know which signs to spot.

Photo by Seth Schwiet

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Milo Senalle

Milo Senalle

Managing Editor at Chispa Magazine
As one of the managing editors of Chispa Magazine, Milo Senalle is the go-to man for all things technology, ethical, and financial concerns. Providing laughs with his style of writing and problem-solving techniques, Milo is a voice of reason among the girly staff at Chispa. Married with children, living in Atlanta, he works 24/7 on becoming a man of courage and believes honor begins at home.

Milo Senalle

As one of the managing editors of Chispa Magazine, Milo Senalle is the go-to man for all things technology, ethical, and financial concerns. Providing laughs with his style of writing and problem-solving techniques, Milo is a voice of reason among the girly staff at Chispa. Married with children, living in Atlanta, he works 24/7 on becoming a man of courage and believes honor begins at home.