What You Don’t Know About Network Security, But Really Should
Chances are, when you leave your office at the end of the day, you turn on the alarm, switch off the lights and lock the doors to protect your business and its equipment. Shouldn’t you do the same for your network? Ultimately, your computer network requires the same kind of protection, and then some.
Network security technologies protect your network against abuse, misuse, theft and attack from those seeking to exploit and steal your business information. It also helps protect it against malicious attacks from internet-borne worms and viruses. Without IT security, your business is exposed to unauthorised intrusions, service disruption, network downtime and even noncompliance with governmental regulations.
Network Security – You Can’t Protect What You Don’t Know
So what should you know about network security? We’ve collated a few important things you should be cognisant of, but probably aren’t. Let us help you protect your business against the many virtual threats facing it today and keep your virtual property and assets safe.
#1 Router Security
Your router is the key to your network security. It poses a lot of essential functions that could help secure your network, and therefore it needs special consideration when beefing up your network security. This includes setting up a firewall to your network, setting up wireless security passwords, masking your various IP addresses and turning off broadcasting for your company’s wireless signal.
#2 Firewall Security
Firewalls are essential for every single computer on your network. When set up thoroughly, firewalls can help block out network intruders, destroy viruses and catch spyware, as well as help you to hide files and documents.
#3 Your Router’s Default Settings
In the interest of protecting your network, you need to change the many default settings that come with your router. As the manufacturer sets these settings, it’s available to anyone. If you’re serious about network security, change these default settings right away.
#4 Disabling Remote Access
Routers normally allow users to only access their settings from a connected device. There are some routers that allow access from remote systems, which is strongly advised against. In fact, we advise you to disable this remote access, as cyber criminals use this to access your router’s settings at any time of the day, even without connecting a device.
#5 Wi-Fi Signals Travel
Wi-Fi signals don’t stay inside your office walls. Therefore, we recommend placing your router as close as possible to the centre of your offices or property. This ensures firstly that all team members will have the same access to the internet at every part of the office. Secondly, it helps the wireless signals not to travel too far out of the office, where cyber criminals could easily intercept it.
#6 Most Attacks Take the Form of Hacking or Malware
Of hacking attacks, statistics point to 80% going after passwords that are stolen, guessed or non-existent. Make sure your network passwords are complicated, kept safe and secure, and well protected.
#7 Rules Governing Data Access
New network security measures make it easy for companies to accurately identify users and their systems. Companies can set their own rules around data access, and deny or approve access based on user identities, job functions and other specific criteria. Ensure you make use of it.
Of course, if you need an expert in IT support and security, from small once off jobs to long term, onsite coverage, we are who you’ve been searching for. We take care of cloud backup solutions, purchasing the necessary software licenses your team needs, and keeping your network safe and secure. Speak to us about your IT needs, and let us help your company move into the future with confidence.