Most business leaders are well aware of the need for robust cybersecurity practices in today’s risk-filled digital world. However, few know what proper cybersecurity looks like or how it can be implemented effectively. This lack of understanding can prove devastating, especially when businesses procrastinate and fail to pursue protective measures in time. While the Department of Homeland Security highlights the importance of such knowledge during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, our experts at NerdsToGo believe that every day presents new opportunities to educate yourself about digital security.

Thankfully, a variety of excellent options allow your business to reduce the risk of data breaches. A layered approach is always preferable, with several solutions working together to provide the most comprehensive protection possible.

Ready to ramp up your business’s data protection practices? Consider integrating the following essentials into your company’s cybersecurity protocol:

Firewalls

Firewalls constitute one of the simplest and most effective strategies your company can employ in its fight against hackers. Effective firewalls monitor incoming and outgoing traffic closely based on specific security rules determined by the business or user. When implemented properly, they act as a powerful barrier against unauthorized and potentially malicious traffic.

While both consumer and commercial-grade firewalls are available, business firewalls are critical for companies looking to avoid threats across broad networks. Even better protection can be obtained through next-generation firewalls, which combine the functionality of traditional options with other effective filtering solutions, such as intrusion prevention and deep packet inspection.

Network Access Control

The most secure networks only provide access to authorized devices. If access is granted to a broader array of devices (especially guest smartphones), it should be limited to allow for internet use without making internal resources visible. Network access control helps with this by enforcing strict policies and ensuring that it’s always clear who is accessing your business’s networks – and to what extent.

Network Security Monitoring

Network security monitoring services observe both devices and traffic for vulnerabilities. This automated system collects and analyzes a wide array of indicators and alerts the appropriate parties as soon as threats are detected. Detailed reporting makes this solution an ideal option for maintaining a thorough understanding of both big-picture operations and specific threats that warrant attention.

Remote Monitoring & Management

Sometimes referred to as network management or managed IT services, RMM (remote monitoring and management) provides proactive protection against today’s most concerning cybersecurity threats. Networks with RMM feature agents installed on computers, mobile devices, and other endpoints, regardless of location. These agents provide regular updates regarding the status of critical network components. They also deliver immediate alerts when devices are compromised. Additionally, RMM solutions keep endpoints up to date with security patches and managed antivirus services.

Web Filtering

Employees and customers should be incapable of accessing known malicious sites. This is not simply a means of limiting access to R-rated content, but rather, essential protection against threats that even the most cautious employees may struggle to avoid. An effective web filtering solution will prevent employees from visiting malicious websites commonly accessed through phishing emails or found during regular web browsing.

Email Security & Filtering

Today’s most devastating cyberattacks often begin with malicious email attachments. While these were once easy to spot, they’ve become far more sophisticated in recent years – to the point that even the most vigilant users can fall victim. While most email providers include basic filtering services, these rarely possess the sophisticated detection capabilities needed to prevent access to the most damaging emails.

Strong filters catch and quarantine potentially harmful messages. Likewise, outbound scanning can prevent your business from inadvertently sending spam. This, in turn, will reduce the risk of blacklisting by key recipients.

Antivirus Software

Antivirus programs are designed to prevent network infections. They can also detect and remove any infections that have already occurred. In addition to allowing for manual scans of specific files, programs automatically conduct regular scans to ensure that any signs of malicious behavior are spotted instantly.

Going beyond detection, antivirus programs may conduct regular updates to ensure that emerging threats are properly addressed. Unfortunately, devices that lack such solutions could be attacked within mere minutes of connecting to the internet.

Employee Education

Many breaches occur because well-intentioned employees accidentally give hackers the very tools they need to stage attacks. However, thorough and regular employee education can mitigate this risk.

Employees should be capable of identifying a wide range of security threats. They should know when to avoid downloading attachments or responding to messages. Additionally, they must understand the importance of password protection – and the need to regularly swap out login information, even when it seems like a hassle.

Looking for Business IT Support? NerdsToGo Can Help

The team at NerdsToGo, led by owner John, has over 20 years of experience managing IT for a variety of businesses. These range from startups to Fortune 1000 companies. Our Nerds are committed to providing the cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions needed to keep today’s most worrisome threats at bay. Top options include office or store Wi-Fi setup, firewall installation, secure networking, email security services, and more.

Reach out today to learn more about how NerdsToGo can help improve cybersecurity for businesses!