About BYOD

BYOD, which stands for bring your own device, is now a common phrase in the IT world. It can be thought of from two perspectives:

1. Employees that prefer and want to use their own devices for work
2. Companies that require their employees use their own devices for work

Bring your Own Device

Companies may also take a hybrid approach to BYOD by allowing certain employees to use their personal devices depending on the function they perform within the organization. Many companies are now developing a BYOD policy to control employee device use.

Implementing policies, especially when it comes to technology use within your organization, goes a long way to clear the air and let employees know what they can and cannot do. It reduces any confusion and prevents discrepancies from occurring.

A BYOD policy defines the set of rules and regulations that manage a company’s level of support of the used of employee owner devices, such as computers, laptops, mobile phones and tablet. The policy often outlines:

• Which devices can be used
• What devices are allowed to be connected to the company network and resources
• The level of access each employee has with their personal devices
• Who within the organization can use personal devices

BYOD policies vary from organization to organization, and can take on many forms. However, it often comes down to what is the best environment for worker and for the organization.

Since high quality technological devices have become so affordable and widely used, it has become increasingly difficult to deny employees use of personal devices for business purposes. This is why there is a growing need for a BYOD policy that is not only flexible, but helps companies ensure their network remains secure and free from threats.

A BYOD policy has its benefits. They include:

• A reduction in hardware and technology costs.
• The ability for employees to work from any remote location
• The ability for employees to have access to company resources at all times
• The policy enhances an employee’s ability to be as productive as possible
• The shift in maintenance tasks to employees, reducing the strain on IT.

While there are a number of benefits, there are also a number of potential drawbacks associated with implementing a BYOD policy. They include:

• There is an increased security risk associated with users connecting with personal devices
• Once a person leaves the organization, companies must revoke access. Not doing so would leave the organizations networks open
• There is a great risk of malware and viruses