Small Business Network Security Management

Big companies are not the only business targets for hackers in Canada. They target businesses from all different industries and of all shapes and sizes. And, considering that many small business are having difficulty keeping up in the competitive marketplace, let alone keeping up with the latest technology and Internet threats, how to effectively protect their small business network is something that can easily be overlooked.

We all know that small businesses need to protect their business network and take the proper security precautions. A breach within the network could be crippling and put you out of business if it is severe enough.

There are many things that you can do to secure your network from a small business perspective. In most cases it is just a matter of making it a priority and realizing that network security is a vital component of your business.

Threats to your small business computer network

One of the first things that small business owners need to understand is that real threats that are out there. Some of the most common include:

• Bugs in your software: No software is perfect and as a result, you could be a target based on the software you use. Hackers look for vulnerabilities in software such as web browsers. And, if you don’t have the latest updates for that software they could compromise it. Also, refrain from using pirated copies of software as this will just increase your risk of exposure to viruses.
• Targeted direct attacks: Small businesses are not immune to targeted attacks. Unhappy customers or a disgruntled employee could pose a threat to any business.
• Virus, worms, malware: The internet is full of potential threats that could harm your system. Be aware of the latest threats.
• Spyware: This poses a threat in the sense that outside sources could gain access to confidential information. Make sure you are protected again such threats.

How to properly secure your small business network

• Understand the threats that exist: Take some time to educate yourself about the threats that are out there. Learn about the most common threats that impact small business networks that are similar to your own.
• Take the basic protection measures at a minimum: At the very least your business network needs to have a firewall and antivirus protection. Firewalls will alert you to potential dangers and antivirus will provide you protection by scanning the files on your computer for potential threats.
• Install all updates: Stay up to date with all of the security updates and patches that are offered through your software vendors.
• Consider a security policy: Even if you only have a small number of employees, a security policy can help to get everyone on the same page and establish responsibilities when it comes to securing your network.
• Have a backup plan: Always have back-up systems in place. Regularly backing up important files by adding them to an external hard drive, uploading them to cloud storage or even copying them to disk will make things easier if your system is compromised or malfunctions. A system failure could happen at any time, so be prepared and have backup in place.