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Being prepared for online threats cannot start too soon when it comes to your business. The world of cybercrime evolves, and so should your cybersecurity plan, no matter the size of your business. You may be just starting your company or maybe you have been growing for decades. Either way, having a comprehensive cybersecurity plan in place will help ensure your business continues to thrive far into the future.
We’re sharing seven steps you can take to create a big-picture, scalable cybersecurity framework for your company.
Step One: Make a List of All Assets
It isn’t easy to protect something if you’re not sure you have it. The first step is to make note of all the devices your business uses and possesses. This list should include everything in your office as well as remote locations.
If your employee uses a device to conduct business or access the company network, it should be included in the list, even if it is their personal phone. If you want to create guidelines for the use of personal devices for work purposes, you can also create a policy for devices later on in this process.
Step Two: Update Device Management
If you already have a Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) policy in place for your business, you might want to take the time to review it and make revisions based on new device options or evolving situations. If you don’t have one, this is your opportunity to clearly state which devices are allowed for conducting business and connecting to your company network and which ones are not allowed.
Step Three: Create a VPN
Now that you know your list of assets and have a clear policy in place for managing devices, the next step is to set up secure access for all users. If you have remote workers in your company, a virtual private network or VPN can allow your team to connect to work files on a more secure network than their general home wifi. If you don’t have a VPN in place, our IT team at Alt-Tech Inc. can help you set one up.
Step Four: Set Device Standards
Following up with a BYOD Policy, you can also set standards for the devices your employees are using. This can include ensuring all apps, software, and operating systems are kept up-to-date, allowing for maximum cybersecurity protection.
Step Five: Secure Access
Creating an environment of secure access to your work network and servers requires network protection services. An IT Managed Services Provider will create a network protection system best suited for your operations that fits your budget.
Step Six: Monitor Network
With a network security system in place, you also need to have around-the-clock monitoring of your network to respond to cyberattacks automatically or even proactively. At Alt-Tech Inc., our IT professionals are experienced in network monitoring, patching, and data recovery. With a plan in place, taking action can happen quicker and smoother.
Step Seven: Create a Cybersecurity Culture
To keep your team enthusiastic about (or at least aware of) cybersecurity, you need to foster a cybersecurity culture in the workplace. Feature cybersecurity tips in company memos and celebrate the wins in that department, so everyone knows. When news about security breaches or cyberattacks happens in your industry, share those with your team to highlight the importance of following policies and procedures.
And most importantly, encourage communication. Encouraging your employees to report a suspicious email can help prevent severe damage when caught early—allowing your team to report their concerns without fearing repercussions if they made a mistake.
Cybersecurity Services in Edmonton and Surrounding Areas
Does your business need a cybersecurity plan? Are you concerned about your remote workers having secure access to your network? The IT professionals at Alt-Tech Inc. can discuss your concerns and help create a plan that covers what your business needs.
