If there’s one thing that can be said for certain, it’s that your antivirus software plays an important role in keeping your business safe. It keeps track of the latest viruses and prevents them from intruding on your network, and while that certainly seems like a big job, the truth is that it’s just not enough to keep your business safe. Here’s what you need to know.
What Antivirus Software Is… and Isn’t
Antivirus programs have evolved in the last decade. As hackers have grown more clever and learned to exploit holes in your network’s security, antivirus programs have stepped up to the task of blocking more than Trojans, worms, and other harmful bugs. In fact, many of the biggest and best antiprograms out there contain antimalware and other security applications designed to further protect your business. However, keep in mind that not all “antivirus” software is created equally, and you’ll need to do some analysis of your own to ensure you’re getting all the protection you need.
How Hackers Get Inside Your Network
Per recent surveys, the number one method hackers use to gain access to your network involves tricking you into downloading software, often called malware, that runs quietly and invisibly in the background. These programs may send your every keystroke to a hacker, install “ransomware” on your computer, or even use your network to send copies of malware and ransomware to other networks you access. Often, these programs install when someone on your network – usually an employee, or perhaps even yourself – downloads a seemingly innocent program or file that contains the malicious program.
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?
There are a few steps you can follow to ensure that your network is secured as much as possible.
- Make sure your IT Support provider is supplying you with high-tech, frequently-updated protection against viruses, malware, ransomware, rootkits, and more. Virus protection alone is not enough.
- Check your firewall settings to make sure the computer’s in your office are secure. A firewall that has been turned off or one that has reduced security creates a playground for a potential hacker.
- Educate yourself and your employees on the importance of following basic internet safety guidelines. It may be possible to completely block downloads on your entire network, which can further improve your security. You may also choose to block access to websites hackers utilize most often, which are peer-to-peer sharing sites and social media outlets.
- Apply patches and software updates to your security software and operating systems – including new virus definitions – as soon as they become available. Better yet, set up your software so that these things occur automatically on every computer and device on your network.
- Work with an IT Services Company that stays up-to-date about the latest security technologies. This is often the best way to ensure your business has all the protection it needs.
If you store information on your network, there’s no doubt that a hacker will attempt to access it at some point. If you think you’re in the clear because you’ve installed a big-name antivirus program, you might want to think again. Antivirus programs aren’t enough to protect you, so make sure you work with a professional who can set you up with the right security programs and protocols.
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