How to Protect Your Network from Hackers

Monica Morris • Nov 28, 2018

Small and medium businesses are more attractive to hackers because they adopt cloud technologies faster, are easier to breach and also have valuable data. Even with a large number of attacks against businesses, many still don’t take security as seriously as they should.

While any business network can be compromised, planning ahead can help prevent or reduce its impact. The cost of IT downtime is high and an unlucky business may not recover from a network attack.

We discuss some protective measures for networks below.

Deploy the Right Software

Update all your business software to block vulnerabilities and reduce the risk of a network breach. Also, make sure your back up system is working. Every important file should be regularly backed up to multiple source and locations on automated mode.

Make sure you have firewall and SSL installed on your server and also regularly scan your operating systems for malware and malicious code. Only useful apps should be left on your system to reduce the points of vulnerability.

Lock Down Your Network

Most businesses have a wireless network through which employees are connected. WiFi is popular because it is convenient to set up and use. However, WiFi can be a strong magnet for hackers. Thus, you cannot be lax with your wireless network security because confidential and business info can easily be stolen through it.

Disable your router’s SSID and never use a default password. Your routers firmware should be updated to the latest versions. Insecure authentications such as WEP and WPS should never be used. Moreover, limit router configuration access to key staff.

Use Robust Anti-Malware Programs

Hackers discover new vulnerabilities as old ones are blocked. However, a good anti-virus program that is up to date can still block many attacks based on similar signatures. Anti-malware programs with network scanning functions are preferable because malware will usually spread through an unsecured network before they find a suitable host. Audit all your network infrastructures to know what assets need to be protected.

Secure Data Storage and Transmission

Even if you operate a closed network, watch out for eavesdroppers in your network. Hackers are after valuable data that can be easily stolen. You can make your business a hard target by encrypting all the files on your system and the packets transmitted through your network. Data such as credit card, SSN and bank details of employees or customer must be encrypted. A good solution for a business with highly sensitive data may want to consider utilizing full disk encryption such as Bitlock for PC and FileVault for Mac. End to end encryption of business communication should also be implemented.

Educate Your Employees

Many cyber attacks involve social engineer and phishing.  That is, a hacker pretending to be who they are not and getting a company staff to hand over important files or system access. The human element can render a sophisticated security system useless. You must train your employee to recognize common ways of attacks and the best response to them.

You should set up a company network policy which will guide your staff behavior when dealing with sensitive data and suspicious requests.

From the above, you may conclude that setting up a secure network is complicated and you would be right. The good news is that there are managed service providers (MSP) such as ourselves ( SDTEK ) that can help your business stay safe. Signing up with an MSP will remove worries about covering your bases on network security. With 24/7 security monitoring, they can easily detect and block hacking attempts.

Services such as network monitoring, backup and disaster recovery and other  cybersecurity task s should be outsourced to an IT support company. You may not feel any harm at the moment from a computer hacker, and there really is no way of telling when a hacker may strike. The best thing to do is to be prepared. Keep your network safe from hackers with the help of an expert – this is a security measure you will want to invest in for the safety of your company and your most sensitive information.

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown
05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.
06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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