The essentials of securing your business IT network

Protecting your business from cyber threats has never been more critical. As more systems and processes move online, network vulnerabilities, device flaws and human error pose an ever-present risk.

Here, we explore the essentials of securing your IT network to give your business the protection it needs.

The progression of cyber threats

We’ve moved on from a time when simple viruses were the main threat. Now, sophisticated attacks, such as ransomware, phishing and advanced persistent threats (APTs), are used against organisations of all sizes.

According to figures published in the Independent, 50% of UK businesses suffered a cyber security breach in 2023. Many cyber attackers have shifted their focus to businesses, seeking larger financial gains.

Attacks resulting in data breaches, which expose confidential customer information, can result in severe financial and reputational damage for businesses. To ensure your business remains compliant, effective security measures must be in place.

Endpoint security

Devices such as laptops, smartphones and other IoT devices are known as endpoints. These are often the weakest link in a business network because hackers can exploit their security vulnerabilities.

Endpoint security involves safeguarding connected devices. This can include measures such as antivirus software, endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems, and regular software updates.

In a world where remote working has become the norm, securing endpoints is critical to preventing unauthorised access and data breaches.

Managed firewall services

Firewalls act as a barrier between your internal network and external threats. However, with the complexity of modern networks, your business needs more than a basic firewall.

Choosing managed firewall services provides real-time monitoring, configuration and updates to ensure your network is always protected against emerging threats. You’ll find these particularly beneficial if your business lacks the resources for a full in-house IT security team.

Cloud security

As more business data is stored in the cloud, security in this area has become a major focus. This technology offers scalability and flexibility, but it also introduces new risks.

Cybercriminals often target cloud environments to gain access to sensitive data. The service provider must have robust security practices in place. Using encryption, identity and access management (IAM), and multi-factor authentication (MFA) are key to protecting these systems.

Human error

Of all the high-tech systems involved in cyber networks, human error is still one of the biggest vulnerabilities. Phishing attacks, where employees click malicious links or interact with third parties with ill intent, remain a leading cause of data breaches.

To address this, you should invest in ongoing employee training to raise awareness of cybersecurity threats and run drills to identify potential phishing attacks. Both of these can significantly reduce the risk posed by human error.