Protecting your business data is one of the highest priorities to focus on when running a company in the United States. Over 87 percent of small businesses have customer data at risk in the event of a cyberattack. You must consider the best methods for protecting data and managing your network security.
Network security testing is one of the best ways to determine if your security management system works. You’ll get a clearer picture of the vulnerabilities within your network and find ways to close those gaps for data protection. The wrong move could cost you customers and everything you’ve worked hard to build.
Fortunately, you’re in the perfect place to learn about the best options for penetration testing for your business data. Continue reading to ramp up your security with these cybersecurity tips today!
Use Zero Trust
Hackers are finding inventive and innovative ways to access business data. Businesses are countering those moves by increasing the number of security systems and applications they use. When you consider remote workers who need access to data while working from home or abroad, things get tricky.
Zero Trust is the best way to proceed with your business data when accommodating remote workers. In the past, businesses have used an implicit trust model. Now, employees must prove their identities to access these databases and systems.
Protect your network for anyone and everyone attempting to access that data. The user must be authenticated before being granted access, no matter the IP address. Analytics and multifactor authentication are the bread and butter of a Zero Trust network security program.
Use Multiple Defense Layers
The best security management system uses several layers of defense to protect your business data. Multiple layers are more likely to detect threats and keep them out of your network. Consider installing perimeter and internal defense systems.
Work with a penetration testing business to determine the weakest links in your security. Options like iso 27001 penetration testing will find the gaps and help you close them for data protection. Removing backdoor connections to your network for enhanced security is also best.
Network access controls are another step worth taking when using cybersecurity tips. It’s recommended that you use encrypting VPNs to protect your business data from hackers.
You should set specific criteria and rules to block unauthorized traffic from accessing your network. You can also block traffic from specific countries and locations. You’ll get detailed alerts when an unauthorized user attempts to access your network with these systems.
Upgrade Software and Hardware
The software and equipment you use affect your data security and protection. Outdated equipment and software are among the worst ways to put your data at risk to hackers. Consistent maintenance is the only way to close those gaps and prevent entry into your business network.
It’s best to use penetration testing to test your software for glitches and gaps. The best hackers will exploit these gaps to access your business data. Verify that your software is up to date to add an extra layer of security.
Maintaining a proper file system to keep your data secure is also wise. Update your software for the most recent security fixes. This simple method will keep the hackers outside your system and your customers happy.
Automatic updates are the most effective way to close those gaps. You won’t need to remember to update your software each time a new update is released. The automatic updates will run when you’re away from the office to prevent extended downtime.
Control Network Access
Controlling network access is one of the most effective ways to limit who can use your network and see your confidential data. Authentication, authorization, and accounting are the recommended methods by the NSA.
The methods require you to authenticate a user’s identity. Next, you’ll authorize that user to access specific data and programs within your network. It helps account for each user’s action when accessing that confidential data.
The goal is to provide your employees with the lowest access to data possible while helping them complete their jobs. You want to limit the number of people accessing confidential data. Limiting authentication to prevent brute-force attacks on your network is also wise.
Create Unique Passwords
Simple passwords are the bane of all cybersecurity tips in the business world. Simple passwords are efficient, but you’re risking millions of dollars worth of business data. It’s best to encourage your employees to use unique passwords for their business applications and accounts.
Change the default passwords, and avoid using repeat passwords. Remove all unnecessary accounts to prevent access to your network. Secure algorithms are crucial to creating and storing unique passwords.
Your employees can write the passwords down, but the paper must be stored securely. Your risk a data breach by keeping passwords in the open. Use network security testing to identify and resolve these issues for data protection.
Configure Your Routers
The router configuration is another essential aspect to consider for your network security. You’re opening the door to hackers if you use the incorrect configuration for your wireless internet router. Hackers can redirect packets to different destinations without you knowing it.
Sensitive data can be collected and manipulated. It’s one of the most vulnerable areas for small businesses in the US. Consider disabling IP source routing when setting your router up. Routing authentification is another step in the right direction for data protection.
You can take these steps to prevent hackers from accessing your network. Setting your router up is vital to keep hackers out and your data secure.
Use Network Security Testing for Your Company
Small businesses are vulnerable to hackers and cyberattacks, and you must use network security testing to keep your business data safe. Configure your routers to keep hackers out and limit packet redirection.
Build multiple defense layers for data protection. You can also limit access to business data and use unique passwords to restrict access to your network. Update your software to boost security and keep threats at bay.
The growth of technology has enabled hackers to put business data at risk. Take steps to protect the company you’ve built by reading more of our Business and Technology blog content today!
