Running a small business is already hard enough. Issues like cyber-attacks can make it unbearable to run a successful small business. In the current era of technology, even small businesses have IT infrastructure.
When it comes to cyber-attacks, criminals always aim for the IT infrastructure as a means to gain access to a business’ network, acquire information, and launch attacks like theft.
Therefore, it is important for a small business to protect its IT infrastructure from cyber-attacks. Solutions like Secure managed IT services and Zero Trust Security Models can really be useful.
Keep reading as we delve into the best practices that small businesses can employ to protect their IT infrastructure from cyber-attacks.
1. Secure Managed IT Services
A managed security service is a branch of IT outsourcing that handles IT security-related affairs while minimizing the need for a large internal staff.
For a small business, getting managed IT services would be a fantastic solution for handling any security related issues while saving the business from hiring a large internal staff. However, it is also significant that a small business hires the most secure management service provider.
This way, they can handle all potential cyber-attacks and develop measures to avoid such attacks beforehand.
2. Network Segmentation and Monitoring
The IT infrastructure for a business, whether it is a small or large business, is usually extensive. Network segmentation involves dividing the network into small portions or segments.
This is a means for limiting the spread of an attack or any malicious activity within the entire IT network infrastructure.
Dividing a network into small segments prevents attackers from moving across the entire system. This way, in case of an attack, the potential damage can be minimized.
In addition to segmenting the network, monitoring is also important. There has to be a system in place to make sure every segment is monitored properly for early detection of attacks or suspicious activities.
Poor or lack of monitoring can result in an attack spreading across the segments before it is identified.
Small businesses can use Intrusion Detection Systems to monitor the network systems and issue alerts when suspicious activities are detected.
3. Zero Trust Security Model
A ZTA (Zero Trust Security) model is a great tool for promoting cybersecurity for small business IT infrastructure. This cybersecurity model helps reduce the risk of data breaches.
It works by assuming that all users or devices are not to be trusted. Under this model, users and devices are only granted access to data that they need for their respective responsibilities or jobs.
This even applies to top management in small businesses. By doing so, it prevents hacks and expensive data breaches that could be the downfall of a small business.
A ZTA model uses technologies like Multi-Factor Authentication, real-time monitoring, and micro segmentation to enforce access limits and policies.
4. Identity Authentication And Access Management
Small businesses can also protect their IT infrastructure by implementing access management and identification authentication systems.
They include elements like multi-factor authentication, whose role is to prevent unwanted access to business networks and facilities.
Identity authentication is especially important for individuals with privileged access to a business’ network, like administrations.
More often than not, attackers target these accounts in order to gain access to critical business network resources.
Therefore, establishing a system for verifying identities before granting access to users is critical. Access management systems are also important for controlling and auditing individuals or accounts that have access to a company’s IT infrastructure or network.
5. SIEM Solutions
SIEM stands for Centralized Security Information and Event Management. This is a cybersecurity solution that helps with security monitoring for business IT infrastructure.
The monitoring solution works by collecting and aggregating log data across all business IT network infrastructure. It also helps security teams to identify and respond to potential threats efficiently and timely.
6. Consistent Patching And Patch Management
It is important for small businesses to address software vulnerabilities before hackers and attackers get a chance to exploit them.
Attackers use software vulnerabilities as tools for gaining access to business networks. For this reason, patching is important.
Patching is the practice of fixing and resolving identified software vulnerabilities. Small businesses can have a regular schedule for patch management to help address any vulnerabilities in time.
7. Prompt System Updates
Failure to update IT systems can result in entry points for attackers. It often causes vulnerabilities in an IT system that can be taken advantage of by attackers.
Therefore, small businesses can protect their IT infrastructure from attacks by running prompt system updates.
8. Risk And Vulnerability Management Systems
This is a program designed to promote cybersecurity by actively and proactively monitoring, identifying, analysing, and addressing potential vulnerabilities in an IT infrastructure or system.
This protocol is great for minimizing the chances of attacks and reducing the damage in case of an attack.
9. Antivirus and Endpoint Protection
The amount of damage that something as small as a virus can do to a business is not to be taken lightly. Therefore, small businesses must invest in strong antiviruses and endpoint protection systems.
These systems help detect and prevent attacks like malware infections that could compromise company data and create gateways for even more significant attacks.
10. Training of Staff and Users
A small business should also invest in the training of IT network infrastructure users.
Through training, users and staffers can learn how to identify and avoid cyberattacks like downloading viruses and falling for phishing scams.
They can also learn how to implement the best cybersecurity practices while staying up to date with the latest protection technologies.
Conclusion
Cyberattacks can be very costly for small businesses. They can lead to significant financial losses, legal issues, and even result in the overall failure of a business.
Therefore, implementing the best cybersecurity practices is not a matter to be taken lightly. Consulting an expert is always a good place to start.
Ella Marcotte
