Best Cybersecurity Practices From a Managed IT Provider

You can’t afford to sleep on your cybersecurity efforts or put them on the back burner. As an expert managed IT provider, we know that cyber threats are increasing both in frequency and severity every day. And, just as we take steps to increase our security defenses, cybercriminals are actively working on the offensive to make their attacks harder to detect and much more profitable than ever before.

Sound scary? So long as you have the best cybersecurity practices in place, you can help mitigate your risk.

Here are nine best practices to fortify your organization’s defenses:

1. Regular Security Training for Employees

The best offense is a great defense. Equip your staff with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and respond to potential security threats effectively. Conduct regular training sessions covering topics such as phishing awareness, password hygiene and safe browsing habits. 

Unsure about where to start your training? We offer cybersecurity awareness training to help companies like yours build a strong knowledge base.

2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Enhance account security by implementing MFA across all your systems and applications. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification before gaining access to sensitive data or systems. 

This simple yet effective measure significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if login credentials are compromised.

3. Regular Software Updates and Patch Management

Hackers often exploit known vulnerabilities to infiltrate networks and compromise data. You can stay ahead of vulnerabilities by keeping your software and systems up to date with the latest patches and security updates. 

By promptly applying patches and updates, you close potential entry points and minimize the risk of exploitation.

4. Network Segmentation and Firewall Configuration

Implement cloud network segmentation to divide your network into smaller, more manageable segments, each with its own security measures and access controls. Coupled with robust firewall configuration, this strategy limits the impact of a potential breach and prevents unauthorized lateral movement within your network. 

Enforcing strict access controls and monitoring network traffic enables you to detect and mitigate suspicious activity more effectively.

5. Regular Data Backups and Disaster Recovery Planning

Prepare for the unexpected by implementing regular data backups and developing a comprehensive disaster recovery plan. In the event of a cyber incident, having recent backups ensures that you can quickly restore critical systems and minimize downtime. 

Remember, this isn’t a “set it and forget it” event. Regularly test your backup and recovery procedures to ensure they are effective and up to date. Reach out to your trusted managed IT provider for more information on setting up and testing your backups and DRP policies.

6. Endpoint Security and Device Management

Does your workplace have a BYOD (bring your own device) policy? Do you have Apple or PC devices or both on your network? 

If so, what are you doing to secure your employees’ devices?

Protect endpoints such as laptops, desktops and mobile devices from malware and other threats with robust endpoint security solutions. Implement device management policies to enforce security configurations, monitor device activity and remotely wipe data in case of loss or theft. 

The bottom line? Securing endpoints mitigates the risk of unauthorized access and data compromise, especially in remote or BYOD environments.

7. Vulnerability Assessments and Penetration Testing

Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests to identify weaknesses in your infrastructure and applications. Simulating real-world attack scenarios lets you uncover potential vulnerabilities and address them proactively before they are exploited by malicious actors. 

Just like tip #5, we recommend regular testing to help strengthen your security posture and ensure ongoing protection against emerging threats.

8. Incident Response Planning and Monitoring

Develop a comprehensive incident response plan outlining the steps to take in the event of a security incident or data breach. Establish clear roles and responsibilities, and regularly rehearse your response procedures to ensure a swift and coordinated response. 

Implement continuous infrastructure monitoring solutions to detect and respond to security incidents in real time, minimizing the impact on your business operations and reputation.

9. Regular Security Audits and Compliance Checks

Stay compliant with industry regulations and standards by conducting regular security audits and compliance checks. A trusted managed IT provider like OrlanTech can assess your security posture, identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to relevant compliance requirements. 

Remember, staying proactive and vigilant demonstrates a commitment to protecting your customers’ data and maintaining their trust.

Need More Tips From a Managed IT Provider?

If you’ve likely gathered by now, prioritizing cybersecurity is essential for business continuity. And, if you have any other questions about cybersecurity or BYOD policies, contact us or book a meeting to gain expert IT knowledge.