How to Protect Your Office WIFI Network from Attacks

Security is an ongoing concern, and you need an IT team to monitor and upgrade security systems regularly.

15:51 22 August 2022

A fast internet connection is essential in an office environment. Without it, your employees cannot do their job properly, and if there are issues with the connection, everything grinds to a halt. However, it’s not just speed that you need to consider, it’s security too.

 

A surprising number of businesses do not fully understand network security and they leave themselves vulnerable. Their network becomes a weak point that hackers can easily gain access to, and this leaks all of the sensitive data that your business holds about customers and company operations. Unless you can plug these gaps, your business could be the victim of a devastating cyberattack. To avoid this, follow these key tips to help keep your office internet network secure.

 

Hire Experienced IT Professionals

Having the right team is the most important thing. Security is an ongoing concern, and you need an IT team to monitor and upgrade security systems regularly. Hackers are always finding new ways to get around security measures, so it’s a race to keep up with them. If your IT team doesn't know what they’re doing, your business is in danger. Make sure you hire people with important qualifications like the cisco ccna, for example. These courses teach about the fundamentals of networking and security. Look for people with experience working in a business that is a similar size to yours too. Somebody that has managed a small office of 5 people is not necessarily equipped to handle security in a much larger business

 

Remove Unused Software

Unused software that has not been updated regularly poses a security risk. It can provide an easy way through your defenses without you even realizing it. It also slows your computers down if they are clogged up with unused software, so perform a regular audit and get rid of anything you don’t use. Most new computers come with a lot of trial versions or free software installed already (this is called bloatware). Always go through and delete the bloatware right away when installing a new machine.

 

Block Webcams

People often think that it’s an over-exaggeration to block webcams but it isn’t. They’re relatively easy to hack into, and they give criminals a window into your business. If people can watch what’s going on in your office, they can overhear sensitive information or even get inside knowledge that will help them break in. Some new models come with a cover for your webcam already for exactly this reason. However, older computers will not, so cover webcams with a small piece of tape when you are not using them.

 

Always Back-Up Data

Even if you protect yourself, you are always at risk of an attack. You need a contingency plan in place, so always back up your data. Ideally, you should have a physical backup and a cloud backup, so all bases are covered.

 

No matter how small your business is, your network is a target. Make sure you follow these steps to protect yourself.