As discussed in Parts 1 & 2, business owners must take cybersecurity seriously. Although the news focuses on large companies that have been hacked, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are actually the main victims of cybercriminals because they are softer targets. Part 3 will cover four more affordable small business cybersecurity solutions.

For more information regarding the FCC’s Small Biz Cyber Planner 2.0:

https://www.fcc.gov/news-events/blog/2012/10/17/fcc-releases-small-biz-cyber-planner-20-empower-small-businesses

Random.org

Perhaps the most basic cybersecurity principle for small businesses is utilizing very strong passwords for all their services and accounts. Due to the growing sophistication of hackers, passwords that you think are obscure, maybe one based on the name of your childhood best friend, are no longer safe. Random.org provides an easy-to-use random password generator. Automatically creating alphanumeric, case-sensitive passwords to a maximum of 24 characters, Random.org will give users extremely strong passwords.

Social-Engineer

 Cybercriminals increasingly use social engineering to gain unauthorized access into a company’s network. Management and staff need continuing education for threats like phishing. Social-Engineer can assist your small business by providing training tools on how to defend against cyberattacks.

Stay Safe Online

Supported by the National Cyber Security Alliance, Stay Safe Online features numerous resources and tools designed to protect businesses and their staff from data loss, cyberattacks, and other internet threats. Users can receive online training regarding risk assessment, threat monitoring, and cybersecurity plan implementation for organizations.

Xirrus Wi-Fi Inspector

The majority of companies have a local area network that utilizes wireless LAN connections. Although offering efficiency and speed, they are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Providing centralized WLAN control, Xirrus Wi-Fi Inspector will give business owners more oversight for monitoring and protecting their company’s networks. Although hackers can infiltrate an unprotected WLAN, Xirrus Wi-Fi Inspector provides protection by reviewing both clients and traffic, detecting unauthorized access points and unusual activity.

Alpha Engineering Business Support

 Choosing an expert computer technology-support provider is an important decision for your business. Alpha Engineering Associates has been a trusted partner of many companies in the Washington, Baltimore and Annapolis areas since 1990 and offer:

• 24/7 Managed Services for Business Computing Systems
• Network and Mobile Computing Support
• Disaster Recovery Planning
• Software Development

For affordable client-focused network consulting services and solutions, please call Alpha Engineering Associates today at (410) 295-9500.