According to research, organizations in the United States suffered almost 4,000 data breaches in 2020. In addition, more than 300 million individuals were also affected by this type of cybercrime last year. Moreover, the average payment for ransomware extortion rose to more than $230,000, a dramatic increase from $10,000 in December 2018.

The above contains troubling statistics. Businesses should strengthen their network security without delay, given the fact that more than 50% of cyberattacks are focused on private companies. 

Basics of Network Security

Network security is comprised of the practices and technology implemented for the protection of a company’s IT infrastructure. IT infrastructure is composed of the applications, data, hardware, programs, software, and web networks utilized.

Effectively managing IT systems is crucial in two aspects:

1. To ensure reliability, compliance, and safety of digital assets that are client and public-facing, such as your website, which may have a client account portal or payment page.

• To protect the reputation of your company by ensuring that data and sensitive information is processed and handled properly.

Security Measures

The following are the typical measures utilized by SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) for ensuring network security today:

• Password protection for computers and mobile devices, along with the requirement of passwords with two-factor authentication for accessing applications, business networks, and databases.

• Internal network controls (like firewalls) can be programmed for monitoring approved network traffic.

• Anti-malware, anti-spyware and anti-virus solutions, typically licensed suites of software that prevent intrusive and malicious files from infiltrating your network and controlling your company’s devices.

• Cloud-based computing and storage, which can only be accessed through a password system.

• Local device storage containing applications and work product hosted on a particular device or hardware. Access and management of data can only be performed from specific equipment.

Part 2 will discuss Why Your Company Needs Network Security.

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, D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis areas since 1990. For affordable client-focused network consulting services and solutions, please call Alpha Engineering Associates today at (410) 295-9500.