How Businesses Can Ensure a Strong Network

From small businesses to large enterprises, network security plays a crucial role. Ignoring the need for network security puts your business at high risk. With the growing threat of malware, viruses and hacking, businesses have never been more vulnerable. You only need to think back to the Sony Pictures incident, and the fallout from producers, actors and executives that followed. So how can you ensure a more secure network? Regular password changes According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, your password should be hard to guess, with a minimum eight characters in length. Use capitals, numbers, and special characters such as the pound sign, an asterisk, or an exclamation mark. Ensure not to share your password with anyone, and change it after an interval of 90 days. Update anti-virus software on all servers and workstations Every business that needs a computer to store important data, needs security. One method is to install anti-virus software. New viruses and threats are created and detected every day, so it is critical to keep anti-virus software updated regularly on all servers and workstations. Install a Firewall with strong policies A firewall is an effective protective tool between everyone else’s computer and your own. Their main role is to block and filter unauthorized and potentially dangerous data from the internet. Basically, there are two types of Firewall available- Hardware and software. Hardware firewalls are typically found in broadband filters, whereas software firewalls are installed on individual systems. Email spam filters and anti-virus If you are looking for an effective way to interrupt email spam and viruses, use filters. There are two kinds of email filters available; one when opening an email attachment, and the other runs automatically, with or without attachment. An email spam filter combined with anti-virus software will hold back all incoming messages that contain spam links. Hackers are always coming up with new ways to gain access to sensitive data, which is why it’s important to stay ahead of the game, and undertake regular security checks.rnIf you are looking for effective IT Support for your business, Five Rivers can help. With a team of professional IT Support experts, you can rest assured that your network security is always maintained. For a comprehensive review of your existing network security, contact Five Rivers today on 0203 397 7545.