These uncertain times surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic have undoubtedly had a big impact on your business and how you operate. Amidst the coronavirus outbreak, it’s likely you have needed to abruptly switch to remote network setups as a way to flex to the current market needs and social distancing guidelines.
With this switch to remote networks, however, comes a rise in potential security risks. To defend against these threats, businesses in every industry should carefully evaluate their need for a network risk assessment right now. Getting an IT checkup to ensure your business is protected and running at optimal efficiency is the best way to keep your data safe and avoid costly damages associated with security incidents.
Here are 4 main reasons you should get a network assessment for your business today:
1. There are likely security weaknesses in your infrastructure.
Moving to a remote network can leave security holes in your infrastructure. Switching to a new setup, especially a remote one, can leave your systems vulnerable to attack if you fail to upgrade your cybersecurity.
With employees using personal devices or work devices on a personal Internet connection, your company is at a higher risk for data loss and breaches. Unprotected networks mean data is more easily accessible to threat actors, especially when shared or stored on a personal device that is not protected by an onsite server.
A network assessment is imperative for businesses who want to protect their remote networks. With a network assessment, your provider analyzes your systems for any potential security weaknesses. They then offer suggestions for patching these weaknesses based on your unique business processes. Failing to get a network assessment means these security weaknesses can lead to more severe problems, as well as leave doors open for hackers to steal your data.
2. Cyber attacks are on the rise.
If the security holes weren’t incentive enough, it’s essential to understand that cyber attacks are increasing as threat actors seek to take advantage of the unfortunate circumstances caused by the pandemic. Hackers know that the swift change to remote networks has left a lot of businesses inadequately protected, and SMBs are particularly vulnerable since they usually have fewer security measures in place to begin with.
Attackers are using this as an opportunity to seek out businesses that aren’t prepared for the current working conditions. Some recent examples of increased hacking include video and teleconference hijacking, data breaches, and fraud. A network assessment protects you from these incidents by evaluating your risk of being attacked and strategizing ways to mitigate that risk.
3. An assessment can reduce inefficiencies in your network.
You’ve probably had to restructure many of your digital provisions since coronavirus hit, and that can mean your systems aren’t running as efficiently as possible. As a business owner, you can’t afford to face additional damages due to inefficiencies causing downtime, lower productivity rates, or insecure digital environments.
A network assessment proactively scans your systems for inefficiencies that may be harming performance rates, uptime, or productivity levels. Your provider can then consult you on ways to eliminate these inefficiencies, allowing your business not only to save money but also better achieve your improvement goals.
4. You could be saving money.
Beyond saving money by increasing uptime and reducing inefficiencies, a network assessment can help your business find other opportunities to cut costs.
For example, you may consider consolidating software, re-evaluating per-user agreements and IT contracts, and getting rid of equipment or applications that are no longer useful for your remote environment. A network assessment gives you a closer look at the applications you may be underutilizing or that are no longer necessary given your current working conditions.
In many cases, remote workforces no longer need several different programs and applications to complete their roles. In fact, many teams tend to work more efficiently when software is consolidated and simplified into one universal platform.
To sum it up, delaying a network assessment can be damaging to the security, efficiency, and bottom line of your business. Rather than putting your time, money, and peace of mind on the line and taking a chance on your remote network setup, you’ll sleep better at night knowing your business is operating efficiently and isn’t susceptible to cyberattacks following a network risk assessment.