Security Tips

While broadband connectivity has many benefits, it also can expose a business to potential computer security threats, hackers, viruses, spyware, spam and data theft.  Provided below are tips and resource areas to help you with ensuring that proper security and protection controls are in place. Here are some on-line resource areas:

Symantec Small Business Security Center - http://www.symantec.com/smallbiz/asbdc/

Microsoft Security Guidance Center for Small Business
http://www.microsoft.com/nz/smallbusiness/issues/sgc/default.mspx

Microsoft -- Small Business Computer Security Checklist
http://www.microsoft.com/nz/smallbusiness/issues/sgc/checklist/default.mspx

Microsoft Video - Safeguard Your Business in 7 Steps (click to view)

U.S. Chamber of Commerce - Security Toolkit
http://www.uschamber.com/sb/security/default

InformationWeek Magazine - Security
http://informationweek.smallbizpipeline.com/security/

Security Software - Security software helps keep out intruders and protect your company's assets from theft within the office walls. Virtual private network software allows only those with legitimate purposes to access your company's network remotely; a firewall app will keep all others at bay. On every computer at your company, desktops and specific files should be protected with antivirus and antispyware apps. Particularly important files and apps can be locked with their own passwords. For more security, specific files should be encrypted. If possible, employees should have access only to as much information as they need to perform their jobs. Utility software can help keep up shop. A partitioning app, for instance, will help your business install and upgrade operating systems--important if you plan to keep your desktops for a long time. And backup and ghosting software is particularly important for insuring the longevity of your data and preserving it in case of emergency. Source: C/Net - http://www.cnet.com/Business_Software/4520-7400_1-5630212-1.html?tag=dir.bbg

Also, a hardware firewall that protects your network is not the same as a software firewall. Hardware firewalls obscure the computers inside your network from outsiders. Software firewalls keep inside information from leaking outside onto the Internet. In short, you need both firewalls.