IT, the internet, and artificial intelligence are transforming the way we live and work. This makes the world in 2020 almost unrecognisable to that of twenty years ago. Our use of technology shows no signs of slowing, and most experts agree that tech will continue to play a transformative role in our lives in the future. In particular, IT is streamlining business and completely revolutionising the way many companies operate. 

With so much of our work and personal lives moving online, the security of our data is now more critical than ever. Indeed, cybersecurity is one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. 

While securing data is perhaps a bigger consideration for companies, general online safety guidance remains mostly the same for both business and personal use. Being online poses comparable risks, whether you’re running an extensive corporate network or just looking after personal accounts. 

Knowing the risks

The saying, “prevention is better than cure” is particularly apt for online security, and the best way to protect yourself (or your company) is first to identify the risks. From a work perspective, it’s widely accepted that employees present the greatest threat to IT security — though mostly through entirely non-malicious acts. 

The vast majority of company security breaches are caused unwittingly by employees not following agreed practices, so it’s essential you offer comprehensive training and back-up support to avoid problems. 

The same applies to those in your home. It’s important to educate everyone in your household about the primary online risks. Additionally, there are numerous extra steps you can take to protect your data and avoid being compromised:

• Install and regularly update antivirus software
• Always use strong passwords (alphanumeric, hard-to-guess passwords work best). Also, remember to update passwords regularly)
• Educate and update employees (or others in your home) about the most common online risks
• Be aware of identity theft and take measures to prevent it
• Check your social media settings to lock down account security
• Install a firewall on your internet connection
• Take regular back-ups of data and store them securely
• Limit physical access to your computers and network
• Set up individual accounts for each user (aside from kids)

For work: using an IT network for data storage and communications

Most companies are aware they need some form of IT infrastructure to help employees work more productively, but it can often be a bewildering and overwhelming prospect trying to set up a network alone. Unless you have specific training or knowledge of systems, it’s a good idea to employ the services of a specialised IT networking company like Firstsolution.co.uk, rather than attempting to do the work yourself. 

Dedicated IT firms have a wealth of knowledge on networking practices and can offer advice and equipment to get you set up far quicker than you’d ever achieve alone. Nonetheless, even if you partner with a professional company, there are still key questions you should ask yourself which will make their job much more straightforward:

• How will the network be used?
• How will you and your employees gain access? This applies internally, remotely or both.
• How many people will have access?
• Will the network feature tiered access (i.e. different permission levels per user)?
• Are there any unique aspects of your business you’d like to move online or automate?
• What security provisions are you going include to prevent unauthorised access?

Many IT security deterrents are relatively common sense — both from a work and personal perspective — but, at minimum, you should install firewalls and antivirus/anti-malware software on all devices. 

Also, while the risks online are similar for both companies and individuals, most businesses are advised to enlist specialist help to secure data appropriately. Given the worth of the information involved, a breach of company security can cause significant headaches, or worse yet, legal action.