From storing sensitive customer data to facilitating communication to conducting online transactions, businesses nowadays largely depend on digital systems and networks. For these systems and networks to be effective, a robust IT infrastructure is crucial.
However, this heavy reliance on technology can pose several risks, including greater exposure to a wide range of security risks and threats. Every business should therefore make IT infrastructure security a top priority to protect their valuable assets, ensure uninterrupted operations, maintain their reputation, and comply with regulatory requirements.
We recommend implementing the following strategies to secure the IT infrastructure of your Canada-based business:
1. Regularly update software and systems
Ensuring that your software applications and operating systems are up to date is a fundamental measure in preserving the security of your IT infrastructure. Software developers release regular updates that patch security flaws that hackers could easily exploit. By applying these updates as soon as they’re released, you drastically minimize the risk of data compromise caused by unpatched vulnerabilities.
2. Implement strong password policies
Brute-force attacks, credential stuffing, and a variety of cyberthreats may not be completely preventable, but your business's exposure to them can be vastly reduced by implementing strong password policies. Encourage your employees to use complex passwords, such as passphrases, which are difficult to guess but easy to remember. Also, discourage using the same password more than once.
Read: Top password mistakes you shouldn’t be making in 2023
3. Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)
While having strong passwords helps secure your accounts, it's simply not enough because passwords can be easily stolen. That’s why you should add another layer of protection by enabling MFA.
MFA requires users to provide multiple pieces of evidence, such as biometric data or a code sent to a registered device, to verify their identity before being granted access to data or accounts. By implementing MFA, you enhance the security of your IT infrastructure and mitigate the risk of unauthorized access, even in scenarios where passwords have been compromised.
4. Employ a robust firewall and intrusion detection system (IDS)
It’s essential to configure and maintain a robust firewall because it acts as a barrier between your internal network and the external world, filtering out malicious traffic and potential threats. It also pays to complement your firewall with an IDS that actively monitors network traffic, identifies potential threats, and alerts you of any unusual or malicious behavior.
5. Educate and train employees on cybersecurity
Human error is one of the top reasons data gets compromised, particularly in cases involving cloud data breaches, which is why it’s critical to foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness among your employees. Conduct regular security awareness training sessions to educate your staff about the importance of strong passwords and safe browsing habits, and equip them with skills to spot social engineering attacks from a mile away. Also, make it easy for employees to report any suspicious activities promptly.
6. Establish data backup and disaster recovery strategies
Create more than one data backup, with at least one stored off site. This ensures that you will still have a copy of your data even if your primary data is stolen or compromised. Moreover, you should create a comprehensive disaster recovery plan that meticulously outlines the responses to various threats to data security, such as a breach, natural calamity, or system malfunction. Periodically test and update this plan to guarantee that it remains effective against new security threats and challenges.
7. Partner with an IT expert
Navigating the complex landscape of IT security can be challenging, but you can stay ahead of emerging threats by partnering with an IT expert. An experienced managed IT services provider (MSP) brings specialized knowledge and expertise to assess, design, and implement comprehensive security solutions tailored to your business's unique needs. They can also perform comprehensive audits, recommend security enhancements, and provide valuable insights to strengthen your IT infrastructure's security posture.
By collaborating with a trusted MSP, your business can gain access to cutting-edge technologies, proactive monitoring, threat intelligence, and 24/7 support, which ensures maximum protection for your IT infrastructure.
XBASE Technologies, one of Ontario’s top MSPs, can help you set up proactive measures, conduct periodic updates, and do continuous monitoring to keep your IT infrastructure secure. Leave your IT to capable hands. Contact XBASE Technologies today.