Cybersecurity. It’s not just a buzzword. It’s something that every business owner has to take seriously. With so much business done online, so much data stored on computers, and so many digital threats out there, it’s simply impossible to run a modern, reliable company without a solid cybersecurity plan.
This guide will explore why cybersecurity matters while highlighting the key elements that make up a strong cybersecurity framework.

The Importance of Cybersecurity

Recent statistics show that ransomware attacks occur every 11 seconds. And businesses lose millions of dollars due to cybercrime each and every year. In other words, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated.
Ransomware. Phishing. Viruses. Trojans. Worms. Hacks. Cyber-attacks can come in countless forms, and their effects are often devastating. Businesses not only lose huge amounts of money to these malicious digital threats, but some are unable to recover and are forced to close entirely.
Others have to deal with legal action, like lawsuits, if their inaction allows for sensitive customer data to fall into the wrong hands. And any business, small or large, can be a target. Even if most of your business happens in person, if you have any devices or store any data, you could be at risk.
Cybersecurity is the way you defend your business against those risks. It comes in various forms, and investing in cybersecurity today is one of the best ways to future-proof your firm against potential problems that lie ahead.

The Key Elements of Cyber Defense

We know that cybersecurity is of the utmost importance for any modern business. But cybersecurity is about much more than just antivirus programs. There are lots of different elements that make up a solid and sturdy cybersecurity framework.

Application Security

Application security, otherwise known as program or software security, is all about setting up cyber defenses to safeguard the software your business uses. This is especially important for businesses that are involved in the development of new apps and programs. But it also applies to any other business that uses software of some kind on a daily basis.
A lot of apps come with security weaknesses or gaps that can exploited by hackers. And, if users don’t set up the security settings just right, their data could be at risk, easily falling into the wrong hands. Strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and administrator privileges are just some of the ways to strengthen software defenses.

Data Security

Data or information security, as the name implies, is about the protection of data. And, these days, companies have massive reams of data to protect. That often includes sensitive info, like customer names, addresses, and card details, as well as important business files that should be for your eyes only. Unfortunately, recent history is littered with examples of major data breaches.
A data breach can spell the end for even big, established brands. It doesn’t just damage the brand’s reputation in the eyes of customers but can also cause major compliance issues. This is particularly true for any firms operating in strictly controlled industries, like healthcare. Data security solutions, like file integrity monitoring and data encryption, can reduce the risk of leaks.

Network Security

Network security is the process of securing a business network and all the various devices connected to that network. In the average office, for example, dozens of computers or laptops are all hooked up to the same network, along with other pieces of hardware. Hackers can target network weaknesses to infiltrate the system, potentially gaining access to sensitive files or even gaining control of devices.
Firewalls are a commonly known example of network security, working to block unwanted access attempts from users outside the network. However, various other tools may be used, like identity control, access management solutions, and web proxy filters. Virtual private networks (VPNs), too, work to encrypt network connections.

Device Security

When most people think about cybersecurity, they’re thinking of device security. This includes utilizing the likes of antivirus software and anti-malware suites – the sort of software that everyone, from business users to individuals, is encouraged to install on their devices. Computers, phones, laptops, and tablets can all benefit from strong device defenses.
There are such a lot of viruses out there, and so many ways in which they can sneak onto devices. Antivirus programs carry out scheduled scans to identify malicious software and prevent it from doing any serious damage. Other device defenses can also be set up, like passwords, and facial and fingerprint scans to prevent unauthorized access.

Disaster Recovery

Even with the best cyber defenses, hacks, and data breaches can still occur. And it helps to have a plan if and when that happens. Otherwise, you could find yourself following in the footsteps of countless unfortunate business owners before you – panicking, confused, and utterly unsure of how to recover. And, if you wait too long, it could be too late to save your firm.
That’s where disaster recovery comes in. One of the most important elements of cybersecurity, disaster recovery is about planning and preparing for the worst-case scenario. So, even if a terrible digital attack does befall your business, you’ll be in a decent position to cope with it. This could involve backing up your files on the cloud and setting up endpoint protection. That way, your business will have a better chance of recovering from a cybersecurity blow if the worst occurs.

Invest in Cybersecurity Today for a Safer Tomorrow

The beauty of a strong cybersecurity system is that you won’t even notice it working. Like a silent guardian, it’ll defend your networks, devices, and data against digital threats. It keeps your company safe and lets you get on with what matters: running your business and satisfying your customers.
And ProServ can help with that. As a family-owned business solutions provider, we offer an array of technology services to strengthen and safeguard companies around St. Joseph and Kansas City. To find out if ProServ can boost your device security or help you set up a solid disaster recovery plan, contact us today.