The Importance of IT Security for Hybrid Working

17 May

Cybersecurity is fundamentally the most important consideration for any hybrid workforce.

Threats of a cyber-attack are real and constant and hackers and cyber attackers do not discriminate when it comes to their victims. Businesses and charities do not think twice about protecting devices in the office from cyber-attacks and viruses and the same rigour needs to be applied to those working remotely.

The issue of protecting remote workers’ devices has been critical since the pandemic sparked one of the most significant changes to work patterns in decades. Since the initial ‘work from home’ orders we have since seen a huge shift in the UK to hybrid working. In fact, of those who currently still work from home, 85% said they wanted a hybrid approach in the future.

This new working model means organisations need to adopt a fresh approach to cybersecurity to ensure data is fully protected across a fragmented workforce, no matter where people are working from.

Endpoint security – The first line of defence

In a world where data is often a business’s greatest asset, every unprotected endpoint is a potential area of weakness. Cyber security threats, and more specifically end point threats, are always advancing.

Endpoint security becomes vital when employees start using their own devices to connect to a company’s network. Whether your company has 10 employees or 10,000 endpoint security is the best way to ensure all your desktops, laptops and mobiles cannot be targeted.

Accessing unsecured Wi-Fi networks can pose a significant security risk so a VPN is invaluable. Web filtering, firewalls and email security are also key to keeping your business secure. Internet-based threats are becoming so advanced that you can no-longer rely on perimeter web control alone.

Luckily, we know how to stop the attacks before they even reach your inbox. At OX IT Solutions our go to provider of endpoint security is Watchguard, so much so we use its products in-house.

We offer a wide range of industry-leading network and endpoint security, secure Wi-Fi, multi-factor authentication, and network intelligence products and services. Our expert technical team and strong vendor partnerships ensure we provide cutting-edge cybersecurity technology that is easy-to-deploy and manage to ensure you’re always covered.

Mobile security – More important than you might think

Now more than ever individuals are using their smart phones to contact clients, send emails and access company data. In a hybrid working environment, it’s vital we can do all these things whilst on the go.

Protection for smartphones should be paramount as phishing and virus attacks are more prevalent than ever.In real time, mobile security solutions can scan and block anti spyware and anti-malware. Device and data encryption can protect your private information and effective backup services make recovery simple.

When choosing a mobile security solution, uninterrupted user experience is key. Security should not come at the expense of utility. At OX IT Solutions we understand the importance of this, so we only offer mobile security products that integrate seamlessly with your device.

Cloud based solutions – managing security for you

If part of your workforce is based at home full time getting access to their software can be difficult. Luckily there is a simple solution. A managed service can access the software for you, report on issues or security breaches and resolve any problems quickly.

Businesses with small IT departments or a lack of infrastructure particularly suit cloud-based solutions as they benefit from the economies of scale and efficiency. 24/7 monitoring provides you with real time updates and enables you to take a proactive approach to threat. Permission can be revoked at any time so concerns over confidentiality or data privacy are not necessary.

At OX IT Solutions we can recommend cloud service providers (CSP) that offer network services, infrastructure, or business applications in the cloud. Speak to one of our friendly tech team to find out how managed service can work for you.

Cyber security review – identify and eliminate your weaknesses

Secure your business today and book a remote cyber security review to help identify any weak spots in your cyber defences. We can assess your existing security protocols and advise you on what strategies and solutions to implement to keep your workforce protected no matter where they are.

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