When you decide to upgrade your business computers, you will probably choose the latest version of Windows, the most memory you can afford, and all of the bells and whistles. After all, you only want the best and most efficient equipment for your business.
You might notice that Windows includes anti-virus software, so you assume that your new computers are well protected. However, even Microsoft’s developers will admit that this protection is more of a “baseline” type of protection; perhaps good enough for a casual user who doesn’t rely on their computer for their livelihood, but not good enough for a business with sensitive data at stake.
For a business, even one virus could spell disaster if the right (or wrong) information is accessed or stolen. At the very least, a virus that shuts down your computers will interrupt your business. At worst, you might be dealing with a serious public relations incident.
In fact, the worst viruses aren’t the ones that immediately cause your computers to act a little nutty. The worst ones are the “sleepers” – the ones that quietly slip by your “adequate” Windows protection, lurk in silence for months, and secretly record information or spread to your contacts. In fact, no matter how careful you are, each virus that does manage to sneak into your network has the potential to wreak havoc on your customers or business contacts. We are increasingly adopting a “herd immunity” approach to internet security, for the benefit of all.
Labs that test security software nearly always agree: the basic protection included with the latest version of Windows just doesn’t stack up against most of the commercially available anti-virus protection programs – and it certainly doesn’t compare to the security methods installed by a trained information technology specialist.
If you’re just not sure about your level of security and want an honest and objective evaluation, give us a call and we’ll help you to determine your needs. Remember, “good enough” protection doesn’t equal “good protection”. What works for the casual user is not right for businesses who are responsible for not only their own safety but that of their customers and associates.
