New year, new you! Or at least, new internet security standards for your business. Considering the rapidly changing nature of the tech world, right now is a good time to make some New Year’s resolutions to secure your network and data.

Perform regular security audits. Yes, it’s easy to get busy and procrastinate on the details. But take the time to make a schedule for security audits right now, and then stick to it for the year.

Install security patches and upgrades immediately. Turn on automatic updates, and you never have to think about it.

Create a plan of action, in the event of a security breach. Every business should have a thoroughly-considered and well-drafted plan for security breaches, and this plan should be clearly communicated to all employees.

Install anti-virus and anti-malware software on all devices. Yes, even those devices that are only sometimes used for work should be protected. This means your phone, tablet, laptop, and any devices owned by employees.

Encrypt your network. Set up an automatic data encryption system, and hackers will confront far more obstacles in any attempt to steal your information.

Set up a VPN. Make sure all employees are logged into this network on all devices.

Update your passwords. Has it been a while since you last updated your passwords? Now is the time to swap them out for more secure ones. Don’t forget your router password!

Upgrade your authentication methods. Two-factor authentication provides the best available security, but you must install it on all accounts and apps where available.

Physically secure your equipment. Prevent unauthorized access by storing your router in a secure location. If you use an external drive to back up files regularly, remember that that data is only as safe as the location of the drive. Keep it secured.

Define your standards and communicate them. Create or update a company policy on passwords, internet use, devices allowed on the network, social media protocol, and more. Make sure you communicate these rules to employees, and enforce clear consequences for breaking them.

Do you need help with any of these New Year’s resolutions? Just give us a call at 888-RING-MY-TECH and we can help you secure your network, data, and all devices.