The 9 Fundamental Layers of IT Security
The digital security of your business has never been so important. In a world where everything connects and our daily tasks are inherently technology-based, business security has unsurprisingly become largely IT focused. The first step to securing your IT is understanding the different areas that need protection. We’ve identified 9 different layers of security to cover off in your overall strategy formation. 1. Endpoint ProtectionSecuring the network is one thing, but have you thought about other devices with access to the network? From employee laptops and smartphones to visitor Wi-Fi access, you need to have the right hardware and strategy around endpoint devices. Start with separate ‘guest’ networks for clients visiting the office, then consider storing your physical router in a secure area, changing the network name from the default setting, use WPA 2 and turning off WPS. 2. Perimeter ProtectionThe perimeter of your business is the connection to an untrusted network, such as the Internet. Ensuring this is secure is essential to prevent unwanted access and viruses, ultimately keeping your organisation’s data safe. 3. Proactive Threat MonitoringThis is about keeping an eye on threats in order to stop them before they become an issue. Proactive Threat Response is a validated and integrated threat detection and response architecture that hunts down and eliminates the advanced and unknown threats that routinely bypass perimeter controls. 4. IoT & Print SecurityIoT, or Internet of Things, looks again at endpoint devices, but more specifically at devices like your printer or those delivering data back and forth. Print security is more than document security. Today’s threats require attention to data-in-transit and endpoint devices on the network. 5. End User Testing and TrainingThe most important way to defend your business is through the education of your staff. Staff need to be able to self-identify when a link is malicious versus authentic. We have programs that send “fake spam” and identify which staff respond to these threats. Through a targeted and structured program, this group of users then undergoes training to improve awareness. Pre-testing normally identifies about 30% of staff pose a risk. At the completion of the program, that thread reduces to less than 1%. 6. Board/Executive Preparedness and SimulationReputational risk is paramount when dealing with a cybersecurity breach and does require preparedness training and simulation testing. Our data breach simulation prepares Board Members and Executive Teams via a structured non-technical approach to threat assessment. The response management methodology includes assessment, training simulation and assistance with prepared statements for all stakeholders. 7. Risk Assessment and MitigationPenetration testing through identifying and remediating potential breaches is central to maintaining a secure IT environment. Our team can assist in assessing the business for risks and how to mitigate vulnerabilities. 8. Insurance and Legal Recommendations Insurance and legal matters must be treated with extra care when it comes to IT security. Counterparts has established relationships with expert legal and insurance companies who support and advise on these specialist areas. 9. Business Continuity and Disaster RecoveryWhen something does go wrong, what are you going to do? A business continuity plan, along with a solid, tested DR plan, is crucial when disaster strikes. This ensures your workforce, from IT down, knows exactly what to do in the case of disaster or downtime. Do you need help with your IT security? Counterparts Technology is a trusted technology advisor and implementer with great pedigree in solving complex technical problems to improve overall business outcomes. By working with technology and providing comprehensive security services to organisations across Australia, we offer powerful, trustworthy solutions that fit your business. Want to discuss your current security status? To find out more, get in touch with the Counterparts Technology team.
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