Network Segmentation Best Practices for SMBs

Many SMBs try to do everything themselves, under the all-encompassing umbrella of watching the budget. However, the complexity of computers and networks has grown exponentially. “Plug-in and go” networks are a thing of the past. Instead, SMB owners must now place IT and network support and IT consulting services into their budgets, right at their start-ups.

Small Business Networks

Small business network setup becomes more complicated every day. Each new smart device connected to your network is also a new endpoint, which, if not protected, can be an entry point for a cyberattack. Smart devices are part of an internet realm known as the “Internet of Things” or “IoT.” The IoT consists of cell phones, smart televisions, smart vacuums, smart HVAC systems and many other devices. Unfortunately, such devices are often difficult to connect and lack sufficient cyber security. Also, most smart devices come from manufacturers with either weak default passwords or no cyber defenses whatsoever. As a result, more than 60% of SMBs go out of business within six months of a data breach. So, is it worth risking your entire company to save a few dollars? Of course not.

A Time to Consult IT Experts

Operating a small to midsized business involves a lot of moving parts. The FBI www.fbi.gov states that the best way to survive a cyberattack is never to have one. The cybercrime target landscape has broadened since the pandemic. Therefore, SMBs should get their business networks set up correctly from the start. Before employing IT network support services, you can begin the planning process by answering the following questions: 

• Should we use the same network for all our company’s devices?
  • Is it wise to have smart devices on the same network as all your company’s data?
• Do we need a separate “Guest Network” for non-employees and other functions?
• Do we have the expertise to properly configure a separate network on one router?
  • Do we need a separate router?
• Does our business have high-compliance obligations to our clients?
• Do we have robust layers of cyber security to lock down my network and all its endpoints?

Managed Network Services

Professional Managed Network Services can address the above issues and help design networks customized to your small to midsized business needs. In doing so, IT professionals can free up employee time to focus on the business at hand, rather than wrestling with network and computer issues that are beyond your expertise.

As cybercrime continues to grow with the advent and addition of each new connected smart device, it is not a time to leave the protection of your business network to chance. IT experts specialize in network support services and understand how to set up and segment networks to best suit your business needs. IT technology has shaped our modern way of doing business and is forever tied to the daily operations of most companies. A strong computer network is the supporting infrastructure responsible for helping many business functions run more smoothly, efficiently and economically. The time and money saved by employing professionals for your SMB’s IT network support will far outweigh the costs of a potential data breach resulting from a poorly designed and insufficiently protected business network. Unfortunately, many of the critical details and changes in the cyber security climate are often overlooked by business owners who don’t know what they don’t know.

Computers and all networked devices must be regularly monitored and maintained. The newest system and software updates, established security protocols and strong cyber defenses must also be in place at all times. With the expanded use of remote and work-from-home employees, having a team of qualified IT specialists to support your system and network is essential to smooth business operations and the security of your company’s hard-earned data. An IT support team can plan and install your network, maintain and repair your computer hardware, train your staff, update all software when necessary and provide state-of-the-art cyber security for all your devices and networks.

GEEK-AID^® Computer and Network Support specializes in customized computer network installation, maintenance and repair for small to midsized businesses. GEEK-AID^®'s team of experts is comprised of top specialists in different areas of IT services, serving clients onsite and remotely for Macs, PCs and all your connected devices, including new ones that are part of the ever-expanding IoT. When your business network goes down, they will perform onsite computer repairs if required. And the GEEK-AID^® team doesn't clock out at five o'clock on Friday. They are available to you 24/7, remotely or in person, to ensure your computers, network and data stay healthy and secure. As your business grows, expands its network and adds more devices such as smart controls, smart devices, wireless access and remote access, your network's cybercrime vulnerability and need for cyber security will grow, too. In addition to maintaining the hardware, software and security, employee training and regular IT support must be ongoing. New users and new devices will require additional training to use those devices efficiently. Hardware and software installation and maintenance, repair, cyber security and network protection are inter-related concerns. They must be addressed consistently and proactively to best support the seamless operation of your company.

Call (877) GEEK-AID (877-433-5243) to discuss how they can design and maintain a secure and fully functional small to midsized business computer network for your SMB.