Small- and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) have become a steady supply of stolen data for cybercriminals looking to sell them over the dark web. With enterprises sprouting, the demand for cybersecurity solutions is increasing, but not without costs. Budding businesses often put off getting professional IT assistance for their cybersecurity needs for many reasons. Some might feel that it’s not necessary since they have a decent knowledge of computers. Others find themselves clueless about where to begin building their cybersecurity strategy. Still others are simply too focused on gaining customers without recognizing the need for cybersecurity.
Here are some questions you might have when identifying IT solutions for your SMB.
#1. Is cost cutting the best way to save money?
Budget constraints are understandably the first reason that enterprises hesitate to invest in a sound IT infrastructure or IT-hosted services. While it is tempting to use a pirated version of Microsoft Office 365 to cut down on costs, chances of malware attacks and destroyed files become higher with illegal software that lacks security patches.
Skimping on hardware is also more costly in the long run. Not only does this prevent you from keeping your systems protected from emerging malware, but it also hampers your compliance with government-mandated policies. Non-compliance results in hefty penalties or worse, revocation of your business permit.
The good news is that many managed services providers (MSPs) offer competitive pricing to address the rising demand for cyber defenses. SMBs moving to the cloud can take advantage of cloud-hosting services that can be scaled on demand. You only pay for IT solutions and services as needed. Some MSPs also offer IT training to help you and your staff ensure data privacy, conduct basic software updates, and prevent malware attacks. Overall, investing wisely in a reliable MSP prevents tons of cost in non-compliance, data breach, and reputational damage.
#2. What is security policy and why do you need it?
According to a report, Ghanaian businesses lost $97 million in 2018 to cybercrime. This propelled the call for better data protection and smarter internet usage. As such, SMBs must be armed with government-compliant security policies that are just as comprehensive as those of large businesses.
Security policies help organizations come up with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and provide business owners and non-IT personnel the opportunity to understand proper data protection so they can help mitigate risks. MSP experts can help you establish comprehensive security policies that fit your business.
#3. Do you need to give your staff IT training?
A good set of security policies would be useless if your staff is left in the dark. Most managed IT services include IT training to help empower you and your staff to handle security protocols in the event of a malicious attack.
Your staff need not be IT experts themselves, but it is necessary for them to learn the basic principles of cybersecurity to help drive your business growth while staying safe in the age of IT.
If you need guidance on setting up your IT infrastructure or help in filling in the gaps in your IT workforce, Zentech IT Solutions will provide you with tailor-fit, practical information technology advice and solutions to help you achieve your business goals. Contact us today!
