There are very few companies these days that do not require a comprehensive cybersecurity plan in some way. As IT and software professionals, it is often assumed that you will have a fully-developed knowledge of how to implement a cybersecurity policy. However, the key to having a sturdy cybersecurity policy at any company is having an up-to-date and full knowledge of every preventative measure you can use.

A specialized degree

There is no better way of bringing cybersecurity to your company than having a modern, up-to-date education. By choosing a degree that is informed by the National Security Agency, you will have some of the best techniques at your disposal. A Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity will not only make you more employable, but it will also bring state-of-the-art cybersecurity practices to your company. There’ll be no need to be intimidated by new and improved technology or how to use it.

Communication

One of the best ways to bring cybersecurity best practice into your company is to communicate the dangers effectively. While some of us might take it for granted that we would never give our passwords to a stranger or fill in the information into a non-secure website, this isn’t always clear to all employees. After all, cybercriminals have mastered the art of deception – it’s not just the elderly of tech-illiterate that get fooled. Having yearly briefings on how everyone can help keep your company secure is one of the best precautions you can take.

Back everything up

As well as bringing expertise and strategy, it’s good to take some effective, preventative measures. Backing up all of your information on cloud software means that, should you be unfortunate enough to encounter a cyberattack, your information will be safe. It’s advised that you make up to three copies of your data to ensure that you will still absolutely be able to keep hold of it. For example, if your computer network and cloud were hacked, you would still have a hard drive somewhere with your data available to use on it.

Caution with BYOD

Whether you’re a small company composed of three friends or the IT manager of a large conglomerate, BYOD poses a lot of threats to computer networks. This acronym stands for ‘bring your own device’ which these days not only includes laptops but also cell phones and smartwatches. The best way to be cautious about the viruses these may bring in is to install a password protection system that needs to be regularly updated. This also helps your company to keep track of who has accessed the network – preventing unauthorized use of your network.

The best ways to protect your company from cybercriminals is education and communication. If you think your company could benefit from understanding modern cybersecurity practices, then getting a qualification will ensure that your security measures are coming from a place of expertise. Running IT systems effectively is one aspect of network management; keeping them safe from cybercriminals is quite another.