Your company’s cybersecurity is at risk this very moment. In fact, according to Inc. half of all hackers and cyber attackers are targeting small businesses first and foremost. From ransomware to malware, these cyber bullies are stealing data and surveilling your business activity. All of this starts with using the internet, something your company does every day. While you cannot avoid going online with your business, you can take steps to ensure a secure connection safe from hackers. Check out these resources for improving your wireless security.

Wi-Fi Equipment and Software

• Install antivirus software for your server.
• Use antispam software to control malicious links to unsecure websites.
• Add anti-phishing software to your system to avoid phishing attacks.
• Update your software, hardware, and servers regularly. More specifically, buy a new internet modem every five years to maintain the latest technology.
• Use a separate hardware source for each of your servers.

Settings for a Secure Connection

• Choose only safe public networks when going online outside of the office.
• Or choose to use your smartphone as a hotspot instead of using public Wi-Fi.
• Create a secure connection by adding a password to your router.
• And while you’re at it, change your router password to something other than the default.
• Encrypt your wireless connection by turning on the WPA or WPA2 Personal settings.
• Track log-in information for network users, and maintain a log offline to watch for unusual or unauthorized access on your devices.
• Set up a virtual private network or VPN to protect your company when using applications or cloud-based services.
• Turn on the firewall for all your devices.
• Turn off the Wi-Fi protected setup or WPS that allows devices to pair with others.

Improved Password Protection

• Use a password for all your devices.
• Avoid storing passwords and usernames for your office equipment in unsecured locations.
• Never use the same username and password for multiple devices at the same time.
• Stop changing passwords once a month-it’s a waste of time.
• Set up two-factor authentication that requires you to add a password along with another piece of information that only you will have, such as a code texted to your cell phone, before you can log in.
• Opt for longer passwords over random or alphanumeric gibberish to ensure your employees can remember them while keeping log-in information secure.
• Choose a highly secure password manager to store usernames and passwords.

Cybersecurity Policy

If something does happen to your company’s wireless connection causing a security breach, you want to be protected. Start with these proactive steps:

• Establish a cybersecurity company policy of what to do if the office system is hacked or IT equipment is stolen.
• Create a business continuity plan to keep your business functioning in the wake of a cyber threat.
• Train your employees on best practices for cybersecurity.

These resources provide simple yet effective ways that your small business can step up your cybersecurity game. In addition to protecting your company's information, you’re also on the right path to protecting the personal data sourced from your customers.