1. Password Security Policies:
- Implement a policy that requires strong, complex passwords across your organization. Passwords should be a minimum of 12 characters long and contain a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Tools such as Microsoft’s Active Directory or a password management solution can help enforce this.
2. Use a Password Manager:
- Encourage the use of a password manager among your employees. This tool can create and store complex, unique passwords for each of your online accounts, helping to maintain password hygiene. Examples include LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden.
3. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
- Enable MFA on all systems and accounts that support it. This could involve biometrics, tokens, or authenticator apps. MFA adds an extra layer of protection, requiring users to verify their identity in two or more ways.
4. Install Antivirus Software:
- Choose a robust antivirus software and install it on all devices across your organization. This software should be set to update automatically and conduct regular scans. Examples of such software include Norton, McAfee, or Avast.
5. Set Up Firewalls:
- Implement a network-level firewall to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. You could use hardware firewalls like those from Cisco, Juniper, or software ones like pfSense.
- Additionally, enable host-based firewalls on all individual devices. These are often included with modern operating systems.
6. Secure Your Wi-Fi Networks:
- Ensure your Wi-Fi networks are secure, encrypted, and hidden. Use Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) if it’s available. Also, consider setting up a separate network for guests that doesn’t have access to your business’s main network and its connected devices.
7. Regularly Update All Software:
- Keeping your software up-to-date is crucial for security. Enable automatic updates where possible, or consider using a centralized update management system, especially if you’re managing a large number of devices.
8. Secure Physical Access to Devices:
- Ensure that physical access to devices is restricted. This can include locking devices when not in use, using screen privacy filters, or physically locking devices with a cable lock.
9. Use Secure Configurations:
- Most software and hardware come with default settings aimed at ease-of-use and not security. Research and apply secure configurations for your software and hardware. The Center for Internet Security (CIS) provides a good starting point with their CIS Benchmarks.
10. Limit User Permissions:
- Implement the principle of least privilege (PoLP), i.e., give employees the minimum levels of access they need to complete their work. This can limit the spread of a potential security breach. Consider using a tool or service for Identity and Access Management (IAM).