Business security is a multi-faceted need that requires a strong strategy. Many people overlook the fact that physical security and information technology (IT) are strongly connected. Because so many security features rely on a network to run, there is a now a greater need for these two groups to collaborate in order to provide effective security.

Consider the following ways IT and business security correlate.

New Technology Brings New Security Issues

Any network-connected technology used without proper security precautions can pose a major cyber threat. For example, earlier this year, cyber criminals hacked into an Austrian hotel’s electronic key system and locked all of the doors until a ransom was paid. Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as these, are prime targets for cyber criminals because they connect to a network and are often not tested for security vulnerabilities.

Every unsecure connection leaves your business vulnerable. This is where your IT department can help. Have your IT staff perform a security audit to look for any gaps, weaknesses and challenges that may exist in your current network infrastructure.

  • Are our company networks and endpoints secure?
  • Are we proactively updating company passwords?
  • Who has access to network-connected devices?

Additionally, stay informed on all cyber security news and updates to avoid putting your business at unnecessary risk.

Online Security Technology Can Impact Network Performance

Bringing physical security technology online can impact overall network performance. Your network infrastructure needs to be properly designed and optimized to ensure performance. If you reach network capacity or max out your bandwidth, for example, you could cause other business-critical systems on the network to fail. Work with your IT department to ensure your network infrastructure is strong enough to support your security equipment.

Don’t Neglect Best IT Practices

Patching and updating your devices and software is one of the easiest ways to keep cyber criminals at bay, and it’s a responsibility that generally falls under the IT department. Consider these recommendations to keep business data secure:

  • Encrypt critical data to ensure protection from third-party access.
  • Back up data to ensure it isn’t lost in the event of a cyber attack.
  • Conduct a cyber threat assessment to uncover weaknesses.
  • House non-critical functions like guest Wi-Fi on a separate network. That way, if there is a breach, your main business won’t be affected.
  • Limit access to your network and devices to only those who require it.
  • Review company policies to ensure employees understand the importance of network security.

Cyber security is a collaborative effort between your IT and security teams. For more information on how your IT department can effectively work with loss prevention professionals, download our free whitepaper.