Every business faces its own set of unique challenges. These differences are evident in
the types of computer systems, networks, and electronic devices they use. It also means that there is no one-size-fits all solutions when it comes to antivirus services.
Still however, there are certain factors that businesses need to consider when selecting a provider.
Business Specific Threats
Creators of viruses have an incentive to create this malicious type of program. The first virus programs were designed to prove a programmer’s skill. The next generation were forms of attacks on specific organizations or people. Now, the virus creators have the incentive of stealing private information. Major corporations such as Sony have felt the embarrassment of having private emails within their network shared with the media. Large retailers have experienced huge setbacks after malware was used to hack into their systems in order to steal their customer’s financial information. These cases are different, but the effect is the same.
When looking at antivirus services, it’s important to look at the specific risk factors of your business.
- The number of people using a computer system doesn’t increase risk. Protection for data and privacy is necessary even when only one employee or user has access to files or the internet. It only takes one wrong click on a website to download malware. A quick trip for coffee without logging off can allow unauthorized access to proprietary data. Having protection in place to catch these mistakes is critical, even for smaller companies.
- Services should be tailored to match specific needs. The security requirements for those with stored data relating to retail sales will require different security checks and file storage methods, than companies in manufacturing.
- All devices sharing a network should be considered when looking for anti-virus solutions. Even a USB drive should be considered a vulnerability. As many companies allow access to a variety of devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, security solutions should reflect these needs.
- Perhaps the most significant exposure to viruses occurs with access to the Internet. Most enterprises, find having almost constant online access, a business necessity. Services offering antivirus protection should offer realistic, real world solutions.
- The reliability and cost of services are naturally also a part of selecting the best solutions.
Business Communications and Virus Protection
A common virus entry point is through email. Communication within most industries is largely dependent on email. Malicious malware entering through this channel is often disguised and difficult to detect. Some phony emails are spotted quickly, others are well planned and carefully designed to fool the receiver into clicking a download or link without realizing there’s a potential threat. Through this one piece of correspondence an intruder can access data, change and manipulate files or take over the function of a computer on a network. A hacker in Long Island for example can take over a networked computer in an office in Toronto. Frequently updating security files, firewalls, and network protocols is the best way to combat this persistent threat. Antivirus services should offer new updates for security software. The process of updating should run quickly, and with minimum interference to business operations.
The best antivirus services will have solutions and plans in place to suit the unique needs of your business.