News

Home > News > What does a computer virus mean to me?

What does a computer virus mean to me?


Let's face it, businesses depend on computers. All of our records, company documents, financial data, etc are stored on computers. Now, would you knowingly download software that's specific purpose is to send you're mission critical and confidential information out to thousands of computer criminals that will use it to try and obtain your banking information so they can steal your money? Of course not, but that's what you're doing when you fail to properly protect your businesses computer network from the virus villains that lurk in every corner of cyberspace.

The first step in protecting your network is at the source, your internet connection. A firewall is a device that acts like a guard at a door; it allows only legitimate traffic out, and only the traffic that's intended to enter in. Another role some of these devices serve is the ability to check each piece of information that is received through your internet connection and can reject the information that's not legit. This is important because without stopping those threats, they are passed right along to your computers and servers.

The second step is implementing PC and server anti-virus software. This is a crucial part of network protection because without it, there is no protection from malicious software having complete access to your company's data. One of the most common threats are fake anti-virus software packages that state your computer is infected and asks for a credit card to purchase the 'full version'. So it's not only the having anti-virus software, but having a real business grade product that's needed. Some home based anti-virus products simply aren't capable of protecting in a business environment.

The third step required is keeping all computers and servers updated with the latest security patches from Microsoft. These Microsoft updates are used to patch and correct security flaws that are being exploited with Microsoft products. These updates can be obtained by manually downloading and installing them or by automating the process on a server.

Without each of these steps, you are placing your network in danger and your security is left up to chance. That's a dangerous risk when looking at the potential repercussions compared to the minimal investments needed to lock down your network and protect your business.

Now the last step is deciding on whether or not you want to attempt to put all these protective measures in place yourself or outsource the tasks to an IT firm. Attempting to keep up with these measures yourself might save money initially, but there are two problems I've found with this. First, this can often be a burden to one unlucky person thus keeping them from performing their intended job. Second, as good as your intentions are, most people simply lack the IT skills necessary to set up and maintain these solutions. Often these companies resort to calling an IT firm that could have handled the issue without the headache. Some IT firms will proactively monitor your network to make sure these measures are constantly in place to protect your data. In the long run, choosing an IT firm will save you money and ensure that your business is protected.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010