Working from home has become more the rule than the exception since the pandemic. While working from home has many advantages, it also carries security risks.
Therefore, it is important to ensure a safe home working environment for yourself and your co-workers. Here are some simple IT tips for working safely from home:
- Software up-to-date
Make sure all your software and hardware is up to date and that all security patches are installed. This ensures that you are protected against known security vulnerabilities and that your computer, smartphone and tablet always have basic protection.
- Strong passwords
Use strong passwords and change them regularly. Also, use a password manager to store your passwords securely. Try to use passwords with at least 13 characters, and always with lower and upper case letters, numbers and special characters. For example, a good password management tool is Lastpass
- Two-factor authentication
Use two-factor authentication for added security. This requires you to take an extra step in addition to your password, such as entering a code sent to your cell phone, to access your account.
- Firewall
Make sure your home network is secured with a basic firewall and that only permitted traffic is allowed to access your network. This will prevent unwanted traffic from entering your home network.
- Secure connections
Use only secure connections, such as SSL or TLS, when sending confidential information. This will ensure that your data is not intercepted during transmission.
- Backups
Make regular backups of important data to ensure that you never lose important data or files. Ideally, make these backups weekly or even better daily. Both physical and cloud backup is recommended for optimal data protection.
- Antivirus Software
Use antivirus software and regularly scan your devices to detect and remove malware. For example, a good antivirus software for businesses is Bitdefender
- Access Management
Limit access to confidential data and files only to those who need them. For example, with cloud storage you can easily grant permissions to who can do what with a file (read only, edit,....)
- Shutting down computers and servers
Enable automatic logoff for computers and servers when not in use, preventing unauthorized individuals from accessing systems when you are not using them.
- Training and awareness
Make employees aware of security procedures and ensure they adhere to them. Provide regular training to ensure employees are aware of the latest security trends and techniques. Make sure everyone in the company takes security seriously and follows proper procedures regarding password management, data storage, updates,....
Conclusion
It is important to remember that security is an ongoing process and that it is necessary to review it regularly to secure your homework environment and your network in general.
By following the IT tips above, you are already easily improving the security of your home office environment and lowering the risks of cyber attacks and other security problems.
