A Layered Security Approach is Best for Business

Instead of looking for a magic formula, you should approach data security from the perspective of layers or building blocks. Each safeguard you can place between malicious online threats and your company's data will provide another layer of security for the lifeblood of your business: information. The layers — or building blocks — that all small businesses should consider are:

• Physical security
• User security
• System security
• Network security

More than any other device on your network, the individual PC is vulnerable because it's the favored point of entry for some of the most common security threats. And the "work-anywhere workforce" enabled by wireless technologies heightens your security challenge. That's why installing and keeping a current version of security software on all your employees' computers is a necessary first step to system security. This software helps protect against viruses, worms, spyware and other threats that are transmitted over the Internet, as well as files imported from USB keys, instant messaging and other means.

Network Security

Without a doubt, network technology drives small business productivity and success. But it also increases vulnerability to security threats. Fortunately, a wide range of technologies in the marketplace today are designed specifically to help small businesses keep their networks safe and secure.

• Firewalls: A firewall is a protective barrier that prevents unwanted access to or from your company network. The firewall scans all traffic passing in and out of your network and blocks unauthorized messages, intruders and viruses.


• VPN Protection: A virtual private network (VPN) is a cost-effective solution for employees at small businesses to connect securely to their respective business networks from remote locations, and communicate confidentially with each other across shared or public networks like the Internet. Leading technology vendors offer VPN and Intrusion Protection/Packet inspection to help ensure that VPN connections are secure.


• Encryption: When buying network technology, small businesses should seek out those vendors who provide hardware support for WPA2, a sophisticated encryption protocol and part of the 802.11 industry standard for networks. WPA2, which comes standard on select


• Cisco Compatible Extensions Program: Because the vast majority of wireless networks come in touch with Cisco Systems technologies, small businesses should consider using wireless equipment manufactured by the Cisco Compatible Extensions Program. This program is designed to ensure that wireless solutions deliver tested and certified compatibility with the latest Cisco wireless infrastructure hardware and security technology