The bring-your-own-device (BYOD) business model is ideal for small to mid-sized companies that want to save money on computer equipment. By allowing employees to bring devices from home, your IT provider in Connecticut can help cut computer costs. You simply need to provide your workforce with a cloud computing solution, such as setting up a private cloud. Here are steps to implement a secure BYOD solution to help your bottom line:
Plan Your BYOD Strategy
The biggest concern when deciding on a BYOD strategy is creating a cross-platform environment that allows for a diversity of devices, without sacrificing strong security. You will need a centralized software solution, such as using a mobile device management (MDM) platform. This type of software gives you tools to manage which specific devices are allowed on your network. MDM software allows your IT team to monitor and block intruders that are not authorized to access your data and applications. Remember that you cannot just rely on each employee updating their own software security to protect company data.
Security Requirements
In order for the BYOD model to work properly, your IT provider in Connecticut must have the ability to wipe a device remotely in case it's lost or stolen. MDM software lets you separate personal and work sections on devices with partitions, in which work data can be monitored and controlled by the centralized admin panel. Each employee must have a clear understanding that the company has a right to protect its private information, even on personal devices.
Policies for Sensitive Data
Your company needs to establish specific written policies that employees must follow regarding sharing confidential information online. Employees must not share such data in certain scenarios, such as public wi-fi networks, which can be easily penetrated by hackers. Your policies should include guidelines for the types of information that can be stored on personal devices.
Communication with Employees on Policies
It's imperative to communicate your privacy policies with employees clearly so that there is no confusion on protecting confidential information. These policies affect personal email, social media, instant messaging, and any other methods of sharing digital information. Employees need to be informed about websites and applications that are acceptable and off-limits. Sites that violate copyright law, for example, can pose security threats since they are sometimes infected with malware.
Additionally, employees need to be trained on how to avoid phishing emails and other scams that cybercriminals use for attacks. One of the most common ways for malware to enter a network is due to employee error. Hackers often try to persuade an unsuspecting worker to click an email attachment disguised as something fun or attention-getting, such as a video game. Attackers often prey on BYOD networks since many businesses don't use sufficient security for such environments.
A reputable IT provider in Connecticut understands the importance of protecting a private cloud from intruders. Your company needs to work with an experienced IT firm that ensures a safe BYOD environment. Opening the door for employees to work remotely can save your company an enormous amount of money on equipment, maintenance, and energy. Contact us now at Keiser Corporation to learn more about how we can help make your workplace more secure, productive and efficient.
