It’s no secret that more and more businesses are taking advantage of the incredible benefits of encryption for safeguarding sensitive information and data.

In fact, encryption is quickly becoming a necessity in order to protect data from being accessed or stolen by hackers. And what’s more, doing so is proven to save businesses big money for each attack (an average of $1.4 million)!

While encryption has always been critical for financial institutions and other organizations handling sensitive data, it is now becoming increasingly important for businesses in other industries as well.

In this blog we’re going to take you on a guided tour of all things encryption-based. We’ll teach you a little bit about the various types of data encryption that exist, then explain to you the biggest 5 encryption benefits the eponymous cyber security solution can afford you.

 

What is Data Encryption and What are the Various Types (and What Do They Do)?

Source:SSLStore

 

Data encryption is the process of scrambling data in order to make it unreadable and indecipherable by anyone who doesn’t have the right key or password.

Simply put, the data can only be viewed if someone has access to a secret code (key), which enables them to unscramble the encrypted information.

Now that you know what encryption is, let’s look at some of the different types of encryption used in today’s information security solutions:

Symmetric Encryption

This type of encryption uses just one key for both encrypting and decrypting data. It is used more often than not because it’s faster and less taxing on resources than other methods.

Asymmetric Encryption

This type of encryption uses two different encryption keys for encrypting and decrypting data (one public key, one private key). It is more secure than symmetric encryption but slower in terms of processing speed.

Hashing

Hashing is used to create a unique identifier or “fingerprint” for a file; it cannot be reversed to get the original information. It is mainly used as an authentication tool.

 

The Top 5 Benefits of Data Encryption You Should Know About

Now that you know what encryption is and what types are available, let’s move onto the 5 benefits of encryption technology in your business:

 

1) Enhanced Security

The most obvious benefit of using encrypted data is enhanced security and data protection. Encrypted data can’t be accessed without the correct key, which means that hackers will have a much harder time breaking into your systems or networks.

 

2) Improved Data Integrity

Encryption algorithms help to protect data from unauthorized alteration, which is important for maintaining the accuracy and consistency of the data. This can be especially helpful for organizations dealing with large amounts of complex information.

Avoid Having Your Data Being Stolen or Lost Forever! Our backup and disaster recovery solutions make sure your data stays with you. Learn More

 

3) Increased Privacy

Encryption also helps to ensure privacy by making it more difficult for third parties to access sensitive consumer data. This is essential for businesses that handle customer information or credit cards and need to comply with privacy regulations such as GDPR.

 

4) Cost Savings

Implementing encryption technology often costs less than defending against cyberattacks, meaning organizations can save money in the long run by investing in encryption solutions now.

 

5) Regulatory Compliance

Many regulatory bodies require organizations to use encryption technology in order to comply with data security standards. This is especially true for businesses that handle sensitive financial or health data, as well as those in certain industries like banking and healthcare.

 

Examining the Benefits of Encryption

While there are many advantages and disadvantages of data encryption, the benefits to businesses far outweigh the cons, including enhanced security, improved data integrity, increased privacy and cost savings.

Investing in the right type of encryption solutions can be invaluable for ensuring that sensitive data remains safe, secure, and compliant. It’s up to you to decide which type of solution best suits your needs, but rest assured that whatever you choose will have a positive impact on protecting your business from malicious actors.

As more businesses are recognizing the importance of encryption and its various benefits (including the benefits of encrypting your phones), investing in the right cyber security solution is becoming increasingly important.

In order to make sure that your business is properly protected from malicious actors and data breaches, it’s essential to find a reliable encryption solution that can meet your needs. Investing in the right type of solution can help safeguard against costly data breaches and help you remain compliant with industry regulations.

Learn these other essential cyber security insights to prevent being a cyber-victim: The 8 Major Types of Vulnerabilities in Network Security The 10 Most Common IT Problems in Businesses and How to Solve Them 5 Important Benefits of Cyber Security Training

 

Capitalizing on the Advantages of Encryption with Advanced Networks

Encryption is becoming increasingly important in today’s digital world, as businesses need to be able to protect their sensitive data from malicious actors.

Whatever your reasons for encryption, Advanced Networks offers a variety of solutions that can help organizations ensure the security and integrity of their information. With our encryption technology, businesses can take advantage of features like end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and more. This ensures that any data sent over a network is adequately secured and cannot be accessed by unauthorized parties.

Contact us today to learn more about how our encryption solutions can elevate your data security.

The cost of cybercrime has risen by 10% in the past year alone. This number is especially alarming, considering that 43% of data breaches target small business victims.

If you manage or work with a tech team, it’s important to be aware of the different types of network security that are available so you can stay protected from these threats.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the six main types of network security and how they can help keep your data safe.

 

Exploring The Importance of Network Security

Keeping your small business secure is no easy feat. And while internal IT teams may have been sufficient in the past, hackers are becoming more and more sophisticated each day, which makes it even harder to keep your data safe.

The many network security types all play a pivotal role in protecting your business from threats like malware, viruses and hacking attempts.

A managed service provider (MSP) can help by delivering a variety of services like:

• Anti-virus software
• Remote monitoring
• Firewalls
• Email security
• Different types of encryption in network security
• Network scanning
• Network segmentation
• Encryption and decryption
• Intrusion prevention systems (IPS)
• Access controls

All these features combined will give your business peace of mind that your operations are securely shielded from malicious attacks.

Image Credit: Check Point Research 

 

With the global cost of data breach at $4.35 million in 2022 and the average number of attacks increasing by 38% between 2021 and 2022, the importance of network security in business has never been more evident.

Let’s explore some of the most common types of network security and how they can help.

 

6 Common Types of Network Security

 

1. Email Security

Email security is an important type of network security, consisting of measures to reduce the risk of criminals accessing or manipulating information exchanged via email.

Common components of email application security include advanced encryption standard (AES), spam protection, secure password standards, secure email hosting, and domain monitoring.

 

2. Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)

Intrusion prevention (IPS) is a security service that safeguards networks from malicious actors by detecting, analyzing and blocking suspicious activities.

Its components are composed of preventive measures such as firewall rules, antivirus software, and different types of scanning in network security. Meanwhile, it also provides corrective measures in the event of an attack, such as limiting traffic or sender/recipient blacklists.

Get Customized Network Security Built To Protect Find Out How Advanced Networks Can Help Contact Us

3. Remote Monitoring

Remote monitoring helps your team identify trends and take proactive actions before the issues become too disruptive.

This technology utilizes monitoring agents that collect data on:

1. Network performance
2. Hardware/software health
3. Real-time network activity
4. IP addresses tracing

Remote system monitoring works by allowing you to define certain conditions through automation so that when any incongruities are detected, alerts can be sent to system administrators in real-time so proactive steps can be taken right away.

 

4. Access Controls

It is projected that the access control market alone will grow from $7.5 billion in 2018 to $12.1 billion by 2024, at an annualized rate of 8.24%.

As one of the most popular network security types, access controls provide security by restricting or allowing access to data, applications, files, networks, or other systems based on predetermined rules and criteria.

Common components of these controls include authentication/verification, authorization, roles-based privileges, segregation of duties, password policy enforcement, logging/auditing activity and redundant backups for additional security.

By implementing all these components in an effective manner, your organization gains a higher level of trust when it comes to protecting the integrity of digital assets.

 

5. Network Scanning

There are multiple types of scanning in network security that all play a crucial role in protecting your network. It’s important to regularly scan your network for vulnerabilities, so that malicious actors have fewer opportunities to enter your system and compromise your sensitive data.

The most common types of scanning are port scanning, vulnerability scanners, and service detection scans.

• Port scanning: helps to uncover open ports that could be entry points for malicious actors looking to gain access to an organization’s network.
• Vulnerability scanning: detect flaws in a system’s configuration that could lead to it being compromised if left unaddressed.
• Operating system or service detection scans: detect the type of operating systems or services installed on a device, which can help administrators assess whether those services are secure enough for use given your organization’s risk posture.

In short, network scanning is an invaluable tool for organizations looking to bolster their cyber security efforts. Check out these resources to learn more about the importance of cybersecurity:

Resources: The 8 Major Network Security Vulnerabilities for Businesses Why Is Network Security Important?

 

6. Encryption

There are a number of different types of encryption in network security available, all with varying levels of protection to prevent unauthorized access.

What are the most common types?

• Symmetric key encryption: involves using a single, shared key; while asymmetric encryption uses two distinct but linked keys to keep messages safe.
• Public-key infrastructure (PKI) encryption: which incorporates authentication certificates, as well as data-in-transit protection such as SSL/TLS.
• Quantum encryption: which is used to protect large amounts of data across multiple locations and users.
• Private key encryption: uses a pair of keys, one public and one private, to encrypt and decrypt information. The public key is used to encrypt data that only the private key can decrypt.

By understanding what type of encryption is right for their specific circumstances, you can be sure that your sensitive information is kept safe and secure at all times.

 

 

Implementing the Different Types of Network Security

When it comes to implementing the different types of network security, a managed service provider (MSP) is an invaluable tool in ensuring your success.

By entrusting an experienced IT provider like Advanced Networks, we will help you identify vulnerabilities within your wireless networks and safeguard your digital assets accordingly.

Prioritize security with our expertise – book a free consultation to learn more about our wireless security offerings and how they can help.

In our modern, technologically-focused world, businesses rely on computer networks to conduct their daily operations. From email and internet access to sales and inventory tracking, almost everything a business does is connected in some way to a network. It’s no wonder then that so many businesses place the utmost importance on network security!

And especially so when you consider that the median cost of a cyber attack for a business was $18,000 in 2022 (up from $10,000 in 2021).

In this blog post, we will discuss 10 reasons why network security is so important for businesses. We’ll also talk about the dangers of not having adequate network security and how it can lead to disastrous consequences for companies.

 

What Exactly is Network Security and How Do Businesses Use it to Protect Their Data?

Network security is a broad term that covers a variety of measures taken to protect the integrity and confidentiality of data on a network.

These measures include:

1. Firewall protection – A firewall is an important tool for businesses when it comes to protecting their networks from external threats. It acts as a physical or virtual barrier between the company’s internal networks and the outside world, blocking malicious traffic while allowing legitimate connections to pass through.
2. Encryption – Encryption involves encoding data so that only those with access to the encryption key (usually a password) can read it. This makes it much more difficult for hackers to steal sensitive information from businesses (or perform ransomware attacks) since they would need both the key and knowledge of how to decode the data.

Make the Most of our Network Security Services BEFORE You’re Cyber-Attacked! Our managed cybersecurity services can keep you safe and reduce the cost of a data breach! Learn More

3. Antivirus and anti malware software – Antivirus and antimalware software are essential for creating a secure network and protecting it from malicious viruses, malware, Trojans and other cyber threats.
4. Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) – IPS monitors network traffic in real-time to detect any unauthorized attempts at accessing data or networks. The system then takes measures to block the attack before it can do any damage, making it a highly valuable tool in the pursuit of information security.
5. User access control – User access control is an important security measure for businesses to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive information on their networks (and unauthorized users don’t). This is done through authentication processes such as passwords, biometrics scans and two-factor authentication protocols.

 

Why is Network Security Important? The Top 10 Reasons and What Can Happen if You Don’t Have it

 

1. Data Loss Prevention

Despite the best efforts of businesses, it’s not always possible to keep all data safe from cyber attackers.

However, having an effective network security system in place (and don’t forget about application security either) can help minimize the potential damage by preventing unauthorized access and ensuring that confidential information is kept safe.

 

2. Avoiding Regulatory Fines

Many regulatory bodies impose hefty fines on businesses who fail to comply with security requirements such as GDPR or PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard).

Having a robust network security system in place helps ensure that your business is compliant with these regulations and avoids costly penalties.

 

3. Improved Efficiency

Network security solutions can help improve a business’s efficiency by providing better control over access to the network.

This means that only those with the right authorization can access sensitive data on the networks, which significantly reduces the potential for human errors and unauthorized access to confidential information.

 

4. Mitigating Risk

Cybersecurity threats and the resulting security breaches are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated, making it difficult for businesses to stay one step ahead of attackers at all times.

Having network security protects businesses against these risks by providing an extra layer of defense against malicious cyber threats.

 

5. Protecting Reputation

A business’s reputation is everything, and any breach of security can have a devastating effect on its brand image, especially where client data is concerned.

Via effective security measures, businesses can ensure that their customers’ personal data remains secure and their brand reputation remains intact.

 

6. Reduced Costs

Having a solid network security system in place significantly reduces the costs associated with responding to, repairing and recovering from security incidents.

Safeguard your critical data with key learnings from these inside-industry articles: The 8 Major Types of Vulnerabilities in Network Security The 10 Most Common IT Problems in Businesses and How to Solve Them 5 Important Benefits of Cyber Security Training

This can save businesses time and money in the long run, as well as helping protect their bottom line from expensive fines imposed by regulatory bodies.

 

7. Maintaining Trust

Building trust with customers is one of the most important aspects of any business’s success, and this requires that customer data is kept secure at all times.

By using effective network security solutions, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to protecting customer data and keep customers coming back for more.

 

8. Improved Productivity

Cybersecurity threats are not only costly to a business’s finances, but they can also have a detrimental effect on productivity.

By investing in effective network security solutions, businesses can reduce the potential for cyber attacks and ensure that their employees are able to work without fear of disruption or data loss via a strong and well-protected network connection.

 

9. Compliance

Many industries now require businesses to adhere to certain standards when it comes to protecting sensitive customer and personal information.

For example, organizations that store credit card information must comply with PCI DSS standards (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). Having an effective security system in place helps ensure compliance with these regulations and avoids costly fines.

 

10. Peace of Mind

Last but not least, having an effective network security system in place gives business owners peace of mind.

Knowing that their data is safe and secure gives them the confidence to focus on other business operations, allowing them to concentrate on what really matters – growing their business.

 

Why Do We Need Network Security? Advanced Networks Has the Answer for You!

From protecting confidential data to avoiding costly fines, network security is an essential part of any business.

At Advanced Networks, we understand the importance of maintaining a secure IT infrastructure and have the experience and expertise necessary to help you protect your business from cyber threats.

Contact us today to learn more about how our network security solutions can help keep your business safe.

 

 

 

 

The benefits of remote IT support are rather clear:

• Cut costs
• Remove IT roadblocks (speeding up workflows)
• Scale more easily
• Automate repetitive tasks
• Take advantage of leading technology

For example, by preventing even just a few minutes of downtime, you can save your business thousands. 

Or by preventing a data breach, you can prevent a problem so devastating that your business potentially wouldn’t be able to survive it.

In this piece, we’ll dive deeper into specific benefits of getting remote IT support.

 

The 4 Potentially Business-Saving Benefits of Getting Remote IT Support

As mentioned above, the right IT solution can be the difference between an operational business and one that is forced to shutter.

The stakes can be very high, in other words.

But they don’t always have to be so dire; they can be as simple as taking a task that was previously very time consuming to complete and automate it, saving you endless hours and headaches.

To that end, we wanted to provide a good range of IT remote support benefits, from the business-saving to the time-saving.

The remote IT support benefits for business owners we’ll explore below are:

• Support your business 24/7/365
• Scale your business seamlessly
• Protect your business from all threats
• Solve your business’s most persistent IT issues

 

1. Support Your Business 24/7/365

IT issues have a troubling habit of appearing at the most inopportune times. After regular work hours, on weekends, during vacation . . .

If left unaddressed, these issues can metastasize into draining, difficult-to-address IT issues.

In other words, being able to quickly identify and solve these IT disruptions can save your business countless hours and thousands in productivity.

Solve All Your IT Issues Quickly – and Affordably Benefit from leading managed IT services from a reliable partner – Advanced Networks.   Learn More

The good news is that remote IT support doesn’t work on a set schedule; they’ll be available 24/7/365 to support your business.

This means that they can identify these IT troubles early on and begin solving them before they can become deeply embedded in your infrastructure.

This is far more proactive and effective compared to addressing these issues after they’ve done their damage.

 

2. Scale Your Business Seamlessly

If you’re planning on working with an in-house IT team, that means that you’ll need to hire on additional help each time your business grows and the workload becomes unmanageable for your existing workers.

As you’d imagine, this can grow very expensive, very quickly. Especially if your business is in a high-growth phase.

But with remote support, you’ll have access to an entire team of IT professionals. This not only makes it easy to scale up resources as needed (and often with no or only negligible additional costs, if you’re not adding on additional services), but also ensures that you have access to specialists with a variety of domain expertises.

Your IT partner will also be able build out detailed IT roadmaps and plans that ensure that you won’t face technology constraints as you bring on more clients and/or workers.

Typically, this type of in-depth planning is only available when working with an MSP, and can generally only be cost effectively achieved via remote IT services.

 

3. Protect Your Business From All Threats

Small businesses are targeted more frequently than larger companies by cyber attacks.

While surprising, it’s true; online criminals are opting to target the lesser protected smaller businesses as they believe them to be easier marks.

Without IT support partners maintaining constant vigilance over your infrastructure, these cyber assailants may exploit a vulnerability that allows them access to critical data or your network.

Not only will your remote cybersecurity team be ready to identify and intercept these threats any time, any date, they’ll also implement ironclad protections to prevent them entry in the first place.

Interested in learning more about managed IT services? Check out these blogs: How Managed Services Work What You Should Know About Managed IT Pricing The Benefits of Managed IT Services for a Manufacturing Environment

You should be able to focus on growing your business, not worried about online criminals derailing your efforts. And with the right remote IT support technicians on your side, you can ensure that your business will be kept safe.

 

4. Solve Your Business’s Most Persistent IT Issues

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of remote IT support services is that you get to say goodbye – for good – to those persistent, draining IT issues.

From network slowdowns to data corruption to system shutdowns to even something as simple yet irritating as spam, your IT partner can handle it all.

WIth the right team on your side, you’ll be able to swiftly eliminate every one of these threats to your business.

 

Get All These Benefits of Remote IT Support and More With Sunco

Credit: Freekpik

 

If you’re looking for the top remote IT services delivered by a reliable MSP, you don’t have to look any further – Advanced Networks is the answer.

We’ll assume full accountability over your technology management tasks. We will resolve your day-to-day IT issues, help your business achieve a full digital transformation, protect your business from online cyber attacks, and more.

Our services include:

• Cloud services
• Proactive IT support
• Hardware-as-a-Service (HaaS)
• End-to-end managed IT services
• Advanced cybersecurity services
• Networking design and integration
• Backup and disaster recovery services
• Technical Account Manager / Virtual Chief Operating Officer (vCIO)

Contact us today for more information and leverage the full benefits of remote IT support.

 

Featured Image Credit: Freepik

The Top 7 Benefits of Managed IT Services 2024

The average U.S. business runs 254 different SaaS programs. As business systems become more complex, it’s essential to have IT experts supporting your organization. You might also wondering what are the benefits of having a Managed IT Service firm at your side.

Maintaining business continuity and proactively resolving issues are a few of the benefits of managed IT services in today’s sprawling digital landscape.

In our guide to the top managed IT benefits, we’ll explain why partnering with a managed services provider (MSP) for IT services is beneficial, in addition to discussing some of the many managed services advantages.

Bring the Benefits of Managed IT Services to Your Business Today Experience the many managed IT benefits by partnering with Advanced Networks.   Learn More

Managed IT services are a cost-effective way to ensure that your IT network is always running smoothly and reliably. As network architecture, cloud computing, and data handling become increasingly complex, it’s never been more vital to partner with experts for your IT needs.

Some of the top reasons for relying on managed IT services include:

• Reduce the risk of cybersecurity threats
• Maintain an efficient data backup system
• Update and improve existing IT network systems
• Get the most out of your investment in technology

One of the major managed IT services advantages over a break-fix model is that managed IT services are available on an ongoing basis. Additionally, they often provide far more robust service offerings than just reactive support.

By outsourcing your IT support needs to an MSP, your team is free to focus their time and energy on growing your business and better serving your customers.

 

7 Benefits of Managed IT Services

When deciding whether to outsource your IT services or hire them in-house, it’s critical to look at each option’s benefits. From cost savings to risk reduction to business continuity, there are many reasons to choose managed IT services.

There are many benefits to have a Managed IT Service firm at your side while you are conducting business, but here are the seven main benefits.

 

1. Fast and Available Response

Since most MSPs offer 24/7 or on-call support services, having managed IT services is valuable whenever there’s an emergency impacting business operations. Your MSP will respond with immediate solutions to get you back up and running as quickly as possible.

By choosing an MSP with round-the-clock availability and fast response rates, you can limit unproductive network downtime. This benefit is especially important for businesses during peak traffic periods when they can’t afford to fix time-consuming IT problems.

Our Managed IT Services in Los Angeles and Orange County offers your company the ability to have a remote IT ticketing system that

 

2. Proactive Resolutions to Recurring IT Issues

Beyond merely resolving immediate issues as they occur, a managed IT services provider can take on the responsibility of proactive IT support. MSPs apply their expertise to seek out and remedy underlying issues that might pose major challenges in the future.

Managed IT services often include routine risk assessments to find issues or optimize existing architecture. With ongoing remote monitoring, MSPs can help businesses stay ahead of the curve with the latest technology.

 

3. Regulatory Compliance on Data Privacy

One of the essential managed IT benefits that shouldn’t be overlooked is the role that MSPs play in helping businesses stay compliant with data regulations.

From the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to industry-specific regulations, small businesses today are subject to various types of data privacy requirements.

By outsourcing your IT needs to a trusted MSP, you can rest assured that your network infrastructure will adhere to applicable compliance standards.

Credit: Pexels 

 

4. Cybersecurity Support

Reduce risks from cybersecurity threats by hiring a managed IT services provider. If your business handles customer data, you’re automatically a target for malicious actors seeking to infiltrate your network.

Beyond setting up cybersecurity protocols, managed IT services providers can also help with disaster recovery solutions so that if data is accidentally or maliciously corrupted, your business will have an effective back-up plan in place.

Your business will also have excess to the latest cyber security softwares at a discount pricing, because Managed services providers have partnerships with vender that offer steep discount.

 

5. Flexibility to Scale With Your Business

Embrace the advantages of Managed IT Services for streamlined operations. A key benefit lies in the swift onboarding of new employees through standardized technology packages, ensuring a seamless integration process. As your business expands, Managed IT Service Providers (MSPs) tailor solutions to meet both current and future needs. The flexibility of these services allows for scalable systems, effortlessly adjusting to your team’s growth or downsizing requirements. In times of fluctuating demand, Managed IT Services firms excel by providing real-time scaling of service offerings. This adaptability ensures that your business remains agile, resilient, and equipped with the optimal technological support for sustained success.

6. Predictable and Manageable Operating Costs

Outsourcing your managed IT services to a third-party provider helps your finance team better manage operational costs and improve gross profit margins.

Alternatively, keeping your IT support needs in-house means your business must pay for salaries, benefits, and related employment expenses. You’ll also need to invest directly in the required infrastructure.

Paying a single fixed monthly rate to your MSP provides an easier way to control costs and avoid over-spending on wages and capital expenditures.

 

7. Reliable Experts and Consultants

Having a reliable managed IT services provider offers peace of mind that you’ll always have an expert to turn to. MSPs have done the legwork and already manage a team of highly qualified and experienced IT professionals with the necessary training and certifications.

As your single point of contact, your MSP is not only your trusted partner but an experienced IT consultant as well. Your MSP vendor can help you establish the best network infrastructure possible, taking into consideration your unique business needs and goals.

Interested in learning more about managed IT services benefits? Check out these blogs: How Managed Services Work 4 Benefits of Outsourcing IT Services You Should Know How to Choose a Managed Services Provider for Your Business

 

Experience the Many Managed IT Benefits With Advanced Networks

As business systems grow more complex and require advanced IT monitoring and managing, it’s crucial to find a reliable managed IT services provider to ensure your business stays up and running.

If you’re looking for trustworthy managed IT services in the Los Angeles area, Advanced Networks has all of your IT needs covered. Discover our range of managed IT services, including cybersecurity, disaster recovery, and cloud computing solutions.

Contact us today to learn more about our flexible managed services that take the guesswork out of IT management and fit your business needs.

 

Featured Image Credit: .shock

Although the vast majority of businesses today use the cloud in form, many businesses continue to put off performing a full cloud migration because they’re not convinced they can do it efficiently enough for it to be worth the time, money and effort. But, this is where having a great cloud migration strategy can make all the difference in the world!

With a properly trained staff and a solid cloud migration strategy at the ready, organizations can achieve an 80% faster cloud migration process compared to those who don’t.

But this isn’t the only advantage to migrating to the cloud. Businesses who adopt a cloud infrastructure-first operational system are granted greater agility, reduced technology costs and improved efficiency across the entire organization.

With so many advantages for operating within cloud environments, it’s no wonder more businesses are choosing cloud computing as their primary method of storing and processing data.

So, to help you develop your own cloud migration strategy for a successful, first-time cloud adoption, this blog will go over the 6 main best practices for a migration plan and cloud strategy that you can use to make the most of the available cloud services currently available in the market.

Migration Tools to Know About Before Creating a Cloud Migration Strategy

1. Automation Tools

One of the key advantages to cloud computing is that it allows for automated scaling, depending on usage needs, which means your infrastructure can grow and shrink as needed without manual intervention.

To take full advantage of this flexibility, many businesses choose to automate their cloud migration processes using tools like AWS CloudFormation or Terraform from Hashicorp.

2. Application Discovery Tools

In order to thoroughly assess your current applications and data in order to determine what will be suitable for a cloud environment, it’s critical that you have access to robust application discovery tools that are able to provide detailed information about each component within the IT environments of your business. Some popular options include Gartner S2aaS, Software DNA, and Aqua.

3. Mapping Tools

Once your current IT environment has been assessed with the help of application discovery tools, you will need to map out what applications should be migrated to the cloud based on their suitability and level of availability in a cloud environment.

You can use tools like AWS CloudMap or Google Cloud Endpoints to help automate this process.

Does Putting Together a Cloud Migration Strategy Suddenly Feel Confusing? Let Advanced Networks take over and make it easy for you!   Learn More

4. Testing and Validation Tools

Before migrating any applications or data into a new cloud environment, it is essential that you thoroughly test each component for any issues or vulnerabilities that could negatively impact performance once live in the cloud.

Some popular testing platforms include Microsoft Azure Advisor, SonarQube, and Veracode AppScan Enterprise Edition.

5. Performance Monitoring Tools

In addition to testing and validation tools, it is also important to have a robust performance monitoring tool in place within your cloud environment to help identify any potential issues or areas of improvement.

Some popular options include New Relic, AppDynamics, and Instana.

6. Security Monitoring Tools

Along with comprehensive performance monitoring capabilities, businesses must also ensure that their cloud environment is properly secured against any cyberattacks or other malicious threats that could impact their operations or data.

Popular security platforms include CloudPassage Halo, Sophos XG Firewall, and CylancePROTECT. By using the right cloud migration tools at every step of your strategy, you can be confident in achieving a successful first-time cloud migration for your business.

Comparing Different Cloud Environments Prior to Starting a Cloud Migration Strategy

When it comes to cloud computing environments, there are a number of different options that businesses can choose from based on their individual needs and preferences. Some of the most popular cloud options currently available in the market include:

1. Public Cloud

A public cloud environment is typically hosted by a third-party service provider that manages all aspects of the infrastructure for you. This option is popular with businesses that have less stringent security requirements or compliance regulations, as these providers often employ sufficient security measures on their end to mitigate any risk for your company.

2. Private Cloud

A private cloud is an internal network that provides you with direct control over your IT resources, including storage, compute power, and networking capabilities. This option is best suited for businesses that have very specific security or compliance requirements, as it gives you full access to your cloud environment and enables greater control over how data is handled.

3. Hybrid Cloud

A hybrid cloud combines elements of both a public and a private cloud in order to get the best of both worlds. This option can be useful for businesses that need additional flexibility with their IT resources while still maintaining strong security measures and regulatory  compliance.

When it comes to starting a cloud migration strategy, it is important to carefully consider the different cloud environments available and select one that best aligns with your business needs and requirements. By doing so, you can ensure a successful transition to the cloud and take full advantage of its many benefits for your company’s operations.

A 6-Point Best Practice Guide to Creating a Winning Cloud Migration Strategy

Any business that has moved to the cloud has this in common: they developed a smart, workable cloud migration strategy based on the following 6 principles:

1. Establish Your Objectives and Requirements

Before you can start planning your cloud migration strategy, it is essential to clearly define your goals and desired outcomes for the process. This may include reducing costs, increasing scalability, improving efficiency, or any other business-specific goals that are important to your organization.

2. Evaluate Different Cloud Options

Once you have a clear understanding of what you hope to achieve through your cloud migration, it is important to do a thorough evaluation of the various cloud environments available in order to determine which platform would be most suitable for your needs.

Consider factors like cost, security requirements, compliance regulations, ease of use, and any other criteria that are important to you when making this decision.

Discover the Essential Role an MSP Can Play in Your Cloud Migration: The 10 Most Common Cloud Migration Challenges and How You Can Avoid Them How to Choose a Managed Services Provider for Your Business What You Should Know About Managed IT Pricing

3. Develop a Comprehensive Migration Plan

Once you have selected your cloud platform, the next step is to create a detailed plan for how you will migrate your data and applications to the new environment.

This should include all of the technical steps that need to be taken, from setting up infrastructure and network connections to installing software and migrating your data and existing applications.

4. Implement Rigorous Testing and Monitoring

Once your migration strategy is in place, it is essential to put strong testing and monitoring procedures in place to ensure that no issues arise during or after the transition process.

This may involve regularly checking performance metrics such as speed, uptime, and resource usage in order to detect any potential problems before they become serious issues. You may also want to consider using third-party tools to help with testing and monitoring.

5. Educate Team Members on Best Practices

In order for your cloud migration strategy to be successful, it is important to ensure that all of the relevant staff members are fully trained on how to use and manage the new environment.

This will likely involve providing training sessions or online resources to help employees get up to speed with any changes in their day-to-day workflows or account access.

6. Regularly Review and Optimize Your Strategy

Finally, it is important to stay proactive in ensuring that your cloud migration strategy remains effective over time.

This tends to include regularly reviewing metrics such as performance, compliance, and costs in order to identify areas where adjustments could be made, as well as making any necessary updates to your migration plan in response to any changes in business needs or technological advancements.

With a well-planned and executed cloud migration strategy, your business can gain all of the benefits of a flexible and efficient cloud environment while maintaining strong security, compliance, and performance.

Getting Expert MSP Help from Advance Networks to Create the Best Cloud Migration Strategy Possible

At Advance Networks, our team of expert cloud migration specialists can help you create a comprehensive and effective cloud migration strategy that best meets the needs of your business. We have extensive experience working with companies across a variety of industries, and we know exactly what it takes to ensure a smooth transition to the cloud.

Whether you’re looking for guidance on which platform to use or assistance with developing a detailed plan for migrating your data and applications, our team is here to help. We offer a full range of services including rigorous testing and monitoring, education on best practices, and ongoing optimization and review to ensure that your strategy is always up-to-date and effective.

So if you’re ready to make the switch to the cloud, contact the team at Advance Networks today and let’s get started on creating the best cloud migration strategy possible for your business.

From software management to cybersecurity, businesses face increasing risks of running into technical issues. While hiring IT services is essential to resolving these concerns, whether you choose a break-fix vs. managed services support is a decision left to individual businesses.

If you’re looking to have a problem with a device or software fixed quickly, break-fix may be your best bet. However, if your business has multiple users who would benefit from having access to technical support services on demand, you might consider choosing managed IT services.

In this article, we’ll compare the differences between the break-fix model versus using a managed services provider (MSP) and contrast the pros and cons of each option.

Break-Fix vs. Managed Services: Which is Right for Your Business? Find the best fit for your needs today by partnering with Advanced Networks.   Learn More

The Definitions of Break-Fix vs. Managed Services

Break-fix and managed IT services are two different methods of retaining IT support. One is available on an as-needed basis only, while the other offers companies full-time support beyond emergencies.

Below is a comparison of what to expect from these two IT support models.

• Break-fix: The break-fix model is when companies hire technicians to resolve issues whenever something breaks. Break-fix services are a nimble and cost-effective way of fixing IT problems in real time. Small businesses often retain break-fix IT support by prepaying for a block of hours that they can then apply to issues that crop up.
• Managed services: Managed service providers (MSPs) act as consultants, helping companies get ahead of issues. With higher support availability, MSPs strategize on how to improve technical infrastructure. To retain managed services, companies may pay annual or monthly fees throughout a set contract length.

Before choosing which model to go with, it’s important to review the pros and cons of break-fix vs. managed services.

 

Break-Fix Pros

Businesses choose the break-fix model because it’s an affordable and adaptable way to resolve IT concerns.

The top advantages of the break-fix model include:

• Cost-effectiveness: By only paying for technical support when needed, businesses can save money on IT services. The break-fix model also leaves room in the budget for other technology investments, including software or network infrastructure upgrades.
• On-demand support: The break-fix model allows businesses to get technical support on-demand. Having an IT expert available during emergencies provides peace of mind that issues will be resolved by a professional in a timely manner.
• Flexibility: Companies that have an in-house support team may like the flexibility of the break-fix model. While the in-house tech team can take care of proactive support issues or cyber threat prevention, the break-fix service provider can tackle pressing issues.

 

Break-Fix Cons

Despite its flexibility and cost-effectiveness, the break-fix model has some drawbacks compared to managed services.

The main cons to be aware of with break-fix are:

• High downtime rates: Since break-fix service providers only intervene when there’s a technical issue, this option results in potentially lengthy and unnecessary downtime. Many businesses can’t afford to rely solely on reactive support, as it can impact profitability.
• Risk of poor response times: Break-fix service providers serve their customers on a per-project basis only. If you’re expecting fast response times and dedicated service, it’s important to keep in mind that break-fix support is only available to fix the issue at hand when the technicians are available.
• No customized services: If your business has unforeseen technical support needs, break-fix won’t be sufficient to cover them. Custom requests are not included in these types of contracts.

Credit: tonodiaz

 

Managed Services Pros

When comparing break-fix vs. managed services, MSPs provide the following advantages:

• High support availability: A robust IT support strategy includes having technicians available for everyday support concerns, such as software updates or website monitoring.
• With managed services, your business will get a high level of ongoing support that covers various issues, not just catastrophic events.
• Proactive support: Depending on your service level agreement (SLA), your managed service contractor can proactively resolve technical issues before they occur by upgrading your network components routinely.
• Cybersecurity expertise: When technical issues arise from malicious activity, you want security experts to stop and mitigate the damage. Your managed service provider (MSP) can perform proactive monitoring to halt cyber threats before they happen.
• Fast response times: Managed services often include a dedicated technician who is familiar with your business needs and can respond quickly and effectively to immediate concerns.

 

Managed Services Cons

Compared to the break-fix approach, there are some possible downsides to managed IT services contracts, including:

• Higher cost: With managed service, you pay a higher fee for service availability that covers a greater extent of needs.
• Longer contract commitment: By going with the managed service model, you may be engaged in a contract for a minimum of one year, leaving you with less flexibility if your IT needs change.
• Third-party access to sensitive data: Whenever a business grants third-party access to sensitive information, there’s an inherent risk of data exposure. Checking references and being certain of a provider’s credibility is essential.

Interested in learning more about managed IT services? Check out these blogs: How Managed Services Work 4 Benefits of Outsourcing IT Services You Should Know How to Choose a Managed Services Provider for Your Business

Break-Fix vs. Managed Services: Make the Right Decision Today

In today’s complex digital landscape, businesses need to know they can confidently rely on IT experts to keep their assets secure and functioning properly.

Get the proactive support your business needs with fast response times by choosing managed services from Advanced Networks.

With our dependable Los Angeles managed IT services, your business benefits from 24/7 technical support along with cybersecurity services and IT consulting and strategy.

For more information, contact us today for a free managed services consultation.

 

Featured Image Credit: Myvisuals

Cloud migrations are becoming increasingly popular as businesses of all sizes realize the benefits of cloud-based solutions. 

In fact, in 2022 alone, 61% of all businesses migrated their workload to the cloud, and 94% of enterprises use cloud services.

However, what they don’t tell you is that making the switch from on-premises systems to the cloud can be very difficult, and is fraught with challenges that can impact your ability to successfully make the migration. 

Not only that, but failing to successfully complete a cloud migration or overrunning the project can make your costs skyrocket in the hundreds of thousands.

To help ensure your cloud migration planning goes well, this article will outline the 10 most common cloud migration challenges and provide tips for overcoming them.

What is Cloud Migration and What is it All About?

Before we dive into the cloud migration challenges, let’s first define what cloud migration is and why it’s important for businesses to consider.

Cloud migration is the process of moving data, applications, and resources from on-premises systems or private cloud environments to a cloud computing environment. 

This can involve anything from migrating a single application to completely transforming your entire IT infrastructure.

There are numerous benefits that come with cloud migrations, including:

• Scalability
• Cost savings
• Increased agility and flexibility
• Improved security and disaster recovery capabilities 

As more companies adopt cloud technologies in their day-to-day operations, it’s becoming increasingly important for businesses to have a strong cloud presence in order to stay competitive.

Now, let’s dive into the top 10 cloud migration challenges that businesses may face and how to overcome them.

 

Ready to Speak to IT Experts About Your Own Cloud Migration Questions? Schedule a free consultation with us to get the answers you need! Learn More

 

The 10 Most Common Cloud Migration Challenges and How to Mitigate Them

1. Lack of Cloud Skills and Expertise

One of the most common cloud migration challenges is a lack of cloud expertise within your organization. 

The cloud is constantly evolving, making it difficult for teams to keep up with all the new developments and updates without adequate training or experience working in cloud environments. 

This can lead to delays in the migration process as well as potentially creating security vulnerabilities if cloud best practices aren’t followed properly. 

To mitigate cloud migration challenges like this one, consider investing in cloud skills training for your team or partnering with a reliable managed services provider who can provide expertise and support for your cloud platforms throughout the cloud migration process.

2. Underestimating Cloud Migration Costs

Many businesses underestimate just how expensive cloud migrations can be, from licensing fees and cloud infrastructure costs to hiring outside consultants or partners for help with the migration. 

To avoid overrunning your cloud migration budget, carefully plan and consider all potential expenses during the planning phase. Work with a managed services provider who can also help you accurately estimate cloud migration costs and identify cost-saving opportunities within your cloud migration strategies.

3. Cloud Vendor Lock-In Concerns

One of the main benefits of using cloud services is that it offers flexibility and scalability for businesses, allowing them to quickly adapt their IT resources as their needs change. 

But some organizations may be hesitant about getting moved to the cloud due to concerns about being locked into a specific cloud vendor. 

Before committing to a cloud provider, thoroughly research their terms and contracts as well as their track record for supporting customers during migrations and changes in cloud environments. 

Additionally, it’s vital to ensure you have a clear understanding of your organization’s cloud needs and goals so that you can select the right cloud provider that will meet those needs.

4. Difficulty Migrating Legacy Applications

Legacy applications, which are older and often custom-built applications, can often be difficult or even impossible to migrate to the cloud due to compatibility issues or outdated technology. 

One solution is modernizing these legacy applications by updating them with more current technologies before migrating them to the cloud. Or, consider replacing them with cloud-based alternatives that offer similar functionality, or adopting a hybrid cloud solution. 

5. Slow Network Speeds and Performance Issues

Another potential issue during cloud migrations is slow network speeds or a decrease in overall performance as compared to on-premises systems. This can have a negative impact on productivity, business objectives and user experience for employees accessing cloud resources. 

To address this challenge, work with a managed services provider who can help optimize your cloud infrastructure for maximum performance or supply hosting services via third-party data centers and ensure that your network connectivity can handle cloud usage demands.

 

Interested in learning more about the kind of value MSPs are bringing to businesses? Check out these blogs: How Managed Services Work 4 Benefits of Outsourcing IT Services You Should Know The 10 Most Common IT Problems in Businesses and How to Solve Them

 

6. Data Security and Compliance Concerns

Security is always a major concern when it comes to managing sensitive data, and migrating those assets to the cloud may bring up additional worries about maintaining compliance with industry regulations such as HIPAA or PCI DSS. 

Ensure that your cloud provider offers the necessary cloud security measures and support to keep your data safe, such as multi-factor authentication and encryption. And work with a managed services provider who can help you meet compliance requirements and monitor for potential threats in your cloud environment.

7. Lack of Proper Planning and Preparation

A successful cloud migration requires thorough planning and preparation, from analyzing current IT infrastructure to identifying cloud goals and needs as well as developing a detailed migration strategy. 

Without proper planning, businesses may run into challenges during the cloud migration process or even end up selecting the wrong cloud solution for their needs. 

To avoid this issue, take the time to carefully plan out every step of the cloud migration, from start to finish. And work with a managed services provider who can offer expertise and support throughout the cloud migration process. 

8. Insufficient Cloud Skills and Resources

Making the switch to cloud technology often requires developing new skills and expertise, as well as having enough staff and resources available for the cloud migration and ongoing cloud management. 

To address this challenge, consider training current staff on cloud technologies or hiring cloud professionals with the necessary skills. Partnering with a managed services provider can also provide access to experienced cloud experts and additional resources when needed. 

9. Unanticipated Downtime During Migration

Any unexpected downtime during a cloud migration can have negative consequences for business operations and productivity. 

To prevent this issue, carefully plan out your cloud migration timeline and schedule any necessary downtime during slow periods or off-hours. 

You should also consider working with a managed services provider who can help minimize disruptions and quickly resolve any unexpected issues that may arise during the cloud migration process. 

10. Difficulty integrating Cloud Solutions With Existing Systems

In some cases, businesses may struggle to integrate cloud solutions with their current on-premises infrastructure or other cloud technologies. This can result in difficulties managing and utilizing cloud resources effectively. 

To best mitigate this challenge, a managed services provider who has experience integrating cloud solutions can offer support in optimizing your overall cloud infrastructure. 

You can also select cloud solutions that are compatible with your current technology setup and have features for seamless integration. 

Mitigating Cloud Migration Challenges With the Help of a Managed Services Provider

Migrating to the cloud can bring numerous benefits for businesses, but it’s important to consider and prepare for potential challenges that may arise during the cloud migration process. 

By addressing these common cloud migration challenges and taking steps to prevent or mitigate them, businesses can ensure a successful cloud adoption.

Advanced Networks is a managed IT services provider that helps clients in Los Angeles and Orange County use technology to their advantage. We work with our clients to design and carry out local or cloud-based solutions, always striving for improved operations.

To discover what kind of ROI we can bring to your business through the power of cloud computing, schedule a free consultation with us today.

If you run or own a business, then chances are you already know about Managed IT Service Providers (and might even be familiar with the types of services they provide).

But, perhaps you are also unconvinced that MSPs can provide your business with any real value? Well, you may be interested to know that most businesses (without an MSP) are fairly unprepared to handle any kind of serious IT threat or attack.

For instance, 56% of Americans don’t know what to do in the event of a data breach, and 62% of small and medium-sized businesses lack the in-house talents to handle their own cybersecurity.

That’s why more and more businesses are running in droves to acquire the aid of a qualified and professional MSP.

But how do you know which one is right for your business and culture?

In this blog we’re going to give you a how-to guide on how to choose a managed services provider (and how to choose a managed security services provider). We’ll go over everything you need to be aware of, the criteria by which to judge an MSP, and provide a list of questions to ask an MSP during the discovery process.

What is an MSP (and MSSP)?

An MSP is a Managed Services Provider. These types of companies typically provide remote support for various IT needs (and sometimes even on-site support). 

The services that an MSP can provide your business are vast and varied, but MSP offerings usually include:

• Cyber Security: Network Security, Email Security, Endpoint Security 
• Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Planning
• Help Desk Support 
• Cloud Computing/Storage 
• Application Management 

A Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP), focuses solely on cyber security solutions for their clients’ security posture. 

This might include any combination of the following services: 

• Vulnerability Assessments
• Penetration Testing
• Threat Landscape Training
• Security Incident Response
• Managed Firewalls
• Intrusion Detection & Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS) 
• Managed Antivirus Protection
• Managed Security Information & Event Management (SIEM)
• Data Protection Security Teams for Sensitive Data
• And More

Now that we’ve answered the question: “what is an MSP?”, let’s move on to how you can choose the right one for your business.

 

Ready to Talk to IT Experts About Your MSP Needs? Set up a free consultation with us today and we’ll discuss your requirements together. Learn More

 

Managed Services Selection Criteria

When you’re looking for an MSP, or any type of service provider for that matter, there are a few key criteria you should always keep in mind. These will help you qualify and disqualify potential providers, and eventually make the best decision for your business. 

The main managed services selection criteria to keep in mind are:

1. Compatibility 
2. Services Offered/Flexibility 
3. Pricing Structure 
4. Industry Expertise/Reputation 
5. Client Feedback/Testimonials
   

1. Compatibility  

To start off our managed services selection criteria, we’re going to look at compatibility. 

This is probably the most important factor when choosing any type of service provider (not just an MSP). It’s important to make sure that the company you’re working with is compatible with your business in terms of:

• Size
• Industry/Vertical 
• Company Culture/Values 
• Communication Style 

Size: You want to make sure that the MSP you’re considering is a good fit in terms of size. 

If you’re a small business, then you probably don’t need (or want) to work with an MSP that only serves enterprise-level clients. It’s important to find an MSP whose clientele is similar in size to yours. This way, they’ll be more familiar with the types of IT issues and needs that you’re likely to experience.

Industry/Vertical: It’s also important to find an MSP that has served clients in your industry or vertical before. 

They will be more familiar with the specific compliance regulations and IT needs of your industry. For example, if you’re a healthcare organization, then you’ll want to make sure that your MSP has experience working with other healthcare clients.

Company Culture/Values: This is another important factor to consider when choosing an MSP. 

You want to make sure that the company’s culture and values are compatible with yours. This is important because you’ll be working closely with this company, and you want to make sure that it’s a good fit.

Communication Style: Finally, you want to make sure that the MSP’s communication style is compatible with your own. 

This is important because you’ll be working closely with this company, and you want to make sure that they communicate in a way that works for you. For example, some MSPs only communicate via email, while others prefer to use phone or video calls. Make sure that the MSP’s communication style and response time is compatible with your own before moving forward.

These are just a few of the things to keep in mind when considering compatibility as one of your managed services selection criteria. 

2. Services Offered/Flexibility

Another important aspect of managed services vendor selection criteria is the services they offer and how flexible they are. 

You want to make sure that the MSP you’re considering offers all of the services you need. For example, if you need help with cloud computing, then you want to make sure that the MSP you’re considering offers cloud services.

You also want to make sure that the MSP is flexible in terms of the services they offer. This means that they should be able to tailor their services to meet your specific needs. For example, if you have a unique IT setup, then you want to make sure that the MSP is willing and able to customize their services to meet your needs.

3. Pricing Structure

Another important factor to consider when choosing an MSP is pricing. 

You want to make sure that the MSP you’re considering has a pricing structure that makes sense for your business and is cost effective. For example, if you’re a small business, then you probably don’t want to pay enterprise-level prices for managed services. 

Make sure that the MSP you’re considering has a pricing structure that makes sense for your business size and needs.

4. Industry Expertise/Reputation 

Another important factor to consider when choosing an MSP is industry expertise/reputation. 

You want to make sure that the MSP you’re considering has experience working with clients in your industry. For example, if you’re a healthcare organization, then you want to make sure that the MSP you’re considering has experience working with other healthcare clients. This way, they’ll be more familiar with the specific compliance regulations and IT needs of your industry.

 

Want to Learn More About Finding the RIght MSP? Read these Other Blogs Today: 4 Benefits of Outsourcing IT Services You Should Know How Managed Services Work What You Should Know About Managed IT Pricing

 

5. Client Feedback/Testimonials    ⃞

In addition to industry expertise, you also want to make sure that the MSP you’re considering has a good reputation. 

You can learn about an MSP’s reputation by reading online reviews or talking to their past clients. Make sure that the MSP you’re considering has a good reputation before moving forward.

10 Technical Questions to Qualifying MSP Candidates

Once you’ve considered all of the above factors, you should have a good idea of what to look for in an MSP. 

To help you narrow down your choices even further, here are ten MSP qualifying questions you can use:

1. How long have you been in business? 
2. How many clients do you currently have? 
3. What industries do your clients come from? 
4. What services do you offer? 
5. How flexible are your services? Can you tailor them to meet my specific needs?
6. What is your pricing structure? 
7. Do you have experience working with clients in my industry? If so, how much experience do you have? 
8. What is your company culture like? 
9. How do you communicate with clients? 
10. Can you provide me with client testimonials or references?

Narrowing Down Your Search for a Qualified MSP

At Advance Networks we pride ourselves on being a managed service provider that always meets our clients needs and expectations.

If your business is in need of exceptional MSP services, please feel free to contact us, set up a free consultation and ask us all of the above questions and judge us by the criteria listed above.

We’re certain we can provide you with exactly the IT help you need.

In the last 15 years, California businesses have experienced 1,777 data breaches, with more than 5.6 billion records exposed. That’s almost 19 times higher than the second runner up, New York state with 295 million records exposed in the same 15 year period.

And, with the recent large-scale shift to a remote work culture, those numbers have only gone up. Clearly, businesses (in California specifically) need to be more aware of their network security vulnerabilities than ever before, or else risk millions of dollars in potential damages.

With so many cyber attacks affecting California businesses every day, signs point to a war on business data being waged by hackers and cyber criminals alike.

And, if you were to ask any military leader, the first step in defending against any threat is to know exactly what you’re up against.

That’s why, in this blog, we’re going to take you deep into the world of network vulnerabilities. These are the top weaknesses that hackers use to gain access to your computer networks and steal your sensitive information. 

We’ll explain exactly what network security vulnerabilities are (in relation to business data), and which of the major ones you need to know about, so that you can better protect your sensitive information, your reputation and your bottom line.

What Exactly Are Network Security Vulnerabilities?

Network security vulnerabilities are weaknesses in a computer network that may allow someone unauthorized access to sensitive information or functions within the network.

And, while your average internet user might not think they have anything worth stealing, business networks contain valuable customer data, financial records and proprietary information – all of which can be sold on the black market for a pretty penny (or for millions of dollars).

 

Want to Start Fixing Your Network Vulnerabilities ASAP? We can onboard your business quickly and begin improving your cybersecurity posture in no time! Learn More

 

In fact, according to recent reports, an average cost of $3.92 million is lost by businesses due to cyber attacks every year. And, with the advent of remote work culture and the major shift towards digital communication, those numbers are only expected to go up. 

In-Depth Descriptions of the 10 Different Types of Vulnerabilities in Network Security (and What You Can Do to Address Them)

1. Unpatched Software

One of the most common vulnerabilities in network security is unpatched, or outdated, software. 

It’s important to regularly update all software programs (including your operating system) to patch any potential weaknesses or security risks that have been discovered and fixed by the developer. This includes not only your computers, but also any network-connected devices like printers, switches, bridges, laptops or mobile devices.

2. Poor Password Management

It’s crucial to have strong passwords for all accounts on your network.

It’s also essential to make sure they aren’t being reused across multiple accounts (especially if one of those accounts may be compromised). Additionally, multi-factor authentication should always be enabled when available as an extra layer of protection for sensitive information and accounts.

In fact, weak passwords are the number one avenue malicious actors use to steal data because all they require to exploit are very reasonable guesses (often based on publicly available information gleaned from social media accounts).

3. Weak Remote Access

Any devices or accounts that allow remote access to your network should also have strong passwords, and if possible, multi-factor authentication as well. 

It’s important to regularly review and monitor all remote access points, removing any outdated or unused ones.

If they’re breached, they pose a massive threat to your entire organization as they can be used to access every device on your network. The attacker would be able to infect your business with malicious code that either steals, holds for ransom or deletes entirely every last byte of data you own.

4. Social Engineering Attacks

Social engineering attacks are when a hacker uses deception and manipulation tactics to gain access to sensitive information or networks. 

This can include phishing emails or phone calls pretending to be from a legitimate source in order to obtain passwords or credit card information. To protect against these types of attacks, all employees should be trained on how to identify potential social engineering attempts and never give out sensitive information without verification.

5. Insufficient Network Segmentation

Segmenting your network – or dividing it into smaller sections with restricted access – can help limit the damage of a potential breach. 

 

Want to Become a Cybersecurity Subject Matter Expert? Check Out These Other Great Blogs Today: 5 Important Benefits of Cyber Security Training 4 Benefits of Outsourcing IT Services You Should Know Learn What Modern Email Fraud Looks Like

 

For example, your customer data should have separate network access from general business information in order to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

6. Unsecured Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks, or even an unsecured company network, can allow anyone within range to potentially gain access to your network.

Imagine if one of your employees (who uses their phone for work) connects to one of these unsecured Wi-Fi networks. If there’s a hacker with their cyber-tendrils rooted in that network, they will have instantaneously gained access to all your data. 

That’s why it’s so important to secure all Wi-Fi networks with strong passwords and, if possible, enable encryption protocols like WPA2.

7. Malware and Ransomware

Malware and ransomware are types of malicious software that can infect devices on a network, often resulting in stolen or locked data until a ransom is paid. 

It’s imperative to have antivirus software installed on all devices and regularly scan for potential infections. Additionally, employees should be trained to identify suspicious emails or websites that could potentially contain malware.

8. DDoS Attacks

A distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack floods a network with overwhelming amounts of traffic in order to disrupt its functions and potentially shut it down. 

While it can be difficult to prevent these types of attacks, having a specific, itemized plan in place for how to respond can help minimize the impact and get your network back up and running quickly.

9. Unsecured Network Devices

Weak default passwords or unsecured settings on network devices like routers and firewalls can leave them vulnerable to unauthorized access. 

It’s important to regularly check and update the security settings on all network devices, including changing any default passwords.

10. Insider Threats

Unfortunately, not all threats come from external hackers – insider threats, or unauthorized access or actions by an organization’s own employees, can also compromise network security. 

It’s essential that you regularly review and monitor access privileges for all employees, and establish policies and procedures for handling sensitive information.

While it may be impossible to completely eliminate all potential cyber vulnerabilities, staying informed on the latest threats and implementing strong security measures can help protect your business from damage and costly breaches.

Finding the Right IT Experts to Protect You Against Cyber Threats and Vulnerabilities

Defending against hackers and cyber criminals attempting to take advantage of your cyber security vulnerabilities is basically a full-time job. And if you’re like most other business owners, you’ve already got your hands full dealing with managing your organization.

Considering how many different types of network security threats there are out there in the world today, it only makes sense that more businesses are choosing to ally themselves with highly-qualified managed service providers (MSPs) in order to effectively ward off these types of attacks in network security.

Here at Advanced Networks, we have decades of experience acting as the first line of defense against all of the above common network vulnerabilities and more. If you choose to enlist our managed IT services. Our security experts’ commitment to best-in-class reliability and innovation will ensure that all of your information security vulnerabilities are addressed, and that your overall cyber security measures are as effective as possible.

If you’re interested in learning more about if we’d be a good fit for your company, please feel free to set up a free consultation where we can help identify your specific needs as a team.