Tag: strong password

Orange County IT Services: 3 Tips to Improve Password Security

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Orange County managed servicesOrange County IT services experts provide these few important password security tips to keep your company secure. These days, cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to gain access to confidential information. Using strong passwords can make it much more difficult for hackers to be successful. Over 1,000 data breaches happened last year, but the use of strong passwords can keep your data from falling into the hands of cybercriminals.

Here are three ways you can improve your password security in the workplace:

1. Educate Employees

Many employees do not realize the risk of using weak passwords. However, a Orange County based IT Service provider (MSP) can educate employees on the most effective passwords to use that will keep each account well-protected. Effective passwords include multiple uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, symbols, and they need to be at least twelve characters in length. A random combination of these characters is essential, as most employees only capitalize the first letter and use numbers and symbols near the end of the password. Also, avoid using personal information or dictionary words, as this makes it easier to hack into an account.

2. Use a Password Manager

Another tip Orange County IT services providers advise is to keep your information secure on multiple accounts using a password manager. A password manager creates and stores complex passwords for various accounts, and all of this information is stored in an encrypted database. Employees will only have to remember a “master” password to access this information, which is much more convenient than trying to remember different passwords for multiple accounts.

3. Multi-Factor Authentication & Biometrics

Multi-factor authentication is an additional layer of security that makes it even more difficult for hackers to gain access to accounts. Multi-factor authentication requires a user to verify their account with an access code, typically sent to their cellphone or email address. Biometrics is another effective way to keep your information secure, as it uses unique physical characteristics to control access to accounts, such as fingerprints, retina, or face recognition.

Keeping data safe and secure is a top priority for any company in today’s digital work environment. Advanced Networks is an Orange County IT services provider that specializes in cybersecurity. We understand the many threats that companies face all of the time. We offer a wide variety of IT services and around-the-clock IT support. Hackers will only continue to use more sophisticated attacks against businesses, and it is our goal to stay one step ahead of these cybercriminals.

Reach out to us now for a free consultation and learn more about the benefits of IT security.

IT Consulting in Los Angeles: 5 Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses

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Almost any company today depends on IT for some of its commercial operations. With so much dependency on IT and computer networking, even small businesses now have to be wary of security threats. However, there’s a way you can do to fortify the security of your business. Here are 5 cybersecurity tips from IT consulting firms in Los Angeles to help strengthen your cyber defenses:

1. Backups

The foundation of security against both cyber attacks and disasters is the backup. Data you don’t backup is data you don’t want. Consider the data used in your company. If you lost that data, would it cost your business in terms of time or money? If so, you had better back it up.

In fact, the cost of storage has fallen so much that for most companies, and especially for small businesses, buying the storage you need should not be a cost issue.

Remember, however, that local backups may be lost if you suffer a disaster such as fire or flood. Therefore, you need to have a backup strategy that includes both local (accessible faster and more easily) backups and offsite backups that are safe from disasters at the site.

2. Password Strength

Poor password practices cost businesses a lot of money. For greater password strength, use long passwords and include a variety of characters such as numbers and symbols, as well as both uppercase and lowercase letters. Don’t tolerate stale passwords. Change passwords on a regular basis, at least every three months. Do not share passwords.

3. Antivirus and Malware Software

Ensure your business computers and network are safe by using antivirus programs and malware tools. These are not a “fit and forget” solution. The malware and virus definitions need to be updated regularly, and the programs themselves must be kept up-to-date.

4. Operating Systems

New weaknesses and exploits for Windows, MacOS and Linux/Unix are being found every day. Therefore, you need to make sure your laptops, desktop computers, and servers are kept up-to-date. IT consulting firms in Los Angeles advise that any applications your business uses also need to be kept up-to-date to prevent old vulnerabilities that can leave your organization open to hackers.

5. Mobile Devices (BYOD)

With the proliferation of mobile devices, such as phones, tablets, and laptops, it is more and more common for staff to use the same devices for work and personal business. This can create security holes for your business systems and a way for your company data to be lost if a device is stolen or lost. Apply the same rules regarding updates, antivirus, and passwords to BYOD. Use a mobile device management (MDM) system to help manage and mitigate the security pressures raised by BYOD and mobile devices.

You can reduce the security risks for your business by following the tips above. A comprehensive corporate security strategy involves many other points, however. Advanced Networks is one of the leading IT consulting firms in Los Angeles that work with businesses like yours on this very challenge. Contact us now for your business security.

How to Create an Effective Password with IT Consulting Firms in Los Angeles

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Creating a complex password is an essential cyber security step recommended by IT consulting firms in Los Angeles. The vast majority of security experts recommend changing a password within one to three months. Failure to change a password makes it much easier for unauthorized users to gain access to your computer and steal valuable data. Each password should consist of a mixture of upper and lowercase letters, while also including various numbers and symbols. Avoid using any personal information or standard dictionary words in the password. If you are still undecided on the effectiveness of your passwords, here are a few more additional password safety tips:

Never Share Passwords

Always ensure that each employee keeps their password to themselves. Sharing passwords is never a good idea and can lead to a whole host of issues. It is critical that an employee always logs out if they leave their computer on, as an unattended computer poses a serious security risk. Enforcing this policy will keep each account protected and can help you avoid many problems.

Always Change the Password of Ex-Employees

Any time an employee is fired or leaves voluntarily, it is critical to change the passwords to any account that that employee had access to. Failure to do so is a security vulnerability that can lead to many problems. It is always a good idea to plan and change all the passwords during the termination/resignation meeting. Changing them too soon can create an awkward situation while changing them too late can pose serious security risks.

Never Use the Same Password

Another excellent cyber security tip provided by IT consulting firms in Los Angeles is that you should never use the same password for multiple accounts. Instead, each password should be unique from one another and changed on a frequent basis. Using the same password for numerous accounts creates a severe security risk, as hacking into one account will enable a cybercriminal to gain access everywhere else that you use that same password.

Avoid Using Passwords in Unsecured Areas

It is never a good idea to enter your password through a public place, whether it is at the airport or coffee shop. An unsecured connection is a prime area for hackers to intercept your passwords and be able to steal all your data and information. Instead, only enter passwords in a secure connection, as it is too great of a risk to log in anywhere else.

As you can see, creating an effective password is an essential cyber security tip for businesses that partner with IT consulting firms in Los Angeles. The use of these password tips will ensure that your account remains protected and out of the hands of cyber criminals. At Advanced Networks, we specialize in providing IT security for businesses both large and small. Our IT staff will be happy to answer any of your questions and provide essential password tips in today’s work environment. Contact us today and let us begin a partnership that is founded on providing the ultimate protection against hackers and cyber security threats.