We hope you, and those close to you, have not been personally affected by this pandemic. If you are like thousands of others and are working remotely, it can be a struggle to maintain a consistent routine and sense of normalcy. 

We are all experiencing a new reality where functional technology is more important than ever. It can be challenging if your organization’s workflow is disrupted by the inability to access company data and applications, that you and your colleagues need to do your job.  Incorporating a layered approach to Managed Security allows your team to work as securely and efficiently as possible, no matter where they are. 

The concept of working remotely reminds us of the increased risks your organization faces in doing so.  At TNS, we believe that the protection of your business information is NOT optional as security and privacy are at the forefront of issues that companies are dealing with. 

Unfortunately, many Small to Medium-Sized Businesses (SMB’s) have been negatively affected by this pandemic. Some have had to go out of business. This is why most SMBs can’t afford a data breach at this time. 

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Unlike other Managed Service Providers (MSP), we INCLUDE ALL OF THE FOLLOWING security offerings for the SAME MONTHLY COST as part of Total Care.  We would be doing you a disservice otherwise. In our last blog we covered a few of these solutions in detail but today we are going to cover a few more.  

  • Anti-Virus/Anti-Malware 
  • Cloud Security 
  • Email Threat Protection 
  • Endpoint Detection 
  • Multi-Factor Authentication 
  • Network Device Patching 
  • Password Reset Validation 
  • Security Awareness Training 
  • Security tuned O365 environment 
  • Superior Perimeter Protection 
  • Windows/Mac/Third Party Application Patching

Managed Security Solutions

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Perimeter Protection 

Your perimeter is your network’s first line of defense. Protecting that perimeter is important and there are a few solutions involved in this aspect of Managed Security. Cybercriminals have the ability to compromise systems within seconds and with each attack, they become more sophisticated.  Users are vulnerable to phishing/spoofing schemes and malicious emails, as these threats live within their email and are delivered over the network, without anyone even knowing, until it’s too late.   

Implementing a Next Generation Firewall (NGFW) to filter network traffic and protect your organization against external threats, is important. NGFWs offer inspection of traffic and a multifaceted range of security competencies plus features such as web filtering, malware detection, URL filtering, encryption, and anti-virus.  These features are directly related to security and controlling what users and systems can do, along with preventing network attacks. 

Intrusion Detection and Intrusion Prevention Systems  

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) monitors your network to identify malicious traffic and activity patterns.  These activities can pose threats from both inside and outside of the network.  IDS supervises your network to ensure there’s no malicious traffic and checks for malicious patterns. IDS also involves designated contacts or technologies for recovery purposes. IDS and IPS combined add an additional layer of security for your network.  

Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), filters network activity as well, but unlike IDS it stops attacks attempting to penetrate your network. IPS has the ability to do this through their robust scanning and monitoring capabilities. That way the attack can be stopped before it can negatively impact your business. 

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Endpoint Detection

Due to the fact that most of the workforce is working remotely in some capacity, endpoint detection is important because your team is accessing the network from outside the network. Your endpoints are the devices your team is using to work productively. Many employees prefer to use multiple devices that are their own vs. company-owned.  

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies have continued to increase productivity but, it also makes your network more vulnerable to cyberattacks if security is not at the forefront. The combination of Multi- Factor Authentication (MFA), Single Sign-On (SSO), Mobile Device Management (MDM), Encryption Management and Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) serves multiple purposes by providing access control, authentication and device compliance. 

These different layers of endpoint security all have great benefits. SSO is beneficial as it provides the ability to sign into all their applications through one location. This allows everyone to get to work more quickly and efficiently. MDM and MFA allow you to have more protection and control over your endpoints. MFA ensures that the identity of your team member is verified before they can access your network. MDM allows you to put certain controls on your endpoints depending on what applications they use on their devices.  

Another layer is encryption management which provides data protection through file and folder encryption as well as hardware. It locks down your hard drive making the data accessible only to you and those you authorize. Policy-driven removable media encryption protects USB flash drives and other removable storage against any potential threats. This solution not only safeguards sensitive data but ensures that you achieve and maintain compliance.   

Finally, EPP provides real-time monitoring of vulnerabilities and attacks so they can be stopped before hitting your business. It offers a centrally managed security solution that protects all endpoints such as servers, workstations, and mobile devices that are connected to your network, against zero-day exploits, cyber-attacks, and "everyday disasters" that result in lost data due to human error. This layer makes a serious difference because of the ever-evolving state of hacking and malware creation.  

A layered approach ensures that your business is protected from on-going attacks. Data protection is more significant now because everyone is working remotely. If you’d like more information about a Managed Security plan for your business contact The TNS Group today. 

Categories: Managed Service Provider, MSP Blogs