In the modern world, it seems that every single business needs to be run online. We always need to engage in search engine optimization and social media campaigns to boost customer service and respond to people faster.
Everything you do on the computers at work gets stored, which is why you need a secure Wi-Fi network. If this network gets hacked because of Wi-Fi security mistakes, you can lose all your sensitive data.
A hacked network is dangerous for your business because competitors can steal personal files. Some of these files may contain personal details about all your employees or how much profit your business is turning over.
You do not want this information getting into the wrong hands. Many hackers try to hack businesses through common security threats. This is to exploit your fears and blackmail you for money.
Unless you pay off a hacker, they may not release your data back to you. Here are the Wi-Fi security mistakes you should always avoid if you want to protect your business.
1. Passwords Are Weak
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There is nothing more inviting to hackers than a weak password. Imagine losing all your data because everyone knew that your password was your cat’s birthday. Having a weak password is easily one of the biggest Wi-Fi security mistakes.
Weak passwords can significantly bring down your business if you are not careful. It is understandable that you may choose easy passwords to help yourself and all employees remember them. However, this can be dangerous.
You should always avoid using children’s or pet names. This is because everyone knows this information. Even one of your competitors may know your kids’ names or your anniversary date.
This is information that anyone can flush out from a simple conversation. You should always use a strong Wi-Fi password with both upper- and lower-case letters. Then you should also introduce some special characters for more strength.
2. Not Changing Passwords
Get your employees to reset your default password. You need to change your strong Wi-Fi password often. There is no point in having a single password the entire year. Hackers do not need a lot of time to crack passwords.
You should keep changing yours every few months to protect your business. Regular password updates can go a long way to keep your data safe. Here is more information about enterprise Wi-Fi to strengthen your network.
3. Failing to Keep Employees Informed
Not every employee in your business will be tech-savvy. This is why so many Wi-Fi mistakes happen. Many business leaders have highly skilled people working for them. But they may not realize that everyone does not understand technology the same way.
You should educate and inform your employees about your Wi-Fi network options and security measures. This way, you will not have several people becoming liabilities. An employee can always click on the wrong link or attachment.
Then they might download a malicious email that can contain a virus. That virus can penetrate your system and steal all your data.
This does not mean that every employee must do hardcore training courses about computers. However, they should still have enough knowledge to avoid malware and spyware that can disrupt your business.
Tell people about your new and secure Wi-Fi network and how to recognize dangerous attachments in emails or messages. This will help your workers practice safe security protocols.
4. Neglecting Maintenance
Without an effective IT department, you may not think much about the security of your network. Many people think that if something is working efficiently enough, then there is nothing else left to be done. However, hackers can always gain access to your network in seconds.
This is if you have not updated your system in a while. There may be many loopholes and cracks in your network. Therefore, you should always implement automatic updates or hire a professional service to do this for you. Always run patches or scans to ensure that everything is working well.
5. Not Hiring Help
Many business owners do not believe that they need to have an IT specialist or department. They may have one or two employees taking care of the system.
This is the wrong move because your employees may not have the relevant skills to protect your whole network. You should hire someone who is solely dedicated to Wi-Fi protection. Then they will not be distracted with other jobs and will put their attention towards your network security.
6. Adding Suspicious Devices
When someone at work brings a laptop from home, they will add this new device to your Wi-Fi access points. However, this is one of the most significant Wi-Fi security mistakes.
Before allowing new devices in the network, you need to ensure that they are secure. All employees should have firewalls and anti-virus programs installed on their devices before connecting to your network.
7. Not Upgrading System
Protecting your data is a long-term investment. When you set up Wi-Fi access points and a secure network, you need to ensure that you have the right equipment.
Even though you can always get the most inexpensive hardware, this can be risky. You should invest in the best equipment money can buy. This way, you will get plenty of advanced security features to strengthen your Wi-Fi network.
Always Avoid Wi-Fi Security Mistakes
It is necessary to avoid Wi-Fi security mistakes to keep your data safe. Your entire customer service and brand image depend on secure networks. For instance, if you take down a customer’s name, email address, and credit card number, you need to go above and beyond to protect this information.
Otherwise, if your data gets leaked, consumers will never trust doing business with you again. Always schedule regular updates and maintenance. This will ensure that your network security does not become an afterthought.
Then you should change all your passwords every few months and avoid using your company’s name or personal information like children’s birthdays.
If you enjoyed reading this Wi-Fi security guide, check out some of our other posts for more information.
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