You’re a startup owner. How do you keep your network secure?

Consider using a managed security service provider (MSSP): This can be a good option if you don't have the resources to manage your own security. Focus on the most important assets: Not all data is equally important. Identify your most critical assets and focus on protecting them. Focus on the Identity Managements and mandate MFA: this is your new security boundary

As a start-up owner, I prioritize network security by enforcing strong passwords policy, regular software updates, and network segmentation. Employees undergo cybersecurity training, and remote access VPNs is also deployed to encrypt data transmission and secure communications, especially when accessing sensitive information from external networks. Data is encrypted both in transit and at rest, with regular security audits, vulnerability and penetration testing conducted. Access controls policy is deployed and strictly managed, backups are maintained, and vendor security is assessed.

If you're leading a start-up your priorities are unlikely to include information security. Even if they do, implementing a good security framework takes time, skills and financial investment. I would therefore recommend using secure cloud services where possible. This reduces the attack surface for which you are responsible. You will still need to carry out a risk assessment and implement controls as required, such as ensuring such services are properly configured according to the shared responsibility model for cloud services, that physical security is addressed management processes are developed and endpoints secured. As the business grows you should included information security as part of your plans to ensure risks are managed.

As a startup owner, ensuring network security is vital for safeguarding data and operations. Key strategies include: Utilizing firewalls to control network traffic. Implementing VPNs for secure remote access. Regularly updating software and systems. Enforcing strong password policies and multi-factor authentication. Conducting security training for employees. Segmenting the network to limit access. Monitoring network activity for anomalies. Backing up critical data regularly. Developing an incident response plan. Staying informed about cybersecurity trends for proactive measures.

Personally I would start with MFA, hardware is updated within 14 days and strong passwords. Depending on your IT enviorment there is a lot of other security features to look at if your on-premises, cloud or Hybrid.

As a startup owner, implement basic controls like firewall configurations to regulate network traffic. Utilize strong encryption methods for data transmission and storage to safeguard sensitive information. Regularly update software and apply patches to address security vulnerabilities and mitigate potential threats.

From the outset, I would introduce a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) or a business cloud VPN solution. Many cloud services now enable you to control which devices or networks have access to your data, providing a crucial layer of security. Initially, it’s common for startups to use personal devices belonging to the owner and employees—far from ideal, but a practical reality for startups. Implementing SASE solutions creates a virtual network for your company, enhancing security and flexibility wherever you work.

Após a avalia??o de riscos, é hora de escolher quais controles efetivamente eu devo implementar para chegar ao nivel de maturidade desejado. Podemos usar vários frameworks aqui tanto na avalia??o dos riscos quanto na implementa??o de controles. O CIS Top Controls e o NIST 800-53 s?o bom exemplos para isso.

1. Access Control: Restrict access to sensitive data, systems and networks. Use multi-factor authentication. 2. Anti-Virus Software: Protect against malware or viruses by deploying reliable anti-virus software. 3. Firewalls & VPNs: Firewall keeps your network secure. VPNs add an additional layer of encryption in data transfer. 4. Update Regularly: Keep all systems, applications and devices up-to-date to patch security vulnerabilities. 5. Data Backup: Regular backups can save critical data from loss or corruption. 6. Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Make sure the wireless network is password protected and encrypted. 7.Introducing Responsibility Policies: Employees should be aware about their roles in maintaining network security.

Implement fundamental security controls to establish a baseline level of protection. This includes measures such as strong password policies, regular software updates and patch management, network segmentation, encryption of sensitive data in transit and at rest, and implementing firewalls and antivirus software.

1. Choose Providers with a Strong Security Policy: Opt for products/services from vendors who prioritize security features. 2. Use Encryption: Look for services offering robust encryption for data in transit and at rest. 3. Check Security Certifications: Ensure the vendor's product or service is compliant with global security standards (e.g., ISO 27001, GDPR). 4. Review the Privacy Policy: Understand how the vendor uses and protects your data. 5. Favor Multi-Factor Authentication: Choose services that offer this function to add an extra layer of security. 6. Regular Updates & Patches: Ensure chosen products/services receive frequent updates/patches to fix any vulnerabilities.

Quando implementado melhorias para prote??o de ativos, precisamos considerar 3 aspectos principais: Pessoas, processos e tecnologia. Quando já chegou-se ao limite de maturidade investindo em pessoas e processos, é hora de avaliar quais ferramentas tecnologicas devem ser implementadas para proteger as informa??es. Poderiamos citar milhares aqui de ferramentas, mas eu tenho um conceito comigo: fazer o básico bem feito. Ent?o eu come?aria com gest?o de ativos, gest?o de patches e vulnerabilidades que s?o o minimo que toda empresa precisa ter.

From my experience, most startups I have worked with relax security with the mindset that there's no need for it. Reason being, they just started and don't want to invest in huge-costed projects. That's where security vulnerabilities are high and if the foundation is weak from here there are bound to be more future problems. Deploying IT policies, i.e. device, software, internet, security and user policies is key to a startup. Training users on latest safe IT practices i.e. cybersecurity, AI and social media. Monitoring, auditing, vulnerability testing and strict maintenance are deployed when infrastructure in motion.

Always monitor and test with proper tools as this will help you to evaluate the actual state the security posture. You can do the Pentesting also if the network is any outdated flaw found during monitoring to see how deep an attacker can let into your network and can access your data

Choosing secure products can be daunting. Sometimes to make a configuration secure You only have to remember a checkbox in configuration to make it work. And other times it requires adding a lot more steps in the workflow or even a new solution to make something secure. Don't be afraid to check that risk assesment for priorities and go for the more expensive solution if that's what it takes (just make sure to have the Business approval :)

Monitor and Test Your Network: Implement continuous monitoring tools to detect and respond to security incidents in real-time. Regularly audit your network infrastructure, conduct vulnerability assessments, and perform penetration testing to identify and remediate weaknesses proactively. Additionally, monitor user activity and network traffic for suspicious behavior that may indicate a security breach.

Os riscos mudam de acordo com as atualiza??es de tecnologia e mudan?as até do proprio negócio, riscos externos como governo, economia etc. Por isso é fundamental reavaliar e testar os seus controles periodicamente para saber se ainda est?o aderentes ao nivel de prote??o adequada para seu negócio. Testes de intrus?o (pen tests) e avalia??es independentes de seguran?a s?o a melhor maneira de se obter esse resultado. Ser diligente e pró-ativo

1. Regular Audits: Conduct assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and verify network configurations. 2. Intrusion Detection System (IDS): Use an IDS to spot any unusual network traffic and detect breaches early. 3. Network Traffic Analysis: Review logs regularly to track abnormal patterns or activities. 4. Penetration Testing: Hire ethical hackers to test your network's defenses, revealing any security gaps before a malicious attacker does. 5. Install Security Updates: Frequently update systems and applications for protection against new threats. 6. Employee Monitoring: Watch for insider threats; unexpected behavior can indicate a compromised account.

Having something made secure without the option to verify and monitor that it is actually doing that in the long run is a bomb waiting to take down everything You've worked for. You can never be sure when a software update or a change from a manufacturer of solution will undo the settings or changes You've made. And this goes for everything - if You don't see that there is something happening and You don't know what is the limit of implemented solution, then how will You know that everything is ok or not? So be sure to think ahead - How will You monitor and report on correct operation of Your changes?

It would be great if solutions could be implemented and forgoten about their maintenance. But almost all solutions with time and increasing power of computing become vulnerable and require some form of maintenance - be it update, change of configuration or replacement as a whole. So review You solutions and asses the need for appropriate action on a regular basis.

Como resultado das avalia??es periódicas, avaliar a necessidade de melhorias e outras implementa??es que manter?o seu ambiente protegido e a um nivel aceitável de riscos e exposi??es cibernéticas, pois n?o existe seguran?a 100%.

1. Regular Reviews: Periodically reassess your security measures for any necessary updates or improvements. 2. Employee Training: Constantly train staff on new threats and security protocols; informed employees can help prevent breaches. 3. Disaster Recovery Plan: Ensure a robust plan is in place to minimize downtime and data loss if an incident occurs. 4. Vendor Assessment: Regularly evaluate third-party service providers to verify their practices align with your security standards. 5. Incident Analytics: Analyze any past security breaches or incidents for learning and prevention of future events. 6. Compliance Updates: Stay current with changes in regulations and ensure your network adheres to privacy and data protection standards.

Educate your employees about cybersecurity best practices, such as recognizing phishing attempts and the importance of data security. Only grant access to sensitive information and systems to employees who need it to perform their job duties. Have an incident response plan in place to quickly address and mitigate the impact of a cybersecurity breach. By implementing these measures, you can significantly improve the security of your network and protect your startup from cyber threats.

1. Constantly update and upgrade hardware to risks endeavours. Prevention in network security is key 2. Engage trusted vendors to upkeep one's computer network security exploits 3. Backups and retrievals of data be routinised. 4. Regular articulation among management and staff on impotence of network security. 5. Rotate staff to control network access to minimise 'disruption' of staff turnover.

As a startup owner, I would prioritize network security by implementing strong access controls and encryption protocols. Additionally, I would regularly conduct vulnerability assessments to proactively address any potential risks. It's crucial to also enforce strict policies regarding device and software usage, and to provide ongoing cybersecurity training for employees to ensure everyone understands their role in maintaining a secure network.

It is crucial to prioritize the security of your startup's network. Take the time to comprehend its framework, which includes routers and switches. Utilize firewalls to prevent any unauthorized access. Control access by implementing Identity and Access Management (IAM), where you can create unique user accounts and assign permissions based on roles. Enhance protection by encrypting your data. Stay vigilant by regularly monitoring and auditing your network using specialized tools to identify any irregularities or potential breaches. Stay informed about the latest security practices to stay one step ahead of emerging threats.

Rest keep updating your knowledge with the startup in the field where your start up is targeting and also gain knowledge related to ICT in that part. As this will make the decision more fruitful and balanced in every aspect of the project

1. Work with Internet Service Providers (ISP) as they have the expertise and shared resources to garner. 2. Install latest and new IDS on your network system. 3. Routine tasks and implement do's and don'ts to upkeep new trends and new vulnerabilities as deemed fit. 4. Embrace new technological advancements to iterate network efficiency and efficacy in data flow management. 5. Educate and train staff on Network protocols as new startups embarking to enhance network optimisation and efficiency.