What Small Businesses Got Right (and Wrong) About IT Security in 2024

As we get ready to put a fork in 2024, it's time for us to reflect. The past year has been a whirlwind for many small businesses, especially when it comes to IT security. With the onslaught of cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, small businesses have had to adapt quickly, often juggling multiple priorities to keep their operations running smoothly.

Looking back, there were some major wins and a few areas where improvement is still needed. So, let’s take a look at what small businesses got right (and wrong) in IT security in 2024 and how you can make sure you’re on the right track in 2025.

What Small Businesses Got Right

1. Embracing Cybersecurity Awareness Training

One of the biggest wins in 2024 was the increased focus on cybersecurity awareness among small businesses. The old days of thinking “we’re too small to be a target” are fading fast. More business owners and employees are now aware that cybersecurity isn’t just the responsibility of the IT department — it’s everyone’s job.

Many small businesses invested in cybersecurity training programs for their teams, and it paid off. Employees are now more vigilant about recognizing phishing emails, using strong passwords, and following security best practices. This is a huge step forward, as human error is still one of the leading causes of cyber incidents.

How You Can Build on This in 2025: If you haven't already implemented cybersecurity training for your team, now is the time. At Code Blue Computing, we offer customized training solutions to help your staff stay ahead of evolving threats. A well-informed team can be your first line of defense.

2. Strengthening Password Management

In 2024, more small businesses took the advice of cybersecurity experts and began implementing stronger password policies. This includes encouraging the use of password managers, requiring multi-factor authentication (MFA), and enforcing regular password changes.

While this may seem basic, it’s often the simplest things that get overlooked. By creating more stringent password policies, businesses are significantly reducing the risk of data breaches caused by weak or compromised passwords.

How You Can Build on This in 2025: If you’ve already implemented MFA and password managers, great job! To take things to the next level, consider using tools like single sign-on (SSO) for more secure, streamlined access management. Code Blue Computing can help integrate these systems into your existing infrastructure, making it easier to manage without sacrificing security.

3. Focusing on Network Security

Small businesses in 2024 also became more proactive about securing their networks. Firewalls, antivirus software, and VPNs became standard tools, even for smaller companies that once thought they didn’t need or couldn't afford such protection.

By investing in network security, businesses made it harder for cyber-criminals to gain access to sensitive data, reducing the chances of a devastating breach. More businesses are realizing the importance of encrypting their data, especially when working remotely.

How You Can Build on This in 2025: Network security is only as strong as your weakest link, so it’s important to keep evaluating your tools and processes. Regularly updating firewalls, anti-malware software, and encryption processes are a must. At Code Blue Computing, we offer managed IT support services to ensure your network is always protected and up to date.

What Small Businesses Got Wrong

1. Underestimating the Importance of Backups

While many small businesses stepped up their game in cybersecurity, some still underestimated the importance of having a solid data backup strategy in place. Ransomware attacks were particularly disruptive in 2024, and businesses that didn’t have a reliable backup system found themselves in a tough spot. Without secure, offsite backups, some companies faced significant data loss or worse, paid a ransom to try to regain access to their files.

How You Can Improve in 2025: Don’t wait for a disaster to strike before you get serious about backups. Invest in a backup solution that includes both cloud and physical backups for redundancy. At Code Blue Computing, we can help design a tailored backup strategy for your business that ensures your data is safe, no matter what happens.

2. Ignoring Compliance and Regulatory Changes

Another area where some businesses faltered in 2024 was in staying current with compliance and regulatory requirements. As cybersecurity laws and regulations evolve, it’s critical for businesses, especially in industries like law and accounting, to remain compliant with data protection laws such as GDPR, HIPAA, and the FTC Safeguards Rule.

Failing to meet these standards can lead to hefty fines and damage to your reputation. Unfortunately, many small businesses didn’t allocate enough resources to staying compliant or just plain misunderstood the evolving requirements.

How You Can Improve in 2025: Compliance isn’t optional — it’s a necessity. Take the time to review your business’s current compliance practices and adjust them to meet any new requirements. Code Blue Computing can help you navigate complex compliance landscapes, ensuring that your IT infrastructure and cybersecurity practices are exactly where they need to be.

3. Neglecting Regular Vulnerability Assessments

While many businesses implemented some level of cybersecurity, fewer conducted regular vulnerability assessments or penetration testing to uncover weaknesses in their systems. Without consistent monitoring, vulnerabilities can go unnoticed, leaving your business wide open to threats.

How You Can Improve in 2025: Start 2025 off strong by scheduling regular vulnerability assessments. By identifying potential weaknesses before cyber-criminals can exploit them, you’ll reduce your risk. Code Blue Computing provides comprehensive vulnerability assessments and penetration testing services to help you stay ahead of potential threats.

Looking Ahead to 2025: Building a Stronger Cybersecurity Fortress

As we move into 2025, small businesses have an opportunity to build on their progress and address the areas where improvement is needed. The threats facing small businesses are only going to become more sophisticated, but with the right mindset and the right partners, you can stay ahead of the curve.

At Code Blue Computing, we specialize in helping businesses like yours implement robust IT security strategies that reduce risk and enhance your growth. Whether you’re looking for cybersecurity awareness training, network security solutions, or help with compliance and data backups, we’ve got you covered.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Let’s work together in 2025 to make your business safer, smarter, and more resilient.