Tag

BYOD Archives - thinkCSC

Jun 16
0

The Argument for Endpoint Security

By | Communication Security, Data Security, Email Security

endpoint securityAn organization is only as secure as its weakest access point, and certain endpoints – smartphones, laptops, and other portable devices that are often connected to public WiFi hotspots or are apt to be lost – are a weak spot for most organizations.

Endpoints are an easy target. Endpoint security is designed to thwart the most common risks these devices present, by detecting and blocking malware, as well as reducing vulnerabilities while ensuring a sensible balance between protection and user access.

Does Your Organization Need Endpoint Security?

Does your company use mobile devices? Do your employees have the ability to take these devices offsite and off-network? Would a data breach cost you customers, downtime, or lost business? If you answer yes to any of these questions, then endpoint security is something your organization should consider.

Endpoint Security and Phishing Scams

Email security is a challenge for every organization. Your employees, whose split-second decision to click on a link or open a file puts you at risk – are part of the solution. But can endpoint security help you prevent phishing attacks? As part of an overall strategy to implement multiple layers of security designed to block as much malware as possible, endpoint security can work at the device level by:

  • Requiring security and monitoring software that can detect rapid file encryption, even on employee-owned devices used for work
  • Making sure all operating systems used on devices are fully patched and up to date
  • Whitelisting apps
  • Implementing analytics that rapidly detect and block threats

Threats from phishing emails and malware, such as ransomware, worms, and bots, are a constant threat. Proactive measures must be taken to prevent existing and emerging threats, not just on your network and servers but at every point of access as well as through employee training and consistent reinforcement.

As cybersecurity remains a top concern for business leaders in every industry, taking the necessary steps to protect your organization becomes a high priority. Minimizing your risk is easier when you partner with a trusted managed IT service provider who partners with your organization, understands your needs, and provides customized solutions to ensure that you have the protection you need. thinkCSC is committed to helping you find the most economical solutions to meet their needs. For more information, contact us today.

Dec 15
0

School Computing: Wireless Networking and Security

By | EdTech | No Comments

edtech costsAs we move more and more into a cloud-based environment and online learning becomes the norm, many schools are switching from land-based to wireless networking. And, with extensive budget cuts to education, many schools are turning to a bring-your-own-technology (BYOT) methodology, where students are required to bring their own equipment to school.

There is simply not enough space to provide a computer lab for every student. With a new law that requires mandated online testing, schools are trying to convert to wireless and BYOT as an easy way to provide localized data management for the entire student population.

The problem for many schools is that their infrastructure is outdated. Often, servers and other electronic hardware must be replaced before even attempting the installation of a wireless system and implementing BYOT. From thinkCSC’s perspective, the key to wireless in schools is planning.

There is still a year or two before the mandated online testing takes effect, so it’s imperative that schools not wait until the last minute to make the necessary changes. Until we get a team in the school to examine the infrastructure and take readings, we don’t know if there are any wiring needs, which can add time and expense.

The physical structure of the building and what it is made out of, such as drywall or brick, can have a tremendous effect on wireless capabilities. We set up an access point and take measurements on its strength to determine an appropriate setup.

Once we know what the school needs to accomplish their wireless goals, the school can secure finding and find a time during which we can install the access points. Some schools may have a technology budget, but many schools have to obtain grants or pass special budget addendum.  Most schools also try to avoid disruptions during classes, and try to schedule the installations for vacations. While these systems can be built in as little as three days, we have to know exactly what we are dealing with before we can give them an accurate estimate.

Luckily, we have partnered with an easily deployed cloud-based system called Meraki. Unlike most interfaces that require a physical piece of hardware in the school controlling the wireless access points, Meraki lets schools use the company’s website to control the access points with only a few clicks of the mouse. It’s easy to install, set-up, and change.

Some people worry about security with a wireless system, but the system can be as open or locked down as the school needs.  A lot of these schools want wireless access for events or other functions so parents and guests can have access to their system. As far as security is concerned, there really are no major issues as long as it’s professionally installed.

Many schools wait until it’s almost too late and end up rushing to get it done. With the mandate still more than a year away, there is still plenty of time for us to review the school’s infrastructure and draft a proposal so that the school can find funding and install the system before the deadline for the mandated testing arrives.