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How to Build a Cybersecurity Strategy – Tech Tip For June 27, 2023

Our June Tech tips have examined Cybersecurity Risk Assessments and the SSP (System Security Plan). However, if your organization is still in the early stages of building a cybersecurity strategy, what steps should you take to get started?

Here are a few important cybersecurity practices that every company – no matter its size – should have in place: 

1. Control access to your systems

  • Deploy two-factor authentication (MFA). It is a cheap and effective cyber defense to prevent improper access to your network.
  • Only give employees access to systems, data, and applications needed to do their jobs.  

2. Protect those endpoints

  • Ensure your organization’s desktops, laptops, devices, and servers run the latest patches and updates.
  • Confirm that every system is protected with an appropriate updated antivirus solution. 

3. Back it up

  • Back up any on-premise systems to the cloud and run a test restore regularly.
  • Even if your organization uses cloud services such as Microsoft 365 for email, collaboration, and file storage, it is still a good idea to put a backup solution in place to ensure fast data recovery in the event of a cyber incident. 

4. Make the most of Microsoft 365

  • Many of the Microsoft 365 SKUs include MFA, antivirus, endpoint management, and access control features to protect your systems and data. 
  • Microsoft 365 includes both a Security Center and a Compliance Center, which can help your organization better understand, improve, and manage your security and compliance requirements. 

5. Hire an expert

Consider outsourcing your IT management and cybersecurity to a Managed Service Provider (MSP), especially one with expertise in Microsoft 365 and Azure. 

An MSP can act as your dedicated IT department if you don’t have one or work with your existing IT department to provide additional expertise and capacity. An MSP can also help keep your business secure, assist end users, and ensure you get the most value from your investment in Microsoft 365. In addition, the right MSP can assist you in creating a system security plan and handling cyber technology reviews. 

Contact TechWise Group today to learn more about the expert services we provide.

Important Microsoft Announcements:

  • Maximize your organization’s Security with Secure Score and MFA:
    • Get to know your Secure Score—your essential tool for proactive threat management.
    • Enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is the best way to prevent cyberthreats.
  • Give your business a productivity boost with Microsoft Copilot:
    • Take advantage of a 15% discount on Copilot licensing now through Dec 31, 2024 (terms and conditions apply).
    • Get started with Copilot consulting services to organize and secure your data, while also training you and your team.
  • Keep your infrastructure up to date:
    • SQL Server 2014 reaches End of Support (EOS) on July 9, 2024.
    • Windows 10 reaches End of Support (EOS) on October 14, 2025.
    • Windows 11 feature update 23H2 is now available (September 2024).
    • Windows 11 version 22H2 Home and Pro editions will reach end of service (October 8, 2024) and will be required to upgrade to version 23H2 to continue receiving security updates.
    • Windows 11 Enterprise and Education editions with 22H2 will continue to be supported after October 8, 2024.
  • Contact TechWise Group to get started or to put a plan in place.