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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:

  • If you have not already moved to NCE licensing for your organization or if you have any questions about upcoming renewals, please contact us at gettechwise@techwisegroup.com to understand your options.
  • MFA is the best way to prevent cyberthreats. If you have not enabled MFA in your organization, let us help you put a plan in place.
  • Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 Extended Support ended on October 10, 2023. If your organization is still running these operating systems, please contact us to discuss your options.
  • Microsoft has expanded Copilot licensing for small-to-medium businesses (January 15, 2024). Reach out to TechWise Group to discuss your options.
  • April 1, 2024, Microsoft announced global changes to Teams licensing. Please reach out to TechWise Group with any questions.
  • Classic Teams client reaches end of availability. Microsoft extends time to July 01, 2024, for Admins to address any related issues.
  • July 9, 2024, marks the end of support (EOS), for SQL Server 2014. Please reach out to TechWise Group to explore your options.
  • Windows 10 reaches the end of support on October 14, 2025. Please contact us to discuss your options.