What Is the Best Small Business Computer Security Software?

Threat detection, firewalls & more

Today’s business owners need to be experts in their own industries—but they need to be security experts, too. In 2023 alone, 73% of small businesses experienced a cyberattack, and that number will likely grow in years to come.

Thankfully, there’s no shortage of data security protections—but knowing which products are worth the investment is still a challenge. Which one is right for your business? Let’s answer this question by exploring the features owners need from the best small business computer security software on the market. 

Best small business computer security software: key features

Firewall capabilities

Firewalls are the first line of cyber defense. They’re the processes that actively monitor internet connections, identify unauthorized or suspicious traffic and block potential threats. When firewalls are implemented correctly, hackers are unable to access protected networks and the sensitive data they contain.

For small businesses, there are two types of firewalls to choose from. Software firewalls are application-based processes that analyze traffic within a specific computer or server. These are a great choice for companies with few employees or a remote workforce operating from their homes.

Hardware firewalls are physical devices that monitor all traffic within a network. They integrate with a router, forcing all signals to pass through the same checkpoint. Hardware firewalls are ideal for protecting offices or networks housing a large number of workstations.

Ideally, businesses should install hardware and software firewalls. Each layer creates more opportunities to block malicious traffic, putting more barriers between private data and malware. However, a small business that needs to stay cost-effective should prioritize the option that best reflects their working environment.

Data encryption

Data encryption tools help businesses minimize damage if a security breach does occur. These systems scramble sensitive files before storing them on a server or hard drive, making them unreadable without a cipher. Even attackers who understand encryption algorithms would find it immensely difficult, if not impossible, to brute force their way into the valuable file data.

In the unlikely event that a malicious actor makes it past your firewall and threat detection software, data encryption protects sales records, customer profiles, intellectual property and other proprietary and sensitive information. It also benefits companies with strict compliance regulations that need a certain guarantee of protection to legally operate.

Threat detection and response

Threat detection is an automated security process that deploys in response to signs of a security breach. Consider threat detection the last line of defense; if malicious software gets through your firewall, it acts to prevent your system from being compromised.

Threat detection and response are just one facet of a modern security strategy. But they’re also significant because they identify and resolve security risks without employee intervention.

Real-time monitoring

How does threat detection work? It’s not possible without real-time monitoring. With it, security platforms gain enhanced visibility into network traffic and system processes to identify breaches as they occur.

To be effective, real-time monitoring systems must account for a wide array of variables, including:

• Reviewing incoming and outgoing network traffic

• Tracking endpoints on the network to quickly seal off compromised computers

• Application monitoring that evaluates whether unauthorized software poses a risk

• User tracking that analyzes employee behavior
  

Integration with existing IT infrastructure

Even security software with a 100% success rate can’t be effective unless it communicates with your other applications. To that end, the best cyber security software for small businesses should seamlessly connect with existing network infrastructure and platforms without disrupting operations. For example, a cyber security tool that connects with identity access systems can determine whether an account exhibits unusual behavior—or appears to be logging in from the wrong country. These insights make it easier and more efficient to identify threats.

User-friendly interfaces

In a perfect world, small businesses and startups would be able to dedicate their time to developing their products or services, not training themselves in cyber security. If expertise is limited, prioritize user-friendly security software that doesn’t require lengthy training.

User-friendly design can take several forms. It might emphasize:

• Easy-to-navigate interfaces

• Clear notifications for threats and vulnerabilities that require immediate attention

• Self-guided tutorials that bring employees up to speed

• Readable and accessible reference documents

• Readily available customer support tools for resolving problems or getting answers to questions
  

Remember, you can’t protect your network and data if your security solution baffles your employees. The best network security software for small businesses is always the platform your team can actually use.

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