Safeguarding Your Business Against Cyber Threats with an Intrusion Detection System

As businesses rely more on connected technologies, they become sitting ducks for cyberattacks. Malicious actors are hard at work developing new methods to infiltrate networks and steal sensitive data. Ensure your business has watertight security measures by implementing all 15 ways to protect your business from a cyberattack, including an intrusion detection system (IDS).

An IDS works like an advanced warning system, scanning your network activity for suspicious behaviors that may indicate a cyberattack. It provides an extra layer of protection to catch potential threats that other security tools may miss.

What is an IDS?

An intrusion detection system monitors network traffic by searching for patterns that may signify a network breach or data exfiltration attempt. It works by establishing a baseline of normal network behavior and sending alerts when any abnormal activity is detected.

IDS tools utilize either signature-based or anomaly-based detection methods. On the one hand, signature-based systems look for known threats by comparing live traffic against databases of attack signatures. On the other hand, anomaly-based systems try to detect deviations from normal patterns.

There are two main types of IDS deployments.

Network Intrusion Detection System (NIDS)

A network intrusion detection system is like a security camera that monitors activity throughout an entire building. The security camera is installed to view all common spaces, halls, and entry points. It analyzes movement and behaviors, looking for suspicious activities like someone sneaking around who shouldn’t be there. The security camera provides extra visibility into what’s happening throughout the building, allowing security guards to detect intruders.

Similarly, a NIDS watches an entire network, inspecting all the data flowing through. It’s analyzing the network packets to identify unusual traffic that could signal a hacker’s attack. This gives IT professionals greater insight into network events to spot potential threats that other protections may miss. The NIDS acts as an extra set of eyes monitoring the network for breaches around the clock.

Host-Based Intrusion Detection System (HIDS)

On the other hand, a host-based IDS is like a surveillance camera inside a store, watching over just one cash register. It focuses on all activity happening at that specific checkout lane. The camera tracks every item scanned, register key pressed, drawer opened, and barcode scanned – anything that could look like suspicious behavior. With its targeted view, the camera can detect if a cashier is doing something shady, like pocketing cash or manipulating transactions.

In the same way, a HIDS zooms in on events within a single computer or device. It monitors low-level operations like system commands, log files, and file changes. Looking for abnormal patterns, the HIDS builds an understanding of normal behavior in that one host. If any abnormal activity deviates from the baseline, the HIDS can flag it as a potential security breach. So, this targeted monitoring helps catch threats like an employee illicitly accessing company data on their work laptop.

IDS Benefits for Businesses

Intrusion detection provides essential visibility into threats that other defenses like firewalls and antivirus software can miss.

Here are some key advantages an IDS delivers:

• Early detection of attacks: IDS tools can spot malicious activity as it unfolds before severe damage is done. This grants responders a critical head start on investigating and containing the breach.

While anti-virus software relies on signatures to catch known threats, an IDS uses behavioral analysis to detect anomalous activity that could indicate zero-day attacks. This allows an IDS to catch incidents proactively before the antivirus recognizes them.

Therefore, an IDS provides a vital additional security layer by identifying stealthy or unprecedented threats that other defenses may miss. Implementing an IDS alongside antivirus software offers more robust protection.

• Insight into insider threats: A HIDS monitors user activity for dangerous behaviors, like unauthorized attempts to access or modify data. You can catch potentially rogue employees before they do any damage. Your anti-ransomware or antivirus cannot do that.
• Strengthening of incident response: While security awareness training is vital for reducing risk, IDS tools provide comprehensive visibility into malicious activities that allow responders to quickly determine the attack’s extent. This speeds up recovery efforts and informs preventative improvements to security defenses.
• Prioritizing patch management: By revealing exploited vulnerabilities, an IDS highlights where patching efforts should be focused first. The real-time insight an IDS provides enables administrators to determine which systems are most vulnerable quickly. Prompt patching of these critical security flaws is essential for reducing attack surface exposure.
• Compliance assistance: Audit logs and alerts generated by an IDS help demonstrate regulatory compliance regarding monitoring for threats. Detailed activity logs can provide proof of a robust security program to auditors. IDS alerts also supply documentation of response processes when incidents occur, further aiding compliance efforts.

With cybercriminals relentlessly attempting intrusions, businesses need proactive monitoring to detect threats. An IDS delivers this through round-the-clock surveillance, empowering rapid response.

Deploying an Effective IDS

To leverage an IDS most effectively, careful planning and configuration is required.

Here are some best practices to follow:

• Place IDS sensors at key network choke points to monitor inbound and outbound traffic. Critical infrastructure like DMZs and database servers warrant extra monitoring.
• Fine-tune the detection parameters to minimize false positives while still catching true threats. Start with looser settings while learning normal baseline behaviors.
• Ensure the IDS has high availability, redundancy, and cyber attack resistance itself.
• Establish proper logging and retention policies for the alerts and audit data produced. Integrate the IDS with a security information and event management (SIEM) platform for deeper analysis.
• Set up notifications to receive immediate warnings of high-priority threats. Monitor dashboards regularly to stay on top of developing issues.
• Keep detection rules and behavior profiles updated as new attack techniques emerge. Perform testing to validate that the IDS can catch known threats.
• The optimal IDS approach combines both network and host-based systems to get a comprehensive view of threats across the enterprise.

Protect Your Business with Help from AZCOMP

While intrusion detection systems offer critical protection, they require know-how to manage and tune properly. AZCOMP has extensive experience when it comes to deploying and optimizing IDS to detect stealthy attacks other defenses miss. We offer 24/7 monitoring and response powered by our advanced Security Operations Center (SOC).

Beef up your cyber defenses and gain greater visibility into threats targeting your business. Contact AZCOMP today to discuss adding managed IDS capabilities and SOC services tailored to your operations. We help businesses across industries build robust, multi-layered security programs to protect against continually evolving cyber risks. Don’t leave your valuable data vulnerable.

About AZCOMP Technologies

AZCOMP Technologies of Mesa, AZ, is a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions and services for businesses of all sizes. The purpose of AZCOMP IT Services is to help businesses improve operational efficiency, eliminate IT frustrations, and drastically reduce the risk of cyber attacks with robust cybersecurity solutions.

AZCOMP Technologies has provided technology solutions and services to businesses in Mesa, Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Gold Canyon, Glendale, Surprise, and more since 2000. Request your IT consultation today!

Security Awareness Training cannot be overlooked as one of the more critical aspects of your business network security plan. Even with robust cybersecurity defenses, cybercriminals can easily bypass all that when an employee unknowingly lets them in.

Security awareness training is more than simply telling employees to be careful with their email.

You see it in movies all the time where a criminal dresses up as a janitor or a doctor, and the person at the front desk lets them right into the building with no questions asked. That happens in real life too! In the cybercrime world, this is called “social engineering.”

Remember the famous Target data breach? Criminals posed as HVAC contractors to breach the company servers, and employees unknowingly let them in.

Incidents like this show how good and smart people can be tricked if they lack awareness. Watch Catch Me If You Can or Ocean’s Eleven for examples of how people can infiltrate your business and steal from you.

Email scams are another significant threat. Strategies like phishing, spear phishing, whaling, smishing, vishing, CEO fraud, and many more are used by hackers to trick your employees and gain access. Search the internet for “real-life examples of phishing attacks,” and you’ll see more examples than you can imagine of businesses falling victim to cybercrime through email scams.

To protect your business, training your employees to recognize and identify threats is critical. When properly trained, employees become suspicious and cautious, which will dramatically improve your business’s security.

This article will cover the best practices for training you and your employees on security awareness.

The Power of Security Awareness Training

Security Awareness Training educates and empowers your employees to recognize potential cyber threats and adopt best practices for safe online behavior. You create a human firewall that complements your technical defenses by arming your workforce with the knowledge and skills to identify and respond to cyber risks.

Key Components of an Effective Security Awareness Training Program

1. Cultivate a Security Culture:

Developing a security-focused culture is vital for an effective awareness training program. Encourage employees to take ownership in safeguarding data and spotting risks. Top management should clearly communicate the significance of cybersecurity, fostering an environment where open discussions on security concerns are welcome. By ingraining security values into daily practices, employees will proactively defend themselves and the business against cyber threats. Top management should also embrace the constant and good-natured razzing from employees they’ll receive every time cybersecurity is brought up. This will make it more fun for everyone (speaking from experience).

2. Simplicity in Comprehensive Training:

Simplicity is key when training all employees. New hires receive thorough onboarding regarding security policies and best practices. Regular, ongoing training ensures updated knowledge and vigilance. This approach prevents complacency and empowers employees to make informed decisions protecting personal and company data.

3. Unannounced Testing and Simulation:

Regular unannounced testing is essential. Simulating real-world scenarios, like phishing exercises, helps evaluate employees’ responses to potential security incidents. Identifying weaknesses allows targeted training to bridge gaps. Empowering employees with hands-on experience fosters vigilance and strengthens the organization’s defense against cyber threats.

How To Implement Security Awareness Training in Your Business

Any business with staff with the knowledge, expertise, and time to implement a do-it-yourself training program certainly can do that. Honestly, though, that is rather difficult, time-consuming, and isn’t the typical way to get it done.

The best way to implement a security awareness training program is through your IT partner. Your IT partner will likely have an established relationship with a 3^rd party vendor with very affordable training programs already set up. Alternatively, suppose you don’t have an established relationship with an IT partner that can provide this solution for you. In that case, you might be able to purchase security awareness training programs directly from a training vendor (most of these vendors will only work directly with an IT partner). These 3^rd party vendors have gone through all the hard work of developing a very effective program and can sell it to you.

Get Started With Security Awareness Training

No matter where you are in your cybersecurity defense implementation journey, do not overlook the significance of security awareness training. The human element remains the linchpin in any cybersecurity plan, and investing in educating and empowering your employees is essential for maintaining a strong defense.

The easiest way to get started is to contact AZCOMP Technologies or your IT support provider. When you contact us, let us know you’re interested in getting started with security awareness training for your employees, and we’ll take it from there.

Lastly, don’t forget to review the remainder of our free infographic – 15 Ways to Protect Your Business from Cyber Attack. These 15 ways are the foundation of building an effective and layered cybersecurity plan for your business.

Do you need to talk to a cybersecurity expert to go over the unique details of your business? Contact us for a free cybersecurity consultation and evaluation.

About AZCOMP Technologies:

AZCOMP Technologies of Mesa, AZ, is a leading provider of Managed IT services and technology solutions for businesses. AZCOMP’s mission is to help enterprises to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase cybersecurity through innovative tech solutions.

AZCOMP Technologies has provided business technology solutions and cybersecurity services since 2000. AZCOMP offers these services in Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Gold Canyon, and more. Request your IT consultation today!

Shedding Light on the True Impact of Ransomware Attacks

The world has become increasingly dependent on technology, and with it, the peril of ransomware looms large, capable of crippling businesses of all sizes. The risk of ransomware has grown to epic proportions within the last few years, and no business is safe.

As long as a business uses a computer system, network, or online resources such as banking, it’s at risk. It’s not a concern just for big businesses but also for small businesses.

Despite the risk, many business owners remain oblivious to the severity of the threat or fail to grasp the potential impact of ransomware infection.

In this write-up, we aim to simplify the message and drive home a crucial point: ransomware has the power to bring your business to its knees. Here’s how:

Ransomware Can Bring Your Business to a Standstill

Imagine a situation where your ability to serve clients, collect payments, and acquire new business abruptly stops. Even the thought of it is devastating!

That is the harsh reality of falling victim to a ransomware attack.

Whether you rely on local servers or cloud-based applications, no matter your technology setup, the impact is the same—temporary yet devastating disruption.

As a business owner, it is crucial to recognize that ransomware is not a mere inconvenience. It has the potential to jeopardize your entire business. Or even shut it down permanently when the recovery cost becomes too much.

The Aftermath of a Ransomware Attack

When ransomware strikes, the repercussions go far beyond inaccessible data. Your computers, online accounts, and vital business functions are rendered useless. Projects remain unfinished, productivity plummets and revenue streams dry up.

The road to recovery from a cyberattack is long and arduous, requiring significant time, effort, and resources. Often, the damage inflicted on your business’s reputation and customer trust can have lasting effects. Convincing your clients and business partners that you can safeguard their privacy and data becomes a challenging task. How do you convince them that the same thing will not happen again?

When protecting your business from ransomware, the key is to take it seriously and act proactively. Prevention is the best defense against cyber threats. Don’t wait for an incident to happen and regret not taking action earlier. There are numerous cybersecurity tools available that can effectively safeguard your business. By implementing these measures, you can avoid becoming a victim of ransomware and prevent irreversible damage to your company.

Collateral Damage to Employees and Financial Stability

While you grapple with the consequences of a ransomware attack, spare a thought for your employees. With systems compromised, their productivity grinds to a halt, leaving you with difficult choices regarding payroll and financial stability.

Perhaps a business has computers that are part of a network and don’t have a central server. The company could do all its computing through internet-based apps such as QuickBooks Online, Microsoft 365 (or G-Suite), an online CRM, online EHR programs and more. Ransomware will prevent access to all these online services, leaving your employees helpless to do their jobs.

In this situation, it isn’t easy to generate new sales or fulfill existing ones without the ability to access any of your systems and work. As a result, cash flow dwindles, leaving little to cover staff wages, bills, and payments to suppliers.

Ongoing expenses, such as rent and insurance will continue to pile up while revenue is severely hampered. Ransomware disrupts your business’s operations and affects the livelihood of you and your valued workforce.

HIPAA Compliance and Ransomware

For healthcare providers, the stakes are even higher. HIPAA compliance, designed to protect patient privacy, cannot be ignored. The devastating impact of a ransomware attack goes beyond financial losses, potentially breaching regulations and incurring severe penalties. Ransomware gives the attackers access to patient data.

Failing to pay the ransom may see the patient’s data sold on the dark web. The regulatory consequences are dire, as the regulators may issue crippling fines and penalties. On the other hand, the media can have a field day with news about patient data breaches. Once the information is out there, the reputation and brand image may take a nosedive.

Patient trust, essential for the success of healthcare businesses, is jeopardized, and the company is now in a pickle.

Interested in real-life examples? Take a look at this recent article on our site. It outlines the experiences of several businesses that faced ransomware attacks and how they managed the situation.

Rebuilding from the Ruins

Recovering from a ransomware attack is a challenging and time-consuming process.

Rebuilding trust with clients and partners while facing the consequences of an attack is no easy task. Building a new client network takes time and the internet’s memory can haunt a brand affected by a ransomware attack. Rebuilding employee confidence and productivity is another hurdle, as they may need to relearn safe internet practices. Additionally, the emotional toll on business owners and staff should not be underestimated. Recreating lost data, addressing security vulnerabilities, and implementing strong cybersecurity measures are essential steps in the recovery process.

After surviving a ransomware incident, business owners often realize the overwhelming challenge of rebuilding and addressing all the necessary tasks, leading some to close their doors ultimately.

Protect Your Business, Secure Your Future

In a world where cyber threats abound, complacency can be a business owner’s greatest downfall. Ransomware poses a clear and present danger, capable of erasing months or even years of hard work in a matter of moments.

But you can dramatically increase your ability to avoid such a scary scenario by embracing a healthy fear of ransomware and adopting robust cybersecurity practices.

Whether your business is based in the Phoenix metro area or elsewhere in Arizona, the need for heightened cybersecurity is universal. Feel free to give us a call to discuss your unique cybersecurity needs, or check out our 15 ways to protect your business against cyber attack for more insight. Remember, your business’s security is in your hands.

About AZCOMP Technologies

AZCOMP Technologies of Mesa, AZ, is a leading provider of technology solutions and cybersecurity for businesses of all sizes. AZCOMP’s mission is to help enterprises to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase cybersecurity through innovative tech solutions.

AZCOMP Technologies has provided technology solutions and services to businesses since 2000. Our experienced and committed professionals spend most of their time working on clients’ computers and systems. 

Contact us today for more information about our cybersecurity solutions in Phoenix. 

In an alarming AI-powered cyberattack incident, an Arizona family recently fell victim to a harrowing ransom call that utilized the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to clone their daughter’s voice. Even more surprising is that the mother couldn’t tell the scammers were using a deep fake.

But how could they when it sounds so real?

This chilling example showcases the growing trend of cybercriminals employing sophisticated AI-powered tools to extort money from unsuspecting people.

It’s emerging as the new way of doing business for cybercriminals.

With the rapid advancement of AI technology, it has become imperative for individuals and businesses alike to understand and prepare for the imminent dangers posed by these evolving cyber threats. The technologies are making it easier to break into systems.

And so, more than ever, prevention is better than cure, especially in the current era of AI and automation.

The Deep Fake Dilemma

The ordeal faced by the Bock family sheds light on the disturbing reality of deep fakes, where scammers can convincingly mimic voices to manipulate emotions and extract sensitive information.

If it weren’t for the police, who were aware of the scam, the target family could have quickly fallen victim and only realized later it was a scam. Using deep fake voices is the next level of scams. Anyone could be the next victim as it’s becoming harder and harder to authenticate voices.

In this case, the scammers expertly replicated the daughter’s distress, leaving the parents vulnerable to their malicious ploy. This incident serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing the need to stay vigilant in the face of increasingly sophisticated AI-driven deception.

AI in the Wrong Hands

The exploit deployed by the scammers in the Bock family’s case is just one example of how hackers are utilizing AI to produce deep fakes for their illicit gains. Imagine the implications of AI-generated simulations of CEOs’ voices, signatures, or writing styles used to deceive employees into unauthorized actions that could compromise an organization’s security.

Additionally, cybercriminals may employ similar tactics to defraud clients or patients, coercing them into divulging confidential information or making fraudulent payments. When misused, AI’s power can substantially harm individuals and businesses.

Password Vulnerabilities and Beyond

As AI technology continues to evolve, so does its capacity to crack passwords swiftly. Studies reveal that over half of the commonly used passwords can be deciphered using AI algorithms in less than a minute.

Even complex passwords with a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols provide minimal resistance to AI-powered attacks.

So, what does it mean for organizations and individuals?

The changing cybersecurity risk landscape underscores the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures beyond reliance on strong passwords and basic antivirus software.

One way to do this is through security awareness.

Security Awareness

As a business owner, you must prioritize security awareness training for your employees as a crucial defense mechanism against cyber threats. Simply sharing educational resources like this article can significantly enhance employees’ ability to detect and thwart scams.

However, occasional information-sharing is insufficient. It’s just a part of other measures you require to safeguard your business.

Consistent reminders and formal training programs are also essential to ensure employees remain vigilant and maintain a proactive stance against potential attacks. The misconception that employees are “too smart” to fall for scams must be dispelled, as cybercriminals can exploit even the most cautious individuals.

For example, deep fakes are a relatively new concept; most of your employees haven’t heard of it. Others have heard of it and may be casual about it because they don’t believe they could also be victims.

Awareness of deep fake technology and understanding how it can be used to manipulate media is vital. Evaluate the context in which the content is presented. Deep fakes are often used to spread misinformation or propaganda, so your employees should be skeptical of content that aims to provoke strong emotions or manipulate public opinion.

The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to detect potential deep fakes and other emerging cybersecurity threats.

Also, repeated education and reminders play a critical role in reducing human errors that risk your organization’s computer systems and network.

Collaboration with IT Service Providers

A proactive partnership with a reliable IT company is paramount to safeguarding against cyber threats. Businesses must ensure their IT service providers have implemented robust cybersecurity tools, comprehensive protection measures, and efficient disaster recovery protocols.

But why do I need an IT service provider?

You see, keeping your devices and software up to date with the latest security patches and anti-malware solutions is only part of the measures you may take yourself. It can help protect against hacking attempts or malicious software that may be used to create or distribute deep fakes.

You need hands-on experience, expertise, and round-the-clock availability to keep your business secure. A competent IT service keeps tabs on the available deep fake detection tools and techniques.

Investing in top-tier cybersecurity solutions should be viewed as a critical necessity rather than an area to cut corners. Many business owners underestimate the potential severity of a cyber or ransomware attack, which can inflict significant financial and operational damage. Prevention is far more cost-effective than recovering from a devastating cyber incident.

Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Strategy

To help businesses devise a comprehensive cybersecurity plan, we have prepared a valuable resource, “15 Ways to Protect Your Business from Cyber Attacks,” which provides specific recommendations and best practices.

Access the infographic by visiting www.azcomp.com/15ways, and empower your organization with actionable steps to mitigate risk.

Need help with implementing any of those 15 items, or help with any other aspect of the technology in your business? Contact us today for a free 15-minute IT consult, and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.

About AZCOMP Technologies

AZCOMP Technologies of Mesa, AZ, is a leading provider of Managed IT services and technology solutions for businesses. AZCOMP’s mission is to help Arizona businesses to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase cybersecurity through innovative tech solutions.

AZCOMP Technologies has provided business technology solutions and cybersecurity services since 2000. AZCOMP offers these services in Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, Phoenix, Glendale, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Gold Canyon, and more. Request your IT consultation today!

Do you know the saying “the devil is in the details”? Computer updates, which are also called software updates or patching, are one of those pesky details that deserve your dedicated attention.

Computer updates are #4 on our 15 ways to protect your business from a cyber attack. See the entire list in this article here.

Updates may seem rather small and insignificant, but still, to this day, cybercriminals are exploiting networks that are not updated with the latest security patches.

What is it about updates that the experts make sound so critical? Is your dental or medical practice in the Phoenix area vulnerable to attacks just by falling back on a few updates?

The Patchwork of Protection

What Are Computer Updates, Software Updates, and Patches?

When we talk about updates, we encounter a vast realm of possibilities.

Software updates, computer updates, or “patching” are ways to improve and fix problems with your computer’s programs and operating system. It’s like getting minor upgrades or fixes to make your computer work better, faster, and more securely. These updates are similar to updating apps on your phone, keeping your computer up to date and protected from bugs or security issues. They help ensure your computer is more secure, runs smoothly, and stays compatible with new technologies and features.

Software updates hold one of the keys to safeguarding your digital kingdom.

According to Verizon Data Breach Investigations, 70% of attacks came through known vulnerabilities on unpatched computers (and a patch was available).

An unpatched computer or old software is like an open gate into your facility’s computer systems and network, and there’s nothing that intruders love more!

This is true, and this is such an easy way for hackers to gain access to a system because software vulnerabilities are published to the public when a software update becomes available.

An Explanation of Why Patching Is Critical

Imagine you have a computer with a new operating system, like Windows 11 from Microsoft. When it was first released, the developers knew it wasn’t perfect because creating flawless software is challenging. They had to meet deadlines, so they made it “good enough for now.”

As people started installing Windows 11, the developers continued working on the program to fix minor issues and make the software more secure. When they made significant improvements, they released an update, along with release notes explaining what they fixed and how they enhanced security.

Here’s where cybercriminals come in. They analyze these release notes to identify vulnerabilities they can exploit. Once they understand how to exploit these weaknesses, they search for computers without the updates. Finding an unpatched computer is like finding an open door—it gives them easy access to that computer or network.

That’s why it’s crucial to install updates promptly!

You might wonder why developers publish release notes if it gives cybercriminals insights into vulnerabilities. The truth is, if developers didn’t share release notes, people wouldn’t know why they should update. Simply saying, “Update #1 is available. Trust us!” wouldn’t give enough information to understand why the update was released.

By publishing release notes, developers inform users about the fixes and security enhancements, encouraging them to stay protected by updating their systems. It’s about transparency and keeping everyone informed to avoid cyber threats.

Extreme Example: 2017 WannaCry Ransomware Outbreak

The 2017 WannaCry outbreak is a perfect example of how dangerous it can be to have unpatched computers.

If you’re unfamiliar with this event, an estimated 230,000 to 300,000 computers across 150 countries were infected with the WannaCry ransomware over just a few hours. The estimated damages range between hundreds of millions of dollars to billions of dollars.

The hackers were obviously skilled at their craft, but the only reason they could inflict so much damage so fast was due to unpatched computers. If you want to get more detail on this, read the first two paragraphs on the Wikipedia page about this incident.

This is an extreme example. However, computers with unpatched operating systems or other software are getting exploited every day, so it is vital to stay vigilant in keeping all the computers and other devices in your organization up to date and patched.

What Needs to be Updated or Patched?

Operating Systems:

Operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux often require updates. These updates include fixes for security vulnerabilities, improvements to system performance, and new features. Updating your operating system ensures that your computer or device remains secure and functions optimally.

Browsers:

Web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge also require regular updates. Browser updates often address security issues, enhance compatibility with websites and web standards, and introduce new functionalities. Updating your browser is essential for safer browsing, improved performance, and a better web experience.

Phone Operating Systems:

Phone operating systems, like iOS (for iPhones) and Android, frequently receive updates. These updates bring security patches, bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features to your phone. Updating your phone’s operating system ensures you have the latest security protections and access to the most current capabilities.

Phone Apps:

Mobile apps on your phone, such as social media apps, productivity tools, or games, also need regular updates. App updates often include bug fixes, performance optimizations, new features, and security enhancements. It’s important to update your apps to ensure they work correctly, remain secure, and provide you with the latest features and improvements.

Other Software:

In addition to operating systems, browsers, and phone-related software, other applications on your computer may also require updates.

Software like antivirus programs, productivity suites such as Microsoft Office, media players, and graphic editing tools often release updates. These updates address security vulnerabilities, fix bugs, introduce new features, and enhance performance. Staying up to date with software updates helps maintain a secure and efficient computing environment.

Regularly checking for and installing updates helps keep your digital experiences smooth, secure, and up-to-date.

How to Stay Current with Updates & Patching in Your Business

For business owners in the Phoenix/Mesa area with multiple employees and various devices to manage, keeping everything up to date can be daunting. However, you don’t have to do it all alone. Here are a few options for how to implement patching:

Employees:

Educate your employees about the importance of updates and security practices. To ensure patches and updates are installed on all company-owned computers, you can require that your employees promptly install updates. Regular training sessions and communication about the significance of updates can create a culture of proactive security within the organization.

This is a quick and easy way to check the box of trying to accomplish patch management. However, it can lead to many questions, and if employees choose not to do it, it’s hard to know that all systems are up to date.

In-House IT Team:

An in-house employee, such as a junior IT engineer or any other employee, can manage and implement updates across the organization. This task can be done by going from one computer to the next and installing updates. This task should be done weekly.

This option is a little resource-intensive but is also a quick and easy way to check the box of trying to accomplish patch management. This method can also be disruptive to your employees, who will need to step away from their computers temporarily while installing the updates. If not well managed, this method will likely lead to unpatched computers and vulnerabilities in the system.

Outsourced IT Service Partners:

Business owners can work with outsourced IT service providers, such as AZCOMP Technologies, that provide comprehensive IT support. These providers can take care of patching and updates. They have the software tools to handle updates and patching automatically after hours or over the weekend. Outsourcing IT responsibilities to a trusted IT partner will ensure that the patching gets done every week without fail and without disrupting your operations.

This option is the best in terms of making sure that patching is actually done on a schedule. Rest easy knowing that your computers and software are up to date. The downside is that it is an extra expense to the business.

The Bottom Line

The bottom line is that one-way-or-another, patching needs to be done every week without fail. If not, the business is needlessly at higher risk of cyberattack.

About AZCOMP Technologies:

AZCOMP Technologies of Mesa, AZ, is a leading provider of Managed IT services and technology solutions for businesses. AZCOMP’s mission is to help enterprises to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase cybersecurity through innovative tech solutions.

AZCOMP Technologies has provided business technology solutions and cybersecurity services since 2000. AZCOMP offers these services in Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Gold Canyon, and more. Request your IT consultation today!