Security: Malware and Anti-Virus Protection (IT Assessment DIY Guide, Part 1)
This is part 1 of a series on IT Self-Assessment for small businesses. We’re providing information and guidelines for a simple IT check, giving you the ability to gain free insights into how your technology can serve your business better. Each post will cover a critical area of technology.
Security: Malware and Anti-Virus Protection Overview
Function & Value
Malware and Anti-Virus Protection is software that monitors individual PCs for viruses and other malicious programs that may attempt to invade or infect your network. This type of software regularly updates itself with the most recent information about viruses and malware. If it detects an intrusion, it responds by destroying or quarantining the virus, stopping it from infecting the PC or spreading to other computers.
Malware and Anti-Virus Protection functions like a security firm for your house. Its value is in preventing costly damage and disruption.
Let’s take a look at common problems and best practices in protecting your company from malware and viruses.
Common Problems
(1) The use of Anti-Virus software bundled with the PC at purchase. This software must be managed individually on each PC, and typically expires (and stops working) after a year. To maintain protection, varied expiration dates must be recorded and managed. Maintaining the software and the licenses is time consuming and likely to fail.
(2) Failure to provide content protection for Internet browsing. Most viruses and malware now come from websites, not email. Email is typically scanned, but website content is often left unrestricted. Note that content protection is not the same as content filtering. Businesses can protect themselves without restricting employee web access.
Best Practices
(1) Use centralized Malware and Anti-Virus Protection software designed for business networks. These programs run from one “master” computer that provides centralized management and reporting, and ensures each PC’s Anti-Virus software is regularly updated. Licenses must be renewed each year, but the software continues to work even after license expiration so your network does not become vulnerable.
(2) Use a firewall with Internet Content Protection to scan and intercept malicious information flowing from the Internet to user’s browsers.
We Recommend
Semantic Endpoint Protection for Anti-Virus Protection
Sonicwall TotalSecure for Internet Content Protection
Malware and Anti-Virus Protection Self-Assessment
Anti-Virus software in use: ____________________________________
Is Anti-Virus software on every PC?
Is Anti-Virus software managed centrally?
Does your firewall provide Internet Content Protection?
Level of risk to your business based upon current Anti-Virus Protection: High Medium Low
Issues to be addressed:
1.
2.
3.
Have questions or insights about anti-virus issues in a small business? Click Comment above.
