In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity isn’t just for large corporations – it’s essential for businesses of all sizes. Many organizations don’t realize they’re at risk until after a security incident occurs. Here are five critical warning signs that indicate your business should consider a professional network security audit and vulnerability assessment.
1) Your Network Performance Has Changed
Unexpected slowdowns or irregular network behavior could indicate security issues. Malware and unauthorized access often create unusual patterns in network traffic. While performance issues don’t always signal security problems, they warrant investigation through a comprehensive security assessment.
2) Your Remote Work Force Has Changed or Returned to the Office
The shift to remote work creates new security challenges. Each remote connection represents a potential entry point for cyber threats. If your business has embraced remote work without updating security protocols, you may have unknown vulnerabilities in your network. If your employees are returning to a traditional office setting, you also need to revisit security policies and protocols. New employees in the office mean new potential for security breaches. A network security audit can reveal threat vectors that have been introduced to your business by your shifting workforce.
3) You’re Not Sure When Updates Were Last Applied
Security patches and updates are crucial for protecting against known vulnerabilities. If you can’t confidently say when your systems were last updated, or if you’re unsure whether all devices are current, it’s time for a security audit. Research consistently shows that outdated systems are involved in at least 60% of data breaches.
4) Multiple People Handle IT Tasks
When multiple employees or vendors share IT responsibilities, security protocols can become inconsistent. This fragmented approach often leads to new vulnerabilities in your network. Here are a few to keep in mind:
Inconsistent access permissions
Overlooked security updates
Gaps in security monitoring
Unclear accountability for security measures
5) You Haven’t Had a Professional Vulnerability Assessment
If it’s been more than a year since your last professional security audit – or if you’ve never had one – your business is likely overdue. Cyber threats evolve rapidly, and yesterday’s security measures may not protect against today’s sophisticated attacks.
Taking Action for Network Security
Don’t wait for a security breach to assess your network’s safety. A professional network security audit can identify vulnerabilities before they’re exploited. Modern security assessments are designed to be the following:
Non-disruptive to your operations
Completed quickly (often in just 30 minutes)
Comprehensive in scope
Actionable with clear recommendations
Next Steps to Limit Information Vulnerabilities
Understanding your network’s security posture is crucial for protecting your business assets and customer data. The EstesGroup team provides thorough network security audits that identify vulnerabilities without disrupting your operations. We also offer subscription-based IT services for businesses looking to streamline IT and security management. Contact us today to learn how we can help secure your business technology.
In today’s digital workplace, the phrase “endpoint management” appears in almost every serious conversation about cybersecurity solutions. Though it’s easy to add to your IT strategy, getting your organization to the point where you have a truly effective endpoint management system isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Let’s walk through the journey of transforming your IT infrastructure from chaos to control according to EstesGroup’s cyber experts.
Endpoint Management as the End to Pain Points
Before diving into complex solutions, take a step back and assess your current situation. What’s keeping your IT team up at night?
Are your help desk tickets overwhelming?
Do software updates feel like herding cats?
Is employee onboarding taking forever?
Are security patches consistently behind schedule?
Does remote work support feel like a juggling act?
Understanding your pain points is crucial because it helps you build a case for change and prioritize your needs.
Build Your IT Network Foundation
Think of endpoint management like building a house – you need a solid foundation. First you need to create and assess your unique technology blueprint. Here are the steps to do this:
Asset Inventory
Document all your endpoints (computers, laptops, mobile devices)
Map out your software licenses
Identify who uses what and why
Standardization
Create baseline configurations for different user types
Establish standard operating procedures
Define security policies
Network Infrastructure
Ensure your network can handle remote management
Set up secure access protocols
Implement backup systems
Take IT Management Step by Step
Don’t try to boil the ocean. Instead, implement endpoint management in phases:
Phase 1: Basic Monitoring
Deploy basic monitoring tools
Set up alerts for critical issues
Establish baseline performance metrics
Phase 2: Remote Support
Implement remote access tools
Train support staff
Create support documentation
Set up ticketing system
Phase 3: Automation
Automate routine maintenance
Set up automated patching
Configure automatic updates
Create automated onboarding workflows
Phase 4: Optimization
Fine-tune monitoring parameters
Optimize performance settings
Streamline support processes
Enhance security measures
Address the Human Element of Endpoint Management
Technology is only half the battle. Success requires:
User Education
Train employees on new procedures
Communicate changes clearly
Provide self-help resources
Get feedback and adjust
IT Team Development
Up-skill your IT staff
Define clear roles and responsibilities
Create documentation
Establish best practices
No End to Your IT Strategy
Your technology journey will never end. The cyber landscape will only become more complex. To prepare for the future, set up metrics now to track your journey:
Response times to IT issues
System downtime
Patch compliance rates
User satisfaction scores
Support ticket resolution times
Security incident rates
Endpoint Management is a Journey, Not an End in Itself
Getting to the point of effective endpoint management takes time, planning, and patience. Start with understanding your needs, build a solid foundation, implement changes gradually, and keep your users in mind throughout the process. The result? A more efficient, secure, and manageable IT infrastructure that supports rather than hinders your business operations. Remember that endpoint management is a journey, not a destination. As your organization grows and technology evolves, your approach should too.
Most importantly, remember that the goal isn’t perfection from day one. It’s about creating a sustainable system that grows with your organization and adapts to changing needs. Start your journey today, take it one step at a time, and keep moving forward. Your future IT team will thank you for it.
Would your team benefit from a partnership with a 24/7/365 team of ERP and technology experts? Learn more about our subscription-based services today.
EstesGroup provides managed IT services and enterprise consulting for all ERP systems: Epicor Kinetic, Epicor Prophet 21, Sage ERP, SYSPRO ERP, NetSuite, QuickBooks, and more!
How to Align Technology Policies with Business Goals
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, organizations face the constant challenge of aligning their IT infrastructure with business objectives while navigating a complex web of regulations and security concerns. This is where a policy-led IT strategy comes into play, offering a structured approach to technology management that ensures compliance, enhances security, and drives business value.
What is a policy-led IT strategy?
A policy-led IT strategy is an approach that places organizational policies at the forefront of technology decision-making. Instead of allowing technology to dictate business processes, this strategy ensures that IT initiatives are guided by well-defined policies that reflect the company’s goals, values, and regulatory requirements.
What are the key benefits of policy-led IT?
Improved Compliance: By basing IT decisions on clear policies, organizations can more easily adhere to industry regulations and standards.
Enhanced Security: Security policies become an integral part of the IT strategy, reducing vulnerabilities and protecting sensitive data.
Better Alignment with Business Goals: Technology investments and initiatives are directly tied to organizational objectives, ensuring better ROI.
Enhanced Decision-Making: Clear policies provide a framework for consistent IT decisions across the organization.
Increased Transparency: Stakeholders have a clear understanding of how and why IT decisions are made.
How do you implement a policy-led IT strategy?
Developing and implementing a policy-led IT strategy requires careful planning and execution. Here are some key steps:
Define Clear Policies: Start by creating comprehensive policies that cover all aspects of IT usage, security, and governance.
Align Policies with Business Objectives: Ensure that your IT policies support and enhance your organization’s overall goals.
Communicate and Educate: Make sure all stakeholders understand the policies and their importance.
Implement Technology Solutions: Choose and implement technologies that support and enforce your policies.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review and update your policies to keep pace with changing business needs and technological advancements.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month Webinar
How to Create a Policy-Led IT Strategy
To dive deeper into this topic and learn how to create an effective policy-led IT strategy for your organization, join us for our upcoming webinar:
Date: October 30th, 2024
Time: 11 AM Eastern Time
Ready to learn the key components of an effective IT policy framework? Looking for new strategies for aligning IT policies with business objectives? Seeking best practices for policy implementation and enforcement? Tired of theory and desire real-world examples and case studies?
By embracing a policy-led IT strategy, you can ensure that your technology investments are not simply sustaining your business, but actively driving your future forward in a secure, compliant, and efficient manner.
Ensuring Robust Cybersecurity with SOC 2: Certified Providers, Certified Protection
In today’s interconnected manufacturing landscape, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT concern—it’s a critical business imperative. As cyber threats evolve and regulatory requirements tighten, manufacturers must ensure their digital assets, intellectual property, and operational technology (OT) are adequately protected. This is where comprehensive security audits, conducted by SOC 2 certified providers like EstesGroup, play a crucial role. With EstesCare Guard cybersecurity experts, manufacturers can run complex enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, like Epicor Kinetic, without worrying about cyber threats and attacks. Cybersecurity audits for manufacturers are complex. Let’s take a closer look at the closer look of a security audit.
The Importance of Security Audits for Manufacturers
Security audits are essential for manufacturers to accomplish the following:
Identify vulnerabilities in both IT and OT environments
Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards
Protect sensitive data and intellectual property
Maintain operational continuity and prevent costly downtime
Build trust with customers and partners
Key Areas Covered in a Manufacturer’s Security Audit
A thorough cybersecurity audit for manufacturers typically encompasses the following categories and more:
Network Security
Firewall configurations
Segmentation between IT and OT networks
Wireless network security
Endpoint Security
Workstation and mobile device protection
Internet of Things (IoT) device security
Industrial control system (ICS) security
Access Control
User authentication and authorization
Privileged access management
Remote access security
Data Protection
Data encryption (at rest and in transit)
Backup and recovery procedures
Data loss prevention strategies
Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and SCADA Security
ICS/SCADA system hardening
Patch management for industrial systems
Security monitoring for OT environments
Supply Chain Security
Third-party risk assessment
Secure data exchange with suppliers and partners
Vendor management processes
Incident Response and Business Continuity
Incident response plans
Disaster recovery procedures
Business continuity strategies
The Advantage of Choosing a SOC 2 Certified Provider
When selecting a cybersecurity partner to conduct your security audit, opting for a SOC 2 certified provider like EstesGroup offers several key advantages:
Proven Expertise and Reliability: SOC 2 certification demonstrates that the provider has undergone rigorous third-party audits of their own security practices. This ensures they have the expertise and systems in place to effectively assess and improve your security posture.
Comprehensive Security Framework: SOC 2 certified providers adhere to a robust security framework based on five trust service criteria: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. This comprehensive approach ensures no aspect of your cybersecurity is overlooked.
Industry Best Practices: By working with a SOC 2 certified provider, you benefit from their knowledge of the latest industry best practices and emerging threats, ensuring your security measures are up-to-date and effective.
Compliance Alignment: SOC 2 certified providers are well-versed in various compliance requirements. They can help align your security practices with relevant industry standards and regulations.
Continuous Improvement: SOC 2 certification requires ongoing compliance, meaning your provider is committed to continuously improving their own security practices—a commitment that extends to the services they provide to you.
The Security Audit Process
When working with a SOC 2 certified provider like EstesCare Guard Cybersecurity, you can expect a structured and thorough security audit process:
Initial Assessment: Understanding your manufacturing environment, technologies in use, and specific security concerns.
Comprehensive Review: Evaluating your current security controls, policies, and procedures across all relevant areas.
Vulnerability Scanning and Testing: Conducting technical assessments to identify potential weaknesses in your systems.
Risk Analysis: Assessing the potential impact and likelihood of various security threats.
Detailed Reporting: Providing a comprehensive report of findings, including vulnerabilities, risks, and compliance gaps.
Remediation Planning: Developing a prioritized action plan to address identified issues and enhance your overall security posture.
Ongoing Support: Offering continuous monitoring and support to maintain and improve your cybersecurity over time.
Safeguarding Your Manufacturing Future
In an era where cyber threats can significantly impact manufacturing operations, regular security audits conducted by SOC 2 certified providers are essential. By partnering with EstesGroup’s EstesCare Guard cybersecurity experts, you’re not just getting a security assessment—you’re gaining a trusted advisor committed to protecting your digital assets, ensuring operational continuity, and safeguarding your manufacturing future.
Ready to enhance your cybersecurity posture and protect your manufacturing operations with a comprehensive security audit? Don’t settle for general! EstesGroup offers cybersecurity audits for manufacturers.
Our team understands the manufacturing industry. Our team understands your ERP system. Our Epicor Kinetic, SYSPRO, and Sage experts are on the same team as our elite cybersecurity consultants. Talk to us today to keep your data secure.
The Power of MDR and SOC: Enhancing Cybersecurity for Businesses
In today’s digital landscape, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face a constant barrage of evolving cybersecurity threats. As cyberattacks become more sophisticated and frequent, relying solely on traditional security measures such as antivirus software, firewalls, email filtering, and basic employee training may not be sufficient to fully protect your valuable data and resources.
This is where the synergy of Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and Security Operations Center (SOC) comes into play, providing enterprise-grade security tailored for your business. Are you a manufacturer trying to adhere to rigorous compliance regulations? Are you a distributor struggling to keep up with ERP system upgrades, supply chain demands, and evolving security threats? EstesGroup maintains SOC 2 certification so that our clients enjoy peace of mind at every level.
Managed Detection and Response (MDR): Proactive Protection for Your Business
MDR is a proactive security approach that goes beyond traditional reactive measures. By leveraging advanced technologies and expert analysis, MDR provides real-time monitoring, rapid threat detection and response, instant incident alerts, and valuable insights to safeguard your data and resources. With MDR, you can rest assured that potential threats are identified and addressed promptly, minimizing the risk of a successful cyberattack.
Key Benefits of MDR
Are you looking for advanced protection? MDR employs cutting-edge technologies, such as machine learning and behavioral analytics, to detect and respond to even the most sophisticated threats. Do you need real-time monitoring? Continuous monitoring of your systems ensures that any suspicious activity is identified and addressed immediately. Are you looking for rapid response strategies? In the event of a security incident, MDR enables swift action to contain and mitigate the threat, minimizing potential damage.
Security Operations Center (SOC): 24/7 Vigilance and Expertise
Complementing MDR, a Security Operations Center (SOC) acts as a central hub for cybersecurity management. Staffed by a team of expert security analysts, the SOC provides round-the-clock monitoring, analysis, investigation, and response to potential threats.
SOC Benefits
With a secure operations center on your side, you benefit from centralized care for your entire system:
24/7 Monitoring: A dedicated team keeps a vigilant eye on your systems, ensuring that any suspicious activity is promptly identified and addressed.
Expert Analysis: A skilled security analysts leverage their expertise to investigate and assess potential threats, providing valuable insights and recommendations.
Rapid Incident Response: In the event of a security incident, your SOC team springs into action, working diligently to minimize damage and downtime, allowing you to maintain productivity.
Your Security Decisions, Your MDR and SOC
By combining MDR and SOC, you gain a comprehensive understanding of your security landscape. The insights gathered from real-time monitoring, threat analysis, and incident response empower you to make informed decisions about your cybersecurity strategy. With this knowledge, you can proactively strengthen your defenses, identify areas for improvement, and allocate resources effectively to protect your business against evolving threats.
Managed Detection and Response and a Secure Operations Center with Legacy Built on Trust
In the face of ever-evolving cyberthreats, taking proactive measures to secure your business is crucial. By embracing the power of MDR and SOC in a partnership with EstesGroup, you can enhance your cybersecurity posture and protect your business against potential attacks. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today to get started on your journey towards a more secure future. We have a long-standing commitment to delivering exceptional cybersecurity solutions. With our MDR and SOC services, you can have confidence in the security of your valuable data and resources. Ask for a free demo of ECHO, EstesCloud Hosting, to learn more about managed private cloud environments for businesses. EstesGroup provides cloud solutions for companies of all sizes, across all industries, with specialized teams built for enterprise resource planning (ERP) system needs. We are the leading independent ERP consultancy for Epicor Kinetic, Epicor Prophet 21, SYSPRO, Sage, DELMIAWorks, and more!
Manufacturers and distributors can benefit significantly from a Managed Services Provider (MSP) managing one website or kin websites as part of an integrated IT services, IT security, and enterprise cloud strategy. An external IT provider ensures that the world will view web-based company representation with optimal performance, scalability, and security, reduced downtime and enhanced user experience. Through robust IT security measures, a cloud provider like EstesGroup safeguards sensitive data, mitigating the risk of cyber threats. Additionally, integrating enterprise cloud solutions facilitates seamless data access, collaboration, and scalability, enabling manufacturers and distributors to focus on core business functions while staying agile and competitive in the digital landscape.
For businesses, websites serve as crucial repositories for sharing information, necessitating proper hosting and data management to connect with customers, ensure security, and facilitate growth. When exploring website hosting services and ERP hosting solutions, businesses encounter various cloud options, with managed hosting and shared hosting being the primary types. Understanding the distinctions in the website vs. ERP hosting conversation empowers businesses to make informed decisions aligning with their unique identities.
Is your website hosting forgotten data?
While your IT team is focusing on critical tasks, your website might go unnoticed, opening the path to vulnerability and chaos. In the realm of website hosting, discerning between managed hosting and shared hosting is essential. Managed hosting is ideal for businesses seeking comprehensive control and responsibility, with the service provider acting as a dedicated IT department overseeing all aspects of the website. Conversely, shared hosting accommodates businesses needing performance and security but may lack the size or budget for full-service management. Multiple businesses share resources like RAM and CPU under a shared server, potentially impacting performance during traffic surges. Managed hosting suits larger enterprises prioritizing ultimate performance and security, while shared hosting remains viable for budget-conscious smaller businesses.
Managed Hosting vs. Shared Hosting vs. Managed ERP Hosting
Businesses should consider several key differences between managed and shared hosting for websites and ERP hosting for enterprise resource planning applications. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you unravel your web of business data.
Resources: Managed hosting provides dedicated server resources, ensuring optimal performance, while shared hosting involves resource-sharing, potentially leading to performance issues during high traffic.
Customization: Managed hosting offers customized solutions, tailored to specific business needs, whereas shared hosting tends to be more one-size-fits-all.
Security: Managed hosting prioritizes security, protecting individual businesses, whereas shared hosting may compromise security if one business on the shared server experiences a breach.
Optimal Performance: Managed hosting eliminates performance issues associated with shared resources, providing consistent and optimized performance.
Updates: Managed hosting ensures prompt updates and security patches, while shared hosting may require businesses to schedule updates themselves.
Email: Both hosting types offer email services, with managed hosting providing premium plans for enhanced features.
Cost: Shared hosting is more affordable, making it suitable for smaller businesses with budget constraints, while managed hosting, though more expensive, offers superior performance and security.
How ERP Hosting Gets Tangled in Your Website Web
The discussion on website hosting parallels ERP hosting, where businesses can opt for a managed service provider to host their ERP software in a remote, cloud-based data center. This centralized approach provides cost-effective, secure, and scalable solutions, enabling businesses to focus on operations rather than maintaining on-premise infrastructure.
Businesses must comprehend the disparities between the many available cloud options to make informed choices for their website and ERP hosting needs. While managed hosting excels in performance, security, and support, startups or small businesses with budget constraints may consider shared hosting initially. Managed hosting proves invaluable for businesses seeking to eliminate on-premise responsibilities, allowing them to concentrate on optimization and growth.
Complex Cloud Hosting Environments
Experience seamless business operations with our fully managed ERP hosting, ensuring optimal performance, security, and scalability as we take charge of your ERP software in a secure, remote, and cloud-based environment. Ready to tackle website vs. ERP hosting? Elevate your online presence with our fully managed website hosting, where a dedicated IT team handles every aspect, providing tailored solutions for peak performance, robust security, and unmatched support. Trust EstesGroup to streamline your technology infrastructure, allowing you to focus on growth and innovation without the burden of managing complex hosting environments.
