IT infrastructure security means keeping your IT infrastructure safe from intruders and wear and tear. Maintaining it in working order where everything is up-to-date and nothing is left to chance. An organization can perform or outsource these functions to a third party, usually called managed service providers.
What is IT Infrastructure Security?
Before we discuss what is IT infrastructure security, let us define what IT infrastructure constitutes. Usually, it comprises of the following three aspects;
- Hardware: It means the physical components of an IT infrastructure like computers, physical servers, laptops, mobiles, switches, firewall devices, routers, printers, etc.
- Software: It implies the intangible component of an IT infrastructure like an operating system, customer relationship management, productivity-enhancing tools, content management system, web servers, etc.
- Network: It includes all the connectivity factors like LAN, WAN, SDWAN, VoIP, internet connection, network cables, hubs, switches, etc.
Some experts also include people in IT infrastructure as they are central to any infrastructure because they are the ones that operate these components of the IT infrastructure.
How to Determine if Your Business Needs IT Infrastructure Security?
Ideally, every business needs IT infrastructure security as no business can run without IT in its operations, howsoever small maybe its role. Here is how you can determine if your business needs IT infrastructure security.
Risk factor:
Some companies are more at risk when it comes to IT infrastructure security than others. For example, those running IT-intensive operations, companies dealing with public or sensitive data, or companies having state-of-the-art equipment, etc. They all need to keep their IT paraphernalia secure by employing a robust system.
Previous history of attacks:
If an organization has been subjected to vicious attacks by hackers and intruders in the past, it must upgrade and update its IT infrastructure security.
Outdated systems:
If an organization runs obsolete operating systems and programs, it is more likely to face attacks as old systems are easier to intrude into. Therefore, it must invest in IT infrastructure security.
Weak security protocols:
If an organization’s data is not securely stored and there are weak security protocols that are not correctly administrated either. Hence, the organization needs to plan some safety parameters for its IT infrastructure.
No backups of data:
Having no backup of your data can have terrible consequences for your business. You can lose vital information, and so it may not be retrievable. To prevent any loss of data and save it in a secure location, having a proper IT infrastructure security system helps.
Benefits of Employing IT Infrastructure Security
There are numerous benefits to an organization when it uses IT infrastructure security. Some of them are as follows;
- Reduced risks of theft and misuse: A proper IT infrastructure security mechanism ensures that your IT assets do not fall into the wrong hands and there are enough checks that prohibit or limit their misuse.
- Using state-of-the-art technology: Every system is closely monitored and regularly checked with a functioning IT infrastructure security. All the current technology updates are deployed and installed to improve the system’s efficiency, and old ones are phased out.
- Layered security protocols: IT infrastructure security stipulates a layered mechanism to ensure the safety of your IT assets. It covers both physical and intangible assets. Giving restricted access, administering passwords, and using advanced biometrics are examples of layered security protocols.
- Protection from online attacks: Online security is a big issue for companies increasingly dependent on online selling their products, conducting digital transactions, and using remote online storing options. Not having an IT infrastructure security cover is prone to malicious attacks from hackers, so to protect its data and other information, it must use this system.
What’s Included in IT Infrastructure’s Security Offering?
Typically, an IT infrastructure security comprises of the following;
- Firewalls: They act as a buffer and protect the network from unauthorized intrusion. It also ensures the safe transfer of data on private networks and provides its security in remote locations.
- Anti-virus software: Initially designed to ward off threatening viruses from attacking, it now protects adware, spyware, spam, phishing attacks, keyloggers, URL threats, etc.
- Virtual private networks: It is very effective in developing modes for secure data transfer. It gives encrypting connections between two points.
- Intrusion detection systems: As the name implies, they monitor the network closely, secure it against any potential threat, and report it.
- Controlled access: It prevents unauthorized personnel from accessing devices and networks.
- Wireless security: As we continue to free ourselves from wires and cables, the safety of wireless networks has become a big headache. IT infrastructure security also takes care of this aspect.
- Behavioral analytics: It observes the network and reports any deviant practice immediately.
NST: Your Partner in Solving Business IT Needs
As a leading IT solutions provider company in Australia, NST is qualified and experienced to provide you with an unmatched IT infrastructure security mechanism. We hope you will avail of our services. You can visit the one that is closest to you. Please click here to know about our locations and get in touch with us.