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We use tools to defend against all sorts of disasters — seismic dampers for earthquakes, storm cellars for tornadoes, and reinforced concrete for hurricanes. So what tools can you invest in to defend against business disasters? We’ve narrowed down the top seven cybersecurity tools that every business should have in their arsenal for a proactive approach to cybersecurity.
Proactive vs. Reactive Cybersecurity
“Proactive cybersecurity” is more than just a buzzword. In contrast to reactive cybersecurity, which focuses on responding to threats after they’ve occurred, proactive cybersecurity is all about preventing those threats from happening in the first place. With the right proactive measures and cybersecurity tools, you’ll stay one step ahead of potential threats at all times.
A Reactive Approach Adds Unnecessary Risks
Cyberattacks and data breaches already cost the world $9.6 trillion in 2024. A reactive approach to cybersecurity only adds unnecessary risks that contribute to that cost:
- Severe Costs: A business’s average cost of cybercrime was $1.3 million in 2023.
- Brand & Reputation Damage: Cyberattacks and data breaches can significantly damage a company’s brand and reputation, leading to loss of customers and revenue.
- Legal Consequences: Companies may also face legal penalties and lawsuits for failing to adequately protect sensitive data.
- Data Held Ransom: Ransomware attacks have been on the rise, and a reactive approach leaves businesses vulnerable to having their data held hostage for large sums of money.
- Being Unprepared: A lack of proactive measures means businesses are caught off guard and may not have the necessary protocols, resources, or tools to mitigate and respond to an attack.
What Cybersecurity Tools Can You Enlist to Be More Proactive?
Here are seven proactive tools to take your business to the next level and protect your data, network, and systems.
1. The Cloud
The cloud is an essential cybersecurity tool for secure storage, data backup and recovery, and easy access to resources from anywhere. Additionally, a cloud-based approach also means regular updates and patches to keep your systems up-to-date and secure.
2. 24 Hour Monitoring
Proactive cybersecurity requires monitoring business systems and networks to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities. 24 hour security monitoring tools provide real-time threat intelligence and alerts, helping you stay ahead of potential attacks.
3. Regulatory Compliance
Complying with regulations such as HIPAA, GDPR, or CCPA also plays a critical role in proactive cybersecurity. There’s a reason these guidelines exist—to protect sensitive data and prevent cyberattacks. Complying with them means implementing necessary security measures and regularly assessing your business’s cybersecurity.
4. Managed IT Services
Managed IT services provide constant monitoring, maintenance, and support for your business’s systems and networks. This proactive approach means IT experts identify and address any potential issues before they become a full-blown cyberattack.
5. Endpoint Protection
Endpoint protection tools protect devices like laptops, tablets, and mobile phones from cyber threats. They can detect malicious activity and block it from accessing your network, making them an essential cybersecurity tool for a proactive approach.
6. Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to account logins by requiring multiple forms of authentication. This proactive measure helps prevent unauthorized access to critical systems and data.
7. Employee Education
Employees are often the weakest link in cybersecurity. You can change that by providing thorough education on online safety and security. Regular training and education programs will help employees understand the importance of their role in proactive cybersecurity and how to identify and avoid potential threats.
The First Step: A Cybersecurity Risk Assessment
Cybersecurity tools are crucial for a proactive approach, but before you start investing in them left and right, you need to understand your business’s specific risks and vulnerabilities.
A cybersecurity risk assessment is the perfect first step — it pinpoints gaps in your current security measures, prepares you for future advancements, and recommends customized cybersecurity solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Upgrade Your Cybersecurity Management With Safety Net
Safety Net offers comprehensive and proactive cybersecurity solutions to protect your business from potential threats. From the initial risk assessments to the implementation of IT services, our professional team will equip your business with the necessary tools and strategies to stay ahead of the game. Start with our free assessment — you won’t regret it.
