Is my network secure? How can I limit/monitor internet usage?
Firewall, antivirus, internet monitoring & filtering: With customized installations, these products ensure your network is safe from internet traffic, internal and external.
Most offices we walk into for the first time are almost completely unprotected. This is not just a HIPAA violation but also a very serious concern for the safety and function of your computer system. Network security is a very important but often overlooked area. It is very common to assume that if the system is working everything is fine. Here are some of the most common problems we find and the solutions to these problems.
Problem: AT&T or Comcast modem/router device serves are the only filter for internet traffic. Any casual hacker or computer whiz can easily break into these and within minutes have full access to your private information.
Solution: Implement an effective network firewall to secure your network from casual and advanced hackers. HIPAA states that this is necessary and in this particular instance they are absolutely correct.
Problem: Computers do not have secure passwords or proper locking procedures.
Solution: Every computer needs to have at least a basic password. Any computer that has access to the server is a free entry point to anyone walking through your office or hacking their way in. Additionally, every computer needs to automatically lock itself so that if you leave the computer for an extended period of time it will become locked and unusable to someone who does not know the password.
Problem: Antivirus is scattered and inconsistent throughout the office. There is no consistency, some computers have Norton, some have McAfee. No one really knows what is working and what is not. Its just there.
Solution: Install a centrally managed antivirus solution. This means that the server controls antivirus for all computers in the office. Every computer will be consistent with the next and management becomes easy and effective.
Problem: There is no limit to internet usage, including potentially dangerous web sites.
Solution: Install software that can effectively manage internet usage so that productivity does not suffer and neither does your network.
