If you know the basics of wireless network security already, you may need to focus your efforts for protection on the specifics of dealing with access threats.
We've brought you some sound business tips to get you started.
Mitigating Wi-Fi Access Threats to Your Business
Mitigating Wi-Fi access threats to your business. Click to tweet.
These tips are simple, but imperative.
1. Get business-specific APs
The types of access points you have should be specifically designed for your business and include supplemental security features such as authentication servers and capabilities (i.e., anyone joining your network has to already have an account on your network). If you ignore quality or relevance and purchase a device used in the consumer's home, it's likely that device won't offer your business the same protections afforded by routers designed with a greater level of security responsibility in mind.
2. Segment your network
Don't let guests use the network you use to process work or business information. You have the option to use separate access points or firewalls and still provide internet service to others in your area without letting them access your entire network.
3. Restrict physical access
Physical access to your access points makes it too easy for an attacker to reset them and wipe out your configurations and encryption. Ask for a penetration test or vulnerability assessment that covers physical risk. If, after that, you find it to be necessary, install IP-based video surveillance so you can keep an eye on access.
4. Inventory your IoT devices
Knowing about all of the devices touching your network is vital to protecting your network from Wi-Fi access threats. Your inventory should detail how each of these devices operates and is configured. They need to be patched periodically and you should check configurations periodically.
There are also some options for adding devices to your network in order to achieve additional security. Those should be in your inventory, too.
Suggested Read: Business Implications of IoT and IoE
5. Add detection devices
Adding the right wireless intrusion detection devices to your network can help you respond to possible threats more quickly. Once you have those devices on premise, it's time to set up alert functionality. When other devices are communicating with one another in an abnormal fashion or making abnormal requests, your intrusion detection devices will see that communication and let you know. That will let you spin your incident response plan into action sooner.
6. Source a professional wireless assessment
Sometimes, perspective is everything. It's important to ask a third party to evaluate the health of your network and help you determine your ability to manage Wi-Fi access vulnerabilities and mitigate network threats. We suggest asking for a full vulnerability assessment, and then taking it from there. If you have a ton of encryption technology that isn't functioning how it should, you may need someone to help you implement new encryption policies. If your network is mostly secure save a few small holes, you may be able to perform remediation on your own.
Advice Abounds
New Wi-Fi threats are constantly emerging, causing businesses the world over to focus on security in ways they never have before. With all of the advice available, it can be difficult to determine what you actually need and what's just noise. Consider the third-party consultation idea, and think about what's important for your business to see in a partner. Then give us a call. Twinstate is always here to help.
Originally published on 12/29/2016
Topic: Cybersecurity, Network Security, Firewalls & Network Security