Back to Basics: Workstation Security

Sometimes the simplest of security procedures can be missed, which is why we’ve created a ‘Back to Basics’ list on protecting your business network, for workstations. All of the points can be easily implemented to protect your business.

Simple ways to improve the security of your workstations:

Modern Internet Browsers
If your staff require access to the Internet, ensuring they have the latest version of their chosen Internet browser can remove many threats. Modern Internet browsers can remove many threats as vulnerabilities in older versions are fixed and they also contain new security features.

You can easily update your browser by going to the official website and downloading the latest version. If you are unsure which browser you are using you can generally go to ‘Tools’ (or a cog icon usually) and then click ‘About’ and the name will be present.

Restrict Permissions
Consider restricting the permissions users have, such as whether they can install software or use USB removal storage devices. If you don’t restrict access employees could install software that may be infected with a virus which could have devastating effects on your business. You can also restrict the type of files users can downloaded over the Internet, which can reduce the chances of downloading infected files.

If you have an IT Support contract with us you can simply phone 01724 400304 and a member of our team will be able to assist you in setting permissions on a per user basis.

Keep Workstations Up To Date

Ensuring all of your workstations are set to automatically update will make sure that any vulnerability fixes are installed. As well as improving security, updates can also fix issues with the operating system which could be affecting performance.

Click here to view a guide on how to set automatic updates in Windows 7, Vista and XP.

Anti-Virus Software

If your staff accidently download an infected file it may go unnoticed and allow unauthorised access to your computer or corrupt the data stored on the workstation. Anti-virus can automatically scan files on a regular basis to ensure your system is free of viruses or malicious files.

Symantec’s session at educate2011 will cover how anti-virus software can help protect your business. Click the link below to register your place.

If you would like to learn how to protect your network in much more detail then we recommend attending Symantec’s seminar entitled ‘Protecting Your Core Business Data’ at our free event entitled educate2011, which will be held on the 18^th of November (less than a month away!). Register your place by visiting hbp-group.co.uk/educate. The seminar will cover everything from disaster recovery through to advanced ways of ensuring your network is protected against even the most sophisticated of attacks.