Network security is often misunderstood, particularly by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). With so many other things to worry about, many simply throw antivirus software at the problem and hope it goes away. They may assume they’re safe, but the truth is that these businesses have left themselves completely vulnerable.
To properly protect yourself against cyber-attacks, you must secure every part of your company – including networks. This is a lot more involved than you might first expect, and can become confusing very quickly without the right information. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know right here.
The SMB Myth: No, You’re Not Too Small
One of the biggest – and most dangerous – misconceptions that small businesses believe is that threat actors are not interested in them. There is a persistent belief that only larger corporations are seen as worthwhile targets, and thus SMBs are safe. This is not true.
In reality, more and more cybercriminals are beginning to recognize SMBs for the goldmine they are. Data collection is easier than ever, meaning that these smaller organizations often have access to the same amount of sensitive information as major corporations. If that isn’t tempting enough, this data is often left vulnerable. Because they assume they won’t be attacked, small businesses often don’t bother with advanced security measures.
The result is a deadly combination. Businesses who don’t prioritize security are unknowingly making themselves the perfect target. With the average cost of a data breach reaching $4.4 million in 2025, this is a risk you cannot afford to take.
Why Network Security Matters
Networks are heavily targeted by threat actors, for a couple of reasons. The first, and most obvious, is the enormous amount of potential this path offers. Consider your company networks. They reach across your entire business, touching every single part of your IT infrastructure in some way. This is precisely what makes them so attractive. If a threat actor can breach your network, they have gained access to everything.
This risk is compounded by the fact that networks are often unsecured. Most businesses have a basic understanding of how to protect endpoints and accounts, but network security is less often discussed. Many SMBs either have no idea how to protect them, or simply assume that an antivirus software is sufficient. The truth is slightly more complicated.
Network Security Measures That Will Actually Work
Here are a few security controls that will help protect your networks against cyber threats:
Firewalls
Firewalls filter and block network traffic using a pre-defined set of rules, such as IP address or country of origin. They can be extremely useful for preventing distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, which target your networks by flooding them with fake traffic.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
VPNs encrypt data as it travels across your network, and reroute it through their own servers. This makes it impossible for an unauthorized third party to read. The reroute also makes it difficult for threat actors to even determine where your networks are located, as data often appears to be coming from an entirely different location.
Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)
IPS is similar to firewalls, but with additional functionality. Instead of simply using pre-set rules to identify suspicious requests, it actively analyzes all traffic for unusual patterns. Upon detecting a potential threat, it can block or quarantine the traffic in real time for human review.
Access Controls
User accounts, particularly for internet browsers or cloud services, are key attack vectors used to breach company networks. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), role-based access control, and Zero Trust policies are important security tools that help lock down your networks by protecting the accounts attached to them.
Network Segmentation
Segmentation involves splitting larger networks into smaller, modular chunks. In the event of a cyber-attack, these can be separated, much like how you might power down a compromised computer. This strategy prevents lateral movement and mitigates the damage.
Antivirus and Anti-Malware
While not enough on their own, antivirus and anti-malware programs do help protect your networks. They reduce the likelihood of a breached endpoint compromising your entire business, by catching malicious software early.
Handling Costs Effectively: The Importance of Strategic Security Investments
While network security is crucial, it is often difficult to achieve on a budget. SMBs work with limited funds and in-house expertise, making it almost impossible to justify investments that don’t come with a tangible ROI. Security is one thing that unfortunately often slips through the cracks.
Fortunately, network security does not need to come with a huge price tag. Careful prioritization will allow you to protect your business without putting undue pressure on your budget. Here are some ways to accomplish this:
- Start with critical defenses first. Non-essential measures can wait until you have more money.
- Prioritize low-cost, high-impact measures such as access controls and segmentation.
- Prioritize low-cost, high-impact measures such as access controls and segmentation.
- Have employees help with the heavy lifting, by training them on network security best practices.
- Hire a managed service provider who specializes in network security. This can solve the issue of limited staffing, without costing the amount that an in-house team would.
FAQs
What’s the Difference Between Computer Networks and Security?
Computer networks and network security are closely related. The computer network is simply a description of the connections between devices. Network security is designed to protect all networks, including computer systems.
What Are Some Types of Network Security That Small Businesses Can Leverage?
Some network security measures you can implement on a tight budget include access controls, network segmentation, and simple antivirus programs. Practice strong application security, and patch operating systems regularly to close potential attack vectors. Outsourcing to a managed service provider can also be a good solution.
How Can I Protect Company Networks When Staff Work Remotely?
When staff are working remotely, network protection becomes a little more complicated. Provide a VPN for them to use, instill strict remote work policies (e.g. no connecting to public Wi-Fi), and use Zero Trust architecture.
How Often Should We Update Our Network Security Measures?
Network security should be revisited at least once per year, or any time your business undergoes a significant change (e.g. you install new software, begin allowing remote work, or experience a cyber-attack).
Cost-Effective Security for SMBs
Network security isn’t optional. Fortunately, it also is not impossible for SMBs to implement. By prioritizing the most cost-effective measures first, demonstrating the ROI to stakeholders, and hiring additional support where needed, you can lower your risk of cyber-attacks and protect your business’ future.
IT doesn’t need to be expensive. There are a number of ways that SMBs can innovate, secure their operations, and drive sustainable growth, and Ascentient is here to teach you all about them. Discover some key technologies that help small logistics companies thrive today.