Protect Your Household's Online Security Through Wireless Network Precautions

In the digital age, the Wi-Fi connection has become an essential component of a company's network infrastructure. However, without the right controls in place, this seemingly innocent connection can serve as a simple back door into the overall corporate network. This vulnerability has been underscored by recent hacks at TalkTalk, British Gas, and Marks & Spencer, compromising customer information.

To address this issue, a growing trend towards Wi-Fi Managed Services is observed. These services offer network lockdown, continuous maintenance, and upgrades, ensuring that businesses are protected from potential threats. Wi-Fi Managed Services also include a choice of security policies and procedures, such as timed access and content filtering decisions that reflect industry/company-specific policies.

Bandwidth can be allocated differently to user groups, ensuring priority traffic is never compromised. Moreover, specific bandwidth can be assigned to individual users if necessary. Guest and staff Wi-Fi access can be securely segregated to protect the core infrastructure. Content management and filtering tools can be used to prevent access to illegal and/or unacceptable content, and companies can choose what content to censor with strong content management and filtering tools.

Companies are increasingly alert to the risk to their reputation associated with an information breach or network misuse. Many organizations have a requirement to comply with CSR policies regarding the type of content accessed, which can include limiting personal social media usage. Guests can be provided with time-limited Wi-Fi access, preventing indefinite online access. Staff Internet access can be tracked via an audit trail, giving management control over Internet usage and time spent on non-work activity.

The implications of any network glitch in the era of the Internet of Things, connected devices, cloud-based data, and applications can be devastating. While many organizations have strengthened their IT infrastructure, few are paying attention to the Wi-Fi connection. The draft Investigatory Powers Bill suggests that Internet activity of every person should be stored by ISPs for a minimum of 12 months, underscoring the need for robust Wi-Fi security measures.

Organizations need to demonstrate a robust intent to prevent people from breaking the law in terms of Wi-Fi usage. The introduction of basic Wi-Fi controls can significantly reduce risk without affecting user experience. Companies such as GTT, IThochZWEI, Mixvoip, ONE IT, and Conscia offer managed services aimed at improving Wi-Fi network control, content management, and security through expert monitoring, maintenance, cloud integration, and cybersecurity solutions.

In conclusion, in today's digital world, businesses must prioritise Wi-Fi security to protect their network, customer data, and reputation. By adopting Wi-Fi Managed Services, companies can ensure their Wi-Fi networks are secure, efficient, and compliant with industry standards and regulations.