I Network

There are an increasing number of security threats to the IT and e commerce systems of Businesses. However, there are a number of different solutions available.

As a business owner, it is important to put appropriate measures and systems in place to ensure that the security of your IT systems is secure and up to date.

The following guide will provide you with some basic advice to ensure that your IT systems remain secure through a combination of technologies, procedures and user awareness.

• Install a properly configured firewall for your internet connection.
• Ensure that you have virus, spyware and email attachment scanners installed.
• Make sure that any IT systems are updated on a regular basis with the required packs, patches and fixes to stop the latest known intrusion methods.

In order for you to minimise the risks of viruses to your IT Systems, you should:

• Install anti-virus software on all desktops, laptops and servers and update it on a regular basis.
• Treat any email attachments from unknown senders with caution, as they are a common means of spreading viruses.
• Consider restricting the use of USB flash drives but include security measures if they need to be used within your business.
• Consider subscribing to a hosted email spam and virus scanning service.

If your business uses wireless technology such as WiFi and Bluetooth, it is important to protect files and information with appropriate security. For example:

• Wireless equipment often has security settings turned off by default or default settings that may not be meet your requirements. Always ensure that such settings and configuration files are checked and changed where appropriate.
• If you are handling sensitive information across a mobile connection, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to allow for privacy.

If you require further information about IT security, please feel free to contact us for further advice.

A Dublin based information security consultancy and services company called Sysnet is to invest in a major expansion programme worth €1.27m which will create 60 new jobs over the next four years.

The expansion, which is being supported by Enterprise Ireland will see the company target markets in countries such as Russia, the Ukraine, Africa and the Middle East.

Sysnet was established in 1989 and has since diversified into the payment card data security market. It has developed an online payment product called Securus which is used by banks and other organisations handling payment card data.

Gabriel Moynagh, the company’s general manager stated that:

“This latest investment demonstrates our commitment to our international expansion goals, it will enable Sysnet to fully exploit the many opportunities identified in both new and high-growth markets.”

Enterprise Ireland’s head of Internationally Traded Services, Kevin Sherry also stated that:

“Sysnet’s track record of investment in innovation and product development positions the company for its next wave of growth and Enterprise Ireland is delighted to support its expansion and drive for further growth,”

With clients in over 30 countries worldwide, the move will be a welcome boost for Ireland.