Knowing whether unauthorised users are accessing your business network is crucial. Simply put, it means checking if people outside your company—hackers, competitors, or even strangers—are using your internet or systems without permission. This can happen through weak Wi-Fi security, compromised passwords, or vulnerabilities in your network setup.
When outsiders access your network, the risks multiply quickly. They might steal sensitive customer data, disrupt your operations causing downtime, or install malware that slows down or damages your systems. For Australian small and medium businesses, such breaches can erode customer trust, lead to compliance issues under privacy laws, and reduce staff productivity as IT problems mount.
Real-world example
Consider a typical Australian business with around 50 employees. They rely on a shared Wi-Fi network and cloud services for daily operations. Without regular network monitoring, an attacker could gain access through an unsecured guest Wi-Fi or a weak password. Over several weeks, the attacker might quietly siphon off customer information or use the network to launch attacks elsewhere. A managed IT provider would detect unusual traffic patterns early, isolate the threat, and help strengthen security controls to prevent recurrence.
Practical steps to check your network
- Ask your IT provider: Do you perform regular network audits and monitor for unusual activity? How quickly do you respond to alerts?
- Review access controls: Check who has access to your Wi-Fi and network devices. Are guest networks separated and secured?
- Check device lists: Use your router or network management tools to see all connected devices. Look for unfamiliar names or MAC addresses.
- Update passwords: Ensure strong, unique passwords are used for all network devices and Wi-Fi access points.
- Enable logging and alerts: Confirm that your network hardware logs connection attempts and can alert you to multiple failed logins or new device connections.
- Schedule vulnerability scans: Regularly scan your network for open ports or outdated firmware that outsiders could exploit.
- Educate staff: Train employees to recognise phishing attempts or suspicious activity that might indicate a breach.
What to discuss with your IT partner
When speaking with your managed IT provider, ask about their approach to network security monitoring, incident response times, and whether they provide reports on network health. Clarify how they separate guest and internal networks and what tools they use to detect unauthorised access. Also, confirm their process for updating firmware and applying security patches promptly.
Regularly verifying your network's security and usage is an essential part of protecting your business. If you're unsure about your current setup or want peace of mind, consider consulting a trusted managed IT provider or IT advisor. They can help assess your network, identify any vulnerabilities, and recommend practical improvements tailored to your business needs.