Managing passwords for your network devices—like routers, switches, and firewalls—is a critical but often overlooked part of keeping your business IT secure and running smoothly. Using a password manager specifically for these devices means securely storing and organising the complex passwords that control access to your network infrastructure. This helps prevent unauthorised access and reduces the risk of downtime caused by forgotten or weak passwords.
Why this matters for Australian SMBs
Network devices are the backbone of your business connectivity and data flow. If someone gains unauthorised access due to weak or reused passwords, they could disrupt your internet, intercept sensitive customer information, or even shut down your operations. For small and mid-sized Australian businesses, this can mean costly downtime, loss of customer trust, and potential breaches of privacy obligations under Australian data protection expectations.
A practical example
Consider a 50-person accounting firm in Melbourne. Their IT team uses default passwords on their network switches and stores passwords in a shared spreadsheet. When a staff member leaves, the passwords aren't changed promptly, and a former employee still has access. One day, the network goes down due to a configuration change made by an unauthorised user. Recovery takes hours, impacting billable work and client deadlines. An IT partner recommended a password manager for network devices, enabling secure storage, controlled access, and audit trails of who accessed or changed passwords. This reduced risk and improved response times.
Checklist: What you can do now
- Ask your IT provider: Do you use a dedicated password manager for network devices? How do you control and audit access?
- Review your current password practices: Are passwords complex, unique, and changed regularly? Are they stored securely, not in shared spreadsheets or emails?
- Check access lists: Who currently has administrative access to network devices? Remove any unnecessary or outdated accounts.
- Implement role-based access: Limit password visibility and device access to only those who need it.
- Ensure backup and recovery: Confirm that password data is backed up securely and can be restored if needed.
- Train your staff: Make sure employees understand the importance of secure password management and policies.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Avoid relying on default passwords or simple passwords for network devices. Do not share passwords via insecure methods like email or text. Avoid keeping passwords in unencrypted files or on paper. Without a central, secure system, it's easy to lose track of who has access or when passwords were last changed, increasing your risk.
Using a password manager designed for network devices helps you maintain control, improve security, and reduce downtime risks. It also supports compliance with privacy and security expectations common in Australian business environments.
For tailored advice on managing your network device passwords securely, consider speaking with a trusted managed IT service provider or IT advisor who understands the specific needs of Australian small and mid-sized businesses.