Windows security for companies - 5 practical tips

Advancing digitalization brings numerous opportunities for the world of work. From automated processes to remote working, the possibilities are wide-ranging. At the same time, the technologies require appropriate security measures. Cyber attacks on companies are no longer an exception and can cause considerable damage. It is therefore very important to take some precautions to implement a certain level of protection. In this article, we focus specifically on security for Windows operating systems.

1. update the operating system regularly

Windows operating systems should be updated regularly, as security updates are carried out at the same time. Outdated versions do not offer reliable protection. In a company, it is therefore important to ensure that all computers are always running the latest version of Windows.

2. install firewall and anti-virus software

Reputable firewalls offer reliable protection against external threats. It is particularly important for companies that work with sensitive data to invest in a good firewall. After installation, the firewall must also be activated and configured accordingly. This is the only way to provide the best possible protection.

What applies to the firewall also applies to anti-virus software. This is a monitoring tool that no PC should be without. It can not only detect computer viruses, but also report them and prevent intrusion.

3. conscious use of the internet

Human error is the cause of the majority of successful cyberattacks. For this reason, company employees should receive intensive and regular training on what they need to be aware of when using the internet.

A classic threat that’s still common is opening email attachments from unknown senders, which allows a virus to gain access to the system. You also need to be careful while browsing the web. Especially when downloading files, you should carefully verify that the source is reputable. For example, if you need to change a file format online, reputable websites like Adobe are a good choice. You should also avoid clicking on links or pop-up windows if they come from an unknown website.

4. use of a VPN

The use of a VPN is a good way to make surfing the net more secure. A virtual private network encrypts the connection that employees or managers use to access the Internet. As a result, it is not possible for hackers to track them down. All data traffic via the company is therefore protected.

Although there are free VPNs, these are usually accompanied by restrictions. Either the number of devices on which the VPN can be set up, the duration of use or the available servers are limited. For medium-sized to large companies in particular, it is therefore worth investing in a VPN that can be used without restrictions.

5. use secure passwords

Even in an era when cybercrime is widespread, “123456” remains the most commonly used password in Germany. It goes without saying that this password is easy for hackers to crack. Companies should ensure that all passwords are chosen in a way that provides a high level of security. The following points should be kept in mind:

• Minimum length of 8 characters (the longer, the better)
• A combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers and characters
• No personal reference (do not use a name, date of birth, etc.)

Contrary to popular belief, passwords do not need to be changed regularly to increase security. However, if there is a suspicion that an attempt has been made to crack a password, it should be changed.

Employees should be made aware that passwords must not be written down anywhere. However, it may be a good idea to use a password manager.

6. checks of the existing safety measures

If you've followed all of our tips on how to optimize your Windows security, hackers should already have a very hard time accessing your company's system. However, security vulnerabilities can still creep in due to missed updates or similar issues. To find out whether your security software is working reliably, you can test your Windows security.

There are various online tools that basically try to hack your system and then show you weak points. You can then optimize these accordingly.

7. special care with public hotspots or PCs

In times of remote working, employees are not only working from home, but from anywhere. Company data is particularly at risk when employees log into a public WLAN to work while on the move. This is simply because public hotspots are often not equipped with the highest security standards.

Of course, it is best if public WLAN is not used at all. However, if you do, the use of a VPN is unavoidable. A second tip is to use a virtual keyboard. The reason for this is that keyloggers can obtain passwords by reading keystrokes. This is not possible with a virtual keyboard.

Security measures in constant flux

Security measures are constantly evolving. What was the best standard last year may already have huge gaps in 2023. After all, hackers are always learning how to circumvent existing security measures.

To ensure that your Windows security in the company is always at the highest level, you should regularly inform yourself about the latest measures and implement them.