Any business with a dedicated IT department has some kind of computer or network protection in place, starting with their on-premise protection such as desktop or gateway anti-virus.
With cybercriminals and spammers constantly thinking of new ways to get past anti-virus vendors, it's a fact that cyber-attacks are continuing to be an ongoing problem. By having just one security measure in place to protect against malware, businesses are finding that they are still being infiltrated through a ‘gap’ in their IT security. For complete 360-degree protection, businesses require added security measures that protect the network from the outside, by using services delivered through the cloud.
Digital nasties like spam containing malware can worm their way into your business network through a wide range of online portals such as email, websites, online ads and social media. They can also be spread through multiple entry points such as laptops, mobiles, USB keys and other unprotected devices. IT Managers that have had to deal with malware infections within their business networks, know just how frustrating it can be, not to mention the impact on a business brand and the financial ramifications. A 'multilayered' defence strategy is the best way to cover all bases and best defend yourself against all possible entry points for malware. Let's take a closer look at how a business can reach 360-degree malware protection by combining both on-premise and cloud security services.
Desktop anti-virus, anti-malware and anti-spyware
Desktop or on-premise software applications are usually the first and most common form of protection against viruses, malware, and spyware spreading through a business network. They work by blocking the downloading of known viruses, malware and spyware which can be received through multiple attack vectors. Fastbreak spam containing malware and phishing links provide an additional challenge for IT Managers, as there can be windows of time when these ‘new’ variants are unknown to the security vendor, bypassing perimeter protection. Also, as desktop anti-virus needs regular updating, there is always the risk that a computer is running out-of-date software applications, so they are still left vulnerable to the most recent incarnations. These windows of time, albeit short, can allow malicious content to enter the network and spread, with the outcome most likely being lost or stolen data, and/or business data held to ransom.
Cloud email and web filtering
Cloud email filtering blocks fastbreak spam containing malware before they reach the business network. Cloud security vendors who see fastbreak spam immediately update the service in real time to block these malicious emails from reaching a business at all. Email filtering protects the business email system while web filtering protects businesses from malware and spam delivered through personal email accounts accessed through the corporate internet, which is not protected from business email filtering.
Take a look at this video which illustrates just how desktop and cloud work together alongside on-premise security, to give 360-degree protection to businesses.
While both on-premise and cloud protection perform valuable services individually, when combined they complement each other to form the strongest barrier in security against malware. This is as close to ensuring your business IT infrastructure is completely covered at all potential entry points, and that spam and malware are kept at bay.
If you currently just use desktop anti-virus, you run the risk of your business not being entirely protected. 'MailGuard' email filtering and 'WebGuard' web filtering can be deployed quickly to get you covered in no time! You can have complete peace of mind knowing your staff can safely communicate through email and safely browse online.
