I've seen a lot of small businesses make the same mistake when it comes to their network security: using an ISP-supplied or consumer-grade router instead of an appropriately sized firewall.
I know it might sound like a small detail, but trust me, it can have a big impact on the security of your business. A consumer-grade router might be fine for personal use, but it's just not cut out for the demands of a small business. Here's why:
Lack of customization: With a consumer-grade router, you're limited in what you can do to customize your network security. A small business often has unique security needs, but with a basic router, you're stuck with what you get out of the box.
Inadequate protection: Consumer-grade routers typically have basic firewalls that are easily bypassed by cybercriminals. A dedicated firewall provides a more robust defense against cyber threats and offers far superior filtering capabilities.
Slow performance: As your small business grows, so does your network traffic. A consumer-grade router can't keep up with the demands of a larger network, leading to slow performance and potential network crashes.
No support: If something goes wrong with your consumer-grade router, you're on your own. With a firewall and appropriate support contract, you have access to technical support from the manufacturer, giving you peace of mind knowing you have a team of experts at your disposal along with robust firmware patches for your device.
Limited logging and reporting capabilities: With a consumer-grade router, you often have limited access to logs and reports that can give you valuable insights into your network's activity and security. A dedicated firewall provides more comprehensive logging and reporting capabilities, allowing you to quickly identify and respond to potential security threats.
So what should you do instead? Invest in a firewall that's appropriately sized for your business. It may seem like an upfront cost, but it will pay off in the long run with better network performance, increased security, and peace of mind.
When choosing a firewall, look for one that's scalable, has robust security features, and comes with technical support. It's also important to work with an IT professional to ensure the firewall is set up and configured correctly for your specific business needs.
In conclusion, don't cut corners when it comes to network security. A consumer-grade router might seem like a quick and easy solution, but it's just not worth the risk. Make the investment in a dedicated firewall, and rest easy knowing your small business is protected.
