What is Mobile Device Management and Why is it Important?

The pandemic launched an unprecedented need for secure remote access work. As a result, Mobile Device Management or MDM, has become essential for safe remote-access work. Every mobile device connected to a business’s network is an endpoint, vulnerable to a cyberattack. The more devices you have connected, the more hackers have potential opportunities to gain access to your company’s hard-earned data. Anti-virus programs and firewalls on home-office servers are no longer sufficient protection from cybercriminals. Remote access work has resulted in more than a 400% increase in cyberattacks on small to midsized businesses since the pandemic's start. Part of the reason for the dramatic rise of cybercrime is businesses’ reliance on smartphones, laptops, tablets and other business-critical devices for remote and work-from-home operations. With each new device comes a new “endpoint.” “Endpoints” are any devices that are physical endpoints to a network. And without proper cyber security in place, hackers can access those devices and steal all your personal and hard-earned business data and sell it to third parties and, sometimes, your business competition.

Telephone Service Companies Don’t Offer Enough Security

Wireless phone companies have stepped up their efforts to offer some cyber protections. However, strong cyber security for remote devices requires a 360° holistic approach to endpoint management. Today, it is crucial to plan MDM before any phone system installation as it is an essential component to safe remote-access work operations. SMBs without MDM in place run the risk of a cyberattack. Unfortunately, many businesses do not realize that every device on their network is part of the new cybercrime target landscape.

Small Business Mobile Device Management Considerations

There are many questions to consider in MDM for small businesses, such as:

Unfortunately, most small to midsized businesses have neither the time nor the expertise to analyze their MDM needs. In addition, tasks such as creating passwords and password management are often overlooked by business owners who might not realize the importance of secure password management. IT professionals understand that many SMBs don’t know or comprehend all the security issues related to software installation, system updates, adding mobile devices and other IT functions. It is therefore prudent for SMB owners to enlist professional IT Consulting services. The IT experts can also ensure that you maintain software compatibility, security protections across your network and other protocols to safeguard your hard-earned data systemwide.

IT Maintenance

IT Maintenance has become a 24/7 operation for many small to midsized businesses. Computers and all networked devices must be regularly monitored and maintained. Up-to-date system and software updates, established security protocols and defenses must also be in place.

With the expanded use of remote and work-from-home employees, having a team of IT experts to support your systems is essential for the smooth operation of your business. An IT support team can train your staff, update your software, inspect and monitor your hardware and provide iron-clad cyber security for all your devices and networks.

GEEK-AID® Computer and Network Support specializes in customized Managed IT Services for small to midsized businesses. GEEK-AID®'s team of experts is comprised of top specialists in different areas of IT services, serving clients onsite and remotely for Macs, PCs and all your connected devices. When your system is down, they will perform onsite computer repairs. And the GEEK-AID® team doesn't clock out at five o'clock on Friday. They are available to you 24/7, remotely or in person, to ensure your computers, network and data stay healthy and secure. As your business grows, expands its network and adds more devices such as smart controls, smart devices, wireless access and remote access, your network's cybercrime vulnerability and need for cyber security will grow, too. In addition to maintaining the hardware, software and security, employee training and regular IT support must be ongoing. New users and new devices will require additional training to use those devices efficiently. Hardware and software installation and maintenance, repair, cyber security and network protection are all related and must be consistent and proactive.

Call (877) GEEK-AID (877-433-5243) to help you maintain a secure and fully functional remote-access business.