A Practical Network Security Checklist for Small Businesses

You do not need a large security team to cover the basics. This checklist is a starting point you can work through with whoever looks after your IT.

Network and perimeter

• A business-grade firewall, with rules reviewed regularly
• Firmware and software updates applied on a schedule
• Guest Wi-Fi separated from the staff network
• Remote access protected with multi-factor authentication

Accounts and access

• Individual accounts for each person, not shared logins
• Strong, unique passwords with a password manager
• Multi-factor authentication on email and key systems
• Access removed promptly when someone leaves

Data and recovery

• Regular backups that are tested, not just assumed
• At least one copy kept away from the main network
• A written note of who to call and what to do if something goes wrong

People

• Short, regular reminders about phishing emails
• A clear way for staff to report anything suspicious

Visibility

• A list of devices and systems you own
• Logs or alerts that someone actually reads

Where to start

Pick the items that are missing and fix them in order of risk. A review by an engineer can show which gaps matter most for your setup.

Next step

NetworkAE offers Firewall & Cybersecurity and Security Operations & Monitoring, and a complimentary assessment to find where to begin.