Systems Security

• Avoid Security Pitfalls with Subcontractors

  Increased reliance on outsourcing IT and data services has left businesses vulnerable if the subcontractor suffers a data breach. Ground rules can keep subcontractors to company standards -- and state and federal laws.
  Mary O. Foley

• Slouching? Measure Your Security Posture

  There is an optimal 'security posture' for a business -- the approach your business takes to security, from planning to implementation, from hardware to network security and more. Is your business slacking off on security?
  Lora Shinn

• New Ammo to Battle Online Fraud

  Whether buying books or trading stocks, customers want to feel safe online. For that reason, small businesses need to use the latest ammo in the battle against e-commerce fraud, including extended validation SSL for website security.
  Michelle V. Rafter

• 10 Steps to Database Security

  Most small and mid-sized businesses that build and administer databases focus on performance and availability. Security is usually an afterthought. Until you read the headlines about the well-publicized data breaches.
  Mary O. Foley

• Patch Magic: When to Download a Security Fix

  Is it in a business’ best interests to implement every security patch an operating system or software manufacturer sends out? And should you deploy patches manually or via an automated patch management system? Here’s how to decide.
  Joel Keller

• Outsourcing Security: Are You Ready?

  Outsourcing is an attractive option for businesses that would rather not deal with a 3 a.m. DNS attack or a hacker defacing the website during non-business hours. But what are the benefits and costs?
  Lora Shinn

• Protecting Data: The Old Fashioned Way

  Online backup isn’t for every business. And tape is a backup media of the past. Here are some options in traditional -- or file-based -- backup programs.
  Renee Oricchio

• Minimize Security Threats from IM

  Whether your business condones it or not, employees are probably going to use instant messaging products. IMing can be a productivity saver, but first address the potential security risks.
  Mary O. Foley

• Application Security 101

  Understanding the basics of the application security lifecycle helps to lock up hacker-friendly loopholes. It helps you not only protect your business, but cover your assets.
  Lora Shinn

• Keeping Web 2.0 Platforms Private and Secure

  Blogs and social networks can help companies improve relationships with employees and customers. But they can also leave a business open to privacy and security problems. It’s critical to have strong policies and software.
  Michelle V. Rafter

• Pay for Storage? Weighing the Free -- and Low Cost -- Options

  Google's entrance into online storage, offering users some free storage – with more available for a fee -- increases the choices for small businesses. Here's how to decide between online versus computer-based options.
  Renee Oricchio

• Wi-Fi Security: Block Rogue Access Points

  Wireless networks have moved to the small business arena, helping offices spread Internet connectivity and mobility at a low cost, but bringing security concerns. Unauthorized access points can undercut your Wi-Fi security.
  Patricia Brown