Cybersecurity tools for small businesses

Key Takeaways

There isn’t a day in the life of a small company without facing some form of cyber threat. From phishing emails to malware attacks, small businesses are often the most vulnerable.

Hackers actually prefer to target small companies because they tend to have weaker defenses – like a burglar choosing an unlocked door.

In fact, over 57% of small business owners falsely believe they won’t be targeted, yet studies show nearly half of all cyberattacks aim at small businesses. This complacency can be costly: a single data breach can jeopardize customer trust, rack up heavy financial losses, or even put a company out of business.

Tools to protect your business from cybersecurity threats

Every small business should avoid the “it won’t happen to me” mindset. Staying proactive with cybersecurity is far easier and cheaper than dealing with the fallout of an attack. By deploying a combination of the following tools, even organizations with limited IT staff can significantly strengthen their security posture.

These advanced security solutions will help you protect devices, networks, and data against a range of threats, ultimately safeguarding your company’s success.

Norton Antivirus

When it comes to trusted security products, Norton is a name that stands out. Norton Antivirus offers a solid security solution with a rich set of features to protect your business’s most valuable assets.

It defends against all manner of malware – viruses, spyware, trojans, ransomware, phishing scams, identity theft attempts, even emerging threats like cryptojackers that secretly mine cryptocurrency on your hardware.

Norton’s antivirus engine is backed by one of the largest cyber intelligence networks, giving it excellent threat detection capabilities. 

Beyond virus scanning, Norton provides a full toolkit of cybersecurity features beneficial for small businesses. You get a smart firewall to block unauthorized network access, an integrated password manager to securely store login credentials, anti-phishing protection to warn against dangerous websites, and cloud backup to keep copies of your important data safe.

Norton has also adapted to modern trends like cryptocurrency. It introduced a feature called Norton Crypto, which created a secure environment for users interested in mining crypto while protecting them from malware that hijacks system resources (cryptojacking).

ESET 

ESET is a well-known name in cybersecurity, recognized for strong threat detection and minimal impact on system performance. With more than 30 years in the industry, ESET is trusted by millions worldwide.

Its solutions are a good fit for small businesses, offering enterprise-level protection without needing a lot of resources or technical know-how. ESET’s antivirus uses several layers of technology, such as heuristics, machine learning, and cloud-based reputation checks, to find threats that others might miss.

Today, ESET protects over 110 million users around the world, showing its effectiveness and reliability.

ESET is a top choice for businesses, offering strong protection and reliable performance without slowing down computers. It defends against threats like viruses, ransomware, spyware, rootkits, worms, and phishing.

ESET’s mid- and top-tier suites add a two-way firewall, anti-phishing filters, and a secure browser for financial transactions. The premium version includes a password manager and file encryption for extra security if a device is lost or stolen.

Moreover, the ESET PROTECT console lets you manage multiple devices, monitor endpoints, send updates, and get threat reports in one place. Business plans are flexible, add licenses easily, and protect Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, servers, and email gateways. 

Malwarebytes

With a name that practically defines its mission, Malwarebytes is another top-tier malware protection solution ideal for small businesses. Malwarebytes earned its reputation by being laser-focused on finding and destroying malware in all its forms.

Instead, antivirus software offers a secure connection across web pages, identifying and eliminating cybersecurity threats. This antivirus business solution protects companies from internet viruses such as adware, ransomware, and other abnormal digital behaviors.

Faster scans are Malwarebytes’ thing, automated monthly reports, and zero-day exploit protection. Besides being an affordable antivirus software, it also has a free trial version.

This security software provides a web extension to feel safe when browsing the internet for full malware protection. This way, you can avoid unwanted ads and avoid and block trackers from collecting personal information. All of these are to enjoy a faster browsing experience. 

In addition, Malwarebytes privacy solutions incorporate a reliable VPN service that ensures an encrypted connection for small businesses.

However, Malwarebytes VPN is a product designed for the Premium version. Thus, it would help if you pulled some cash out of your account to get a WiFi security and VPN connection to over 400 servers in over 30 countries. 

AVG

AVG is a veteran in the cybersecurity space and another excellent option offering user-friendly yet powerful cybersecurity tools. For a small business, one big advantage of AVG is its multi-device protection: you can safeguard all the PCs, laptops, and mobile devices used in your business under one solution

AVG Secure Browser is a web-based solution that keeps your business safe from viruses and malware by blocking suspicious links and file downloads. 

Using a private IP address can prevent data theft and tracking. Hence, AVG antivirus cybersecurity tools greet small businesses with VPN protection. Moreover, this virus scanner supports companies by designing a Security Business Edition package.

Thus, besides basic security features such as cleaning and removing junk programs, hard disks, and hacker and payment protection, AVG business products include patch management, email protection, and a cloud management console. 

Other essential security measures

While the tools above form the core of your defense, a truly secure business will employ a layered security strategy. Consider these additional measures and tools as equally important pillars of the cybersecurity strategy for your company:

A firewall is like a gatekeeper for your network. It might be software built into your computer or a security program, or it could be hardware in your router. When set up correctly, firewalls stop unwanted access and harmful traffic from getting to your systems. Security programs such as Norton and ESET come with strong two-way firewalls, so make sure to turn them on. 

Protect sensitive business data by encrypting it. Full-disk encryption tools (such as BitLocker for Windows or FileVault for Mac) will scramble data on your devices so that it’s unreadable if lost or stolen.

Likewise, use VPN encryption for network traffic – either via standalone VPN services or those bundled in products like Malwarebytes and AVG – to secure data in transit over the internet. 

Weak or reused passwords are a common vulnerability. Use a password manager (e.g., LastPass, 1Password, or the ones built into Norton/ESET suites) to generate and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.

This reduces the chance of a breach through credential stuffing or brute force attacks. Additionally, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible – requiring a second step (like a code from your phone) to log in. MFA can stop an attacker in their tracks even if they somehow obtain a password, because they’d still need that second factor.

Regularly back up your data, either to a secure cloud service or offline external drives (or both). Backups are a lifesaver in case of ransomware (allowing you to restore files without paying ransom) or any destructive cyber incident.

Even so, evaluate dedicated backup tools or services to ensure critical business data is saved in multiple safe places. Test your backups periodically to confirm you can recover from them if needed.

Lastly, but critically, invest time in cybersecurity training for your team. Human error is often the weakest link. Teach employees how to spot phishing emails, avoid suspicious downloads, use secure Wi-Fi, and practice good security hygiene.

Establish basic security policies, such as guiding everyone to update their software promptly and to report any unusual computer behavior immediately. A well-informed staff can act as an additional security layer, potentially catching threats that slip past technology. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, safeguarding your small business’s digital assets is super important. And when you choose the right cybersecurity tools, you can bolster your defense against malicious attacks and protect sensitive information.

Implementing strong solutions such as firewalls, antivirus software, encryption tools, and password managers is crucial for fortifying your digital infrastructure. Additionally, staying updated on the latest security practices and educating your employees about potential risks is essential to maintaining a strong security posture.

Remember, investing in the right cybersecurity tools is an investment in the longevity and success of your small business. Prioritize security, empower your business, and mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats.