The digital age has made small businesses the favored targets of cybercriminals. What's more, small businesses do not have large resources like big companies, and that can increase their risks and challenges in protecting the IT infrastructure. However, with the right strategies in place, you can protect your business from threats. Following are 10 must-know IT security tips to help safeguard your small business:

1. Strong Password Policies

Ensure that all staff have complex passwords that they change regularly. While developing the passwords, they should have a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that improve their security.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Adding an additional layer of security by two-factor authentication can dramatically reduce the risks of your systems from being accessed by unauthorized parties.

3. Regularly Update Software and Systems

Keep software, operating systems, and applications patched with the latest security patches. This is to ensure that known vulnerabilities are closed off.

4. Train Employees in Cybersecurity Best Practices

Train your staff on the importance of cybersecurity, including how to identify phishing e-mails, avoiding opening suspicious links, and keeping sensitive information safe.

5. Use Firewalls and Anti-virus Software

Install firewalls and reputable antivirus software as the first line of defense against hackers.

6. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Make sure your business's Wi-Fi network is encrypted and hidden. Use a strong password and consider setting up a separate network for guests.

7. Back Up Your Data Regularly

Backups should occur regularly, just in case your data gets breached or your users are a victim of ransomware. Store the backups securely both on site and off site, or in the cloud.

8. Limiting Access to Private Information

Only allow access to private information to those employees who really need access for their work. This includes restricting user access to private information and tracking changes to user access.

9. Create a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan

Establish some measures to fix things fast in case of a possible breach of security. It shall accommodate steps meant to contain the breach, notify the affected parties, and restore the normal running of operations.

10. Keep Monitoring Your Systems

Bolster your network's observation with monitoring tools. Several minor problems could be detected early enough not to lead to major breaches.

Bolster your network's observation with monitoring tools. Several minor problems could be detected early enough not to lead to major breaches.