Does My SMB Need a Separate Network for IOT Device Security?

Smart device technology continues to evolve and make more and more previously mundane tasks easier and more convenient. However, smart device vendors have sent many products to market that have low or non-existent cyber security protections in place. Weak security and factory-default passwords have opened new doors for cybercriminals. Any device connected to your network is a vulnerable endpoint, and smart devices are no different. Smart thermostats, smart televisions, smart lightbulbs, self-driving vehicles, smart refrigerators, app-controlled toys, and smart vacuum cleaners are just a small sampling of connected smart devices available today. They are all part of the Internet of Things (IoT). But do we really need to worry about IoT device security? Absolutely. Lack of protection for networked devices poses not only a risk for your business but also your clients, customers and vendors.

Computer Network Security

First, let’s ask a hypothetical question: Does it make sense for your smart vacuum cleaner to be on the same network as your business PCs? Of course, the answer is no. Connecting smart devices to the same network that is home to your SMB’s private data is a high risk. You might have state-of-the-art network protection for your business network. However, new hacking opportunities arise with the addition of every new smart device endpoint. Underscoring this concern is that in 2020 more than 30% of all cybercrime was initiated through networked smart devices; that is more than double the number in 2019. Unfortunately, regulations governing smart device security have not kept up with the rapidly growing market. As a result, smart device manufacturers have not been motivated to spend money on tightening security for their devices but instead have taken advantage of the lack of regulatory control.

IoT Device Security: Do I Need a Separate Network for IoT?

There are several ways in which you can take control of your IoT network protection:

• Create a Guest Network on Your Router – Most routers provide the option for users to configure a “Guest Network” on their router. This feature is commonly used to allow non-employees and other guests to log onto your business network without accessing any of your company’s data. However, you need to secure your guest network with the same care and diligence you’ve applied to secure your primary network. It is also essential to create a strong username and password and deny most of the permissions and resources usually available to users of your primary local business network.
• Configure Two Completely Separate Networks on One Router – Another option is using one router for two separate networks. However, if you choose this option, you will have to spend money to get a separate network connection from your Internet Service Provider.
• Purchase Two Separate Routers – This option can get a little confusing and tricky. The user must keep track of what devices are on what network. Also, extra attention must be devoted toward keeping everything running through each router separately from the other.
• Use a WiFi Network Tool to Configure a Separate Network – Network software can help configure a separate network. Ideally, this approach should be used only by IT professionals or power users with a level of tech expertise.

Overall, all issues involving network security for IoT devices must be taken more seriously. Unfortunately, many SMBs do not make basic cyber security protocols a priority. Adding a new layer of connected smart devices often doesn’t even make it to the list of security imperatives for a small to midsized business. Unfortunately, smaller companies have neither the time nor the budget for a full-time IT department. However, they also lack the expertise to take the necessary steps to protect all their cyber vulnerabilities. Therefore, it is essential to employ IT experts to provide IoT consulting and smart device installation services. They will assess your cyber vulnerability and help you design the best layers of protection for your hard-earned business data, regardless of where that data is stored. Cyber Security is now a 360-degree ecosystem requiring expertise to lock down all possible vulnerable endpoints. Until manufacturers of smart devices are motivated or regulated to focus more on security for their products, the onus will stay on small to midsized businesses to properly secure all networked devices.

DIGIGUARD Cyber Security Specializes in Network Protection

DIGIGUARD is dedicated to preventing cyber threats of all kinds. They are the IT experts you need to secure your network and they have a wide array of solutions to protect against cybercrimes and ensure you have the best possible protection in place before a cyberattack. It works with small and midsized businesses to establish cyber security best practices to ensure your confidential data is secure and all your devices have the specific protections they require, especially those used for remote-access work. For any business, cyberattacks can have devastating consequences. DIGIGUARD can assess your cyber risks and work with you to design the best protection solutions for your business.

Call DIGIGUARD CYBER SECURITY at 833-33-CYBER (833-332-9237) and visit www.DIGIGUARDsecurity.com to discuss how you can increase your company’s overall level of cyber security across your network and avoid a deadly cyberattack.