Doorbells, smart locks, and cameras are great low-cost investments to keep your home secure and monitored while you’re away. But if you own a small business, you know that it’s just as important to keep your office, inventory, data, and employees protected, too.
Thankfully, security doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. If you’re looking for a do-it-yourself solution to keep your small business safe, Geneseo Communications has created a guide for you that covers the basics across physical, digital, and emergency preparedness security.
Physical Security
Most often, there are two options for monitoring the security of your location and physical assets: self-monitored vs. professionally monitored. Both options have benefits and a few drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your individual needs and resources.
With professionally monitored solutions, you can take that worry off your plate and let a trained team monitor your camera feeds and alarms. However, that peace of mind often comes at a higher monthly cost.
A DIY, self-monitored system could save you tons on installation and monthly monitoring fees, but you could risk setup mistakes or overlook vulnerable areas. That said, many systems on the market are specifically designed for small businesses and offer advanced features not included in basic home cameras, smart locks, and motion sensors.
Cameras are the first piece of equipment almost every business needs in its security system. Modern smart cameras are accessible via mobile devices, giving you access to live and recorded footage anytime, anywhere. We recommend cameras that offer both local and cloud storage, ensuring your footage is backed up.
Pay close attention to the camera resolution; 4K will give you very crisp shots for easier subject identification. Night vision capabilities mean you’ll be able to see intruders more clearly in the dark. Wireless cameras give you more freedom for placement but require battery changes or recharging. Finally, make sure to set up mobile notifications through the system’s app so that you get alerts for any detected movement.
Smart locks provide a number of security and access-control benefits for small businesses. Controlled with an app, an RFID reader (for fob access), or a digital keypad, you’ll be able to more easily assign key codes and change them as employees turn over.
Smart locks are also an efficient option for controlling access to interior rooms without managing physical keys. Plus, they give you an added bonus of knowing who entered which doors and when. You can also check that exterior doors were locked at the end of the day and lock them remotely if they weren’t.
Lighting can play a crucial role in your security measures. Motion lighting is a key security tool in many businesses. Keeping interior lights on smart plugs or timers can make the space appear occupied, deterring any potential intruders from entering.
Finally, if you have a guest WiFi network, schedule it to turn off after business hours. That will reduce unnecessary activity around your building after hours.
Whatever options you invest in, make sure to include visible signage that your property is monitored to deter potential thieves.
Emergency Preparedness
The tools listed above help keep your premises monitored in case of bad actors, but they won’t do much to notify you in case of an environmental emergency while you’re offsite. Fortunately, there are additional smart devices to help you be prepared for fires, plumbing or HVAC failures, and emergency weather.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors sound an alarm for people on-site. But connected detectors can send you alerts to air quality issues, fires, temperature spikes, or water leaks. Even if you’re not physically in the building, you have the ability to respond faster to emergencies and call for help.
Additionally, power outages are often inevitable but can disrupt or damage essential electronics. Quality surge protectors and UPS devices can provide a layer of protection for your tech, from security devices to POS systems to servers and computers.
Cybersecurity
Most business owners recognize the need to secure their physical location and assets, but many don’t think about the cybersecurity threats lurking online. It’s important to recognize that physical security breaches can lead to digital crimes, too.
First, implement a rigorous cybersecurity policy that requires strong passwords with two-factor authentication, screen locks when away from desks, regular software updates, reputable antivirus programs, and email spam blockers. These simple measures can significantly reduce threats.
Most breaches stem from human error. Your cybersecurity policy should include staff training on phishing awareness, password hygiene, and reporting protocols if a breach is suspected or identified. It should also include a schedule for regular data backups of all files and critical information.
Protecting your network also protects your (and your customers’) data. If employees are connecting to a company file share, customer information, or confidential data outside of the office, enforce the use of a VPN to ensure their connection isn’t vulnerable to outside interception.
Your office WiFi should be secured with a strong password that only employees know. If you offer free internet access, set up a separate guest WiFi network.
Get Down to Business
Building an interconnected security setup may seem intimidating, but it’s vital to protect your small business. Reliable, secure internet is the backbone of modern business security, so start with high-impact, low-cost setup like signing up for fiber internet from Geneseo Communications. Our local team supports your small business, and we’re here to help you with every step of the way.