How small businesses can stay secure in a world of cyber threats

If you run a small business, you're likely focused on growing your company, serving customers and managing day-to-day operations. But there's one risk that could threaten everything you've built: cyber attacks.

While big companies make headlines when they suffer data breaches, small businesses are increasingly being targeted – and many don't have the resources to recover.

With more employees working remotely and businesses relying on cloud-based tools, hackers have more opportunities than ever to exploit vulnerabilities.

Consider this: 44% of businesses have experienced at least one hardware-level or BIOS attack in the past year. Worse yet, ransomware attacks rose 8%.

Once hackers get in, they can lock you out of your own systems, steal sensitive data and demand a hefty ransom to regain access.

So, how can you protect your business? The key lies in securing your devices from the inside out.

Why cyber security starts with your devices

Many business owners assume that having strong passwords and installing antivirus software is enough to stay safe. Unfortunately, that's no longer true.

Hackers are getting smarter, and they're not just targeting software – they're attacking the hardware inside your devices. They exploit weaknesses in your laptops, desktops and servers, sometimes before you even take them out of the box.

Think about it this way: Your business is only as secure as its weakest device. If your employees are using unprotected or outdated hardware, your entire business network could be at risk.

The problem with 'software-only' security

Most businesses rely on firewalls, antivirus software and cloud security to keep hackers out.

While these are important, they don't address a crucial problem: If the hardware itself is vulnerable, no software can fully protect it.

Imagine putting a high-tech lock on a flimsy door. It might look secure, but if the door frame is weak, a burglar can break in anyway. The same principle applies to your business devices.

Some companies try to solve this by locking down software features, restricting what users can do. But this often backfires – limiting flexibility and making it harder for employees to work efficiently.

The best solution? A combination of hardware and software security working together.

How Dell and Intel build security into their devices

Unlike standard consumer laptops, business-grade devices from Dell and Intel are designed with security in mind from the moment they're built. Here's how they protect your business at every stage:

Before your device even arrives

• Secure manufacturing: Every device is built in a controlled environment with strict security standards.

• Tamper-proof delivery: Special tracking measures make sure your device hasn't been compromised in transit.

• Component verification: Every part is checked to prevent fake or malicious components from being installed.

While your device is in use

• Below-the-OS security: Protects against deep-level cyber attacks that most antivirus software can't detect.

• Above-the-OS security: Uses smart software to detect and prevent new threats.

• Ongoing security updates: Regular patches ensure your business stays protected as threats evolve.

By securing devices at every stage – from design to delivery and beyond – Dell and Intel make sure your business starts with a strong foundation.

What this means for your small business

Security isn't just a technical concern – it's a business issue. A breach could cost your company thousands, damage your reputation and cause irreversible data loss. Investing in secure devices means:

• Peace of mind: Your devices come with built-in security, so you don't need to be a tech expert.

• Lower costs: Recovering from a cyber attack is expensive – prevention is more affordable.

• Better compliance: If you handle customer data, you need to meet strict security regulations – Dell and Intel help make compliance easier.

For small businesses, choosing secure devices is one of the smartest investments you can make.

What you can do today to protect your business

You don't need an in-house cyber security team to keep your business safe. Here are five simple steps you can take today:

1. Invest in business-grade devices: Consumer laptops may be cheaper, but they lack the built-in security features that keep your data safe. Look for commercial PCs with Intel hardware security and Dell Trusted Devices.

2. Update your software and firmware regularly: Cyber criminals exploit outdated systems. Make sure your devices receive security patches and updates automatically.

3. Train your employees on cyber security: One of the biggest security risks is human error. Teach your team how to spot phishing emails, use strong passwords and avoid suspicious links.

4. Back up your data frequently: Use cloud storage and external back-ups to protect critical files. That way, if an attack happens, you won't lose everything.

5. Work with trusted suppliers: Cheap, unknown device brands may cut corners on security. Stick with reliable providers like Dell and Intel that prioritise cyber security.

Final thoughts: Security is an investment, not an option

By choosing business-grade devices with built-in security, you protect your company from the latest threats while keeping your focus on what matters – growing your business.

Dell and Intel have spent decades perfecting their security-first approach, so you don't have to worry about the risks.

The bottom line: Secure devices today, so you don't have to pay the price tomorrow.

Want to learn more about securing your small business? Join Dell for Startups today to explore commercial devices designed to protect your business from the inside out. 

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