Hosted Security Enhances Small Business Protection Small businesses recognize the importance of security software in protecting their networks and critical data, and a growing number are turning to outside help in managing their security infrastructures. Hosted or managed security offerings (also known as software or services) from leading software providers help small businesses obtain the information security protection they need, but without the cost and complexity of installing and managing their own security applications. The idea of turning over security management to specialists is gaining momentum among small business that would rather concentrate on what they do best. Researchers estimate the market for hosted security software is growing about 30 percent annually, compared with a 10 percent growth rate for installed security applications. Shifting the Burden Much like desktop security suites, managed security software combines protection against viruses, malicious software designed to harvest sensitive or financial data, and spam messages. Depending on the provider, additional modules can help restrict employee Web surfing or provide additional compliance services for companies in regulated industries, such as financial services or health care. Managed email software can quickly scan attachments such as documents, media files and PDFs before they are delivered to ensure the attachments are not infected. Hosted security software allows small business owners to devote less time and attention to their company's network and software needs. Updates are installed automatically, and outgoing Web traffic can be monitored to detect unusual patterns (such as sending large volumes of pharmaceutical-related e-mails during overnight hours) that could indicate security problems within the network. Managed security applications can be a less expensive option, with services generally being sold on a per-user subscription basis. Shifting your company's information security needs to an outside provider can also reduce the number of servers you need to install and maintain within your company. Many managed security providers install their software on servers at major Internet service providers, and are able to screen out spam or other security threats before it can reach the small business' network. Many small businesses have attempted to rely on consumer-grade antivirus applications that were pre-installed on their PCs. Because each computer needs to be updated individually, this approach can result in a patchwork network where some PCs are up to date, but others remain in danger of being infected with previously identified security vulnerabilities. In contrast, managed security suites remotely update your network's computers and servers at the same time, ensuring all of your devices are current and enjoy an equal degree of protection. Security software providers conduct constant research into online threats, and relying on a management security service means small businesses are likely to get faster access to protection from emerging threats than they can with installed security software that relies on downloaded updates. To help with the management of their security infrastructure, small businesses are increasingly backing up their hosted security services with stand-by tech support resources to help them respond to malware outbreaks or similar security breaches. Remote tech support services allow trained technicians to quickly access and repair your PCs or servers, without having to wait for someone to physically visit your office. Read other technology articles.

You are now on a third party site and are no longer on the Mercantile Bank Web site.

Equal Housing Lender   |   Mercantile Bank is a division of Carolina First Bank, Member FDIC

©2008    The South Financial Group®