Think of reactive and proactive cybersecurity techniques as before and after
Understanding the difference between proactive and reactive cybersecurity techniques
Proactive
Proactive security monitors your network 24/7, checking for system irregularities. Your team is instantly informed about potential problems before they escalate. A proactive approach includes programs that continuously scan for system errors and malware invasions, notifying you in real time when an issue occurs and immediately leading you to the correct location for intervention.
Endpoint monitoring
Protecting endpoints is a critical component of a proactive strategy and involves monitoring the security of remote devices with access to your business accounts. An endpoint is any device that is physically an end point on a network: laptops, desktops, mobile phones, tablets, servers, and virtual environments. There is more to proactive endpoint monitoring than just installing antivirus software—an effective endpoint monitoring strategy typically includes monitoring business-related logs, ensuring patches are updated, and detecting hidden threats.
Endpoints provide an easy access point to breach networks and compromise or steal sensitive data and are a common entry point for malware and other attacks.
The ongoing rise in work from home employment has created an increase in the security perimeter for modern organizations. Suddenly, there is a wide variety of connected devices to an enterprise network at any given moment. Greater visibility and control is a must.
Endpoint protection helps an enterprise avoid losing control over sensitive data when it’s copied to an external device or when network access is gained through an unsecured endpoint. Endpoint protection is a crucial component of modern enterprise security.
Reactive
Reactive cybersecurity methods are aimed at preventing known malware from entering your network. Reactive methods focus on waiting for visible signs of intrusion, then taking action to keep bad actors from corrupting your business databases.
Common reactive security measures include:
- Antivirus solutions
- Firewalls
- Spam filters
- Disaster recovery plans
- Vulnerability assessments
Should your company choose proactive or reactive cyber security techniques?
This isn’t an either/or question—your network needs both strategies. Reactive strategies should be a component of your defense against hackers, while proactive strategies should form the foundation of your cybersecurity. Both are important to your company’s defense.
Ready to implement a comprehensive strategy that includes both proactive and reactive cybersecurity? ABE’s IT division, Advanced Information Services (AIS), can evaluate and create a strategy customized for your company. With a service area covering 16,000 square miles in Western North Carolina and the Upstate, AIS is ready to handle your business’s specific cybersecurity needs. Reach out to us at info@abecarolina.com