Technology and software are among the most important investments a company can make, especially when it comes to security. Growing demand for IT services and security solutions prove that business owners know the threats that are out there and want to do something to guard themselves against cybercriminals.
With a well-rounded security solution a business might purchased, and with all the recommended features a business might need, was the investment really worth it? Security solutions provider Trustwave, found that organizations of all sizes are wasting their security dollars and none more so than small businesses.
Small businesses spent an average of $157 per user on security software, compared with $73 per user in larger companies. Nearly 30 percent of that investment ended up underutilized or never used due to non- or misuse of security controls and features. And yet, companies still increased their spending by 44 percent.
Why did businesses end up letting their security software go partially to waste, despite significant increases in IT spending?
Many organizations cited a lack of resources: Either IT staff was too busy to implement their security solutions properly, or didn’t have the manpower to do so.
With the alarming number of high-profile corporate breaches, businesses of all sizes are aware that they need to invest in top-of-the-line solutions. IT professionals expect a 43 percent increase in their use of cloud-based or managed security services. But the financial constraints many small companies face can prove to be an obstacle to proper security.
A few IT-related tips to help save money, which can then be reallocated toward the technological and staffing resources needed to protect a business.
Monitor software usage and eliminate solutions that aren’t being used. Seek out products that are designed for small business. Some companies offer free or discounted versions of their product to very small companies. Track any IT/software purchases to ensure you’re within your budget.
