With the increasing use of laptop computers, companies become extremely vulnerable when laptops are lost, stolen or broken into.  Companies should think beyond just the costs of the hardware and software (which are often insured against).  The cost of proprietary information, the potential for malicious use of information, the threat of network security breaches, and the future reputation of an organization must be considered, and plans must be made to prevent the loss of such investments.  But where does one start?

 

The SANS (SysAdmin, Audit, Network, Security) Institute, established in 1989, is a cooperative research and education organization. Its website, www.sans.org, provides a wealth of information regarding computer security.  Many no-cost resources are available, such as weekly news updates, security alerts, and a vast array of research papers.  We suggest reading a paper entitled "Protecting Laptop Computers", which can be found in the SANS "Reading Room".  It offers a logical approach to assessing your laptop risks, justifying the cost of security, and preventing vulnerabilities.  SANS also offers training, certification for those protecting your company's computers, a glossary of information security vocabulary, and even free security policy templates. 

 

Your security measures shouldn't end with your laptops.  Read what Accent can do for your company's network security.