Most business owners assume their firewall is a "shield" that keeps everyone out. But security isn't just about the perimeter—it’s about what’s happening inside your network. Use this checklist to see if your business has "blind spots" that could lead to a data breach.

 

1. The "Unknown Device" Audit

Can you identify every device currently connected to your WiFi or Ethernet?

• The Risk: Even an "innocent" smart device (like a guest’s phone or a connected thermostat) can be a back door for malware if not monitored.
• The Check: Look at your router’s "Connected Devices" list. If you see a name you don’t recognize, it’s a potential rogue device.

 

2. DNS & Gateway Integrity

Your DNS settings are the "phonebook" of your network. If they are changed without your knowledge, your traffic could be redirected to a fraudulent site.

• The Check: Verify that your DNS settings match your ISP’s or your preferred secure provider (like Cloudflare or Google).
• The iStatus Edge: iStatus ChangeDetection™ does this for you automatically 24/7.

 

3. Segmented Guest Access

Are your customers using the same WiFi as your Point-of-Sale (POS) system or pharmacy computer?

• The Risk: If your network isn't "segmented," a compromised device on the guest WiFi could potentially act as a gateway to your sensitive business data and transaction records.
• The Check: Ensure your guest WiFi is on a completely separate VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) from your critical business operations.

 

4. Physical Port Security

Walk through your business. Are there open Ethernet ports in your lobby or seating area?

• The Risk: Anyone can plug in a small, cheap "drop box" device that monitors your network traffic.
• The Check: Disable unused wall ports or ensure they are physically inaccessible to the public.

 

5. Real-Time Alerting (The "Watchdog" Test)

If a new device connected to your network right now, how long would it take for you to find out?

• The Reality: For most businesses, the answer is "whenever the next IT audit happens" — which could be months.
• The Solution: You need a system that alerts you the second a change occurs.

 

Moving from Manual Checks to Continuous Confidence

Manual security audits are time-consuming and only offer a "snapshot" of your network at a single moment in time. In the minutes after you finish a manual check, a new device could connect, or a setting could change, leaving you vulnerable once again.

You shouldn't have to be an IT expert or spend hours in a dashboard to keep your business safe. Akative iStatus with iStatus ArpWatch™ and ChangeDetection™ provides a 24/7 digital watchdog that monitors these risks in the background, alerting you to threats the moment they appear. This ensures your network stays compliant and secure while you stay focused on serving your customers.

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