Security and anti-virus software

Security and anti-virus software is essential for protecting your servers, systems, software and data from the growing number of digital threats

UK businesses are under attack from a growing number of online attacks. Almost half (43%) of the UK’s small businesses have been targeted, the latest Cyber Security Breaches Survey found.

Businesses must fight back. Security and anti-virus software provide a vital line of defence for every organisation. It keeps your systems secure, protecting valuable data, including personal, customer and financial information. Without security and anti-virus software, you, your business and any data you hold are at risk.

Businesses can choose from a range of digital security solutions. Here’s what you need to know about buying, installing and maintaining security and anti-virus software.

What digital threats does my business face?

• Phishing attacks: The most common type of attack in the UK. In a phishing attack, criminals try to trick you into revealing sensitive information like passwords or bank details by pretending to be someone you trust. Most phishing attacks are via email.
• Ransomware: Hackers lock your files or systems and demand a payment (a ransom – hence the name) to return access.
• Malware: Malicious software can infect your devices, steal information, or cause damage without you knowing.
• Data breaches: Information about your business, financial accounts, or customer data can be leaked, stolen or accidentally shared. Whatever the cause, data breaches can damage trust and lead to legal troubles.
• Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS): Websites and other online services can become overwhelmed with fake traffic, causing them to crash. (This can happen to all websites. You may have experienced it while trying to get tickets to a popular event, for example.)

What is security and anti-virus software?

The best way to deal with digital threats is to ensure you’re protected with strong security and anti-virus software. Security software protects business computers and networks by analysing all files and data and identifying anything that looks suspicious.

Business digital security packages will:

• Monitor files to ensure they haven't been infected by a known virus or piece of malware.
• Check your computer's network and internet connection to protect against malicious software or hackers that are attempting to gain access to your systems.
• Check files as they enter your network, usually by scanning email attachments, links and any downloaded files.
• Periodically scan all the data on your computer, to search for undetected malware that may be lurking somewhere.

How does security and anti-virus software work?

Viruses and malware can spread through infected websites, emails and files that are sent to your business. Any connection can be an entry point for hackers or a potential opportunity for a data breach.

Security and anti-virus software identifies these threats by comparing files on your computer to the electronic 'signatures' of known viruses. It can then block or contain them so they can’t damage your system.

Security software can massively reduce the chances of your business suffering a virus infection, but it's not infallible. Most packages only protect reliably against known threats and new threats are emerging almost every day.

It’s crucial that you – and your staff – keep all security and anti-virus software up to date. Most packages will automatically update, so you won’t need to do anything. Even so, as a business owner it’s your responsibility to check.

You’ll also need more than just security and anti-virus software to stay safe. Even the best packages can’t stop thieves making off with your server, a dishonest employee stealing (or accidentally sharing) your company database, or a fire damaging your IT equipment.

To ensure total protection, your business needs a robust security plan, IT policies, good staff training and a backup system alongside strong security software to guard against data loss and theft.

What are the different types of security software

There are many security and anti-virus packages on the market. Most offer similar core protection, including:

• Virus and malware protection, to protect your systems from known viruses.
• A firewall, to block suspicious network connections to and from your computer.
• Email protection, to block dodgy attachments and 'phishing attempts' – these are emails that look genuine but are scams to trick you into sharing sensitive information.

It's cost-effective and sensible to select a single package that offers all these functions in one.

There are two main types of software:

• Standalone software licences: Standalone software must be installed and managed on each computer. It's simple enough to download, set up and install, but staff can easily disable the software if they feel it's getting in their way or slowing down their systems. This could increase your risk of being the victim of a digital attack.
• Centralised cloud-based software: Cloud-based security software can easily be installed and configured in one place for any number of users. You purchase a license for the software and ensure that it is installed on each device. Centralised cloud security solutions will give users access to a control panel where you can monitor and manage security protection across your business. The simple dashboard provides peace of mind that everything is protected. You can remotely schedule updates and ensure that all users are running the latest version of anti-virus software.

Every computer and server in your business should be protected by security software. You should also consider installing protection on mobile devices, including all tablets and smartphones owned by your business, especially if they hold critical data.

What is the best business anti-virus software?

Because security and virus protection are so critical, it's crucial to select software from a reputable company.

If you’re investing in anti-virus software, it’s worth going with an established brand. Some big names in the market include McAfee, Panda, Kaspersky and Norton.

Before selecting a security package, speak to an independent IT supplier or support company. They can discuss your options and help you to choose a security software platform that’s built for your business.

How much does anti-virus software cost?

Expect to pay £20 - £50 per user or device, including updates for two years.

Most anti-virus software is available on a rolling subscription basis, with payments taken monthly or annually.

Do not be tempted to cancel your security subscription to save money, as this will leave you vulnerable to new threats. When security software is so cheap, it’s not worth taking the risk.

Can I use free anti-virus software for my business?

There are a few decent free packages available, such as those from AVG and Avast!. However, free antivirus software isn’t suitable for use in a business.

Our advice is not to scrimp and save on anti-virus and security software.

Do I need to update or check my anti-virus software?

Anti-virus software is only as effective as the last update.

Once you've installed and configured your security software, you must keep it up to date. Thankfully, most security and anti-virus software automatically updates each day. It’ll also search for new threats and remove them.

The frequency of updates will depend on the package you have selected and your license agreement.

Am I legally required to have anti-virus protection?

While there’s no legal requirement for you to have anti-virus software, there is one to protect the personal data of anyone that you deal with in the course of your business, including clients, customers, staff and suppliers.

Anti-virus software is a key part of ensuring data is protected under GDPR and other data protection regulations. Companies can be fined up to 4% of turnover under GDPR if they fail to protect customer data.

Given the financial and reputation impact of digital attacks, it’s not worth the risk.