Cyber threats affect businesses of all sizes. While large enterprises have dedicated security teams, small businesses often lack the same level of protection. That makes them attractive targets.
According to the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, nearly one in five small businesses report a cyber incident each year. Many of these attacks result in data loss, financial damage, or operational downtime.
This article outlines five essential cyber protections for small businesses. Each recommendation is simple to understand, cost-effective to implement, and critical for reducing risk.
Small businesses must protect every device used to access company systems. Antivirus software and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools work together to provide this protection.
Antivirus software blocks known threats like viruses and trojans. EDR adds an extra layer by monitoring behavior and spotting threats in real time. It alerts you when something suspicious happens.
Install antivirus software on every computer and mobile device
Use an EDR platform to monitor and respond to threats
Choose solutions that update automatically
Regularly review alerts and take action when needed
These tools protect devices used by staff, contractors, and remote workers. They stop attacks before they spread and reduce your exposure.
Data is one of your most valuable business assets. Losing access to it (due to ransomware, hardware failure, or accidental deletion) can bring operations to a halt.
Cloud backup creates secure copies of your data and stores them offsite. If something goes wrong, you can restore your systems and keep your business running.
Use a cloud backup service that runs automatically
Back up servers, desktops, laptops, and cloud-based files
Store backups in a secure, encrypted environment
Test data recovery regularly to confirm it works
Cloud backups are an easy way to protect against both internal and external threats. They give you peace of mind and reduce downtime.
Passwords are easy to steal. Hackers often use stolen credentials to access systems without being noticed. Multi-factor authentication adds an extra step that blocks most of these attacks.
MFA requires users to confirm their identity with something they know (password) and something they have (mobile app, code, or security key). Even if someone gets the password, they can’t log in without the second step.
Enable MFA for all logins, such as email, accounting, and cloud apps
Require MFA for remote access to your systems
Use an authentication app instead of SMS when possible
Train employees to use MFA properly
MFA is one of the simplest and most effective cyber protections for small businesses. It stops over 90% of account-based attacks.
Hackers exploit known software weaknesses. When businesses delay updates, they leave systems open to attack. Patch management keeps everything up to date.
Software vendors release patches to fix security issues. If you don’t install them, your business is exposed to threats that attackers already know how to exploit.
Use automated patch management tools to update systems
Cover Windows, macOS, and third-party apps
Apply patches on a schedule—weekly is ideal
Track which devices are patched and which are overdue
Unpatched software is a common way small businesses get compromised. Keeping systems updated is basic cyber hygiene—and it’s easy to automate.
Many cyber incidents begin with human error. Phishing emails, fake login pages, and social engineering all rely on staff making a mistake. Training reduces these risks.
Employees are your first line of defense. If they know what to look for, they can avoid scams and report threats early.
Run short training modules every few months
Cover phishing, password safety, and safe browsing
Simulate phishing attacks to see who needs more help
Encourage staff to report anything suspicious
Security awareness training builds a security-first culture. It helps small teams stay alert and reduces the chance of a successful attack.
Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools help you oversee your network, spot issues, and take action before problems grow.
24/7 system monitoring
Alerts for abnormal activity
Inventory tracking
Remote support features
If your business works with a Managed Service Provider (MSP), they likely use RMM tools to support you. If you manage IT in-house, an RMM platform gives you visibility and control over your environment.
Small businesses face the same threats as larger organizations but with fewer resources. The good news is that basic cyber protections can stop most attacks.
By following these five steps—installing antivirus and EDR, using cloud backups, enabling MFA, applying software patches, and training staff—you can reduce your risk, protect your data, and keep your operations running.
You don’t need to do it alone.
Schedule a consultation with one of our cybersecurity experts and get practical guidance tailored to your business.