Spam attacks and digital threats such as phishing have become more prevalent of late and businesses are compelled to review and re-organise their security strategies. Lance Fanaroff, joint-MD of Integr8 IT, a national provider of network integration and infrastructure management services, says outsourcing to a network security specialist makes business sense.
The recent spate of spam attacks has set alarm bells ringing in many a local business. While usually not highly dangerous, these e-mails take up precious bandwidth and often cause blockages on the network resulting in downtime and loss to business.
"Spam has become a huge problem. Part of the issue is the fact that it is difficult for businesses to differentiate spam from legitimate correspondence. It is paramount to implement a workable anti-spam solution that adds value to the business. But, this too must be proactively managed in order to ensure effective protection against regular threats that tend to change, almost on a daily basis," says Fanaroff.
This difficulty in distinguishing spam from genuine correspondence can end up costing a company by harming relations, slow reaction to customers or not being in a position to follow up on any issues that may arise. In some instances companies do not house sufficient resources to maximise off their newly acquired software or tweaked infrastructure.
"This is why outsourcing has become a popular route for companies. The responsibility of installing and maintaining a solution then becomes that of the service provider. Normally a solution is customised to suit the requirements of the business - rules are put onto the system and there is more control over what is allowed through the network parameter," he says.
According to Fanaroff, the most important first step for businesses to consider is to acquire a proven anti-virus solution.
"Purchasing off the shelf and implementing is a good start, but what happens after that is a really crucial aspect. There are many levels to network security and it is important to solicit proactive services if there are any doubts or potential gaps in a strategy," he concludes.
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Integr8 IT (Pty) Ltd is a network technology services and solutions company. A recognised leader in the field of system integration, infrastructure management and support services, the company employs a wealth of highly skilled, best of breed, certified system engineers who are directly involved in high level consulting, support and integration.
The company`s core focus is on network infrastructures specialising in design, planning, deployment, management and maintenance. Offices are located in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and representation in Port Elizabeth, East London, and nationally across the southern Africa region.
Integr8 IT is a Microsoft Certified Gold Partner for Enterprise Systems and Advanced Infrastructure Solutions. It has been accredited as the Mid-Market Infrastructure Integrator of the Year for the last two consecutive years. Named as one of the country`s top ICTe companies and honoured with a position among South Africa`s Technology Top 100 Companies, Integr8 IT has established itself as a strategic partner with several internationally-recognised technology vendors and industry leaders, including: 3Com, CA, Citrix, Intel, Microsoft, MTN Network Solutions and Attix 5.
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