- Written by Ashley Wyatt - Senior IT Sales Consultant
- Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn
Cyberattacks in today’s digital landscape have become increasingly common and sophisticated, posing significant risks to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). These types of businesses are often targeted by cybercriminals due to their limited security resources, making them vulnerable to attacks such as ransomware, phishing, and malware. To address this challenge, Microsoft has developed Microsoft Defender for Business, an endpoint security solution designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).
What is the security challenge for small and medium-sized businesses?
Small and medium-sized businesses make up the majority of businesses globally and are vital for job creation and economic growth. They represent about 90% of businesses and more than 50% of employment worldwide. With the increasing need for digital transformation, SMEs are adapting to meet customer demands in a hybrid and remote world, resulting in a distributed workforce that can work flexibly across various company and personal devices. However, this newfound freedom also presents security challenges.
Traditional security methods are inadequate
As businesses grow, physical security measures like locks and alarms may not be enough to protect them. This is especially true as businesses expand to multiple locations and have more remote workers. Cybercriminals are also increasingly targeting small and medium businesses. Ransomware attacks are on the rise and account for a significant portion of all cyber-attacks against SMBs. This disproves the notion that they are too small to be targeted. With the increasing use of technology and remote work, SMBs face greater risks and may lack the resources and knowledge to deal with them.
Small and medium-sized organisations are still using conventional tools such as standard antivirus, anti-malware and outdated short-lifecycle software to protect themselves from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Attacks are indiscriminate and often automated by well-organised criminal gangs using common methods such as phishing and password spraying to target SMBs. The accessibility of online tools has contributed to the increasing trend of utilising malware and ransomware as a profitable business for potential attackers. Cybercrime has now become so lucrative that if it were a country, it would have the third-largest economy in the world, and much of it is expanding into smaller, more vulnerable businesses.
In this rapidly evolving world, SMBs are at risk. The cost of an attack can be high, around $108k on average per incident, and with the rise of a distributed workforce, all endpoints are vulnerable. It is crucial for SMBs to take action to protect their business.
Microsoft Defender for small-to-medium businesses
Designed to be easy to use, cost-effective and seamlessly integrated, Microsoft Defender provides SMBs with the enterprise-grade security they need without compromising the budget.
Here are five key benefits of Microsoft Defender for small-to-medium businesses:
1. Microsoft Defender for Business is an enterprise-grade security solution
As an enterprise-grade security solution, Microsoft Defender offers SMBs comprehensive protection against cyber threats. With advanced features such as next-generation protection, endpoint detection and response, and threat and vulnerability management, it provides SMBs with the same level of security as larger organisations. Microsoft Defender applies AI and machine learning to quickly detect and rapidly respond to potential threats including ransomware and malware giving SMBs the confidence to conduct business safely and securely.
2. Security that is easy to use and automated
Microsoft Defender for Business prioritises usability and is specifically tailored to meet the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. With automated threat detection and remediation, the solution simplifies the workload for IT admins who often juggle multiple roles simultaneously. Additionally, it offers built-in policies that enable SMBs to set up and deploy the solution quickly and easily. With Microsoft Defender for Business, SMBs can enjoy a user-friendly security solution that allows them to focus on running their business with peace of mind.
3. Microsoft Defender for Business integrates with existing technology and operating systems
Microsoft Defender for Business is built into Windows, has apps for MacOS, iOS, Android devices and Linux servers. It works seamlessly with on-premises technology, third-party productivity solutions, or Microsoft Cloud ensuring that the productivity of your business is not impacted by security services. By leveraging these integration benefits, SMBs can enjoy a seamless security solution that is fully compatible with their existing technology infrastructure.
4. Enterprise-grade security at an affordable price
Microsoft Defender for Business offers cost benefits that are specifically designed to help small and medium-sized businesses maintain their budget without compromising security. The solution provides endpoint security that keeps businesses productive while working with their existing IT infrastructure. By delivering maximum security value at an affordable price point, SMBs can enjoy the benefits of comprehensive security without breaking the bank.
5. Microsoft Defender is the top-rated security solution for SMBs
Microsoft Defender is widely regarded as the top-rated security solution for small and medium-sized businesses for several reasons. Multiple sources, including third-party research firms like SE Labs, Gartner, McKinsey, and Forrester endorse the effectiveness of Microsoft Defender for SMBs. This solution has been specifically designed to meet their unique needs, providing comprehensive security and peace of mind, so businesses can focus on growth and expansion. With Microsoft Defender, SMBs can trust that they have a top-rated security solution that is attuned to their business needs.
How can Opus help?
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, Opus’ expert team are experienced in implementing the best security solutions on the market. Our team of cyber security consultants work with you to analyse, advise and recommend the most suitable cyber security solutions for your business needs. Our team can assist you with advanced security implementation, cyber security strategy and solution design as well as disaster recovery planning and cyber security governance. Get in touch with Opus today to discuss your requirements.
