The ultimate IT system security audit checklist

Explore the questions you should ask to enhance safety for your business

An IT security report or audit will help to expose any vulnerabilities in your computer systems and your network. When it comes to an IT system security audit checklist, it’s important that you allow your IT partner to conduct the audit so that it’s completed as efficiently and thoroughly as possible. 

Many times, vulnerabilities and exposure can come in the form of overlooked or misunderstood configurations on computers, servers, and network devices. Once vulnerabilities are exposed, your IT team can work to isolate and mitigate the exposure. 

Continue reading to explore our ultimate IT system security audit checklist before working with your IT partner to run one on your business IT system. 

Management

Maintaining strong administrative controls will enable you to gain control which will allow you to better manage your security.

• Do you have a singular approved secure access point entry to the building?
• Do you create individual user accounts per individual?
• Do you conduct background checks for new employees and contractors?
• Do you implement administrative accounts used only for administrative activities with no access to external email or internet?
• Does your business perform regular security audits as part of your risk management plan?
• Do all of your devices that contain sensitive information get regularly scanned for vulnerabilities? 
• Are vulnerabilities addressed by a risk-based priority?
• Do you have emergency and cybersecurity plans in place?

Employee education

Approximately 88% of all data breaches are caused by an employee mistake. [1] Ensuring you are educating your employees on tech security could be the difference between the make or break of your business. 

• Are training sessions regarding emails and suspicious links regularly scheduled?
• Do you have password policies in place?
• Do you utilize virtual private networks (VPNs) while working out of the office?
• Do you have separate visitor and employee WiFi networks in place?
• Do you provide your employees with a secure internet network?

Learn more:

How to educate your employees on online security best practices

Physical security

Physical security is a factor that is often overlooked when it comes to an IT system security audit checklist.

• Are all of the server and network equipment locked up?
• Do you have a reliable and remote data backup plan in place?
• Are your keys to access control rooms in a secure area?
• Is your facility equipped with security measures to restrict the access to certain data access points such as servers or electronic information systems?
• Do your laptops have physical cable locks?
• Are visitors escorted when they enter and leave controlled areas?
• Do you have security to access the entrance of your facility such as a badge, keypad, etc.?
• Are security monitors installed to ensure the premises are being monitored?
• Do you utilize a visitor log/record?

Learn more:

How a business IT audit can provide perspective and save you money

Data security and monitoring

• Do you have a scheduled routine to ensure your data systems are up to date?
• Are you regularly backing up your data?
• Are all of your devices protected from the internet by a firewall?
• Do you have two-factor authentication implemented in your systems for remote work and mobile device usage?
• Do you have automatic clearing of devices should they be lost or damaged?
• Do you maintain a list of all of your devices?
• Have you developed a user and file activity monitoring system of who is accessing the network as well as when and where?
• Are you using a password manager?
• Do you have external penetration testing to ensure you haven’t missed anything? 
• Do you have a proper access control in place for your cloud?

Learn more:

The 6 best cybersecurity practices for your business

To conclude 

Security audits are crucial to the success of your business. Regularly monitoring your information systems and updating your methods will save you time and money in the long run. 

How we can help

At NeverBlue IT, we want you to feel confident that not only are your systems secure, but there will be prompt and immediate action if any issues arise. While your technology systems are important, your peace of mind is of utmost importance to us. The best part: network security maintenance and monitoring is just one part of our monthly all-inclusive flat rate maintenance program!

We help businesses across Central Florida and Southeast Michigan gain perspective and save money with our comprehensive IT system security audit checklist.

We can tailor the audit around your specific needs, including:

• Infrastructure Review (Wireless, Low Voltage) 
• Project Costs and Timeframes
• Cyber Security (GLBA, DSSS, PCI) Audit
• Penetration Testing
• IT Cost Analysis
• Telecommunication Review, and more!

Contact us today to get started!

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Source:

1: Influencive | Human error is still the number one cause of most data breaches in 2021