The 6 Most Common Network Vulnerabilities and How To Protect Against Them
Cyberattacks aren’t always high-tech heists pulled off by shadowy hacker groups.
Most of the time, they happen because of basic, fixable mistakes, things like outdated software, weak passwords, or forgotten settings.
If you’re running a business, these basic mistakes could cost you everything . But the good news? These vulnerabilities are easy to manage once you know what to look for.
Let’s break down the six most common culprits putting your network at risk and how to take them off your worry list.
Outdated Software and Firmware
When software or firmware goes unpatched, you’re basically inviting hackers in through the front door. All those ‘remind me later’ buttons add up. A good IT partner can handle these updates for you behind the scenes, taking away the hassle while ensuring that nothing gets missed.
2. Weak or Reused Passwords
Still using “admin123”? You’re not alone but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t change it. Reused or default passwords are a hacker’s best friend. Strong password policies, multi-factor authentication, and good user education and training is essential and should be a non negotiable in this day and age. This is also where your IT company should come in, helping to enforce all of this automatically.
3. Misconfigured Firewalls
A firewall is your network’s security gatekeeper but it’s only effective if it’s set up properly. Many businesses ‘set it and forget it’, leaving gaps open to be exploited. Regular reviews and proper configuration can block threats before they ever reach your team.
4. Unsecured Remote Access
Remote work is here to stay, but unsecured remote access can leave your entire network exposed. Old login credentials, wide-open VPNs, and a lack of access controls are common risks. So if anyone within your organisation is working remotely its essential you lock this down with proper permissions and smart authentication tools.
5. Hidden Devices and Shadow IT
That smart coffee machine on the office Wi-Fi? As delicious as it is first thing in the morning it could also be your weak link. So could the file-sharing app someone quietly downloaded. If it connects to your network and you’re not monitoring it, it’s a potential risk. The fix is making sure you have visibility and control over every connected device.
6. No Network Segmentation
If your network is one big open space, one breach can quickly spread everywhere. Segmenting your network and dividing it into smaller, more secure zones limits damage and keeps your sensitive data even safer.
You Don’t Have to Tackle This Alone
Most of these issues aren’t about laziness, they’re about limited time, resources, and technical oversight. Which is where we come in. At ACS our expert team will silently handle updates, monitor threats, and keep your network secure while you focus on actually running your business.
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complex. But it does have to be consistent. Reach out to us today to see how we can help protect your business.