The relationship between cybersecurity and productivity is complicated. Although security protocols are necessary to protect sensitive data and ensure business continuity, they can sometimes hinder employee efficiency. Security protocols need to be streamlined to avoid negatively impacting productivity.
The following seven cybersecurity practices have dual benefits. They prevent cyberattacks while also helping you save time at work.
Leverage Password Managers
Remembering to update your passwords regularly can be a time-consuming task. It takes effort to create unique and easy-to-remember passwords. A simple solution is to use a password manager. Password managers can generate passwords in seconds, including those with a mix of letters, symbols, and numbers.
Password managers also safely store your passwords in one location. A single storage option helps you save time when you need access to multiple accounts. Password managers can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches.
Utilize Dedicated IP Addresses
Relying on a dedicated IP address can provide a range of productivity-boosting benefits. Dedicated IP addresses are available through VPN service providers. Dedicated IP addresses mean they are assigned to a single user, and you’re not sharing the IP address with other staff members.
With a fixed IP, you can avoid the need for frequent CAPTCHA verification, which can waste a lot of valuable time. A dedicated IP VPN can also help bypass bandwidth throttling and server congestion when going online. With the VPN, all traffic gets encrypted, and you are protected from phishing attempts.
Enable Automated Software Updates
Keeping your software up-to-date is a crucial security measure. Software updates not only confirm you’re using the latest version of the program. The update also offers security patches for known vulnerabilities. Bug fixes and performance improvements within the update will increase efficiency since programs will likely load faster. Setting up auto-updates saves time by allowing the programs to perform the updates instantly. Since you don’t need to check for updates manually, you’ll have time for more vital work tasks.
Install Ad Blockers
Intrusive advertisements can be a significant distraction during work hours. The ads can make it hard to view websites and materials you may need for your job. With ad-blocking software, you’ll have the distraction removed. Ad-blocking tools also reduce the risk of clicking on ads containing malicious links.
Regularly Clear Cookies and Cache
Cookies and cache can slow down your browsing experience. Over time, they build up and lead to frustrating lags. Clearing cookies and cache only takes a few short minutes and removes your digital footprint from the device. Once you clear cookies and cache, you’ll notice better device performance, including faster page loads.
Prioritize Comprehensive Cybersecurity Training
Educating staff on best cybersecurity practices is crucial in creating a safe and productive work environment. All team members must know how to identify common cyber threats, including phishing scams. Your cybersecurity team can send out training materials, including phishing simulated attacks. If the staff knows how to avoid cyberattacks, less company time is likely needed for data recovery efforts.
Invest in Collaborative Tools with Robust Security Features
Effective collaboration will positively impact employee productivity. Most on-site and remote work groups use online collaboration tools, such as Teams, Slack, or Trello. On these platforms, you can share information about projects. The platforms have built-in security features that safeguard any sensitive information you may share through the messaging systems.
Remember to set up all security features on the platforms to protect sensitive information. For instance, you can adjust access controls and ensure end-to-end encryption is enabled.
Navigating cybersecurity and productivity can prove challenging, but countless tools make protecting assets easier than ever while keeping employee efficiency levels high. By avoiding cyber threats, workplace productivity is sure to surge.
