Regularly reviewing your business's network setup—known as a network audit—is an important step to keep your IT environment secure, efficient, and reliable. This process involves checking your network devices, configurations, user access, and data flows to identify weaknesses or outdated elements before they cause problems.
Why network audits matter for Canadian SMBs
For small and mid-sized businesses in Canada, network downtime or data breaches can lead to lost revenue, damaged reputation, and regulatory headaches. An overlooked security gap or misconfigured device can open the door to cyberattacks or cause systems to fail unexpectedly. Regular audits help reduce these risks by spotting vulnerabilities early and ensuring your network runs smoothly, which supports staff productivity and keeps customer data safe.
A practical example
Consider a 50-person Canadian company using cloud-based software and on-premises servers. Over time, they add new devices and users but don't update network permissions or check for obsolete hardware. One day, a ransomware attack exploits an old router's unpatched vulnerability, encrypting critical files. A managed IT provider conducting regular network audits would have identified the outdated device and recommended replacement or patching, preventing the attack or reducing its impact.
Checklist: What to do about network audits
- Ask your IT provider: How often do you perform network audits? What areas do you review (devices, access controls, firewall rules, software patches)? Can you provide a summary report with findings and recommendations?
- Review proposals and SLAs: Look for clear audit schedules, defined scope, and follow-up actions. Ensure audits include security checks and compliance with relevant Canadian privacy standards.
- Internal checks you can do: Verify who has administrative access to your network devices and update passwords regularly. Confirm backups are running correctly and stored securely, including SaaS backup if you use cloud apps.
- Document changes: Keep a log of network changes and audit results to track improvements and spot recurring issues.
- Plan remediation: Budget time and resources to address audit findings promptly, whether it's patching software, replacing hardware, or tightening access controls.
Regular network audits are a proactive way to protect your business from IT disruptions and cyber risks. If you don't currently have a process in place, consider discussing network audits with a trusted managed IT provider or IT advisor who understands the needs of Canadian SMBs. They can help tailor an audit plan that fits your business size, industry, and risk profile without unnecessary complexity.