How IOT and BYOD Affect Your Enterprise Network
It’s up to you to decide whether the Internet of Things (IOT) and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) are positive or negative for your business. But one thing is for sure; it will change the way your organization approaches mobile technology. There are many benefits to implementing these concepts into your operations, but before you make that decision, here are some important things you need to know.
iStock.com/Jacob Ammentorp Lund
What Is IOT & BYOD?
IOT stands for the Internet of Things and deals with everything related to physical devices, and items embedded within electronics, sensors, software, and more that have network connectivity, allowing them to collect and exchange data with one another. As for BYOD, this term is short for Bring Your Own Device, and refers to a company’s policy of allowing employees to bring their own laptops, phones, and tablets to the workplace and use them to access company information and programs.
How Do They Increase Enterprise Mobility?
Both of these features have a positive effect on enterprise mobility because they allow employees to stay connected to the network from anywhere. Instead of being stuck to a desktop computer to work, staff can work on-the-go using their laptops and tablets, or stay up-to-date with any changes using their mobile phone. If employees need to be relocated or travel for work, these features allow them to be equally as efficient wherever they are.
The Effect of IOT & BYOD on Enterprise Networks
Here are some of the ways that IOT and BYOD affect enterprise networks. Keep in mind that although some of these changes may be problematic, there are solutions available that can protect your data and still allow for remote communication.
Network Exposure
Generally speaking, IOT devices have insecure frameworks that can be easily compromised. This is because remote employees tend to have multiple devices on their home networks, some of which are connected to the enterprise network. If an employee puts the enterprise in a vulnerable position when connected, the damage could be irreversible. Organizations who choose to implement this practice should first consider network segmentation and real-time monitoring to identify when and where a new IOT device attempts to access the enterprise network.
Constant Upgrades
Mobile devices and digital technology nowadays have frequent software updates, and the hardware itself gets upgraded every two years. It may take more time and effort from your organization to find the best devices at the time that will last and perform well for the next few years. As for programs, while software updates are important to make sure apps are working efficiently, they can be time consuming and affect productivity.
Rise in Vulnerability
The disadvantage to using IOT and BYOD is that they can be vulnerable to attack because of issues with permissions, encryption, and password security. These flaws make such devices easier for cyberattacks to occur, which compromises the devices and allows unauthorized users access to corporate networks. It is important to implement mobile malware, antivirus software packages and a Managed Mobility Services (MMS) strategy that boosts security.
Excessive Data
With the large amount of data and traffic generated by each user, network bandwidth could be significantly affected. This large number of data points makes way for hackers and can leave sensitive data vulnerable.
Get Support from High Tech Communications
If you are looking for a partner to provide you with an effective strategy to bridge the communication gap between your employees, High Tech Communications can help you. We understand the importance of making sure your systems run smoothly so you can communicate more effectively. Based in Aurora, Canada, our services include setting up VoIP phone systems and data solutions (on site or in the cloud) that can benefit a host of sectors in the Greater Toronto Area such as education, healthcare, hospitality, call centres, and countless types of businesses. We provide dedicated communication support across national, regional, and international accounts. To learn more about our network connectivity solutions, contact us toll-free at 1-(800) 853-2335.
