Cybersecurity Checklist for Small Businesses

Most small businesses know cybersecurity matters, but few know where to start. This checklist covers the foundational security measures every business should have in place — whether you have 5 employees or 50.

Endpoint Protection

Every device that connects to your network is a potential entry point for attackers. Protecting endpoints is your first line of defense.

• Deploy next-generation antivirus on every computer, laptop, and server — not just free consumer-grade tools
• Enable full-disk encryption (BitLocker for Windows, FileVault for Mac) on all devices
• Keep operating systems and software patched — automate updates wherever possible
• Implement a mobile device management (MDM) policy for company phones and tablets
• Enable remote wipe capability for laptops and mobile devices in case of loss or theft

Email Security

Email is the #1 attack vector for businesses. Over 90% of cyberattacks start with a phishing email.

• Deploy advanced email filtering that catches phishing, spoofing, and malicious attachments
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all email accounts — this single step blocks the majority of account takeover attempts
• Configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records to prevent attackers from spoofing your domain
• Disable auto-forwarding rules to external addresses
• Train employees to recognize phishing — run simulated phishing campaigns regularly

Network Security

Your network is the highway connecting all your systems. Secure it properly.

• Use a business-grade firewall (not consumer routers) with intrusion detection enabled
• Segment your network — separate guest WiFi from business operations
• Use WPA3 encryption for wireless networks with strong passwords
• Disable unused ports and services on network equipment
• Monitor network traffic for unusual patterns that could indicate a breach

Access Controls

Limit who can access what — and make sure their credentials are secure.

• Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all critical systems, not just email
• Use the principle of least privilege — give employees access only to what they need for their job
• Require strong, unique passwords and provide a business password manager
• Review user access quarterly and immediately revoke access when employees leave
• Disable default admin accounts and rename administrator usernames

Data Backup & Recovery

Backups are your last line of defense against ransomware and data loss.

• Follow the 3-2-1 backup rule: 3 copies of data, on 2 different media types, with 1 stored offsite
• Automate daily backups and monitor them for failures
• Test your backups regularly — a backup that can't be restored is worthless
• Store at least one backup offline or air-gapped where ransomware can't reach it
• Document your recovery process and know your recovery time objective (RTO)

Employee Training

Your people are your biggest vulnerability — and your best defense, if trained properly.

• Conduct security awareness training for all employees at least quarterly
• Run simulated phishing campaigns and use results to target additional training
• Establish clear policies for handling sensitive data, password management, and reporting suspicious activity
• Create an incident reporting process so employees know what to do when something looks wrong
• Include security in onboarding — every new hire should complete training before getting system access

Compliance Basics

Even if your industry doesn't have specific regulations, these practices protect you legally and operationally.

• Know your regulatory requirements — HIPAA for healthcare, state privacy laws, PCI DSS if you process cards
• Maintain a written information security policy that employees acknowledge annually
• Document your security controls — cyber insurance carriers and auditors will ask for this
• Conduct an annual security risk assessment to identify and prioritize gaps
• Have an incident response plan so you know exactly what to do if a breach occurs

How NexgenTec Can Help

Managing all of this internally is a full-time job. That's exactly why managed cybersecurity services exist. NexgenTec's EliteCare plan includes managed detection & response, email security, security awareness training, and more — all managed by our team so you can focus on running your business.

Not sure where you stand? We offer free security assessments for Central Florida businesses. We'll review your current posture against this checklist and give you a clear, prioritized action plan.