The Path of Least Security Resistance

Security has always been something of an afterthought, especially in small business environments where just getting systems up and running is more than challenging enough. The solution to that vexing problem has been to bundle security software directly into the operating system. But the problem with that approach is the security software that usually gets bundled into the operating system is rarely best in class.

Against that historical backdrop it was interesting to see Trend Micro this week partner with Microsoft to embed its Worry Free Business Security Services in the forthcoming release of Windows Server 2012 Essentials, which for all intents and purposes will replace Microsoft Windows Small Business Server.

According to Magi Diego, global marketing director for small and medium business, at Trend Micro this partnership will make it a lot easier for managed security providers to deliver security updates to small businesses that don’t really have the resources to maintain constant security vigilance.

That important, says Diego, because small businesses are increasingly finding themselves being targeted as cyber criminals look to exploit their business relationships with larger companies. Once the systems of the small business are compromised, the theory is that it becomes easier to use those systems to compromise any system that those systems are connected with. Interestingly enough, liability for that very scenario is now at the heart of case involving a small bank and a construction company in Maine.

Diego notes that part of the problem is that small businesses are overly dependent on firewalls and anti-virus software. Trend Micro Worry Free Business Security Services not only help automate the management of those technologies, they make it easier for organizations to access additional layers of security.

Slowly, but surely, more organizations are being held accountable for the state of their IT security. Rather than relying on flawed manual processes, the better part of valor is going to be relying more on automated services. After all, security is a not a cost of doing business, which means like most business functions it should be done consistently well for the lowest cost possible.