IoT Implementation and Management Tips for Businesses
Welcome back to the second half of our article about integrating new IoT technology into your business network. Last time, we covered the basics of IoT in the office including how to choose your hub and set up your first routines. Today, we’re here to discuss how to secure your IoT so your business network is safe while these devices communicate constantly with the internet. Join us as we pick up where we left off.
Secure IoT Setup
Your next concern, after deciding the hub and devices you want to start with, is to make sure your IoT network is secure. IoT devices are notorious targets for hacking. Some older models are very poorly designed for defense and even modern business IoT devices with good security are still under-secured by the companies that implement them. Here’s how to properly secure your IoT:
5. Create a Separate Wifi Network for IoT Devices
First, create a completely separate wifi network for all IoT devices. Not a spin-off or a subnetwork, but completely security-separate. This way, if even one IoT device is hacked, it cannot possibly provide the hacker with access to your internal business network. A separate wifi network is your first and last line of defense. Hackers (and their malware) will not be able to reach your employee workstations, your servers, or customer data because they will find nothing but other IoT devices if the IoT network is hacked.
6. Rock-Solid Firewalls and Virus Detection Software
Along the same lines, equip that separate network with the strongest firewalls and virus detection software available to you. Be sure to take the time and customize the settings on the firewall to be sure that only IoT activity is allowed through. This is another line of defense that will keep your IoT devices safe from opportunistic hackers. If it’s too difficult to access your network, hackers will generally seek greener pastures.
7. Change Default Login Credentials for Each Device
Finally, be sure to change the admin login credentials for every single IoT device you integrate. Many devices don’t make this easy or offer to help you change these credentials, so many IoT devices are still accessible through their factory-set credentials. Hackers then learn what the default credentials are which can grant them direct access to any IoT device that has not been secured.
Improving IoT Performance
With everything else secured, you may want to put some thought into improving the performance of your IoT Devices.
8. Check Wifi Strength in Device Locations
One of the problems businesses have had in the past with IoT is weak wifi signal. IoT devices like lightbulbs and security cameras are sometimes placed high up and away from where employees use the wifi on a regular basis. Your wifi signal may have trouble reaching the locations where you want to put them.
One way to help your office is to check the signal strength of each location before you place the device. Signal boosters and repeaters may extend the wifi range so that you can have more far-flung IoT devices.
9. Prioritize Security and Streaming Bandwidth Use
IoT functions are sometimes demanding in wifi bandwidth, but some functions are more important than others. Work with your network admin to prioritize the security, communication, and streaming bandwidth use while de-prioritizing less important functions and features that can wait their turn for bandwidth.
10. Integrate Mobile Control
Voice control is the primary focus of IoT smart devices, but mobile control should not be underestimated. The ability to control your business IoT devices through manager and employee mobile devices is incredibly powerful. Devices can be controlled or communicated with by someone out of the office, by any employee inside the office, or with greater precision using the right mobile app. Consider mobile control integration potential for your business when optimizing your company IoT.
IoT is the future of business technology, but integrating it with your business naturally requires some amount of effort and care. With the help of skilled IT professionals, you can quickly have your business IoT plan in place, secure, and ready to use. Contact us today to find out more about the best implementation strategies for IoT in your business.