BYOD. You might not know what this is, but you probably allow it in some form. BYOD stands for Bring Your Own Device, and it is a common practice in many businesses.
It can be on a large scale, of employees needing to provide their own computers, or a smaller form, of allowing employees to connect their personal cell phones to your network. The question that comes up frequently is, should you be allowing it? Here are some five tips to help you navigate BYOD in your own company.
- Create a BYOD Policy
Policies are always a good idea. They help clarify what is allowable and what is not. It gives everyone an even playing field and keeps them from being distracted by all the what-ifs. If you currently have an Acceptable Use Policy, this one can be integrated into it.
- Specify what Devices are Permitted
There are many devices out there for people to utilize, so make sure your employees know exactly what is okay to use and what isn’t. You want to specify so the current software and systems you use will be compatible with their device. You also want tools that your tech team already knows and understand.
- Establish a Security Policy
Security is the main drawback for allowing BYOD. The best way to combat this is to create a stringent security policy for all devices. Make users have a password or lock screen. Set up a remote app on all phones to help locate or wipe a lost or stolen device. You don’t want them losing their phone and having all your sensitive company data exposed to the world.
- What Level of Service is Provided
You need to set clear guidelines of how you will service your employee’s own devices. Will you allow all repairs to be covered? Maybe you only want to pay for problems with your company’s software. Make sure all users know what their expectations will be if something goes wrong.
- Apps and Data
If devices are connected to your business network, you will want to let employees know what apps and software will be allowed and what is banned. If they play online games on a work computer and get hacked through that game, it compromises your entire network. Be clear what apps and software the company are paying for and owns, and what the employee needs to provide. When employment changes happen, you need to be sure to remove all company-owned property from the personal device.
BYOD is becoming a more prevalent issue for business. Make sure that you have the correct policies in place to protect your business and network from outside threats. If you need help with writing your policy or creating security protocols, contact Networks Unlimited. We have the tools to help your business stay safe!
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