top of page

Cisco

Keep Your Cisco Firmware Up to Date to Protect Network Security

Many computer networks use Cisco components to perform essential tasks. This is because Cisco equipment is known to be reliable as well as relatively affordable. However, a side-effect of its popularity is that hackers will often target it. The high amount of hackers attempting to crack their way into the company's systems causes vulnerabilities and exploits to be found relatively quickly, and this can pose problems for you if you don't take steps to protect your system and its components.


One of the best ways to maintain network security with Cisco routers and other equipment is to be sure to install updates as soon as they are available. These firmware updates contain patches for known vulnerabilities. Typically, they are released whenever a fix for a vulnerability or exploit is completed.


Because of the nature of security patches, there is no set schedule for when they are released. Instead, they come out when they are ready. This means that you should always be on the lookout for updates so that they are installed right away. Hackers love it when people don't bother to install these types of patches, regardless of the type of equipment involved. Some say that most systems that get hacked due to exploits are out of date in terms of patch level.


Installing updates may be different from the methods used to update software and operating systems. That shouldn't be a problem for a full-fledged IT department at your company, but if your business is too small to have such a department, it can pose some problems. Typically, you can figure it out if you want to, but if you're not technologically inclined, you may find yourself contacting the Cisco help desk at some point in the process.


How difficult the entire process is depends greatly on your overall technological prowess. Some people naturally take to this sort of thing, while others find it highly confusing or frustrating. If you give it a try and find yourself in the second group, don't feel bad. Many people have the same opinion. The important thing is that you make sure you find a working solution instead of giving up. Hackers love it when people just give up.


A great alternative to calling the company's help desk is to work with an outsourced IT help company like Crodin Technologies. This company offers a huge array of IT services, including all of those that would be done by an in-house IT department. It also provides consulting services, network services, cloud computing setup, managed IT services, and IT support. With their breadth of expertise, you can rest assured that they can take care of all of your Cisco network security needs.

bottom of page