5 Ways to Protect Your Printer's Network Security
Having a network printer is vital for your business to be successful and efficient. Just like other network connections in your company, security is vital for protecting sensitive, important data. Below are a few tips to follow after your printer installation.
How to Safeguard a Network Printer
1. Add Encryption
This is particularly necessary when you have sensitive or confidential information such as employee personal details and credit card information. Using encryption transforms the data into an undecipherable code, making it harder for hackers to steal as the information travels over the network.
Because many printers hold information on a hard drive as print jobs queue, ensure those drives are purged periodically—especially if you discard the hardware.
2. Limit Access
Limit user access to only those who need to use it. Go one step further and set parameters for those users, ensuring that only a few have administrative access to the network. This lowers the number of people who can see and use the data.
3. Update Software
Printers run on software, especially devices that are multifunctional and have scanner, fax, and copier capabilities. Stay on top of updates so that your equipment is running efficiently. Regular updates also ensure that your printer installation isn’t left vulnerable to data breaches. Outdated software is easier for a hacker to crack.
4. Renew Passwords
Change administrative passwords frequently, and never stick with the default choices as these are easy to decipher. Networking breaches often take the form of malware installations and other sneaky Trojan horses that get in because of a weak password. Changing it periodically makes it harder to crack, and if you have employee turnover, past staff will no longer have access.
5. Choose Quality
The better quality printer you use, the more security measures you can put into place. Look for manufacturers with a solid reputation and updated technologies to shield your data from trends in hacking. Whether it automatically reboots when a breach is detected or scans the system to check for problems, these functions will make it harder for cybersecurity failures to occur.
For networking help to boost your printer security, contact Laser Line. Serving the Maryland, D.C., and northern Virginia area, their printing supplies and printer installation and repair offerings have helped companies maintain productivity since 1989. Customers can rely on quality equipment. Call (410) 636-1700 to speak with a representative, or visit them online for their managed print services. Follow them on Facebook and Yelp for updates.
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