From storing sensitive customer data to managing day-to-day operations, IT systems keep business operations ticking along smoothly. But with an increasingly digital world, there is also an increase in the risks. Now, people don’t have to physically come to your base of operations to steal important documents, they can do it from anywhere in the world if you accidentally leave your digital backdoor open. This is where an IT security audit comes in, helping you manage business risks with regular reviews.
Far from being a “tick-box” exercise, IT audits are an essential part of protecting your business, your staff and your customers.
What is an IT Security Audit?
An IT audit is a review of your organisation’s technology systems and procedures. It looks at how well your IT supports business goals while managing business risks that might disrupt operations or compromise security. An IT security audit specifically focuses on how well your business is protected against cyber threats, rather than the speed and performance of your systems.
At Inventas we offer a multitude of different audits depending on the area you want to focus on:
- Data security – How well you’re protected from cyber threats.
- System performance – The efficiency of your IT infrastructure.
- Compliance – Meeting industry standards and legal obligations like GDPR.
- Disaster recovery – Assessing your disaster recovery plans to check if they’re suitable for a quick return.
- Network – Making sure you’re running as smoothly as possible.
Why Regular IT Security Audits Matter
A one-off check after you establish your business or move to a new location isn’t enough. Security risks evolve constantly, especially as your business grows and develops, and so should your approach to managing them.
Regular IT audits help in several key ways:
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Identify Vulnerabilities Early
Cyber criminals are always on the lookout for weak points. And with the influx of ransomware attacks in both businesses small and large over the past few years, it’s ever more important to make sure your business is ready to face anything. An audit can flag outdated software, misconfigured systems or gaps in security before they’re exploited. Prevention is cheaper (and far less stressful) than crisis management.
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Reduce the Risk of Downtime
System outages cost time, money and reputation. Audits check whether your backups, disaster recovery plans and infrastructure are up to scratch so your business keeps moving, even if something goes wrong.
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Stay Compliant
From data protection laws to industry-specific regulations, non-compliance can lead to hefty fines and reputational damage. Regular audits ensure you’re not only compliant today but prepared for future changes.
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Support Business Growth
Audits don’t just highlight risks; they also spot opportunities for improvement. From streamlining processes to upgrading outdated systems, IT audits help your technology grow with your business.
Making an IT Security Audit Part of Your Strategy
To get the most out of IT audits:
- Schedule them regularly – annually, or more often if you handle sensitive data.
- Act on the findings – audits only add value if their recommendations are put into practice.
- Combine with ongoing remote monitoring and other more intensive tests– audits are snapshots in time, so complement them with continuous monitoring tools and test your vulnerabilities with penetration testing.
Final Thoughts
Regular IT audits are like an MOT for your business technology, essential to helping manage business risks. They ensure everything is running smoothly, highlight hidden problems and give you peace of mind. By making them part of your ongoing business strategy, you’re not just protecting what you have, you’re building a stronger foundation for future growth.
Get in touch with Inventas to learn more and learn which audit you should be getting for your business.
