Effective SMB IT security practices go beyond “raising the shields” around users, data & networks – they enable innovation throughout the IT/business infrastructure. SMBs are not only increasingly dependent on IT – they are dependent on increasingly-interconnected systems, which are in turn open to an ever-expanding population of devices and access points.

This increases the potential damage associated with a breach, and attracts heightened attention from hackers. Meanwhile, within SMBs, there are disconnects between security (policy) authority and security (practice) responsibility that creates the potential for poorly-coordinated approaches to security – an uncertainty that is magnified by shadow IT. Effective IT security solutions contribute to organizational success and profitability. Data shows that IT/business solutions are important to business success and profitability; and Security is important to the value of IT/business solutions.