During an IT audit, IT professionals will carry out an exhaustive inspection of your IT network. Auditing comes with plenty of benefits, but some people are unsure when an audit should take place.
IT audits are typically conducted at specific junctures in an organization’s lifecycle and in response to various triggers. They are commonly carried out during major technology upgrades or migrations to ensure the security and integrity of new systems. Additionally, IT audits are essential when a company seeks to comply with regulatory requirements, such as HIPAA or GDPR, or when they need to assess adherence to internal policies and procedures.
IT audits play a crucial role in understanding the overall health of your IT infrastructure and mitigating risks associated with various cyber threats, including learning about what is account takeover, how to deal with a phishing attack, solutions for DDoS attacks, and so on, by addressing vulnerabilities and enhancing security measures. Therefore, routine IT audits are advisable as part of a proactive cybersecurity strategy, helping to identify vulnerabilities before they are exploited by cybercriminals. Moreover, organizations that have experienced security incidents or data breaches may conduct IT audits to understand the extent of the damage and bolster their defenses against future threats. So, does your organization need one?
Well, here are just four signs you’re due for one.
- It’s Been More than 18 Months Since Your Last Audit
Some people think that having an IT audit is a bit like having a vaccination – once it’s done, you’re protected for life and don’t need another. Unfortunately, that just isn’t the case. Most importantly, hackers are always developing new ways to access networks, so you need to have relatively frequent audits to check that security is still up to scratch.
- You’re Planning Significant Growth in the Coming Months
You need to be looking forwards as well as backwards when you’re considering an IT audit. Even if you’ve had an IT audit conducted only a few months ago, you should strongly consider having another one done if you expect the business to grow significantly in the near future. You see, your IT network will be put under more strain if you bring in more people or start handling more work, and you may find that the software or licenses you use now will be unsuitable once your business grows. Have an IT audit so you can discuss your growth projections with a professional and find out how your network will need to adapt.
- You’re Thinking of a Significant Upgrade
Perhaps you’re thinking of moving to Windows 10 or upgrading your core systems. That might well be the right move, but any significant upgrade or change to your network demands an IT audit. Again, you’ll be able to discuss exactly what changes you’re interested in and then check whether your network can handle them. This also holds true if you are planning on implementing network automation solutions like those provided by NetBrain Technologies. Dynamic mapping, automated network verification, and proactive troubleshooting can all be made possible, but only after you have a thorough audit done to determine the current state of things.
- You’re Worried About Security
Security is always worth thinking about in the modern age. After all, even the smallest of vulnerabilities can see your whole network disrupted. If you have any lingering security worries, schedule an IT audit. IT professionals will take the opportunity to test your digital defences; any weaknesses will be found and addressed.
Conclusion
The four signs we’ve discussed are clear indicators that your organization may benefit from arranging an IT audit. Taking a proactive stance in assessing your IT infrastructure not only helps identify vulnerabilities but also equips you with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect your data, your customers, and your reputation. In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and cyber threats, regular IT audits are a strategic investment that ensures your organization remains resilient and well-prepared to face the challenges of the digital age. Don’t wait for a crisis to strike; consider an IT audit as a crucial step toward safeguarding your business and maintaining its long-term success.