Best Practices for Intranet Security Protocols in 2024

As we move further into the 2020s, intranet security is more important than ever for organisations of all sizes. Cyber threats continue to evolve, making it critical to stay up-to-date on the latest best practices to keep your company’s data and communication secure. In this article, we’ll dive into the top recommendations for intranet security protocols in 2024.

1. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication

One of the most effective ways to enhance intranet security is by implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of protection beyond just a username and password. It requires users to provide an additional form of verification, such as a code sent to their phone or email, or biometric data like a fingerprint scan.

Steegle One offers seamless integration with Google Workspace, including support for MFA. This ensures only authorised users can access your organisation’s sensitive data and collaboration tools. Check out Steegle One’s security features for Google Workspace.

2. Encrypt Data In Transit and At Rest

Encrypting data is crucial for preventing unauthorised access, both while it’s being transmitted across networks and when it’s stored on servers. Make sure to use industry-standard encryption protocols like SSL/TLS for data in transit and AES for data at rest.

Steegle One employs robust encryption to safeguard your intranet data. All communication between users’ devices and Steegle servers is encrypted using HTTPS. And all data stored in Steegle’s databases is encrypted at rest.

3. Conduct Regular Security Audits

Performing periodic security audits helps identify vulnerabilities in your intranet setup before attackers can exploit them. Audits should review things like user access controls, password policies, network configuration, and third-party integrations.

Steegle offers professional services to assist with intranet security audits. Their team of experts will thoroughly analyse your setup and provide recommendations to harden your defences.

4. Train Employees on Security Best Practices

Your organisation’s employees play a key role in maintaining intranet security. Establish a cybersecurity training program to educate staff on topics like identifying phishing attempts, creating strong passwords, and handling sensitive data appropriately.

Steegle One makes it easy to deliver security awareness training right through your intranet portal:

5. Keep Software Up-To-Date

One of the simplest yet most important security practices is keeping all intranet software and components updated. New vulnerabilities are constantly being discovered in operating systems, web browsers, content management systems, and other applications. Applying security patches in a timely manner closes these holes before they can be exploited.

When you choose a cloud-based intranet solution like Steegle One, updates are handled automatically behind the scenes. You can rest assured you’re always running the latest secure version.

6. Monitor for Suspicious Activity

Vigilant monitoring is key to detecting potential security incidents early. Implement tools to log activity like failed login attempts, access to sensitive files, and changes to security settings. Set up alerts to notify IT staff of red flags that warrant investigation.

Steegle One provides detailed audit logs and customizable alerts to help you keep tabs on your intranet. You can drill down to see granular event details and export logs for further analysis.

7. Back Up Data Frequently

Even with strong preventative security measures in place, there’s always a risk of data loss or compromise. Maintain frequent backups of all critical intranet data, including content, user information, and application configurations. Follow the 3-2-1 rule: keep at least three copies of your data, on two different media, with one copy offsite.

Steegle One performs automated daily backups and stores them securely in the cloud. You can also export your data anytime for local backups. In the event of an incident, you can quickly restore your intranet to a previous state.

8. Use Role-Based Access Control

Not every user needs access to every area of your intranet. Implementing role-based access control (RBAC) ensures users only have permissions for the resources they need to do their job. This limits the potential damage if an individual account is compromised.

With Steegle One, you can define granular user roles and permissions:

9. Implement Single Sign-On

Single sign-on (SSO) allows users to access all their enterprise applications, including the intranet, with one set of login credentials. This improves security by reducing the number of passwords users have to remember and manage. It also streamlines the user experience and cuts down on IT support requests.

Steegle One integrates with all major SSO providers, including Google Workspace, Okta, and OneLogin. Users can access your intranet with just a click, while still maintaining strong authentication.

10. Partner With a Secure Intranet Provider

When it comes to intranet security, your choice of platform provider is critical. Look for a partner that demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting customers’ data. They should have robust security controls, certified data centres, and transparent privacy practices.

Steegle has built a reputation as a trusted and secure intranet provider. Their platform is hosted in ISO 27001 certified Google Cloud data centres. They undergo regular third-party security audits and pen testing. And they have strict policies around data privacy, promising never to sell customer data.

By following these best practices and leveraging Steegle One’s secure intranet platform, you can give your organisation the best defence against today’s cyber threats. Keep your data locked down and your employees productive with a modern, protected digital workplace.

To learn more about how Steegle One can upgrade your intranet security, request a demo today.