What are the 9 Must-Have Cyber Tools for Small Businesses?

In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is not just a concern for large corporations; it's a critical aspect of running any business, regardless of size. Small businesses, often with limited resources and personnel, need a strategic approach to cybersecurity to protect their valuable data and operations. Let's explore a set of 9 essential cybersecurity tools that can provide a robust defense for small businesses, along with an analysis of how these tools align with the Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls.

1. Patch and Endpoint Management Solutions

Regularly updating software and operating systems is paramount in mitigating cyber threats. Patch management solutions automate this process, ensuring endpoints like laptops and desktops receive timely updates, including security patches. Endpoint management solutions provide centralized control over devices, allowing administrators to enforce security configurations and manage software installations. Popular options include Microsoft Intune, AutoMox, and NinjaOne.

2. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Tools

Antivirus software alone is insufficient in today's threat landscape. EDR tools provide an additional layer of protection by actively monitoring endpoints for malicious activity. These tools can detect, contain, and remediate threats in real-time, preventing malware from compromising systems. Examples of popular solutions include Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, CrowdStrike Falcon, and SentinelOne Singularity.

3. Secure Web Gateways

Secure web gateways (SWG) act as a barrier between internal networks and the vast expanse of the internet. They filter web traffic, blocking access to malicious websites, phishing sites, and other online threats. SWGs categorize websites and allow administrators to set granular access policies, controlling which websites employees can access. Common SWG providers include OpenDNS, Cisco Umbrella, Symantec Blue Coat, and Zscaler.

4. Sandbox Browsers

Sandbox browsers provide a safe and isolated environment to access potentially risky websites without compromising the underlying system. They function by running websites in a virtual machine, isolating any downloaded malware or malicious scripts. This is particularly useful for accessing websites blocked by SWGs for being new or having uncommon domain names, allowing users to visit the website without exposing the network to potential threats.

5. Website Security Software

While SWGs provide a first line of defense, website security software goes a step further by providing granular visibility into website traffic and user behavior. These tools can detect and block access to Shadow IT solutions, identify potentially malicious data exfiltration attempts, and provide insights into user browsing habits.

6. Identity and Access Management (IAM) Solutions

IAM solutions are crucial for managing user access to corporate resources. They provide a centralized platform for managing user accounts, enforcing strong password policies, and implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA). Modern IAM solutions often incorporate single sign-on (SSO) capabilities, simplifying user login experiences while enhancing security.

7. Email Security Gateways

Email remains a primary attack vector for cybercriminals. Phishing attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting individuals through deceptive emails that often appear legitimate. Email security gateways act as a gatekeeper, scanning incoming emails for malicious attachments, phishing links, and other threats. While Microsoft offers email security features with their E5 license, we suggests exploring alternative solutions like Proofpoint, Abnormal Security, Mimecast, or Darktrace.

8. Managed Detection and Response (MDR)

For small businesses without dedicated security teams, MDR providers offer a cost-effective way to outsource security monitoring and incident response. MDR providers such as Artic Wolf, Red Canary, Expel, and Crowdstrike leverage advanced security tools and expertise to monitor network activity, analyze security logs, and respond to security incidents 24/7. This allows small businesses to benefit from enterprise-grade security operations without the overhead of building an in-house Security Operations Center (SOC).

9. Password Managers

While not included in the main eight, the podcast emphasizes the importance of password managers for enhancing overall security. Password managers such as Bitwarden, Lastpass, and 1 password store and manage complex and unique passwords for various online accounts. This eliminates the need for users to remember or write down passwords, reducing the risk of password reuse and unauthorized access.

By implementing these essential cybersecurity tools, small businesses can significantly strengthen their security posture, protect their sensitive data, and mitigate the risk of cyberattacks.

Addressing the 18 CIS Critical Security Controls

The following provides an overview of how the nine tools above align with the 18 CIS Critical Security Controls. We will also create a cumulative score on how these 9 tools align with each of the 18 controls:

CIS Control 1 & 2 (Inventory and Control of Enterprise Assets): Endpoint management systems and IAM solutions can help maintain an inventory of devices and manage authorized access. (2/2)

CIS Control 3 (Data Protection): The sources do not directly address data protection capabilities within the context of these specific tools. (2/3)

CIS Control 4 (Secure Configuration of Enterprise Assets and Software): Endpoint management and website security software help enforce secure configurations. (3/4)

CIS Control 5 & 6 (Account Management): IAM solutions and password managers contribute to strong account management practices, such as enforcing unique passwords, managing privileges, and disabling dormant accounts. (4/5)

CIS Control 7 (Vulnerability Management): Patch and endpoint management solutions are essential for addressing vulnerabilities and applying timely patches. (5/6)

CIS Control 8 (Audit Log Management): Many of these tools generate logs, and MDR providers can centralize and analyze these logs for security insights. (7/8)

CIS Control 9 (Email and Web Protection): Email security gateways, secure web gateways, website security software, and sandboxed browsers work together to provide comprehensive protection against web and email threats. (8/9)

CIS Control 10 (Malware Defenses): EDR tools are specifically designed to prevent and address malware infections. (9/10)

CIS Control 11 (Data Recovery): While not explicitly mentioned in the context of the eight tools, the sources acknowledge that data recovery practices are crucial. The use of Microsoft OneDrive with appropriate configurations could potentially address this control. However it’s not one of our 9 controls so we don’t count success on this one (9/11)

CIS Control 12 (Network Security Management): The sources argue that with strong encryption and secure configurations, the emphasis on network device management might be less critical in smaller settings. We assume a small business has a local wifi router with password credentials that are not default and auto-updates on so we will count this one. (10/12)

CIS Control 13 (Network Monitoring and Defense): Secure web gateways and website security software contribute to network monitoring and defense. (11/13)

CIS Control 14 & 15 (Security Awareness Training & Service Provider Management): These controls are not directly addressed by the nine tools listed. (11/15)

CIS Control 16 (Application Software Security): The sources focus on SaaS commercial software by a small business assumes adherence to security practices by vendors. (12/16)

CIS Control 17 (Incident Response Management): MDR providers play a significant role in incident response, offering expertise and resources to handle security incidents effectively. (13/17)

CIS Control 18 (Penetration Testing): Penetration testing is not explicitly mentioned as part of the baseline security posture discussed in the sources. (13/18)

Conclusion

Implementing these nine essential cybersecurity tools provides a strong foundation for small businesses to establish a robust security posture. By proactively addressing common vulnerabilities and leveraging the expertise of managed security providers, small businesses can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to cyberattacks and protect their valuable assets. The alignment of these tools with 13 out of the 18 CIS Controls further emphasizes their effectiveness in establishing a comprehensive cybersecurity framework. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing journey, and regularly reviewing and updating your security measures is crucial in staying ahead of emerging threats.