The OSI Model is well-known by IT professionals as a helpful framework when it comes to troubleshooting technology. As a small business owner, you're likely wondering how the OSI model could possibly be of use to you. Well it has a major impact on your employees, particularly at layer 8 of the model. Let's break down how Twinstate Technologies secures layer eight, our employees, at our Plattsburgh, NY office location. But first, what do we really mean by layer eight in the OSI model?
Layer eight is often referred to as the "employee element" and is considered an add-on layer to the traditional OSI model. The actual OSI model contains just seven layers, providing a visual representation and conceptual framework for the functions of a computer or telecommunications network.
Layer 8 is a conceptual extension to OSI model that was created to cover the most complex element of a network, the end-user. End-users have a significant impact on the integrity of the networks they use. Whether it be through be through downloading a virus, using compromised credentials, or simple human error -- network users actually pose a significant and unpredictable security threat.
Managed service providers (MSPs) or an outsourced IT department can help companies at all levels of the OSI model, but their value really applies to layer eight, a company's employees. If you're not familiar, managed services take care of all the hassle that comes with business technology. From routine maintenance and automatic patching to proactive monitoring, training, and help desk support, your technology remains up to date because it's consistently taken care of by an MSP. Basically, when it comes to information technology, managed services make your business more efficient, secure, and cutting-edge.
So, how does that all affect an end-user? Read below to learn how Twinstate Technologies applies our managed services to benefit layer eight at our company.
Human error is one of the leading causes of data breach, not the basement dwelling hackers that we often imagine. Simple mistakes made by employees -- like accidental file deletion, data corruption, or downloading malicious software -- can cost business massive amounts each year. Employee awareness training can prevent these incidents for just a few dollars a month.
At Twinstate Technologies every one of our employees is enrolled in regular cyber awareness training sessions to minimize our biggest risk, human error. This might sound like a giant undertaking that's expensive and time-wasting, but it's really the opposite. Effective awareness training needs to be kept brief and conducted frequently. That's why we use micro-learning videos to teach our team. It takes just 10 minutes a month and our team can engage in the sessions on their own schedule. Our Information Security Team in Plattsburgh regularly create and send mock phishing emails as well to our internal users to test their knowledge retention.
Layer eight is one of the most challenging layers of the OSI model to handle but managed service providers can really help your small business keep your users secure and efficient. If you think managed services are right for you, let's talk.