If you are serious about security, there are three things you must do: 1) Keep your software up to date, 2) protect against viruses, and 3) set up a firewall.

Implementing a regular backup procedure is a simple way to safeguard critical agency data. Setting permissions and using encryption also helps.

Unscrupulous Web sites as well as pop-ups and animations can be dangerous. Set rules about Internet usage to protect your organization, your employees, and the public you serve.

Remote access to your network might be a necessity, but it is also a security risk you need to closely monitor. Use strong passwords and control techniques and be especially cautious about wireless networks.

Your servers are the command center of your network. If they become compromised, your entire network is at risk. To protect your organization, protect your servers.

Make sure software that is critical to your operations has security-enhancement features working around the clock. Internal and external security risks can lead to lost productivity—or worse.

Without stringent administrative procedures in place, the security-enhancement measures you take to safeguard your organization might be unintentionally jeopardized by users.