The way we work has changed. Laptops, phones, tablets, and even printers now connect from homes, cafes, clinics, and airports—everywhere your business operates. Each device is a doorway: to opportunity, but also to risk. How do you secure every device, every location, every time? This practical guide shows you step-by-step protection for all business devices—onsite and remote—rooted in Norfolk’s real-world business needs.
Why Device Protection Matters for Modern SMBs
- 1 in 10 SMBs in Virginia suffered a device-related security incident last year (source: VDH Cybersecurity Trends 2024).
- 50% of cyberattacks now target remote endpoints or hybrid workers.
- Unprotected devices can trigger:
- Ransomware, data theft, regulatory fines (HIPAA, PCI DSS, FTC Safeguards)
- Loss of business and client trust
- Downtime and recovery costs
Local Norfolk Story:
In 2024, a local law firm avoided a six-figure loss when a stolen laptop was remotely locked and wiped. “If we hadn’t set up mobile management, we could have lost client trust overnight,” says partner Anne J., Norfolk.
Explore More: Guardian: Computer Protection & Endpoint Security
Step 1: Inventory Every Device—Onsite, Remote, and “Shadow IT”
You can’t secure what you don’t know about.
- Catalog all: laptops, desktops, tablets, smartphones, printers, network devices, IoT (smart TVs, door locks, meeting room tech).
- Include employee-owned (BYOD) devices and “shadow IT” (unauthorized apps/devices).
- Use RMM (Remote Monitoring & Management) and asset tracking tools.
Pro Tip:
Update your inventory after onboarding, offboarding, or tech refresh.
Step 2: Enroll All Devices in Mobile Device Management (MDM)
MDM is your command center for device control—onsite and remote.
- Require all devices, including BYOD and mobile printers, to enroll before accessing company data.
- Enforce:
- Passwords/PINs, device encryption, auto-lock, biometrics
- Remote lock/wipe capabilities for lost/stolen hardware
- Compliance policies (block non-compliant devices)
- Cover:
- Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, printers, and even IoT devices were supported
Recommended: Microsoft Intune, Datto MDM, Jamf, or similar.
Local Tip:
Businesses often overlook printers and wireless devices, so include them in your MDM scope.
Step 3: Deploy Next-Gen Endpoint Security & EDR
Cyber threats are smarter; protection must be too.
- Install EDR/AV on every endpoint: Windows, Mac, mobile, and even supported IoT.
- Behavioral monitoring for ransomware, phishing, and zero-day threats.
- SOC-driven threat hunting, with rapid isolation for infected devices.
Learn more: Endpoint Security Guide
Step 4: Automate Patch Management, Everywhere
- Schedule regular patching for OS, apps, printers, and IoT.
- Use patch management solutions for remote and in-office devices.
- Patch Wi-Fi routers, printers, and smart devices—these are rising attack targets.
Explore: Automated Patch Management
Step 5: Enable Cloud Backup & Rapid Recovery
- Encrypted, scheduled cloud backup for all endpoints, including remote and BYOD devices.
- Back up business data stored on laptops, tablets, and mobile phones.
- Test restore process monthly; include instructions for recovering data from lost or decommissioned hardware.
Entities: Datto Endpoint Backup, immutable storage, backup testing, BYOD data protection.
People Also Ask:
- Can I back up employee-owned devices?
- What happens if a backup fails on a remote laptop?
Learn: Secure Cloud Backup & Rapid Recovery
Step 6: Secure Internet Access with DNS/Web Filtering
- DNS filtering on every device, anywhere (not just in-office).
- Block malicious/phishing sites and enforce safe browsing—protects remote users on public Wi-Fi.
- Layer with email threat protection (e.g., Graphus) for extra phishing defense.
Guide: DNS/Web Filtering Guide
Step 7: Monitor and Respond 24/7 (Including Remote and BYOD)
- Continuous monitoring for all endpoints—remote, BYOD, and non-traditional (printers, IoT).
- SOC or managed detection & response (MDR) for instant alerts, isolation, and incident response.
- Automated playbooks for lost device, stolen credentials, or suspicious device behavior.
Learn: 24/7 Monitoring & Incident Response
Step 8: Train Your Team—Including for Home & Mobile Threats
- Security awareness training for all staff—especially those using personal or remote devices.
- Real-world phishing simulation, lost device procedures, and reporting suspicious behavior.
- Make reporting and support easy (helpdesk chat, instant ticket submission).
Start here: Cybersecurity Tips for Employees
Physical Security and Secure Disposal
Don’t forget the basics:
- Lock devices when not in use; use cable locks for laptops.
- Restrict access to server rooms or areas with sensitive data.
- Securely wipe and dispose of old devices—use certified destruction for drives and storage.
Compliance: What’s Required by Law
- HIPAA, PCI DSS, FTC Safeguards, CMMC: All mandate device security—onsite, remote, and BYOD.
- Regular documentation, audit trails, and proof of compliance are key.
Local Compliance Note:
Norfolk’s growing medical, legal, and financial firms face steep penalties for missing device controls or insecure offboarding.
Explore: Unified Security Reporting & Compliance
Local & Industry Examples
Norfolk Dental Clinic: Uses MDM for iPads in exam rooms and secure disposal for old office printers.
VA Beach CPA: Encrypts all staff laptops, including those used for home tax prep during busy season.
Hampton Roads Retailer: Blocks unauthorized “shadow IT” and monitors smart POS devices for threats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Device Security for Modern Workforces
- How quickly can you respond to a threat on a remote device?
With Office Heroes’ 24/7 monitoring and Mobile Device Management (MDM), we can detect threats on remote devices in real time. If a device is compromised, we can remotely isolate it from your network or wipe all business data, often within minutes. This rapid response helps prevent data breaches and ensures your workforce stays protected, wherever they’re working.
- Are printers, smart TVs, and IoT devices a security risk?
Absolutely. Any device connected to your network, including printers, smart TVs, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, can be a potential entry point for cyber threats. Office Heroes treats these as endpoints: we recommend regular patching and firmware updates, restricting network access to only what’s necessary, and continuously monitoring for unusual or unauthorized activity. This layered approach reduces your risk and protects your organization.
- What about employee-owned or personal devices (BYOD)?
We fully support secure Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) environments. Employees are required to enroll their personal devices in our MDM platform and agree to compliance policies. Business data is kept separate from personal apps and files, and if the device is lost, stolen, or an employee leaves, we can remotely wipe only the business data—leaving personal information untouched. This keeps your organization secure while respecting employee privacy.
- How do you secure a lost or stolen device?
If a device is lost or stolen, Office Heroes can respond immediately using remote management tools. We remotely lock or wipe the device through Mobile Device Management (MDM) to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data. All business data is encrypted by default, and with automatic cloud backups, you can quickly restore your information to a new device and maintain business continuity.
Downloadable Resources
Get a Device Security Consultation
Don’t wait for a breach or lost device to realize the cost.
Request a complimentary device security assessment for your team now.
