The workplace is currently undergoing a process of diversification. The physical office is becoming the 'anywhere' office. Unified communications are promoting the streamlining of network devices and connecting assets that hadn't previously been optimized for internet access. Data analytics are changing the way that users visualize and apply information. Even the connotations of what constitutes a PC can be reevaluated under the increasing shift in the way people do business. However, the drive to innovate and find new ways to strategize resources can have serious consequences for security, productivity and ROI unless businesses utilize proactive security measures that respond to the increasing complexity of operational needs.
Application control is one of the best ways for companies to oversee their employees' burgeoning device load and increased network reliance. As the number of critical endpoints increases, so does the opportunity for hackers to compromise data. Studies have indicated that endpoints consistently rank as one of the most targeted and most breached components in a computing system. But research also shows that 57 percent of companies don't utilize application control tools. These lax policies are tantamount to leaving all the doors and windows unlocked, so that when a thief gets in the house, it's easy to open up channels for more criminals to enter and wreak havoc. Employees encounter many different applications in their daily functions, and the growth of cloud hosting and data analysis means that companies will continue to rely on the innovations that new applications provide to stimulate growth.
How to optimize security for mobile devices
Business leaders naturally want to use the latest software technology and business strategies to maximize investments. However, the lack of attention paid to software layered security solutions and standards can undo all of that investment at a much faster speed than it took to implement. A majority of companies don't have adequate controls and 17 percent reported that they had no interest in application control solutions, the survey reported. Some of this hesitancy or outright dismissal could be attributed to the fact that management doesn't want to appear too controlling. Employee aversion to extensive endpoint software on their mobile devices, especially in BYOD systems, often stymies adequate protective measures.
Mobile application management can be a good solution because it's only intended to service applications on the devices, not restrict devices themselves. System restore and recovery applications can establish endpoint safeguards to ensure that no harmful or unwanted applications can make their way onto workers' devices.
