Let’s talk about something that sounds technical but is actually pretty straightforward: Multi-Factor Authentication, or MFA. If you’re running a business, you’ve probably heard about it.
However, how can you properly set it up for your entire company? That’s where managed IT services come in.
What Is Multi-Factor Authentication?
Think about your house. You wouldn’t just have a lock on the door. You probably have a deadbolt, maybe an alarm system. MFA works the same way for your digital stuff.
Instead of just typing a password, MFA adds extra layers. You might type your password, then get a code on your phone. Or use your fingerprint. It’s simple: even if someone steals your password, they still can’t get in without that second step.
Why Your Business Actually Needs MFA
81% of data breaches happen because of weak or stolen passwords. One employee uses “Summer2024!” as their password, and suddenly hackers have access to your entire system.
MFA prevent this breached. For businesses, this isn’t just about security anymore; it’s about survival. One breach can cost you customers, money, and your reputation.
How Managed IT Services Actually Set This Up
They Start with Your Actual Needs
Not every business needs the same security. A law firm handling sensitive client information needs tighter security than a retail shop. Good IT services start by understanding your business and assessing everything before making recommendations.
They Pick the Right Tools for You
There are dozens of MFA options out there. Authenticator apps, SMS codes, hardware tokens, and biometric scanners. Your managed IT team knows which ones work best for your situation and budget.
They Handle the Technical Heavy Lifting
Setting up MFA means integrating it with your email, your business applications, your cloud storage, your network, and everything else you use. Managed IT services configure all of this.
They connect MFA to Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, your CRM, and your accounting software. All those systems that would take you weeks to figure out? They do it in days.
They Actually Train Your Team
Technology only works if people use it correctly. Your IT team doesn’t just set things up and disappear. They train your staff, showing them how to use authenticator apps and what to do if they lose their phone. No jargon, no confusion. Just clear instructions everyone can follow.
What Happens When Things Go Wrong
Phones get lost. Employees forget passwords. With managed IT services, there’s always someone to call. They can verify identity and get locked-out employees back in. They also set up backup authentication methods, so you’re never completely stuck.
Dealing with Ongoing Situations
MFA isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it thing. New threats emerge. Employees come and go. Your managed IT team monitors your authentication systems, pushes updates, and removes access for employees who leave. It’s constant maintenance that happens in the background.
Among the things to know before signing an IT managed service contract is how they handle MFA implementation. Ask about their process, training, and 24/7 support for authentication issues.
The Bottom Line
The average data breach costs small businesses around $120,000. Some never recover. Compare that to the monthly fee for managed services that include MFA implementation and monitoring.
Working with managed IT services means you get expert implementation, ongoing support, and security that actually works. No guesswork. No DIY nightmares. Just solid protection that lets you get back to business. Your data and your customers deserve that level of security.
Get in touch with IT Cloud Global for IT managed services and protect your business.