Your office thermostat, conference room speaker, and smart badge reader are convenient—but they’re also doors into your network. With more devices than ever in play, keeping track can be tough, and it only takes one weak link to put your entire system at risk.

That’s why smart IT solutions matter now more than ever. A trusted IT partner like BIT365 can help you connect smart devices safely, keep data secure, and manage your whole setup without stress.

This guide will walk small and medium businesses through practical steps to manage IoT (Internet of Things) risks without the big-business complexity.

What is IoT?

IoT, or the Internet of Things, refers to physical devices—like sensors, appliances, gadgets, or machines—that are connected to the internet. These tools can collect and share data, and sometimes even act on their own without human input.

For small businesses, IoT can boost efficiency, automate tasks, and provide valuable insights that improve decision-making. But along with those benefits come risks:

• Data breaches
• Privacy concerns
• Device sprawl (losing track of what’s connected)

If left unchecked, even a single insecure device can become the gateway for a cyberattack.

Steps to Manage IoT Security Risks for Small Businesses

1. Know What You’ve Got

• Walk through your workplace and list every smart device.
• Record model details and who uses it.

A proper inventory gives you control during updates or when responding to incidents.

2. Change Default Passwords Immediately

• Set unique, strong passwords for each device.
• Store them securely in a password manager.

This simple step shuts down one of the easiest entry points for hackers.

3. Segment Your Network

• Create separate Wi-Fi networks or VLANs for IoT gear.
• Prevent IoT devices from accessing sensitive servers.
• Use guest networks when possible.

Segmentation reduces risk and simplifies monitoring.

4. Keep Firmware and Software Updated

• Check for updates monthly.
• Automate updates where possible.
• Replace devices no longer supported.

Updates patch vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.

5. Monitor Traffic and Logs

• Use monitoring tools to check activity.
• Set alerts for unusual behaviour.
• Review logs regularly.

Consistent oversight is often enough to catch issues early.