Cyber Frameworks for Small Business Risk Management

Why should small businesses consider cybersecurity frameworks?

For many small business owners, cybersecurity can feel overwhelming. Limited resources, evolving threats, and constant compliance demands make it difficult to know where to start. That’s where cybersecurity frameworks come in. Frameworks such as the CIS Controls or the NIST Cybersecurity Framework provide a roadmap for identifying risks, deploying defenses, and building resilience against today’s attacks.

As we highlighted in How Much Should You Spend on Cybersecurity in 2026?, the reality is that most small businesses aren’t investing enough in security. Frameworks help you stretch limited budgets by focusing on the most critical areas first.

What is a cybersecurity framework?

A cybersecurity framework is a structured set of best practices and standards designed to guide organizations in managing cyber risk. Think of it as a blueprint for building and maturing your security posture.

The CIS Controls, for example, outline 18 prioritized safeguards, ranging from asset management and access control to continuous monitoring. For small businesses, these frameworks break down complex cybersecurity concepts into practical, actionable steps.

Former IBM CEO Ginni Rometty once said:

“Cybercrime is the greatest threat to every company in the world.”

A framework doesn’t eliminate risk, but it provides a structure to systematically reduce it.

How do frameworks help with risk analysis?

Cyber frameworks shine in helping businesses identify and prioritize risks. By mapping assets, systems, and users, you can see where your vulnerabilities lie. That visibility turns unknown risks into measurable ones and gives leadership a clear picture of where to focus attention.

For instance, in The Hidden Risks of Ignoring Firmware Updates, we discussed how overlooked systems can be a silent gateway for attackers. A framework ensures those blind spots are part of your risk analysis.

How do frameworks guide risk mitigation?

Once risks are identified, frameworks guide the deployment of controls that directly mitigate them. Multi-factor authentication, patching, and backup strategies are all common safeguards found in frameworks like CIS and NIST.

Even basic implementation can make a major difference. Studies show that adopting the first five CIS Controls can stop the majority of known cyber threats. This aligns closely with what we explored in Why EDR Is Essential for Cybersecurity in 2025 – layering defenses is the key to reducing exposure.

How do frameworks support long-term resilience?

Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time project. Frameworks include a continuous improvement cycle: reassess, measure, and adjust. This allows small businesses to evolve from a reactive stance to a proactive one.

Resilience is built by planning for what’s next, not just fixing what’s broken. Frameworks embed that mindset into your operations.

Frameworks as a foundation

For small businesses, cybersecurity frameworks are more than checklists. They are a foundation for understanding risks, prioritizing defenses, and creating a culture of resilience. By adopting a framework, you move from scattered IT fixes to a structured, proactive approach to security.

Ready to align your business with the right framework? Contact Go West IT for a free consultation. Our experts can help assess your environment and build a path to stronger cyber maturity.

FAQ: Cybersecurity Frameworks

1. What is the CIS framework?

A set of 18 prioritized safeguards that guide organizations in reducing the most common cyber risks.

2. How is CIS different from NIST?

CIS is highly actionable and prescriptive, while NIST provides a broader risk management framework.

3. Do small businesses really need a framework?

Yes,  frameworks scale to size, making them accessible and impactful for small firms.

4. Can frameworks replace security tools?

No. They guide the use of tools but don’t replace technology like firewalls or EDR.

5. How often should frameworks be reviewed?

At least annually, or whenever your business undergoes major changes like new systems or compliance requirements.

Software Patching Strategy for 2025: More Than Just Updates

What is software patching?

Software patching is the process of applying updates to applications, operating systems, and firmware in order to fix security vulnerabilities, improve stability, and enhance performance. Think of it as preventive maintenance for your digital infrastructure. Just as you wouldn’t leave a broken lock on your office door, leaving software unpatched creates an open invitation for attackers.

Why is patching so critical for businesses in 2025?

In today’s threat landscape, patching has evolved from a simple IT task to a cornerstone of cybersecurity strategy. Attackers increasingly exploit vulnerabilities within days of disclosure. For small and mid-sized businesses, even one missed patch can lead to ransomware, data theft, or downtime that cripples operations.

The risks are real. As we noted in The Business Cost of Downtime: Planning for IT Resilience, the financial and reputational fallout of disruption far outweighs the effort of proactive patching.

What does a modern patching strategy include?

1. Prioritization based on risk

Not all patches are equal. Some fix minor bugs, while others close vulnerabilities already being weaponized. Businesses must prioritize updates by severity and potential impact. This is similar to the principles we discussed in The Hidden Risks of Ignoring Firmware Updates – overlooking “minor” updates can have major consequences.

2. Automation with oversight

Automated patch management tools reduce human error and keep systems current. But automation alone isn’t enough. Oversight through dashboards, reporting, and compliance checks ensures that critical updates don’t slip through the cracks.

3. Testing before deployment

While speed is important, so is stability. Smart businesses test updates in controlled environments before rolling them out across the organization to avoid interruptions to critical workflows.

4. Continuous monitoring and reporting

As Peter Drucker famously said:

“You can’t manage what you don’t measure.”

Monitoring patch compliance gives leaders visibility into where risks still exist. Reports highlight unpatched systems, helping businesses address gaps before they’re exploited.

5. Integration with resilience planning

Patching shouldn’t happen in isolation. When tied into business continuity plans and other safeguards like those we explored in Business Continuity & Backup in the Ransomware Era – – patching becomes part of a layered defense that helps organizations stay operational even when threats emerge.

What happens when patching is ignored?

History has shown that many major breaches trace back to unpatched systems. Delaying updates can expose businesses to avoidable risks, forcing them into reactive recovery mode, a far more expensive and disruptive approach.

From updates to strategy

Patching is no longer just about updates – it’s about strategy. A thoughtful approach to prioritization, automation, monitoring, and integration creates a security posture that is resilient, proactive, and aligned with broader business goals.

If you’re ready to move from patching as a checklist to patching as a strategy, contact Go West IT for a free consultation. Our experts can help you assess your current approach and build a roadmap for stronger cybersecurity in 2025 and beyond.

FAQ: Software Patching Strategy

1. What is software patching?

It’s the process of applying updates to fix security issues, bugs, and performance problems in software and systems.

2. Why is patching so important?

Unpatched systems are one of the easiest ways for attackers to get in. A single missed update can lead to a breach.

3. How often should businesses patch?

Critical patches should be applied as soon as possible. Routine updates are often done monthly or quarterly.

4. Does patching stop all cyber threats?

No. Patching prevents known vulnerabilities, but it works best alongside other defenses like firewalls, EDR, and phishing protection.

5. Who should handle patching?

It can be done by in-house IT teams or outsourced to a managed IT provider, as long as there’s a clear process and oversight.

Why Small Businesses Need the CIS Cybersecurity Framework

What is a cybersecurity framework, and why should small businesses care?

In today’s digital landscape, where cyber threats evolve faster than ever, small businesses are increasingly becoming prime targets for attacks. From ransomware to data breaches, the risks are real and can devastate operations, finances, and reputations.

Go West IT has seen firsthand how adopting a structured approach can make all the difference. One powerful tool in this arsenal is a cybersecurity framework, such as the Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls.

What is a cybersecurity framework?

A cybersecurity framework is essentially a structured set of guidelines, best practices, and standards designed to help organizations manage and reduce cyber risks. Think of it as a roadmap for building a resilient security posture.

Popular frameworks include the CIS Controls, NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), and ISO 27001. While they differ in approach, they share the common goal of reducing risk and strengthening defenses.

For small businesses, frameworks like CIS are particularly appealing because they’re practical and actionable. The CIS Controls, for instance, consist of 18 prioritized safeguards ranging from basic hygiene (asset inventory, secure email) to advanced measures (penetration testing).

Unlike overwhelming regulations, frameworks provide flexibility, allowing you to start small and scale as your business grows.

Related reading: How Much Should You Spend on Cybersecurity in 2026?

How do frameworks help assess risks, controls, and improvements?

1. Assessing risks: shining a light on hidden threats

Frameworks help you conduct a thorough risk assessment by mapping out weaknesses in your IT environment. CIS starts with foundational controls like knowing what’s on your network (hardware, software, and data). Without this, you’re flying blind.

By aligning with a framework, you can quantify risks using tools like scoring systems or risk matrices. This reveals real-world gaps like unpatched software or weak access controls that account for many breaches.

Related reading: The Hidden Risks of Ignoring Firmware Updates

2. Implementing controls: building defenses that work

Once risks are identified, frameworks guide you in deploying controls to mitigate them. CIS categorizes controls into Implementation Groups (IGs), starting with IG1 for essential protections that even resource-strapped businesses can adopt quickly (MFA, backups, etc.).

Studies show that implementing just the first five CIS Controls can block up to 85% of known threats.

3. Driving continuous improvement: elevating cyber maturity

Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time project but an ongoing journey. Frameworks provide benchmarks to measure progress and identify areas for growth, such as employee training or integrating threat intelligence.

This shift from reactive to proactive helps reduce downtime, manage compliance, and improve overall resilience.

How Go West IT supports framework alignment

At Go West IT, we specialize in helping small businesses navigate frameworks like CIS and NIST with ease. Our experts assess alignment, identify gaps, and implement solutions tailored to your needs.

We’ve even developed tools that instantly assess your Microsoft 365 environment against common frameworks—pinpointing misconfigurations and providing automated recommendations.

This combination of technology and managed services saves time, reduces risk, and makes security alignment scalable for growing businesses.

Cybersecurity frameworks as a path to resilience

Adopting a cybersecurity framework like CIS isn’t just smart – it’s essential. By providing a roadmap to assess risks, strengthen controls, and track progress, frameworks transform cybersecurity from a daunting task into a manageable process.

If this resonates with you, or if you have questions about getting started, contact Go West IT today. Our experts are here to guide you through framework assessments, Microsoft 365 alignments, and beyond. Let’s secure your business together – email us at info@gowestit.com for a free consultation.

FAQ

What is the CIS framework?

The CIS Controls are 18 prioritized safeguards designed to help businesses reduce risk from the most common cyber threats.

How is CIS different from NIST?

CIS focuses on actionable, prioritized controls, while NIST provides a broader risk management framework. Many small businesses prefer CIS for its practicality.

Do small businesses really need a framework?

Yes. With 43% of cyberattacks targeting small businesses, frameworks provide a structured, scalable way to improve defenses and reduce vulnerabilities.

How Much Should You Spend on Cybersecurity in 2026?

For most businesses, the honest answer is: more than you are right now.

In an era where cyberattacks are increasing in both sophistication and frequency, allocating a strong IT and cybersecurity budget isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

If 2026 is the year you plan to get serious about securing your business, this is the time to set aside budget, define priorities, and create clear goals for IT investments.

Why Many Businesses Underfund Cybersecurity

Studies show that very few businesses are spending enough on cybersecurity to protect themselves against modern threats. While general IT maintenance often gets budgeted, proactive security measures — like advanced threat detection, phishing prevention, and policy enforcement — are frequently overlooked.

The result? Many organizations remain vulnerable to attacks that could have been prevented with better planning and investment.

Setting Priorities for Your 2026 IT Budget

When mapping out your IT spending for next year, focus on initiatives that deliver measurable improvements to your security posture. Some top priorities to consider include:

1. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Modern EDR tools continuously monitor devices for suspicious activity and respond in real time to contain threats — a must-have for defending against ransomware and zero-day attacks.

2. Hardening Your DMARC Policy

A strong DMARC policy helps prevent email spoofing, a common gateway for phishing attacks. Tightening these controls protects your brand’s reputation and reduces inbound threats.

3. Phishing Awareness and Training

Employees remain your most targeted attack vector. Simulated phishing campaigns and ongoing awareness training can dramatically reduce risky clicks and improve reporting rates.

4. Strong Password and Access Policies

Standalone passwords aren’t enough anymore. Adopting modern guidelines—like those outlined in our recent post on [New NIST Password Rules for Businesses]—can ensure you’re following best practices for usability and security. These include favoring long passphrases over complex combinations, limiting password reuse, and avoiding frequent forced resets 

5. Framework Alignment with a Trusted Provider

If you’re unsure where to start, consider working with a managed IT and cybersecurity provider to align with established frameworks like CIS Controls. This gives your business a clear roadmap for improving security across all systems.

Making IT Budgeting an Ongoing Process

Budgeting for IT security shouldn’t be a once-a-year scramble — it should be an ongoing strategic conversation.

Set quarterly check-ins to track progress toward your goals, reallocate funds if needed, and adapt to emerging threats.

Want to learn more about how to prioritize your IT investments? Explore our Managed Services Page for details on how we help businesses secure their operations.

FAQs: Budgeting for IT in 2026

How much should a small business spend on IT and cybersecurity?

While needs vary, many experts recommend dedicating 5–10% of your total revenue to IT, with a significant portion focused on security.

What’s the difference between IT budgeting and cybersecurity budgeting?

IT budgeting covers all technology expenses — hardware, software, cloud services, and support. Cybersecurity budgeting focuses specifically on tools, training, and processes that protect against threats.

Why is endpoint detection so important?

Endpoints (laptops, desktops, mobile devices) are the most common entry points for attackers. EDR tools detect suspicious behavior and respond quickly to stop breaches before they spread.

Is phishing training really worth the investment?

Yes — phishing is still the #1 cause of breaches. Training employees to recognize and report suspicious emails is one of the highest ROI cybersecurity investments.

What is CIS framework alignment?

The CIS Controls are a set of best practices for securing IT systems and data. Aligning with them ensures you’re following proven steps to protect against the most common threats.

Multi-Cloud Identity Management Simplified

How can businesses simplify identity management across multiple cloud platforms?

Navigating identity management across multiple cloud platforms and SaaS applications can be complex, but a centralized approach with a robust identity provider like Microsoft Entra ID simplifies the process, enhances security, and drives efficiency.

Simplify with a Single Identity Provider

By choosing a single identity provider, businesses can implement strong, consistent security controls and use them as the foundation for accessing cloud services and SaaS platforms. A major benefit is single sign-on (SSO), enabling employees to authenticate once and seamlessly access authorized applications, improving user experience and reducing security risks from password overload. Equally important is the ability to leverage what we refer to as “single shut-off,” which streamlines user offboarding. With a centralized provider, access to all connected platforms can be granted (single sign-on) or revoked (single shut-off) in one step, ensuring no dormant accounts linger in critical SaaS apps, minimizing security vulnerabilities.

Strengthen Access Controls with Intune and SASE

Leveraging an identity provider, combined with other tools like device management (Intune) and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), also enables conditional access controls to take identity and access controls a step further. With Microsoft Entra ID, businesses can enforce granular policies to control access not only to Microsoft 365 but also to third-party SaaS applications. These policies can restrict access based on specific users, locations (like a SASE cloud gateway IP), or even devices (i.e., Intune enrolled and compliant devices). For example, you can ensure that only employees using company-managed devices in approved locations, or traffic from a specific IP address, can access sensitive applications, adding a layer of security that adapts to context. This is especially valuable in a multi-cloud environment with remote workforces where data is accessed from diverse platforms and locations.

Automate Identity Provisioning and Offboarding

Automation is another game-changer. Microsoft Entra ID allows businesses to automate identity provisioning, instantly granting access to specific SaaS apps or cloud platforms based on roles. Offboarding automation ensures swift access revocation, reducing errors and saving time.

Simplify Auditing and Maintain Compliance

Centralized identity management also simplifies auditing. Tracking access across platforms becomes easier, ensuring compliance and preventing unauthorized access from former employees.

A Strategic Foundation for the Modern Cloud

In today’s multi-cloud landscape, leveraging a single identity provider like Microsoft Entra ID, enhanced by conditional access, delivers a powerful solution. It streamlines access management, strengthens security through SSO, single shut-off, and context-aware controls, and boosts efficiency with automation. By centralizing identity management, businesses can stay secure, compliant, and agile, ready to thrive in a dynamic digital environment.

Ready to streamline identity management in your organization?

Whether you’re dealing with disconnected platforms, inconsistent security, or time-consuming user provisioning, we can help.

Get in touch with our team today to assess your identity strategy and explore how Microsoft Entra ID can work for your cloud environment.

FAQs: What Else Should You Know About Multi-Cloud Identity Management?

What is Microsoft Entra ID?

It’s a cloud-based identity and access management solution (formerly Azure Active Directory) that simplifies user authentication and access across cloud and SaaS platforms.

What is single sign-on (SSO) and how does it help?

SSO allows users to authenticate once and access multiple systems without needing to log in repeatedly. This improves the user experience and reduces risk from password fatigue.

What is “single shut-off” and why is it important?

It’s the ability to revoke access across all connected platforms in one step — essential for secure and efficient employee offboarding.

Can conditional access help prevent security breaches?

Yes. Conditional access policies adapt based on user roles, device compliance, location, and more — providing granular control that significantly improves security.

Is this only relevant for large enterprises?

Not at all. Small and mid-sized businesses with growing cloud footprints benefit just as much from centralized identity, especially when managing remote or hybrid teams.

Business Continuity & Backup in the Ransomware Era

What Is the Best Way to Protect My Business from Ransomware Disasters?

Ransomware attacks don’t just encrypt your files—they can exploit gaps in your backup and sync processes, bringing operations to a halt. Modern continuity planning demands more than on-premises snapshots: it requires layered defenses, cloud-native backups, and real-time monitoring.

Embrace a “Defense-and-Recovery” Mindset

• Prevent: Deploy a SASE framework to enforce Zero Trust access, inspect traffic for threats, and reduce your attack surface—wherever your people work.

• Detect & Respond: Leverage Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) and 24/7 monitoring to catch intrusions in minutes, not days.

• Recover: Use a purpose-built Microsoft 365 backup solution that retains point-in-time copies of SharePoint, OneDrive, Exchange, and Teams—isolated from synchronization loops.

Why Backup Alone Isn’t Enough

• Sync-Deletion Risks: Local file-syncing can propagate accidental—or malicious—deletions across your entire tenant.

• Ransomware Encryption: Some strains corrupt backups stored on shared drives or network-attached storage.

• Immutable, Isolated Copies: Your backup system must store versions in a separate service or “vault” that ransomware cannot reach.

Case Study: Saved by Microsoft 365 Backup

Scenario: An employee tidied up their desktop—and unknowingly deleted a synced SharePoint folder. The sync driver purged the cloud copy within seconds.

Detection: A colleague spotted missing project files and alerted IT.

Recovery: Go West IT’s managed backup tool restored the entire folder to its state 10 minutes earlier—no data loss, no disruption.

Lesson: Immutable, point-in-time backups for Microsoft 365 are a business-saving necessity.

Building Your Continuity Plan

1. Risk Assessment: Identify critical data sources (e.g., SharePoint libraries, SQL databases).

2. Layered Protections: Combine SASE, EDR, email security, and network segmentation.

3. Backup Policies: Schedule at least hourly snapshots for high-value data—daily for less critical assets.

4. Fallback Testing: Quarterly restore drills to validate recovery steps under real-world conditions.

5. Runbooks & Playbooks: Document decision trees for incident response, communication, and escalation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I test my backups?

A: No less frequently than annually.  Critical systems should be tested more frequently.

Q: Can ransomware encrypt my cloud backups?

A: It depends.  If the backup solution is share-mounted, if backup credentials are compromised, if systems with access to backups are compromised, or if backup vendors are compromised, cloud backups could be encrypted; choose an immutable, service-isolated backup.

Q: What role does SASE play in continuity?

A: By inspecting and securing traffic at the edge, SASE prevents many ransomware payloads from ever reaching your network.

For a broader framework on how these terms fit into an overall security program, see the NIST Cybersecurity Framework: https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework

Ready to Future-Proof Your Business?

Don’t wait for the next outage—or the next ransom note. Partner with Go West IT for a continuity strategy that combines cutting-edge SASE security with enterprise-grade Microsoft 365 backups.

Contact us today to build your resilient IT roadmap.

Additional Questions You Might Be Asking

• What’s the difference between business continuity and disaster recovery?

• How do immutable backups work in practice?

• Which SASE vendors integrate best with my existing firewalls?

• How can I train my team to avoid sync-deletion mistakes?

Feel free to reach out—our experts are here to help you answer these and more.

The Hidden Risks of Ignoring Firmware Updates

Why Proactive Maintenance Matters for Network Hardware and Server Security

When it comes to cybersecurity, most businesses focus on software patching, antivirus protection, or endpoint detection—and for good reason. But there’s one often-overlooked area that can quietly leave your network exposed: firmware updates for your firewalls and servers.

In the managed IT world, ignoring firmware updates is like locking your front door while leaving the back wide open. These updates often address critical vulnerabilities that attackers actively exploit, and failing to apply them can give threat actors exactly what they’re looking for: an easy entry point into your network.

Why Firmware Updates Matter

Firmware is the base-level software embedded directly into your hardware devices—like firewalls, routers, and servers—that tells them how to function. These updates can:

• Patch newly discovered security vulnerabilities

• Improve performance and compatibility

• Add support for new features or configurations

• Prevent known exploits and bugs

But here’s the challenge: applying firmware updates isn’t always simple. Firmware updates frequently require a reboot and a pre-update backup is prudent if you need to revert to a known working state.  A botched update can take down a critical piece of infrastructure, making preparation, planning, and expertise essential.

Common Pitfalls of Neglecting Firmware Maintenance

Let’s look at some of the hidden risks of pushing firmware updates to the bottom of your IT to-do list:

• Unpatched Vulnerabilities: Hackers actively scan for outdated firmware on business networks, especially firewalls and edge devices.

• Downtime Risks: Incompatibilities between outdated firmware and updated software can lead to service disruptions.

• Compliance Gaps: For industries like finance and legal, outdated firmware can create audit or cyber insurance liabilities.

• Manual Headaches: Without a maintenance routine, updates become disruptive instead of proactive—leading to missed updates or risky ad hoc fixes.

Why You Need a Strategy, Not Just a To-Do List

At Go West IT, we help clients move from reactive to proactive. That means working with you to develop pre-approved, scheduled maintenance routines that handle firmware updates the right way—with planning, documentation, and fallbacks in place.

The struggle isn’t knowing firmware updates are important—it’s making time for them.

That’s why we schedule firmware patching in advance and have processes in place to apply urgent “out of band” patches for critical security vulnerabilities. 

For best practices and resiliency strategies, explore NIST’s official guidance on firmware protection: NIST SP 800-193.

Don’t DIY Your Network Security

Firmware updates may sound simple—but they’re anything but. One misstep can lead to downtime or a misconfigured device. That’s why it’s critical to have trained professionals handle this work. Our engineers ensure that every update is rolled out with care, and a pre-update backup is taken to preserve a path to revert to a known working state if the firmware update has unintended consequences. 

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Firmware updates aren’t just IT housekeeping. They’re a critical line of defense for your network and infrastructure. If your firewall or server firmware hasn’t been updated in months (or longer), now is the time to take action.

Let’s build a secure, automated strategy that doesn’t leave your business exposed.

Frequently Asked Questions: Firmware Updates & Network Security

Why are firmware updates important for business cybersecurity?

Firmware updates address critical vulnerabilities in hardware like firewalls, routers, and servers. Without them, your network can be left exposed to known exploits that cybercriminals actively search for.

What happens if firmware updates are ignored?

Neglecting firmware updates can lead to security gaps, unexpected system outages, and even compliance issues. Outdated firmware is a known attack vector and can create serious liabilities for businesses.

How often should firmware be updated?

Ideally, firmware should be reviewed and updated on a quarterly basis, or sooner if a high-priority security patch is released. Regularly scheduled updates help avoid last-minute scrambles and reduce risk.

Can firmware updates cause downtime?

Yes, if not handled properly. Improperly executed updates can disrupt critical infrastructure. That’s why updates should be planned, tested, and deployed by trained professionals with backup and recovery options in place.

What’s the difference between software and firmware updates?

Software updates apply to operating systems and applications. Firmware updates apply to the embedded code in hardware devices, controlling how they operate. Both are essential, but firmware often goes overlooked.

Do outdated firmware versions affect compliance or cyber insurance coverage?

Yes. In industries like finance, healthcare, or legal services, outdated firmware can lead to compliance violations or cyber insurance exclusions. Regular updates support audit readiness and risk management.

How can businesses automate firmware updates safely?

The most effective approach is to create a structured update routine with a trusted IT partner. At Go West IT, firmware updates are staged, tested, and scheduled during approved maintenance windows—ensuring stability and security.

Where can I find official guidance on firmware protection?

Refer to the NIST SP 800-193 guidelines for comprehensive strategies on firmware and platform integrity protection.

The Business Cost of Downtime: Planning for IT Resilience

What is the business cost of IT downtime? How do IT outages affect financial firms? What is a resilience-first IT approach?

These are all common questions we are asked here at Go West It. So, what is the true cost of IT downtime to a business? For financial firms, accounting professionals, and attorney practices, it’s more than just lost hours—it’s lost trust, delayed transactions, regulatory risk, and potential damage to reputation. When client data becomes inaccessible or communications go dark, even briefly, the impact can echo far beyond the outage itself. That’s why a resilience-first IT approach isn’t just a smart strategy—it’s a critical business imperative. By planning for disruption before it happens, firms can protect operations, preserve client confidence, and stay focused on growth instead of damage control.

IT Outages Don’t Just Interrupt—They Impact Everything

An IT outage isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a chain reaction. For financial firms, accounting professionals, and attorney practices, even a short disruption can bring operations to a standstill, strain client relationships, and trigger costly compliance concerns. When systems go dark, so does visibility, responsiveness, and credibility. In a space where trust and timing are everything, consistent uptime is not optional—it’s foundational.

That’s why forward-thinking firms are shifting their focus to IT resilience: a proactive strategy that ensures business continuity, protects data, and keeps services running even when technology falters.

Case Study: When Minutes Turned Into Thousands

Let us share a quick story to bring home the level of impact an IT outage can have on your business. Last quarter, a Denver-based wealth advisory firm experienced a full-day outage during peak client reporting season. A failed firmware update on their firewall triggered a cascade of failures. Their internal IT support couldn’t recover the systems fast enough, and client communications stalled.

The fallout?

• Delayed reporting for dozens of high-net-worth clients

• $33,000 in emergency IT response and client retention costs

• A reputational hit that affected three potential client deals

• Team morale and productivity took weeks to rebound

It wasn’t just the actual outage that impacted this organization—it was the recovery, the distraction, and the business opportunities lost.

What an Outage Actually Looks Like

Outages are more than a few moments of screen-free frustration. In a financial services environment, they can spiral quickly:

• Internal communication grinds to a halt—no email, no CRM, no internal chat

• Files become inaccessible—advisors can’t pull up needed documentation

• Phone systems fail—calls are missed or dropped

• Scramble mode kicks in—staff shift focus from core tasks to damage control

• Tension rises—leadership juggles vendors, legal concerns, and client reassurance

By the time systems are restored, the firm isn’t just catching up—it’s cleaning up.

QUOTE: When asked about best practices for staying protected from IT outages, David Lewien of Go West It commented, Essential planning focuses not only on how to resume services but how to manage communications internally and with clients when key systems are down.  Ask, how do we communicate internally or with clients if we don’t have access to email, Teams chat, or phones?  Planning for alternative communication paths, such a private messaging apps for internal communications and pre-planned methods to send client communications from hosted CRM systems or via websites, are common approaches.”

The Turnaround: Partnering with Go West IT

After the incident, the advisory firm brought in Go West IT as its managed services partner to assess and rebuild its IT strategy. Go West IT got to work and implemented a resilience-first approach designed to keep downtime from spiraling into disaster:

• Risk-based firmware update planning with approved maintenance windows

• Business continuity and disaster recovery planning tailored to preserve communication options

• Layered cybersecurity controls to minimize single points of failure

• 24/7 monitoring to catch early signs of failure

• Cloud-based backups for critical data availability

• Quarterly system health checks and testing routines

Today, their team runs confidently knowing they’re supported by proactive infrastructure and a partner that’s always thinking ahead.

Downtime Costs More Than You Think

A momentary outage can ripple into:

• Loss of trust from clients expecting real-time visibility and uptime

• Regulatory concerns if communications or financial data are delayed

• Operational disruption as teams scramble to recover and regroup

• Business development setbacks occur when attention is pulled away from growth

IT Resilience Isn’t Luck—It’s a Plan

IT security should always be in a proactive mode to reduce the need to be reactive. Here’s how financial firms, accounting professionals, and attorney practices are preparing:

1. Mapping critical vulnerabilities across systems and workflows

2. Building redundancy and cloud-based failovers

3. Automating maintenance, especially for firmware and patching

4. Defining downtime protocols so no one scrambles in a crisis

5. Partnering with experts like Go West IT to monitor and guide the entire strategy

Don’t Wait for the Next Outage

Downtime is inevitable. Disruption doesn’t have to be. Go West IT gives financial firms, accountants, and lawyers, along with other businesses, the foundation to bounce back and bounce forward. Because real resilience is proactive, not reactive.

Talk to us today and future-proof your firm.

Why EDR Is Essential for Cybersecurity in 2025

In the past, installing antivirus software may have felt like a solid cybersecurity strategy. It scanned files, blocked known threats, and reassured business leaders they were protected. But in today’s threat landscape, that’s simply not enough.

Enter EDR: Endpoint Detection and Response.

While antivirus is designed to prevent attacks, EDR is built to detect and respond when prevention fails. And make no mistake—threat actors will eventually get in. The real question is: how fast can you detect the intrusion and shut it down?

Why EDR Is No Longer Optional

In 2025, attackers move fast. According to the CrowdStrike Global Threat Report, the average eCrime breakout time dropped to just 48 minutes, with some intrusions moving even faster. If you don’t have real-time detection and response in place, your organization could suffer significant damage before you even realize there’s a problem.

EDR enables your business to:

• Identify unusual or unauthorized activity on endpoints in real-time

• Automate immediate containment and isolation of threats

• Provide forensic data for root cause analysis

• Support remote/hybrid environments with decentralized device protection

• Reduce ransomware dwell time and stop lateral movement across your network

It’s no longer a “nice to have.” It’s an operational requirement—especially if your business isn’t confined to a physical office space.

Beyond Antivirus: Why EDR Complements Prevention

Traditional antivirus tools focus on signature-based detection, meaning they’re limited to known threats. EDR, however, uses behavioral analysis, threat intelligence, and machine learning to identify malicious activity even when it doesn’t match known malware.

This makes EDR especially effective at catching fileless attacks, hands-on-keyboard intrusions, and zero-day exploits—which are on the rise.

“Antivirus protects against the known. EDR protects against the unknown—and helps you recover when the inevitable breach occurs.”

Learn more about our Advanced Endpoint services.

A Must for Hybrid Work and Remote Teams

Remote and hybrid work has removed the safety net of corporate firewalls. Employees are now accessing sensitive data from home offices, airports, and cafés.

EDR ensures that security doesn’t stop at the perimeter. With device-level visibility and response capabilities, you can extend protection to wherever your people work.

The Go West IT Advantage

As a CrowdStrike Certified Partner, Go West IT deploys industry-leading EDR solutions backed by 24/7 monitoring, real-time alerting, and expert support. We align EDR with your broader cybersecurity posture—whether you’re a financial institution, law firm, or growing business managing sensitive data.

Want to know if EDR is right for your environment?

Talk to an expert at Go West IT today.

New NIST Password Rules for Businesses

The Shift in Password Policy Thinking

Historically, password guidance encouraged frequent password changes, strict complexity rules, and user responsibility for remembering strong combinations. However, this approach often led to weaker security. People reused passwords, wrote them down, or made only minor changes—actions that left systems vulnerable.

NIST’s updated Digital Identity Guidelines (SP 800-63) flip the script. The focus is now on longer passphrases, limiting password reuse, and eliminating frequent reset policies unless a breach is suspected. This change is rooted in real-world data on how users behave and how attackers exploit predictable password habits.

Why This Guidance Matters Now

As cyberattacks grow more sophisticated and identity-based breaches become more common, password hygiene is no longer a “set it and forget it” exercise. Poor password practices can expose your organization to serious risk—especially if users recycle passwords or fall victim to phishing.

This real-world example shows how a single compromised account during tax season led to a serious breach—and how Go West IT helped the firm recover through improved email security, identity management, and employee training.

Key Takeaways from the NIST Guidelines

  1. Eliminate routine password expiration

Forced resets often lead to simple, guessable variations (like Fall2024! → Winter2024!). Instead, passwords should only change when there’s a known compromise.

  • Use longer passwords or passphrases

A string of memorable words is more secure and easier to remember than a short, complex mix of characters. Think “CoffeeTableSunset” instead of “P@ssw0rd1!”

  • Block known breached passwords

Systems should check new passwords against a list of previously exposed ones. This is especially important for enterprise accounts.

  • Support password managers and MFA

Encourage tools that help users manage unique passwords and add multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added protection.

How Go West IT Helps You Stay Aligned

As part of our identity and access management services, Go West IT aligns your password and user policies with current best practices—whether you’re operating on Microsoft 365, managing remote employees, or scaling your systems.

We’ll help you:

• Configure strong authentication requirements

• Integrate password screening tools

• Implement MFA across key systems

• Reduce risk exposure due to weak or compromised credentials

Looking Ahead: A Simpler, Stronger Approach to Security

Password fatigue is real, and so is the risk of ignoring modern password hygiene. NIST’s guidance is a smart reset, giving businesses a clear path to user-friendly, effective security. Want to evaluate your current password policy? Let’s talk and see how we can help strengthen your identity management and close critical gaps.