A proactive security strategy is essential for reducing the number of cyberattacks and breaches an organization experiences. This approach involves anticipating potential security threats and implementing measures to prevent them before they occur. According to research conducted by The Economist Intelligence Unit, organizations that adopt a proactive security strategy, supported by a fully engaged C-suite and board of directors, experience 53% fewer cyberattacks and breaches compared to those that do not. This strategy includes active monitoring of external threats and mobilizing the entire workforce to defend against attacks, combining the latest security technology with new business processes.

References: = The Economist Intelligence Unit report on data security, which provides insights into how a proactive security strategy can significantly reduce cyber risks1.

Cisco Umbrella is a crucial component of the Secure SMB experience, particularly in enabling people within an organization to work safely, regardless of their location. Umbrella provides a cloud-delivered security service that protects users from malicious internet destinations whether they are on or off the network. It operates by enforcing security at the DNS layer, which is the first step in internet connectivity. Umbrella's strength lies in its ability to block requests to malicious destinations before a connection is even established, offering proactive security that is both effective and easy to deploy. For SMBs, this means enhanced protection against threats like malware, phishing, and ransomware without the complexity of traditional security solutions. By securing internet access across all devices and locations, Umbrella plays a pivotal role in enabling secure and efficient remote work, making it an essential product for the Secure SMB experience.

References: Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Networking Cloud is an integrated platform designed to provide connectivity to and between applications and workloads across various environments, including clouds, cloud services, on-premises data centers, and edge networks. It is crucial for the performance, security, and efficient management of hybrid cloud and multicloud environments. This platform facilitates the simplification of lifecycle management, assures user-experience, reduces time to market for service rollout, lowers operational costs, and minimizes risk for applications and data.

References: = You can find more details about Cisco Networking Cloud and its benefits on Cisco’s official page on cloud networking1.

The primary purpose of Umbrella’s Secure Web Gateway (SWG) is to provide a comprehensive security solution that logs and inspects web traffic. This allows for full visibility into the web activities within an organization, enabling URL and application controls, and offering advanced threat protection against malware. SWG acts as a checkpoint between users and the internet, filtering and monitoring web traffic to ensure safe internet access while blocking potentially harmful content. It is designed to enforce security policies, prevent data leakage, and protect against web-based threats by inspecting URLs, detecting threats, and decrypting select encrypted traffic for inspection.

References:

•Cisco Umbrella’s explanation of Secure Web Gateway1.

•Blog post detailing the functionality and necessity of a Secure Web Gateway in a security stack2.

•Description of the Cisco Umbrella Secure Web Gateway’s full proxy capabilities3.

•Overview of Cisco Umbrella secure web gateway functionality4.

•Information on how Umbrella’s SWG logs and inspects web traffic5. =========================

Meraki offers a key feature for managing hybrid workforces by providing APIs that allow developers to save time through the platform’s implementation. This feature is crucial for hybrid work environments where seamless integration and automation are necessary. The APIs enable rapid development and deployment of custom solutions that can enhance productivity and ensure consistent access to networks and data, regardless of the employee’s location. This aligns with the need for a flexible and adaptable network infrastructure that supports a distributed workforce, which is a hallmark of the hybrid work model12. References :=

•Hybrid Workforce | The New Hybrid Workplace | Cisco Meraki1.

•Hybrid Workforce, United Experience - Cisco Meraki2. =========================

The Cisco Fire Jumper program is designed to provide knowledge about security resilience and how the Cisco Secure portfolio can assist customers in achieving it. This program educates and enables partners on Cisco’s security architecture, helping them to understand and sell Cisco security solutions effectively. It covers various aspects of security resilience, including threat defense, secure network access, and end-to-end protection, which are all crucial elements of the Cisco Secure portfolio.

References := Protect Your Business with Security Resilience - Cisco, What Is Security Resilience? - Cisco, Evaluate your Organisation’s Security Resilience in Minutes - Cisco, Investor Relations - Cisco Delivers Security Portfolio Simplification, Seeking security resilience? - pseudoco.cisco.com

Cisco is leveling the playing field between virtual and in-person workers by providing an inclusive collaboration suite. This suite includes technologies and tools that support work from anywhere, which is essential for a hybrid workforce. The suite enables employees to participate fully, regardless of their location, language preference, personality type, or familiarity with technology. By focusing on inclusivity and connectedness, Cisco ensures that all employees, whether remote or in-person, have equal opportunities to engage and contribute to their teams1. References := Cisco Global Hybrid Work Study 2022

Video surveillance technology is undergoing a transformation similar to that of business telephone systems. Just as business telephones have evolved from traditional landlines to VoIP and unified communications, video surveillance is shifting from standalone, analog systems to integrated, digital solutions. This transformation is driven by advancements in AI, cloud computing, and IoT, which are enabling more intelligent, connected, and versatile surveillance systems123. References := 123

https://www.ifsecglobal.com/advertorial/five-trends-in-video-surveillance-to-watch-in-2024/

The average use of 13 SaaS application categories by an SMB indicates a diverse range of software tools utilized in the business operations. This diversity can lead to more security vulnerabilities for several reasons:

1.Increased Attack Surface: Each SaaS application represents a potential entry point for security threats, so more applications mean a larger attack surface.

2.Complexity in Management: Managing security across multiple applications can be complex, increasing the chance of oversight or errors.

3.Integration Challenges: Integrating different SaaS applications can create security gaps, especially if they are not designed to work together seamlessly.

4.Varied Security Standards: Different SaaS providers may have different levels of security measures, and weaker security in one application can compromise the overall security posture.

Businesses must therefore be vigilant in implementing comprehensive security strategies that encompass all the SaaS applications they use.

References :=

•Average number of SaaS apps used worldwide 2022 | Statista

•50+ Essential SaaS Statistics You Need to Know in 2024 - Techopedia

•Saas Application Usage Maturing in Global SMB and Midmarket

•SMBs will want collaboration and line-of-business applications

Cisco's on-premises solutions, including their integrated services routers and security appliances, support the implementation of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which are crucial for creating a secure and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the internet. This becomes especially important for businesses adopting hybrid work models, where employees split their time between working on-site and remotely. The VPN solution allows remote workers to safely access the company's internal network, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected, even when accessed from outside the office. This hybrid experience is enabled by on-premises VPN solutions, as they provide the necessary infrastructure to support secure remote access.

References: Cisco Small Business Solutions

Cisco’s purpose is centered around creating a more inclusive future for all. This is reflected in their commitment to leveraging technology to address societal challenges, close the digital divide, and promote equality and social justice. Cisco actively works towards a sustainable and regenerative planet, emphasizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within and beyond the company. Their purpose goes beyond profit maximization or market dominance; it is about using their resources and influence to make a positive impact on society and the environment. References := Cisco’s Purpose

To be truly smart, SMBs need to optimize customer and employee experiences by providing an environment that meets modern expectations. This involves leveraging technology to create a seamless, efficient, and responsive experience for both customers and employees. A smart SMB utilizes integrated solutions that enhance collaboration, productivity, and security, enabling the business to adapt quickly to market changes and customer needs. By focusing on the user experience, SMBs can drive innovation and growth, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving business landscape1. References :=

•Cisco Smart Services for Small and Medium Business2.

•Investing in your success scaling SMB sales like never before1. =========================