CSNP Small Business Security Checklist

A comprehensive security checklist for small businesses | Generated from csnp.org

Critical: Implement immediately

High: Within 30 days

Medium: Within 90 days

Security Checklist

Small Business Security Checklist

A comprehensive security checklist designed specifically for small businesses with limited IT resources. This checklist helps you identify and address the most critical security controls to protect your business from cyber threats.

Security Controls

Priority Implementation Guide

Critical Priority

Implement immediately - highest risk if neglected

High Priority

Implement within 30 days

Medium Priority

Implement within 90 days

Access Control & Authentication Critical Priority

Enforce strong password policy (min 12 characters, complex)

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on all critical accounts

Create unique user accounts (no shared credentials)

Implement role-based access control

Regular access reviews (quarterly)

Disable accounts immediately when employees leave

Data Protection Critical Priority

Encrypt sensitive data at rest

Encrypt data in transit (SSL/TLS)

Regular data backups (daily/weekly)

Test backup restoration process quarterly

Secure disposal of old hardware and data

Data classification and handling procedures

Network Security High Priority

Configure firewall with appropriate rules

Separate guest WiFi from business network

Use WPA3 encryption for wireless networks

Regular security updates for routers/switches

VPN for remote access

Network segmentation for sensitive systems

Endpoint Security High Priority

Install antivirus on all devices

Enable automatic OS updates

Regular software patching schedule

Disk encryption on laptops

Mobile device management (MDM) for company phones

USB port restrictions or monitoring

Email & Communication Security High Priority

Email filtering and anti-spam configured

SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records configured

Email encryption for sensitive communications

Phishing awareness training for all staff

Secure file sharing solution (no email attachments)

Email retention and archiving policy

Physical Security Medium Priority

Lock server rooms and network closets

Visitor access control and logging

Clean desk policy

Secure disposal bins for sensitive documents

Security cameras in critical areas

Cable locks for desktop computers

Incident Response & Recovery Critical Priority

Written incident response plan

Incident response team identified

Emergency contact list maintained

Cyber insurance policy in place

Regular incident response drills

Documented recovery procedures

Compliance & Governance Medium Priority

Written security policies and procedures

Data processing agreements with vendors

Regular security awareness training

Annual security assessment or audit

Vendor & Third-Party Management Medium Priority

Vendor security assessment process

SLAs include security requirements

Regular review of vendor access

Incident notification requirements in contracts

List of all third-party integrations

API security and access controls

Implementation Tips

Getting Started

Focus on Critical priority items first
Document your progress and decisions
Involve key stakeholders in the process
Set realistic timelines for implementation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Trying to implement everything at once
Skipping employee training
Not testing backup restoration
Ignoring physical security

Budget Planning Guide

Free/Low Cost

• Strong passwords
• Software updates
• Basic firewall
• Access controls

Moderate Cost ($100-500/mo)

• Business antivirus
• Password manager
• Cloud backup
• Email security

Higher Investment ($500+/mo)

• Managed firewall
• SIEM solution
• Cyber insurance
• Security consulting

Ready to Secure Your Business?

Use this checklist as your roadmap to better security. Need help implementing these controls? Our team can provide guidance tailored to your specific business needs.

Take CyberScore Assessment Get Expert Help

Stay Updated

Subscribe to our newsletter for cybersecurity news and updates

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.