Do you know why a secure web gateway is no friend to small businesses? But do you know what industries need this tool best? If not, then keep on scrolling below.
Why Secure Web Gateway Is No Friend to Small Businesses
A secure web gateway (SWG) is no friend to small businesses because of various reasons. Firstly, SWG is a kind of network appliance for performing various kinds of network security functions. It is also called a proxy server, which is used for filtering content and blocking access to various kinds of websites or services.
One of the main purposes of using SWGs is to block or filter unauthorized access to websites, content, or services. So how does this affect small businesses?
It is because SWGs are used by enterprises, governments, and educational institutions for blocking social media access (like Facebook and Twitter). As well as VoIP (for example, Skype) and other non-work-related applications. But small businesses cannot afford to do so, because their business depends on these applications.
Moreover, it also prevents employees from accessing websites that are harmful to their work – either. Because they are distracting or because they contain viruses/malware that can harm the business’ computers.
Other than that, SWGs can be expensive for small businesses. The cost may vary depending on the nature of your business, but still, it will be an additional expenditure for you. Moreover, you will need to invest in training and technical support as well.
Finally, you will have to block numerous websites. If you want to block certain websites at work, then you must use a proxy server or SWG software for controlling employee access to the internet. And when you do this, your employees will not be able to access many other sites that are generally harmless. But might be extremely helpful for them in their job.
A Secure Web Gateway Is a Friend to What?
What, then, are some of the industries that can benefit the most from SWG? Firstly, educational institutions use it to block sites like Facebook and other social networking websites. They need to do so because they want their students to focus on their work. And if they are busy chatting online, then it will be difficult for them to concentrate in class.
Secondly, many government offices also use SWGs for blocking sites like Facebook and Twitter. They do so because they don’t want their employees to waste time on social networking sites. And if they do so, then they will never be able to finish their work on time.
Finally, banks and financial institutions are more likely to use SWGs for blocking access to non-work-related websites and applications. Such as Skype, Facebook, and Twitter. Because allowing access to such sites can be risky for the company’s data, reputation, and security in general.
Conclusion
Overall, SWGs are an excellent way of controlling employee access to the internet at work. And if you run a small business, then you too can benefit from using this software or tool. But only if you know how best you can use it in your business.