As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, businesses must recognize that any networked device left unprotected, could serve as an entry point for a cybercriminal. This includes network printers, as today’s printers are really just computers that can print.
Unprotected network devices that are overlooked by security protocols can be exploited and used as a “back door” to infiltrate corporate networks, leading to potential data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
To safeguard against such vulnerabilities, businesses need to implement comprehensive security measures specifically tailored to protect their network printers. This involves not only enabling built-in security features but also regularly updating firmware, changing default passwords and employing additional protective strategies. By taking these proactive steps, companies can significantly reduce the risk of their network printers becoming gateways for cybercriminals.
RELATED: How to Conduct a Print Security Assessment
Gordon Flesch Company (GFC) is your partner for all things managed print – including print security concerns. That’s why we proactively deploy enterprise-level print security that protects you and your organization against cyber threats and other potentially harmful activities. We take this responsibility seriously and keep a vigilant eye on the practices of our manufacturer partners and customers alike to ensure that, as a team, we’re doing everything in our power to safeguard your systems.
Here’s the basics you’ll need to know, regarding network printer security:
For a comprehensive overview of printer security measures, explore our detailed guide on how to make your printers more secure.
Modern network printers come equipped with various security features designed to protect against unauthorized access. Here are a couple of the essential features to look for:
For a more in-depth look at what to consider when upgrading your printers, read our article that lists eight of the most important print security features that have benefited many of our customers.
To ensure your network printers are secure, every company should implement the following practical steps:
For more details, check out our comprehensive article on network printer security best practices.
Even if you have an internal IT Team, it's worth considering working with a Managed Print Services (MPS) provider to take the hassle of printer maintenance and repair off of your IT Team’s “to do” list. Let your IT Team focus on the projects that matter the most to your organization and leave printer management to the MPS experts.
MPS providers often offer options such as automatic, scheduled, or on-site firmware updates when setting up your printer. For example, at GFC, we even have a security checklist that we’ll go over with you to ensure that your new printer and printer management options are aligned with your organizational security procedures.
In addition, GFC print management customers have the option of enlisting the assistance of our Managed IT division, Elevity. Many of our small to medium-sized customers have leveraged this partnership for fully-managed IT services, including layered network security featuring vCIO services and 24/7 network security monitoring through a SIEM/SOC solution.
Once your print fleet is in place, maintaining ongoing printer security will be your goal. To accomplish this, we recommend that companies follow these best practices:
There are MPS providers – and then there’s Gordon Flesch Company. Our imageCARE+ Managed Print Services offers the options that you’ll need to effectively manage your print fleet for optimum productivity, including preventative maintenance & attentive service, predictable costs, print security measures and an annual review of your print fleet in relation to your organization’s needs and goals. We’re your partner for “all things print.” Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation business technology needs assessment.
