For years, having antivirus software installed on your company’s devices felt like enough. It was your digital seatbelt – a basic line of defence that stopped viruses in their tracks.
But things have changed. And fast.
Cyber criminals are more sophisticated than ever, using techniques that antivirus software alone simply can’t stop. In today’s world, relying on antivirus is a bit like locking your front door – but leaving the windows wide open.
So, what does effective, modern cyber security actually look like for a business today?
Let’s break it down.
Why traditional antivirus isn’t enough anymore
The antivirus software most people are familiar with works by scanning files and programs for known threats – things it’s seen before. If something matches its “danger list”, it blocks it.
That was fine when threats were predictable. But cyber threats now change by the hour, not the year. Attackers use new techniques, often custom-built, that slip past traditional defences.
Some common modern threats that antivirus alone won’t catch:
- Phishing emails that trick your staff into handing over passwords.
- Ransomware that encrypts your files and demands payment.
- Zero-day attacks – completely new threats no antivirus has seen before.
- Remote access tools misused by attackers to move around inside your systems undetected.
The reality? Most modern attacks don’t even need a virus file. They use your own tools, systems and people against you.
So what does modern cyber security look like?
Today’s cyber protection isn’t about a single tool or fix – it’s about layers. Like having multiple locks on the door, alarms on the windows, and someone watching the CCTV.
Here are the key layers that businesses need now:
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
EDR goes beyond antivirus. It watches what’s happening on devices in real time, looking for suspicious behaviour – not just known threats.
For example, if someone logs in at 2am from an unusual location and starts downloading files rapidly, EDR flags it and responds.
At Neuways, we use advanced EDR tools to protect our clients from these kinds of subtle, dangerous breaches.
24/7 Monitoring and Threat Response
Attackers don’t work 9–5, and neither do we.
Modern cyber security means always-on protection, with real people and smart tools watching for danger. This might include detecting unusual login patterns, unauthorised changes, or attempted access to sensitive files.
If something suspicious is found, action is taken immediately – before it turns into a disaster.
Talk to our team about our monitoring and threat response services.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Even strong passwords can be stolen. MFA adds a second layer – like a one-time code on your phone – that makes it far harder for attackers to log in, even if they have your password.
It’s simple, effective, and essential.
Neuways can help implement MFA across your entire business – with minimal disruption to your team.
Regular Staff Training
Technology alone won’t protect you. In fact, most cyber breaches start with a human mistake – clicking a dodgy link, opening an unsafe attachment, or trusting a fake email.
That’s why we offer cyber awareness training and phishing simulations to help your staff spot threats before they become problems.
Strong Backup and Recovery
Even with every layer in place, things can go wrong. That’s why having secure, up-to-date backups is non-negotiable.
But not all backups are created equal. A good one is:
- Offsite (not stored on the same network that could be infected)
- Able to restore data quickly
We help businesses create backup and disaster recovery plans that actually work when needed.
Patching and Updates
Software vulnerabilities are a favourite target for attackers. They look for outdated systems – old versions of software or forgotten apps – and use known flaws to break in.
Modern cyber security means staying up to date. That includes automatic patching, updates, and proactive management – all of which we handle for our clients.
But isn’t all this just for big companies?
Not at all. Small and medium-sized businesses are actually targeted more often than large ones – because attackers assume they have weaker defences.
We see it all the time. Businesses think, “We’re too small to be a target,” or “We’ve never had a problem before.”
But cyber criminals don’t discriminate. If you have money, data, or systems – you’re on their radar.
The good news? You don’t need an enterprise-sized budget to protect your business like one. You just need the right support.
Where to start?
If you’re still relying on antivirus and a firewall, it’s time for a rethink. But don’t worry – we’re here to help.
At Neuways, we work with businesses across the UK to modernise their cyber defences without the jargon, panic, or pressure. Whether you need a full cyber overhaul or just want a second opinion on your current setup, we’re happy to talk.