Why you should protect your Business from public Wi-Fi risks with MiFi
Cyberattacks targeting major brands like M&S and Co-op serve as a stark reminder: no business is too big – or too small – to fall victim to cybercrime.
“Cyberattacks now occur every 39 seconds, with more than 2,200 attacks per day reported globally.” (Study University of Maryland 2023)
While many companies invest heavily in office-based network security, one commonly overlooked risk lies outside the workplace: staff connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi.
The Danger Lurking Behind Free Wi-Fi
Hotels, cafés, and shared offices often provide free internet access. But these public Wi-Fi networks can be breeding grounds for cyber threats.
Employees may unknowingly connect their work devices to open networks where cybercriminals can silently intercept data, steal login credentials, or gain access to company systems. What’s more, some networks require users to submit personal or business information before access is granted – adding another layer of vulnerability.
The MiFi Alternative: Secure Connectivity Anywhere
That’s where MiFi devices come in. MiFi units are compact mobile routers that create private, secure wireless networks using mobile data. They allow your team to get online wherever they are – without compromising security.
Here’s why businesses are switching to MiFi:
- Dedicated, Encrypted Connection: Unlike public Wi-Fi, MiFi uses encrypted 4G or 5G mobile networks to protect your business data.
- No Personal Info Needed to Connect: Staff connect directly to your corporate device, avoiding data-hungry captive portals.
- Safe Access for Remote Work: Ideal for working from hotels, client sites, or while travelling – anywhere traditional broadband or trusted Wi-Fi isn’t available.
Why Not Just Use Phone Tethering?
Some businesses try to solve the public Wi-Fi problem by encouraging staff to tether work devices to personal phones. But while this works in a pinch, it’s far from ideal:
- Inconsistent Speed & Stability: Mobile phones aren’t designed to act as routers, and tethered connections can be patchy – especially in high-demand areas. MiFi is dedicated to connecting to the Data network and isn’t interrupted by calls and notifications.
- Battery Drain: Tethering quickly depletes phone batteries, which can impact productivity during travel or long days out of office.
- Limited Connections: Most smartphones can only connect a few devices at once, unlike MiFi units which support multiple users or devices simultaneously.
- Data Usage & Costs: It can lead to excessive data consumption, causing employees to hit personal limits or rack up charges on business accounts.
A Cost-Effective Solution That Pays for Itself
Some businesses have moved away from using MiFi in a bid to cut costs – but in today’s threat landscape, that could be a false economy. The financial and reputational damage of a single cyberattack can far exceed the modest monthly cost of a secure mobile broadband connection.
At Communications Plus, we’re helping businesses stay connected and protected by offering secure MiFi solutions as part of our mobile broadband plans.
Ready to protect your staff and data?
Get in touch with our team today to find the best Mi-Fi solution for your business. Call – 01744 412342.
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