IT Security Assessments

A comprehensive security assessment includes vulnerability scanning of networks and systems, penetration testing to simulate attacks, security policy review, access control evaluation, email and web security testing, wireless network assessment, compliance gap analysis, and security awareness testing. We identify vulnerabilities, assess risks, and provide detailed recommendations for remediation. The assessment includes both automated scanning and manual testing by our security experts, culminating in a detailed report with prioritized findings and action plans.

Most security assessments take 2-3 weeks from start to finish. Small businesses (10-20 users) can typically be assessed in 1-2 weeks, while larger environments or those requiring penetration testing may take 3-4 weeks. The timeline includes initial scoping, vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, analysis, and report preparation. We work to minimize disruption by conducting testing during off-hours when possible and coordinating closely with your team throughout the process.

Security assessments are designed to minimize disruption. Vulnerability scanning is typically non-intrusive and runs in the background. Penetration testing can be more invasive but is carefully controlled and scheduled during low-usage periods. We coordinate all activities with your team, can work during off-hours if needed, and immediately stop if any issues arise. Most employees won't notice the assessment is happening. Any potentially disruptive testing is clearly communicated in advance and requires approval before proceeding.

The assessment report includes an executive summary for leadership, complete inventory of findings categorized by severity (critical, high, medium, low), detailed technical descriptions of each vulnerability, proof-of-concept demonstrations where applicable, risk ratings and potential business impact, prioritized remediation recommendations with implementation steps, and compliance gap analysis if applicable. We present the report in person to walk through findings, answer questions, and help you develop a remediation plan. You receive both technical documentation for IT staff and business-focused summaries for leadership.

Security awareness training covers phishing and email scams, password security and multi-factor authentication, social engineering tactics, safe internet and browsing practices, data protection and handling, mobile device security, incident recognition and reporting, and compliance requirements specific to your industry. Training is customized based on your assessment findings, industry requirements, and specific threats. We use real-world examples, hands-on exercises, and simulated attacks to make training engaging and practical. Training can be delivered live (in-person or virtual) or through online learning modules.

We recommend initial comprehensive security training for all employees, followed by quarterly refresher training or updates on new threats. Simulated phishing campaigns should run monthly to keep awareness high. New employees should receive training during onboarding. Compliance regulations like HIPAA typically require annual training at minimum. The frequency also depends on your industry, risk level, and past security incidents. Regular training is essential because threats constantly evolve and people forget without reinforcement. We can help establish a training schedule that balances effectiveness with time constraints.

Yes! Simulated phishing campaigns are one of the most effective ways to measure and improve security awareness. We send realistic (but safe) phishing emails to your employees and track who clicks links, enters credentials, or reports the email. Results are anonymized for training purposes but identify departments or individuals needing extra help. Simulated phishing provides baseline metrics, identifies high-risk users, reinforces training with real-world practice, and measures improvement over time. We can run one-time campaigns or ongoing programs with increasing difficulty levels.

No, you decide what to remediate and when based on your budget, priorities, and risk tolerance. We categorize findings by severity and help you understand the business risk of each issue. Many organizations address critical and high-severity findings immediately, plan medium-severity items for near-term remediation, and accept or defer low-severity issues. We help you develop a realistic remediation roadmap that balances security improvement with operational and budget constraints. Some findings may have compensating controls or alternative mitigations that are more practical than the textbook solution.

Security assessment costs vary based on scope and complexity. Small business assessments (10-20 users, basic vulnerability scanning) typically cost $3,000-$7,000. Medium business assessments (50-100 users, includes penetration testing) run $7,000-$15,000. Large or complex environments may be $15,000-$30,000+. Employee training programs start around $1,500-$3,000 for small groups. However, the cost of a security assessment is minimal compared to the average $4.45 million cost of a data breach. Most clients view assessments as essential insurance—identifying and fixing a critical vulnerability before it's exploited provides enormous ROI.