What is an IT Health Check?

An IT Health Check is a comprehensive evaluation of an organisation’s IT setup, aimed at identifying any security breaches or immediate problems. This cyber security health check is a part of Arc Systems’ IT support package and is offered as a free service. The health check covers both external and internal testing, including vulnerability scanning and manual analysis of your internal network. A report summarising the issues detected will be produced.

Why Arc Systems is the Gold Standard for IT Health Checks

In the realm of cybersecurity, Arc Systems stands as a paragon of excellence. Our legacy is built on 30 years of unwavering commitment to helping organisations fortify their digital frontiers. Here’s what sets us apart:

Pioneers in Cybersecurity: With over 15 years of experience, we’ve been at the forefront of the cybersecurity evolution, adapting, innovating, and setting benchmarks that others aspire to achieve.

Globally Recognised Expertise: Our prowess isn’t just acknowledged by our clientele but also by industry stalwarts. Arc Systems has been honored with MSP Connect Excellence Award’ for 4 consecutive years; 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021, underscoring our position as a leading authority in cyber security.

Trusted by the Best: From Fortune 500 companies to emerging startups, organizations across the spectrum trust Arc Systems for our comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. Our solutions are a blend of cutting-edge technology and human expertise, ensuring that our clients always stay a step ahead of potential threats.

Bespoke Solutions for Unique Challenges: We recognise that no two organizations are the same. Our IT Health Checks are meticulously tailored, ensuring that we address the unique challenges and vulnerabilities inherent to each client.

By choosing Arc Systems, you’re not just opting for an IT Health Check; you’re investing in peace of mind, backed by an industry leader’s expertise.

What does an IT Health Check involve?

For IT managers and directors seeking in-depth information, an IT Health Check from Arc Systems includes specific tests such as vulnerability scanning, firewall efficacy tests, and compliance checks against industry standards like ISO 27001. This Infrastructure Health Check also includes a PSN IT health check and an IT system health check, ensuring a thorough evaluation of your IT environment.

External Testing: This should include systems that provide services on the internet, such as email servers, web servers and other systems, such as the firewalls that are in place to prevent unauthorised access from the internet into your organisation.

External testing should also include any systems you have in place to allow staff to connect to your organisation remotely. These remote access solutions normally involve a VPN that should be tested as part of your external assurance.

Internal Testing: This should include vulnerability scanning and manual analysis of your internal network. At a minimum, it should include:

• Desktop and server build and configuration and network management security
• Patching at the operating system, application and firmware level
• Configuration of remote access solutions (including solutions for managed devices and BYOD)
• Build and Configuration of laptops and other mobile devices, such as phones and tablets used for remote access
• Internal security gateway configuration (including PSN gateway)
• Wireless network configuration

These scans will ensure that your internal systems have been configured securely and are being maintained at all times.

How is an IT Health Check Carried Out?

As leaders in cyber security, we make sure to follow the highest industry standards when we deliver an IT Health Check at Arc Systems. Our security experts review every part of an organisation’s IT infrastructure and IT setup to assess and evaluate it for current and future risks.

People, Processes, and Technology

People: Recognising that the human element is often the weakest link in cybersecurity, we assess staff awareness, training programs, and roles and responsibilities. This ensures that everyone, from top management to the frontline staff, is equipped with the knowledge and tools to maintain a secure IT environment.

Processes: Our health check evaluates the robustness of your IT processes, from incident response protocols to data backup and recovery plans. We ensure that these processes are not only in place but are also effective in mitigating risks.

Technology: Leveraging a mix of automated scans and manual testing, we delve deep into your IT infrastructure. This includes evaluating the efficacy of firewalls, vulnerability scanning of internal and external systems, and assessing the configuration of remote access solutions.

Adherence to Industry Standards

Our IT Health Check is designed in line with globally recognized standards such as ISO 27001, ensuring that our evaluations meet international best practices.

We also consider guidelines from the CIS 20 Critical Controls and NCSC, ensuring a thorough and up-to-date assessment.

Comprehensive Reporting

At the end of our health check, organizations receive a detailed report that not only highlights vulnerabilities but also provides actionable insights. This ensures that IT teams know exactly where to focus their efforts for maximum impact.

Our report also serves as a valuable tool for demonstrating compliance with various industry regulations, giving stakeholders peace of mind.

Human Ingenuity and Automated Techniques

While we employ state-of-the-art automated tools for our evaluations, we also recognize the value of human expertise. Our team of seasoned IT professionals brings a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring that our health checks offer true insights into an organization’s readiness to resist cyber threats.

Continuous Improvement

The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and so are we. Our methodologies are regularly updated to reflect the latest in cybersecurity trends, ensuring that our clients always receive a cutting-edge service.

Whilst the IT Health Check is a free addition to Arc Systems’ IT support package, the value it adds is immense. It aids in proactively identifying problems, potentially saving thousands in reactive fixes and data breach fines. An IT health check checklist is also provided to help you keep track of the evaluation process.

The Benefits of an IT Health Check

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the stakes have never been higher. Cyber threats are not just increasing in number but also in sophistication. An IT Health Check is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Here’s why:

Proactive Vulnerability Identification: Before cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in your system, we identify and rectify them. This proactive approach ensures that potential threats are neutralized before they can cause harm.

Solid Security Foundation: An IT Health Check provides a comprehensive assessment of your IT infrastructure, laying the groundwork for a robust security foundation. With Arc Systems, you’re not just patching vulnerabilities; you’re building a fortress.

Regulatory Compliance: In many industries, regulatory compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about maintaining trust. Our IT Health Check ensures that you’re not just compliant today but prepared for future regulatory changes.

Early Warning System: Our health check acts as an early warning system, highlighting potential issues that might escalate into significant threats. This foresight allows for timely interventions, ensuring continuous protection.

Understanding Defense Capabilities: It’s not enough to have defence mechanisms in place; understanding their effectiveness is crucial. Our health check provides insights into how well your defences are performing and where they can be enhanced.

Cost-Efficient: By identifying and addressing issues early on, businesses can avoid the hefty costs associated with data breaches and system downtimes. An IT Health Check is an investment in the future financial health of your organisation.

Peace of Mind: In the digital age, peace of mind is priceless. Knowing that your IT systems are secure, compliant, and operating at peak performance allows you to focus on what truly matters: growing your business.

What Our Clients Say About Arc Systems

Testimonials are a testament to the quality of service and the trust that clients place in a company. Here’s what some of our esteemed clients have to say about Arc Systems:

Artistic Laboratory, Southend: “I can always rely on Arc Systems expertise, efficiency, and total awareness of customer needs. Arc carried out a fix for a recent problem, ensuring absolute minimal disruption to our working day. The staff are always polite and perceptive and have an enthusiasm for their job that really is infectious. We totally trust Arc with all our IT support needs.”

Facility Management Company, Kent: “Arc Systems have gone above and beyond the call of duty to support us when issues have occurred and have become an essential part of our IT Department. We have also valued their advice and experience in making the right choices in both hardware and software, and we look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.”

Estate Agent, Thorpe Bay, Essex: “The staff at Arc Systems are a real credit to their company. From problems with a printer or a computer, through to a more complex IT issue, the staff at Arc Systems go out of their way to solve the problem there and then.”

Solicitors, Colchester: “Arc Systems have saved us so much time, spear-heading various IT solution projects for us. We have been dealing with Arc Systems for several years and they are a great team to have supporting our businesses – always on hand to assist with their knowledge and expertise.”

The IT Health Check Checklist: What to Expect

An IT Health Checklist can be invaluable for ensuring that all critical areas are covered. The checklist serves as a comprehensive guide for what an IT Health Check from Arc Systems would cover. It’s designed to give you peace of mind, knowing that every aspect of your IT system is accounted for. Here’s what you can typically expect to find on such a checklist:

1. Network Vulnerability Scanning: Identifying weak points in your network that could be exploited by cybercriminals.
2. Firewall Efficacy Tests: Ensuring that your firewall is configured correctly to block unauthorised access.
3. Compliance Checks: Verifying that your IT systems are in line with industry standards and regulations, such as ISO 27001 or PSN IT health check requirements.
4. Server and Storage Assessment: Evaluating your servers’ and storage devices’ health and performance.
5. Software Audit: Listing all installed software and checking for outdated or unlicensed versions.
6. Physical Security Measures: Assessing the physical security of the IT infrastructure, including access controls and surveillance.
7. Data Backup and Recovery Plans: Confirming that adequate backup systems are in place and that data can be quickly recovered in the event of a system failure.
8. Employee Training and Awareness: Checking that employees know cybersecurity best practices and how to respond to potential threats.
9. Incident Response Plan: Ensuring a clear plan is in place for responding to IT and cybersecurity incidents.
10. Review of Previous Incidents: Analysing past incidents to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement.

In today’s digital age, the cybersecurity landscape is constantly changing, introducing new types of threats and vulnerabilities. This makes regular IT Health Checks not just a recommendation but a necessity for maintaining a secure and efficient IT infrastructure.

The Importance of Regular IT Health Checks

Regular IT Health Checks are essential because of the rapidly evolving nature of cybersecurity threats and the increasing reliance on IT systems in business operations. More frequent checks, such as quarterly assessments, may be advisable for businesses and organisations operating in highly regulated industries.

1. Adapting to New Threats: Cyber threats are not static; they evolve. Regular IT Health Checks allow businesses to adapt to new types of cyber threats and vulnerabilities as they emerge.
2. Regulatory Compliance: For businesses in highly regulated industries such as healthcare, finance, or government, failing to conduct regular IT Health Checks can result in non-compliance with industry standards and regulations. Quarterly checks may be advisable in these cases.
3. Optimising Performance: Regular checks can also help optimise your IT systems’ performance. Over time, systems can become cluttered and slow down, affecting productivity. An IT Health Check can identify these issues, allowing for timely interventions.
4. Data Integrity: With the increasing importance of data in business decision-making, ensuring the integrity of your data is crucial. Regular checks can identify potential data risks and suggest preventive measures.
5. Cost Savings: Proactive maintenance through regular IT Health Checks can result in significant cost savings in the long term. You can avoid the high costs associated with system downtime and data breaches by identifying and resolving issues before they escalate.
6. Employee Training: Cybersecurity is not just about technology; it’s also about people. Regular checks can assess the effectiveness of your employee training programmes, ensuring that staff are up-to-date with the latest cybersecurity best practices.
7. Peace of Mind: Last but not least, regular IT Health Checks provide peace of mind. Knowing that your IT systems are secure and operating efficiently allows you and your team to focus on what you do best: running your business.

Free vs Paid IT Health Checks

Choosing between a free and paid IT Health Check often boils down to your specific needs and resources. Arc Systems’ free IT Health Check provides a comprehensive and valuable assessment covering essential areas like network vulnerability and firewall tests. While paid services may offer additional features like customisation and in-depth manual testing, Arc Systems’ free service is an excellent starting point for businesses. It’s quick, efficient, and offers actionable insights, making it a highly cost-effective option for enhancing your IT security and performance.

Take the Next Step with Arc Systems

Ready to Fortify Your IT Infrastructure?

Our team of experts at Arc Systems is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive IT Health Check or have specific questions about your organisation’s cybersecurity, we’re here to help.

Book Your IT Health Check: Don’t wait for a security breach to take action. Schedule your free IT Health Check with Arc Systems today and ensure your IT infrastructure is robust and secure. visit our booking page.

Speak to Our Experts: Have questions or need personalised guidance? Our team of seasoned IT professionals is just a call away in 01268 288100.

Learn More: Dive deeper into the world of cybersecurity with our range of resources, guides, and articles. Stay informed and stay secure.

Your IT security is our top priority. Take the next step with Arc Systems and ensure your organisation’s digital assets are protected.