Helping Southern Small Businesses Sleigh the Season

From Tracy Pitcher, Senior Vice President, Comcast Business

The holiday season is a dynamic and critical time for small businesses, where staying tech-savvy can provide a significant advantage. From efficiently managing inventory to swiftly processing transactions, reliable technology is the backbone of smooth operations. According to the Comcast Business 2024 Small Business Cybersecurity Threat Report, released earlier this year, more than half of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) have faced at least one cybersecurity incident—a reminder of the growing need for robust digital defenses.

With customer demand surging during the holidays, leveraging technology not only strengthens security but also enhances customer service. Tools that enable faster responses to inquiries and seamless interactions can elevate the overall customer experience. To help small businesses thrive during the busiest season of the year, here are tech tips designed to keep you ahead of the curve.

Minimizing Cyber Threats for Small Businesses

Protecting your business from cyber threats is vital for the health of your business. Even common solutions such as implementing strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and regularly updating your software to patch vulnerabilities can help you stay safe from cybercriminals. While this is an additional cost, businesses should invest in antivirus software and firewalls. Helping SMBs stay safe with a robust security solution, Comcast Business offers SecurityEdge™, a cloud-based security solution for Business Internet Customers which protects all connected devices on site from malware, phishing scams, ransomware, and botnet attacks. By implementing a cybersecurity plan, SMBs can protect their sensitive data, keep their operations running smoothly, and build a solid foundation of trust with their customers.

Staying Connected During Power Outages

Winter weather can bring on challenges in the form of power outages. A sudden power outage and loss of Internet can be disorienting, especially during the high-demand holiday season. Consider installing commercial surge protectors to safeguard critical equipment from electrical surges when power is restored. With the average U.S. power outage lasting about two hours and five hours during major weather events, Comcast Business’ Connection Pro can be a connectivity lifeline for SMBs for short and long power outages. Connection Pro’s cellular router instantly switches over to an available wireless connection when the primary connection is disrupted, helping to keep businesses running and secure during a storm or other unexpected outages for up to 16 hours. When not providing backup power and Internet, Connection Pro acts as a WiFi booster as its external antenna provides a strong signal coverage helping to amplify connectivity.

Savings Just for Small Businesses

While you are offering your customers the best deals possible, don’t forget to take advantage of special pricing offered to businesses at this time of year. Being a savvy shopper now can lead to long term savings and valuable equipment upgrades. CB Mobile customers can save big this holiday season with our Black Friday holiday offers from now through December 3. From incentives for new tablets and mobile, to Visa Prepaid Cards, there are limited time holiday deals suited for businesses just in time for the new year. Click here for all the details.  

By embracing these tech tips, small business owners can streamline operations, safeguard data and equipment, and deliver an exceptional customer experience this holiday season. In today’s competitive market, having the right technology in place not only boosts efficiency but also positions small businesses to stand out and thrive. Stay ahead of the curve and make this holiday season your most successful one yet!

For more cybersecurity insights, click here.