Bring your own device policy, or BYOD, refers to an agreement between employers and employees who use their personal laptops, smartphones, or tablets for work purposes. These policies have up-sides and down-sides.
With BYOD, the company doesn’t have to purchase devices for their employees. In some industries, employee’s personal computers outperform the machines the company has. it’s likely employees upgrade their personal devices more frequently than their work needs require.
For example, if they purchase a new laptop for next-generation gaming, the upgraded hardware will speed up work tasks as well. Apps will open faster and multiple apps can run without slowing down the computer. Their devices will be faster and more reliable than ones provided by the company.
BYOD also increases productivity by eliminating the learning curve that comes with using additional devices. Learning new operating systems, Windows to Mac for example, requires a great deal of training. But even using the same operating system, inconsistent file storage structure and settings can cost productivity. BYOD allows an employee to master their device and tailor their workflows.
However, BYOD increases security risks and raises complex compliance concerns.
Your employees could unknowingly carry infected devices into work, spreading malware to every computer on your network. This is why you should require any computer used for your company to have antivirus software. Security threats will be detected before they can disrupt your business.
Your employee’s devices could be lost or stolen while they’re used outside of the office. For this reason, you have to require BYOD devices to be protected by strong passwords. As a last resort, implement a failsafe to wipe the machine completely.
The other disadvantage for businesses is complicated IT management. When employees are using different devices, it’s difficult for IT administrators to maintain network security. Standard devices issued by the company can be maintained easier because tasks can be pushed in bulk.
If your employee is using a personal device for work, it should meet these requirements.
If you would like a consultation to discuss a BYOD policy, contact us at info@omnistech.com or click here to schedule.