As Small Business Saturday approaches, communities across the country will rally to support the independent shops, cafés, and service providers that give our neighborhoods their unique character. But at Cox Business, we believe small businesses deserve more than just one day of recognition; they deserve reliable support every day, especially when it comes to protecting what they’ve built.
Security is one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of running a small business. Whether you operate a boutique, a bakery, or a local repair shop, your business faces
unique threats, especially after hours. Unoccupied commercial properties are prime targets for theft and vandalism. And while the damage may not always justify an insurance claim, it can still leave owners with thousands of out-of-pocket costs.
THE DIY TEMPTATION, AND ITS RISKS
In an effort to save money, many small business owners turn to do-it-yourself (DIY) security systems. These setups promise easy installation, remote access, and low upfront costs. But in practice, they often create more problems than they solve.
Take monitoring, for example. DIY systems rely on the business owner to respond to alerts, often in the middle of the night. If your phone is charging in another room or you’re simply asleep, a break-in could go unnoticed until morning. Professional systems, on the other hand, offer 24/7 monitoring with trained teams who can notify authorities immediately or even deter intruders with two-way audio.
INSTALLATION ISN’T ALWAYS PLUG-AND-PLAY
DIY systems also oversimplify installation. It’s not just about placing a camera near the door. You need to consider blind spots, wiring vulnerabilities, and coverage for high-risk areas like cash registers or safes. If a criminal can easily unplug your camera, your system is useless.
Professional installers assess your space, identify critical zones, and ensure your system is both discreet and effective. Plus, if something goes wrong, you’re covered under
warranty, unlike DIY setups, where you’re responsible for repairs and replacements.
CYBERSECURITY MATTERS MORE THAN EVER
Today’s security systems are connected to your network, which means they’re also vulnerable to cyberattacks. While many DIY systems offer basic protections like two-factor authentication, they often lack the advanced encryption and monitoring found in business-grade solutions.
Cybercriminals can exploit these weaknesses to gain access to your cameras—or worse, your entire network. Professional providers stay ahead of these threats, handling firmware updates, and ensuring your system is secure from both physical and digital intrusions.
SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST
Running a small business is already a full-time job, and then some. According to Inside Small Business, over a quarter of owners work more than 50 hours a week. When your
DIY system malfunctions, the last thing you want is to spend hours searching forums or waiting on hold with a manufacturer.
Local providers offer on-demand support. Whether it’s a quick phone call or an on-site technician, you get fast, knowledgeable help from someone who understands your
system and your business.
BOTTOM LINE: PROTECT WHAT YOU’VE BUILT
Small Business Saturday is a powerful reminder of the value small businesses bring to our communities. But at Cox Business, we believe that support shouldn’t be seasonal. Every day, we work to empower small businesses with tools that help them grow, thrive, and stay secure.
Ready to get started? Head to coxbusiness.com to protect your small business.
