The Big Read
61 rarely makes the list. But the devices your team uses every day are the single most important factor in your security posture. Here ' s what to consider.
• Hardware-level security
Security starts before your operating system even loads. Look for devices that include a Hardware TPM 2.0 chip, which encrypts sensitive credentials and protects data at the hardware level. An optional fingerprint reader or FHD IR camera adds an extra layer of identity verification, making it significantly harder for unauthorised users to access your systems. For added privacy, a built-in camera shutter lets users physically block the webcam when it is not in use, helping protect against unwanted viewing or accidental video exposure. A physical security lock slot lets you anchor devices in shared spaces, a simple but often overlooked protection against theft.
• Hardware-secured credentials
One of the most valuable assets a cybercriminal can steal is login credentials. Once they have your usernames and passwords, they have the keys to your business. Dell SafeID with TPM stores credentials in a secure hardware environment, making it exponentially harder for attackers to extract them, even if they gain access to a device.
• Software defences that work around the clock
Hardware protection is the foundation. Software is the reinforcement. With the scale and speed of attacks today, it’ s smart to have multiple layers of defence.
“ Hardware protection is the foundation. Software is the reinforcement.
Ransomware attacks, for example, have become one of the most disruptive threats small businesses face. To help counter this risk, Dell offers antiransomware solution Halcyon which provides a specialised layer of protection that can mean the difference between a minor incident and a full business shutdown. Similarly, Dell partners with other leading software partners to help address a range of risks. We suggest looking for always-on-threat protection that detects and blocks phishing attempts, malware, and suspicious activity automatically. Solutions like McAfee Business Protection, CrowdStrike Falcon Go, Halcyon and Absolute Find My Dell add meaningful layers of defence without requiring constant manual management from your team.
“ Managing security across multiple devices is where many small businesses struggle most.
Cloud-based fleet management
Managing security across multiple devices is where many small businesses struggle most. Keeping operating systems updated, applying security patches, and monitoring device status across a team of 10, 20, or 50 employees takes time you likely don ' t have.
The Dell Management Portal, in conjunction with Microsoft Intune, gives you the ability to monitor and update your fleet of Dell PCs, quickly and easily, via the cloud. And with Microsoft Autopilot, you can configure and deploy devices to your workforce, remotely.
• Professional support
Even with the best hardware and software, incidents can happen. When they do, having expert support on hand makes an enormous difference. Dell ProSupport offers 24 / 7 access to technical experts who understand business environments. Dell SupportAssist goes further, proactively detecting and resolving issues before they slow your team down.
For businesses that want comprehensive protection without managing it themselves, Dell ' s Managed Detection and Response( MDR) service monitors your environment around the clock, catches threats faster, and guides recovery if an incident occurs.
Why trust matters when choosing a technology partner
Not all technology partners are created equal, and when it comes to security, the reputation of your vendor matters. In 2025, Dell secured the highest score on the IDC Enterprise PC Vendor Trust Perception Index, according to survey respondents, as well as customerperceived strength in compliance. Dell remains one of the most popular vendors in most regions and industry sectors. This recognition reflects decades of commitment to supply chain integrity, device security, and customer support.
For small businesses, this matters because you need a partner you can rely on, someone who ' s invested in your security as much as you are, and who ' s consistently at the cutting edge of commercial PC protection.
The right devices make all the difference
The Dell Pro Essential range was built specifically for growing businesses. It delivers the security features your business needs without requiring an IT department to deploy or manage them.
The Dell Pro Essential combines militarygrade durability( MIL-STD 810H tested), built-in hardware security, and simple IT setup through the Dell Management Portal, in conjunction with Microsoft Autopilot and Intune. It ' s designed to be ready out of the box, so your team can start working immediately and your devices stay protected from day one.
Take the next step
Security isn ' t something you solve once and forget. It ' s an ongoing practice, and the best time to strengthen your defences is before an incident forces the issue.
Start by asking yourself three questions: Do your current devices have hardwarelevel security built in? Do you have a clear way to manage and update all your devices from one place? And if a device were lost or stolen tomorrow, what would be exposed?
If you ' re not confident in those answers, it ' s time to review your device security strategy. The right technology can close those gaps quickly, without complexity, and without requiring a dedicated IT team to manage it.
Explore how Dell Pro Essential laptops and Dell ' s full range of security and support solutions can help your business run reliably, stay protected, and grow with confidence.
This is an edited version of an article provided by Dell Technologies
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