Mobile Computing

6. Management Issues

6.1 Minimise the physical and information security risks.

• Ensure that employees are aware of basic good practice.
• Make sure you have appropriate insurance.
• Install the same anti-virus software as you use in your office systems.
• Stress the importance of complying with security procedures such as using passwords properly, and regularly backing up files. If possible, avoid storing confidential information on portables.
• Ensure that you are satisfied that any wireless network connections are secured against 'eavesdropping'.

6.2 Make sure that portables do not fall outside your regular IT management systems.

• If office portables are shared, set up a system recording who has been issued with them.
• Establish how software upgrades will be handled for portables which will be out of the office when an upgrade is planned.

6.3 Be aware of the potential health and safety risks.

• Prolonged use of laptops carries a greater risk of problems such as eyestrain or RSI. If an employee will be using a laptop as an office computer, consider connecting a full-sized monitor and keyboard.