Cybersecurity for SMEs: 9-Step Plan & Free Tools (2026)

TL;DR: Cybersecurity for Your SME in 9 Steps

As a solo developer, I know cybersecurity is often the last priority for SMEs. Yet, a single attack can cripple your business. This practical 9-step plan helps you with free tools, legal obligations (NIS2), and concrete measures. No IT background required.

1. The Biggest Cyber Risks for Belgian SMEs

Recent research from the Centre for Cybersecurity Belgium (CCB) shows that SMEs are primarily hit by:

* Phishing emails (84% of incidents)

* Ransomware via malicious attachments

* Weak passwords and missing 2FA

* Outdated software with known vulnerabilities

According to the CCB, the average recovery cost is between €15,000 and €75,000—an amount most SMEs cannot afford.

2. Legal Obligations: NIS2 and Mandatory Reporting

The NIS2 Directive obliges Belgian companies from 2024 to:

* Report data breaches to the CCB within 24 hours

* Implement appropriate security measures

* Conduct risk analyses

Details can be found on CBRCyber.be/NIS2. Fines can reach up to €7,000,000 or 1.4% of annual turnover.

3. A Simple Cybersecurity Plan in 1 Hour

I use this framework at LUNIDEV for my own infrastructure:

Step 1: Asset Inventory

* List all devices, accounts, and data

* Mark what is critical for your business

Step 2: Risk Analysis

* What happens if you lose data?

* Which data must absolutely not become public?

Step 3: Prioritize Measures

* Start with highest impact, lowest cost

* Plan improvements over 6-12 months

4. Free and Affordable Security Tools

Antivirus & Anti-Malware

* Windows Defender: sufficient for most SMEs

* Malwarebytes Free: a good second opinion

Phishing Protection

* Google Workspace/Microsoft 365: built-in filters

* Cofense Reporter: free plugin for reporting phishing

Password Management

* Bitwarden: free for personal use

* 1Password Business: from €6/month

5. Training Employees Without an IT Background

The best approach: short, practical sessions with real examples.

Phishing Simulation

Use free tools like GoPhish to test your team. Start with 5-10 employees, expand as you grow.

Micro-learning

* 5-minute videos on current threats

* Monthly newsletter with examples

* Reward for reported phishing attempts

6. Data Breach or Ransomware: Immediate Action

In Case of a Data Breach:

1. Isolate affected systems

2. Document what happened

3. Report within 24 hours to CBRCyber.be

4. Inform affected parties if required

In Case of Ransomware:

1. DO NOT pay—there is no guarantee of recovery

2. Contact your IT partner or the CCB

3. Restore from backup (see next section)

7. Backup Strategy: The 3-2-1 Rule

The gold standard for SMEs:

* 3 copies of your data

* 2 different media (cloud + physical)

* 1 offsite backup (e.g., in another cloud)

Practical Implementation:

* Daily backups to Backblaze B2 (€5/TB/month)

* Weekly backup to an external drive

* Monthly test: can you actually restore?

8. Government Support and Insurance

Subsidies

Through VLAIO you can get up to 40% subsidy on cybersecurity investments. Check the current conditions on their website.

Cyber Insurance

More insurers are offering cyber policies. Coverage varies from €25,000 to €1,000,000. Compare at least 3 quotes.

9. Get Started Now: Your Cybersecurity Checklist

Week 1: Basic Security

* ✅ Install updates on all devices

* ✅ Activate 2FA on all accounts

* ✅ Use strong, unique passwords

* ✅ Install free antivirus

Week 2: Backups & Monitoring

* ✅ Set up automatic backups

* ✅ Test the restore procedure

* ✅ Check firewall settings

Week 3: Training & Procedures

* ✅ Train employees to recognize phishing

* ✅ Create an incident response plan

* ✅ Register with the CCB for mandatory reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Windows Defender enough for my business?

For most SMEs without specific compliance requirements: yes. Windows Defender scores well in independent tests and is free and integrated. For extra certainty: combine with a monthly Malwarebytes scan.

How often should I test backups?

Test at least monthly whether your backups are truly recoverable. A backup you cannot restore is worthless. Document the test results.

Do I need to hire a cybersecurity expert?

For basic security, you can do a lot yourself with this guide. If in doubt: start with a one-time security audit (€500-€1500) and implement the recommendations yourself. For more complex environments: consider a managed security provider.

What if I don't have the budget?

Focus on free tools and procedures. The biggest gains come from good passwords, updates, and backups. These cost nothing but time. Build out gradually as your budget increases.

How quickly must I report a data breach?

Within 24 hours of discovery to the Centre for Cybersecurity Belgium. Do this via their online form on CBRCyber.be. When in doubt: always report, then the CCB will assess if further action is needed.

Want help implementing these measures? Contact us for a free advisory session on cybersecurity for your SME.

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