An IT audit is a systematic and logical process that follows a risk-based approach to determine whether an entity's information systems, including its detailed information technology processes, controls, and activities, will achieve their objectives and ultimately enable the organization to achieve its organizational goals.
Therefore, we understand that an IT audit is essential for large corporations and small businesses alike, regardless of their industry. This will help increase business efficiency and ensure that all tasks run smoothly, while also identifying new solutions to problems that may arise in the processes.
An IT audit typically includes a company's computer networks and related technology and software, as well as established procedures regarding the use of technological resources. It can be conducted to verify the effectiveness of the system and detect any violations.
The most basic part of an IT audit is an asset management inventory that identifies all hardware and software stocks and their connections, helping to determine what is owned and what may need to be upgraded or replaced. The IT audit information will provide a more or less detailed analysis of each computer's processor, current operating system, memory, storage, partitions, media size and capacity, and any attached peripherals such as keyboards, printers, scanners, external drives, microphones, speakers, etc. A software inventory provides the name, installation date, and version of all software. This is useful for a standardization review, especially if the goal is to establish a standard operating environment.
An IT audit can examine technological procedures, looking for ways to make them more efficient. It will also analyze potential cases of resource misappropriation, misuse of resources, or mismatches between equipment and the demands of an individual's job description. The latter could stem from a determination that an employee is being neglected due to their computer setup, or that there has been unnecessary spending given the actual need.
Another aspect of an IT audit is a security review. Knowing and properly documenting assets is just the beginning of this process, which could also involve barcoding or labeling properties. It's also important to check the consistency and effectiveness of firewalls and security software. This means reviewing antivirus and antimalware software, as well as checking systems to ensure they are clean.
Given this, we understand that it is necessary to schedule a regular IT audit to ensure the efficiency of processes and the security of equipment.
