• Yam Krishna Poudel

Cybersecurity has become a critical concern for Nepal's small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) as they increasingly adopt digital technologies to enhance operations. However, these organizations often lack the resources, expertise, and infrastructure necessary to address emerging cyber threats. This research investigates the challenges SMBs face in implementing effective cyber defense strategies, emphasizing the unique vulnerabilities of these businesses. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Surveys were conducted among 151 SMBs across various sectors, and interviews were held with business owners, IT managers, and cybersecurity professionals to identify key challenges. Findings indicate that limited financial resources, lack of awareness, and inadequate training are the primary barriers to implementing robust cybersecurity measures. Micro and small businesses, in particular, reported frequent cyber incidents but struggled with underreporting and minimal defensive preparedness. The study concludes with actionable recommendations, including government policy interventions, affordable cybersecurity tools, and targeted training programs to enhance SMBs’ cyber defense posture. These insights aim to contribute to a more secure digital ecosystem for Nepal’s growing business sector.

Cybersecurity, Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs), Cyber Defense, Cyber Threats, Digital Vulnerability, Risk Management.

"CYBER DEFENSE CHALLENGES: A PERSPECTIVE FROM SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES IN NEPAL", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 12, page no.f253-f263, December-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2412528.pdf

"CYBER DEFENSE CHALLENGES: A PERSPECTIVE FROM SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES IN NEPAL", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 12, page no. ppf253-f263, December-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2412528.pdf