Trends in Technology: What to Expect in 2020
Maximizing Your Technology Budget in 2020: Key Trends to Consider As technology budgets are set to increase in 2020, IT leaders are focusing on adopting new technologies and enhancing cybersecurity measures. With continuous advancements in technology, it’s essential that your budget aligns with these trends. If you’re contemplating your own IT budget, here are some trends that could guide your investment decisions for the upcoming year. 1. The Internet of Things (IoT) Continues to Thrive The Internet of Things remains a significant focus, with projections indicating that there will be over 20 billion connected devices by the end of 2020. More than just the sheer number of devices, the effective management of a vast network is crucial. As more industries embrace IoT, optimizing data management and ensuring robust networking capabilities are vital for smooth operations. Additionally, keep an eye on the trend towards establishing industry standards and best practices. With a lack of clear IoT recommendations, creating an optimized network can be challenging but necessary. 2. Upgrading to 5G and Wi-Fi 6 A major investment for businesses in 2020 will involve upgrading network hardware. The introduction of Wi-Fi 6 represents a long-overdue upgrade, promising faster speeds and improved connectivity. Now that the standards have been approved, this technology is expected to become mainstream this year. Investing in Wi-Fi 6 and 5G networks will enhance your ability to manage data-heavy tasks, whether it’s uploading videos or running customer-facing applications. Keeping your network up to date is essential for meeting the demands of modern business. 3. The Rise of Augmented Reality (AR) Augmented Reality continues to gain traction, and 2020 is set to be a landmark year for its adoption across various industries. From enhancing advertising campaigns to enabling customers to try on clothes virtually, AR is transforming customer experiences. Businesses are also leveraging AR for employee training and development, offering innovative methods for enhancing workforce skills. Be prepared for a surge in AR applications that could provide a competitive edge. 4. AI and Machine Learning Drive Analytics Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning remain crucial trends for 2020, particularly in the realm of analytics. These technologies are becoming increasingly accessible for small to medium-sized businesses, allowing them to leverage vast datasets for deeper insights. AI can help organizations manage the data generated by IoT and other technologies, powering analytics that provide critical business insights. Investing in AI will enhance your ability to navigate the complexities of big data. 5. Embracing Everything as a Service (XaaS) The trend of “Everything as a Service” (XaaS) is poised to go mainstream in 2020. This model encompasses a wide range of integrated services, such as AI as a Service, Blockchain as a Service, and Analytics as a Service. The shift toward XaaS responds to the challenges of integrating hardware, software, and platforms, providing businesses with a comprehensive package to streamline operations and adopt essential technologies. 6. Increased Focus on Cybersecurity and Digital Privacy With heightened awareness around cybersecurity and digital privacy, 2020 brings renewed urgency in protecting sensitive data. As regulations like the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) continue to shape the landscape, IT leaders must prioritize effective data management and security. As the number of connected devices grows and network speeds increase, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures is essential. Customers are also becoming more discerning about their data privacy, making it crucial to stay ahead in this area. Prepare for the Future By staying informed about these technology trends, you can position your organization for success in 2020. Consider how you can incorporate AI, 5G, and other emerging technologies into your strategy to gain a competitive edge. If you’re uncertain about how to proceed with adopting these innovations, consulting with experts can help simplify the implementation process. With the right guidance, you can navigate the complexities of technology adoption and ensure a smooth transition into the digital landscape of the future. Technology budgets are set to increase again in 2020. Many IT leaders are emphasizing the adoption of new technology or increasing cybersecurity. As technology continues to improve and expand, budgets must follow suit. If you’re thinking about your own IT budget, you might wonder how you’ll spend the funds you earmark for technology. If you’re planning to increase the budget, you might be wondering what you need to invest in for 2020. These trends in technology should give you a good idea of the areas other IT leaders are betting on. You might want to consider a few of them to get a competitive edge. The Internet of Things Remains a Hot Topic There’s been plenty of talk about the Internet of Things, or IoT, in recent years. The number of devices connected to the Internet continues to grow. Some projections suggest there will be more than 20 billion devices before the end of next year. More important than the number of devices is the management of a network at this scale. As more industries adopt IoT, they need to look to the smart management of data. They’ll also need the right networking capabilities to keep everything running smoothly. You’ll also want to look out for a trend toward industry standards and best practices. IoT recommendations are scarce, which makes it difficult to create an optimized network. 5G and Wi-Fi 6 Become Reality One big investment for businesses in 2020 will be upgrading their network hardware. It’s been a while since a Wi-Fi upgrade has been introduced, but it’s high time for one. Business moves faster than ever before, so you know you need a network that can keep up. Wi-Fi 6-enabled hardware has slowly been reaching the market. Approval of the standard didn’t happen until August 2019, which slowed adoption. With the standards now in place, 2020 will be the year that it’ll hit the mainstream. These upgraded Wi-Fi networks promise faster speeds and simpler connectivity. Whether you’re uploading videos or running apps for all your customers, 5G will help you deliver. Augmented Reality Is Still One of the Top Trends
Why Your Company Needs an Electronic Document Management System
7 Reasons Your Company Should Switch to an Electronic Document Management System Have you ever frantically searched for an important contract on your computer only to find it missing? Or spent endless hours emailing documents back and forth with employees? Without an electronic document management system (EDMS), files can become nearly impossible to locate, leading to wasted time and potential security issues. Here are seven compelling reasons to implement an EDMS for your business. 1. Enhanced Flexibility for Employees In today’s work environment, employees often travel, work remotely, or use mobile devices. An EDMS provides 24/7 access to important documents from any web-enabled device. This flexibility allows your team to retrieve the necessary files without needing to return to the office or wait for someone to send them. 2. Reduced Risk of File Loss or Corruption With a cloud-based document management system, the chances of losing files due to corruption, accidental deletion, or hardware failures significantly decrease. Your documents are backed up in the cloud, allowing you to recover previous versions if necessary. If a colleague mistakenly deletes content, you can easily restore it, saving time and effort. 3. Streamlined Communication and Collaboration An EDMS centralizes all documents, making it easier for employees to communicate and collaborate. No more fumbling through email chains or hunting down files—everyone can access what they need instantly. This streamlined process enhances project efficiency and enables teams to work together on documents in real time, improving overall productivity. 4. Improved Document Security Storing files on individual computers rather than a secure centralized system increases vulnerability to cybersecurity threats. An EDMS offers strict access controls, allowing you to specify who can view or edit files. With secure cloud servers protected by firewalls and cybersecurity tools, your sensitive information remains safe from potential breaches. 5. Significant Cost Savings While there is an upfront cost to implementing an EDMS, the long-term savings can be substantial. By reducing the time spent searching for files and minimizing the risk of losing critical documents, your team can focus on core tasks, ultimately saving money. Additionally, transitioning from a paper-based system can lead to dramatic reductions in paper and storage costs. 6. Boosted Workplace Productivity An EDMS significantly enhances workplace productivity by organizing files for easy access. Employees can perform optimized searches without needing to remember file names, using keywords, tags, or metadata instead. The collaborative features of an EDMS further expedite tasks such as documentation and invoicing, allowing your team to complete projects more efficiently. 7. Easier Regulatory Compliance Maintaining compliance with regulations regarding health records, legal files, and financial data can be daunting without a centralized system. An EDMS provides the necessary controls to secure, track, and retrieve critical documents, making it easier to meet compliance requirements. Features like automated backups and version control help ensure that your business adheres to industry standards. Make the Switch to an Electronic Document Management System The benefits of adopting an electronic document management system are clear. Transitioning from a paper-based or inefficient electronic system will enhance your organization’s efficiency, security, and compliance. When considering an EDMS, evaluate features like search capabilities, security settings, mobile support, and compatibility with third-party software. If you’re ready to enhance your business operations with a cloud-based document management system, explore our managed IT services to help you make a smooth transition. Have you ever been in a rush to find an important contract on your computer that seems to have disappeared? Or perhaps you’ve had to spend a lot of time emailing documents to your employees. Without an electronic document management system, files become hard to find and can even get lost. Not only does this take up your valuable time, but it can cost your company money in terms of lost productivity. You might even face data security issues. Luckily, your company can gain many benefits if you choose to implement an electronic document management system that keeps all your documents in one place. Read on to learn seven reasons why your company should switch to this system. 1. More Flexibility for Your Employees Do you have employees who travel throughout the workday, work from home, or do work from mobile devices? If so, using enterprise document management systems gives you and your staff access to all your important documents no matter where you are. These systems provide 24/7 access from any web-enabled device your company might use. This flexibility allows your staff to grab whichever document they need without needing to travel to the office or asking someone else to email it. 2. Less Risk of File Loss or Corruption When you use a cloud-based document management system, you can worry less about losing your files due to corruption, accidental deletion, natural disasters, or computer crashes. Your files will all be backed up in the cloud where you can download them if you lose a local copy. Even better, these systems have a data backup utility that can even let you access previous versions of files if something happens. So, if another employee accidentally erases half the document’s content, you won’t have to get anybody to redo it. You can simply restore the file to an older version. 3. More Streamlined Communication Throughout the Company Having all your documents stored electronically in one system makes it much easier for your staff to communicate and collaborate. You and your employees won’t need to worry about forwarding documents anymore. Instead, you can search the system and get the document you need instantly. You can expect projects to go more smoothly since workers will waste less time handing over files and chasing each other down. Your staff will also be able to work on the same documents together and monitor changes. Even better, you can integrate your electronic document management system with third-party software your teams use. 4. Improved Document Security When you keep all your files stored on your company’s computers rather than a secure centralized place, you’re more susceptible to cybersecurity threats. If someone were to
How to Build a Cybersecurity Strategy for Your Business
How to Build a Cybersecurity Strategy for Your Business In today’s digital age, relying on technology to complete tasks is essential for most businesses. However, with that reliance comes the critical need for a robust cybersecurity strategy to protect your valuable information. Cyber threats come in many forms, and the right strategy will prepare your organization for whatever cybercriminals might attempt. Here’s a comprehensive guide to building an effective cybersecurity strategy for your business. 1. Understand Threats To develop a solid cybersecurity strategy, you must first be aware of the various threats that exist in the digital landscape: Malware: This malicious software is designed to damage or disrupt systems, networks, and devices. It includes viruses and ransomware, which can lock you out of your own systems until a ransom is paid. Phishing: Cybercriminals use phishing emails to trick users into providing sensitive information. These emails often appear legitimate and urge recipients to click on harmful links or attachments. Understanding these threats will help you create a more effective defense against them. 2. Determine Risks Assessing your company’s vulnerabilities is crucial for developing effective cybersecurity measures. Conduct regular security assessments to identify potential risks and evaluate your system’s performance against cyber threats. Vulnerability Scanning: Implement routine vulnerability scans to identify weak points in your system. Regular checks will ensure that potential threats are discovered and addressed promptly. Risk Assessments: Use assessments to prioritize security needs, addressing the most critical issues first to strengthen your defenses. 3. Use Experts Your cybersecurity strategy’s effectiveness relies heavily on the expertise of your team. Consider the following options to enhance your cybersecurity measures: Hire Professionals: Recruit individuals with proven experience in IT management and cybersecurity. Their expertise will be invaluable in safeguarding your business. Train Current Employees: Invest in training your existing staff to recognize and mitigate cybersecurity threats, such as suspicious emails and links. Outsource Experts: If hiring in-house isn’t feasible, consider outsourcing to cybersecurity firms. This can provide you with the expertise you need while saving on potential repair costs associated with cyber incidents. 4. Apply Regular Maintenance Consistent maintenance of your cybersecurity systems is essential. Here are some key practices: Software Updates: Ensure that your antivirus and antispyware software is regularly updated. Consider vendors that provide automatic updates to minimize the risk of forgetting. Strong Passwords: Use complex passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Implement unique passwords for different accounts to limit unauthorized access. Network Security: Secure your internet connection by hiding and encrypting your network. Ensure that your Wi-Fi routers are properly configured to protect against unauthorized access. 5. Constant Training Keeping your team informed about potential threats is crucial for maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture: Regular Training Sessions: Conduct ongoing training to keep employees updated on the latest cybersecurity risks and best practices. Virtual Meetings: Utilize video calls for remote employees to ensure everyone is informed and engaged in cybersecurity discussions. Industry Events: Encourage your team to participate in cybersecurity training events, either in-person or virtually, to gain new insights and skills. 6. Preserve and Back Up Data Backing up data is a critical component of your cybersecurity strategy. Here’s how to ensure data safety: Automated Backups: Set up automatic backups for all essential documents and files, including financial and HR data. Access Control: Implement user accounts for employees and restrict access to sensitive information. Only trusted personnel should have access to critical systems. Secure Payment Systems: Work with banks and payment processors that provide robust validation and anti-fraud tools. Thoroughly review payment systems before implementation to ensure they meet security standards. Our Take on Your Cybersecurity Strategy Developing an effective cybersecurity strategy involves understanding potential threats and assessing your current capabilities. By regularly evaluating your systems and training your team, you can maintain a secure environment. Consider how external expertise can enhance your security measures and help your business remain resilient against cyber threats. With the right strategy in place, you can protect your company’s assets and ensure steady progress toward your business goals. For more technology insights, explore our guides today to keep your business and customers safe. Contact Us Today! Does your business rely on digital technology in order to accomplish tasks? Are you in the process of developing a cybersecurity strategy for keeping your information secure? If not, then you should start developing a cybersecurity strategy as soon as possible. Threats to your data come in different shapes and sizes. The right strategy will be ready for whatever cybercriminals have up their sleeves. With our knowledge of technology, you will be able to keep your information safe and your company on track with your goals. This guide aims to show you how to build a cybersecurity strategy for your business. 1. Understand Threats To understand the basics of cybersecurity, you need to be aware of the different dangerous elements of the digital world. One of them is malware (malicious software), which is specifically designed to cause harm to computers, networks, and the people who use them. Malware can come with extra issues, including viruses. These threats can spread from one device to another, especially connected ones. Another one is ransomware, which criminals use to infect and restrict access to gadgets to get paid a ransom. Digital infections can also come in the form of phishing, which collects information by sneaking into your emails. Phishing emails can appear legitimate and often encourage recipients to click on links or attachments to get data. 2. Determine Risks Your ability to develop cybersecurity methods will depend on how aware you are of your company’s risk of encountering cyber attacks. That’s why we recommend holding assessments to maintain or improve your security. Whatever service you use to ensure cybersecurity should come with a planning tool. This will help you create a to-do list for addressing issues. You can also determine which needs are more important and address them first. Your assessments can also come in the form of reviews that show your system’s performance in
8 Powerful Benefits of VoIP for Small Businesses
The Benefits of VoIP for Small Businesses With over three billion mobile VoIP users projected by 2021, it’s clear that Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has become a favored communication solution for businesses. If you’re considering switching to VoIP, understanding its benefits is crucial. Here are several compelling reasons to embrace this technology for your small business. 1. Cost-Effective Solution One of the standout benefits of VoIP is its cost savings. With VoIP, you can significantly reduce long-distance charges, eliminate the need for expensive hardware, and minimize maintenance costs. Since all voice traffic is integrated into a single network, the initial setup expense is often offset by long-term savings, allowing you to maximize the value of your existing internet connection. 2. Portability VoIP offers unparalleled convenience, enabling you to make calls from anywhere with an internet connection. Whether you’re at the office, traveling, or working from home, you can easily log into your VoIP system and access your services. Just bring along your headset or IP phone, and you’re ready to connect with clients or colleagues without incurring hefty call costs. 3. Multi-Functionality Modern VoIP systems go beyond voice calls. They encompass a range of communication features, including faxing, voicemail delivered via email, video conferencing, teleconferencing, presence information, and instant messaging. This versatility allows your employees to collaborate effectively, no matter where they are, ensuring continuous communication. 4. Increased Flexibility VoIP allows for seamless integration with software applications like remote conferencing, e-fax, and email. This means you can multitask efficiently, accessing other applications while on a call. Many VoIP services also offer mobile apps, enabling you to take your communication tools with you and ensuring you never miss an important call. 5. Enhanced Security VoIP systems often provide superior security features compared to traditional analog phone lines. With built-in encryption protocols, your data and calls are protected from potential threats, helping to ensure the confidentiality of your business communications. 6. Increased Productivity VoIP can significantly enhance productivity by reducing “phone tag,” where two parties struggle to connect. By configuring your VoIP settings to ring multiple devices simultaneously, you minimize missed calls and ensure efficient communication, which can lead to improved sales and customer satisfaction. 7. Automated Assistance VoIP systems often come with automated assistance features, allowing businesses to address common customer inquiries outside regular hours. This functionality can enhance customer service and ensure that important announcements reach callers without requiring constant human oversight. 8. Call Recording Another valuable feature of VoIP is the ability to record calls. This allows you to revisit important conversations and ensure that no crucial information is overlooked. Additionally, analyzing call logs can provide insights into call patterns, helping you better understand customer behavior and improve your service. Benefits of VoIP: The Bottom Line Transitioning to VoIP offers numerous advantages for small businesses, from cost savings and flexibility to enhanced security and productivity. If you’re ready to explore how VoIP can transform your communication strategy, our team is here to assist you. We can provide expert guidance to ensure you enjoy all the benefits of VoIP and more. Don’t wait—contact us today to learn more about our VoIP services and how they can help your business thrive! By 2021 it’s estimated there will be over three billion mobile VoIP users. There has to be more than a few reasons this service is so popular, right? The fact is, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) for small businesses has become extremely popular in recent years, and if you are considering making a change, you may want to know some specific benefits it offers. If that’s the case, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to learn about some specific benefits of VoIP for your small business here. 1. It’s a Cost-Effective Solution One of the main benefits offered by VoIP is how much money you might save. With this service in use, you don’t have to worry about high long-distance charges, purchasing expensive equipment, or maintenance. All voice traffic is integrated into a single network. While having the service setup initially may seem expensive, in the long run, you can save a lot by making the switch. It also helps you get more value from the internet connection you are already paying for. 2. Portability The comfort and convenience offered by a VoIP phone system is something you can benefit from around the globe. With any broadband connection, you can log in to your VoIP telephone and get a dial tone immediately. This is true, regardless of where you are. As long as you have internet access, there won’t be any problems regarding connecting to the service. Also, you can access a VoIP system via email and when you are traveling. You just need to take your headset or your IP phone, and you can contact clients, staff, or others with a low call cost. 3. Multi-Functionality There is much more to VoIP service than just making and receiving calls. Today’s VoIP systems use other communication services, such as faxes and voicemail delivered via email, video conferencing services, teleconferencing, presence information and instant messaging. The multiple features offered by VoIP, including video conferencing, allow you to stay in contact with employees to talk about important issues. This is true regardless of where they are currently located. Thanks to this modern method of communication, your employees don’t even have to be physically present in the office. In fact, you can remain connected while individuals are working from home or in another location around the world. When you use a quality VoIP service, you can have your faxes and voicemails forwarded directly to your email. With this system, you can receive all your messages in a single location – your email. It also lets you forward or archive your messages. 4. Increased Flexibility When you use VoIP, you can easily and quickly integrate software programs, such as remote conferencing, e-fax, and email through the internet all via your phone. With these features, you can easily multi-task, having the ability
7 Ways to Guard Your Computer Against Malware
7 Essential Ways to Practice Good Malware Prevention An alarming number of companies underestimate the importance of malware prevention. Nearly two-thirds of small businesses that experience a successful cyberattack close within six months. Without proper steps to protect your company’s data, you risk falling victim to a similar fate. Cybercriminals exploit our lack of awareness about digital security, finding vulnerabilities in systems to exploit. To help safeguard your office network from data breaches, here are seven essential practices for effective malware prevention. What Is Malware? “Malware” is a blend of “malicious” and “software.” It refers to programs created by cybercriminals to infiltrate your systems. The primary aim of malware is to gain access to your network to steal sensitive data, which can then be used for blackmail, fraud, or sold on the dark web. Types of malware include: Viruses Trojans Spyware Worms Cybercriminals also employ social engineering, tricking you into revealing personal information without hacking into your system directly. This could involve creating fake login sites to harvest credentials. 1. Install an Antivirus Program Antivirus software is your first line of defense against viruses and other malware. Many modern antivirus programs include real-time checks for links and attachments you click. Run a full scan after installation to detect any existing malware that may have slipped through unnoticed. 2. Install a Firewall A firewall filters incoming and outgoing traffic to your network. Without it, your computers are left exposed to attacks. While firewalls may sometimes flag legitimate traffic as suspicious, it’s crucial never to disable your firewall, even temporarily, as this can create opportunities for malware infiltration. 3. Create Strong Passwords Weak passwords are a prime target for cybercriminals, who often use brute-force attacks to guess them. To strengthen your defenses: Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words or personal information. Employ unique passwords for different accounts. Consider using a password manager to help keep track of multiple complex passwords, ensuring you have just one master password to remember. 4. Keep Your Software Updated Staying current with software updates is vital. Developers routinely release patches to fix vulnerabilities, which hackers may exploit. Don’t ignore update prompts; delaying updates can increase your risk of a successful cyberattack. 5. Don’t Click on Links in Emails Many cyberattacks start with deceptive emails. Even legitimate-looking messages can contain harmful links or attachments. When in doubt, type the website address directly into your browser or verify the sender’s intentions through another communication channel before clicking on anything. 6. Use a Pop-Up Blocker Malicious pop-ups can automatically install malware on your device. A good pop-up blocker helps prevent these threats by blocking unwanted pop-ups while still allowing you to access necessary ones on trusted websites. 7. Work with a Cybersecurity Company Partnering with a cybersecurity firm can add multiple layers of protection to your network. While the above tips are useful, specialized companies can ensure robust defenses against data breaches. They can also help back up your data and implement policies to comply with relevant laws and regulations. Keep Your Network Safe with Malware Prevention By following these malware prevention practices, you can significantly reduce your company’s risk of a cyberattack. Educating employees on cybersecurity is crucial, as even one vulnerable individual can compromise your entire network. If you need assistance managing your office technology or require cybersecurity services, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today! Your business’s security is paramount, and we’re here to help you safeguard it. An alarming number of companies underestimate the importance of malware prevention. Almost two-thirds of small businesses end up closing shop within half a year of a successful cyber attack. If you don’t take the proper steps to protect your company’s data, then you can fall victim to a similar fate. Because most of us don’t think twice about digital security, cybercriminals take advantage of this and find vulnerabilities in our systems to exploit. To fight against this, here are 7 ways to practice good malware prevention so your office network stays free of data breaches. What Is Malware? “Malware” is a portmanteau of the words “malicious” and “software.” It is a type of program designed by cyber criminals who wish to infiltrate your system. Most of the time, the purpose of malware is to gain access to your network so they can get sensitive or compromising data. They can then either blackmail you with the information, sell it, or perform fraud. Types of malware include viruses, Trojans, spyware, and worms. There’s also something called social engineering where criminals don’t hack into your system. Instead, they trick you into revealing your private information by doing something like creating a fake login site. This is an example of the message you might get when your system is compromised with ransomware. 1. Install an Antivirus Program As the name suggests, this program will keep your computer safe from viruses. Many of today’s antivirus software come with additional features, such as real-time checks of links and attachments you click on. As part of your malware prevention routine, you should run a full computer scan as soon as you install your antivirus program. You may have downloaded some malware previously and aren’t aware of it. Any decent antivirus software should be able to find malware and remove it from your computer. 2. Install a Firewall A firewall is what filters traffic that goes in and out of your network. Without a firewall, you leave all the computers on your network completely vulnerable to attacks. Firewalls can come up with false positives sometimes, so it may be tempting to temporarily deactivate it so you can access legitimate websites. But never turn your firewall off; doing so for even a few minutes can be all it takes for malware to make its way onto your computer. 3. Create Strong Passwords Cybercriminals will do brute force attacks where they’ll continuously guess your password, usually through the use of a bot. This means that if you use
9 Benefits of Using Managed IT Services for Your Business
The Benefits of Using Managed IT Services Only about 30% of organizations currently use managed IT services, yet those that do cut their IT costs by approximately 40% and double their overall operational efficiency. If you’re considering professional IT management services but aren’t entirely convinced it’s right for your company, you’re in the right place. Here are some compelling benefits of using managed IT services: 1. Control Your Business’s IT Costs Outsourcing your IT services converts fixed IT costs into variable costs, allowing for better budget planning. You only pay for the services you use, enabling you to significantly reduce costs by adjusting the services as needed. 2. Free Up Your IT Staff for Other Tasks Most IT teams are stretched thin. By outsourcing backend functions or complex technologies, your in-house staff can focus on projects that align with core business objectives and drive innovation. 3. Effective Disaster Recovery Solutions Managed service providers (MSPs) typically offer comprehensive business continuity and disaster recovery solutions. This guarantees that your business can recover quickly after a disaster, protecting you from potential shutdowns due to data loss. 4. Keep Up with New IT Demands Many organizations struggle to fill IT positions, especially in mobile app development and cybersecurity. Outsourcing these services to a managed service partner allows you to access specialized engineers and skilled professionals in emerging technologies, alleviating staffing pressures. 5. Improved Vendor Management With the right MSP, you gain a single point of contact for vendor management. They will handle any issues that arise, ensuring prompt resolutions. This simplifies vendor coordination and relieves your employees from the complexities of managing multiple vendors. 6. Scalability As technology evolves, businesses must be able to scale resources up or down based on demand. MSPs provide the necessary services and support to handle emerging IT issues and growth spurts, maintaining productivity and system availability while minimizing downtime. 7. 24/7 Availability The traditional nine-to-five workday is becoming obsolete. With a managed services provider, you’ll have support available around the clock, ensuring your network operates smoothly and maximizing productivity, regardless of the time. 8. Shift the Burden of Compliance Many organizations must comply with various regulations, such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act or the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. An experienced MSP understands these requirements and can ensure your business meets all obligations, allowing your staff to focus on core activities without compliance worries. 9. Improved Flexibility An MSP provides access to new technologies, enhancing flexibility for organizations of all sizes. This adaptability helps businesses respond to changing needs and leverage innovations more effectively. Choosing the Right IT Management Services While managed IT services offer numerous advantages, selecting the right provider is crucial. Look for a company that aligns with your business needs and offers tailored solutions. If you’re searching for a reliable managed service provider, contact us today. Our team of industry professionals is ready to provide the services you need at a price you can afford. Whether you require assistance with technology management or cybersecurity services, we’re here to help! You need to be familiar with the benefits of using Managed IT Services: Only about 30 percent of organizations are currently using managed IT services. While this is true, the companies utilizing these services cut their IT costs by approximately 40 percent. They have also doubled their overall operational efficiency. If you are thinking about using professional IT management services, but aren’t entirely convinced it’s right for your company, you are in the right place. Keep reading to learn about the most appealing benefits offered by these services here. 1. Control Your Business’s IT Costs When you outsource your IT services, it converts fixed IT costs into variable costs. This helps you plan your budget. This means you only have to pay for the services you use. This means you can significantly cut your IT costs just by reducing the services you need. 2. Free Up Your IT Staff for Other Tasks The majority of IT staffs are stretched extremely thin. By outsourcing your backend functions or your complex and quickly evolving technologies, your in-house team is freed up to handle projects that can further core objectives while promoting innovation. 3. Effective Disaster Recovery Solutions The majority of managed service providers offer a full array of business continuity and disaster recovery solutions. This provides your business with a guarantee that your business can get back on its feet even after a disaster occurs. Do you know what may happen if you don’t have a disaster recovery plan in place? You may wind up having to close your business altogether. With managed service providers, this is a situation you can avoid. 4. Keep Up with the New Demands Related to IT Expertise There are organizations and businesses all around the world that struggle to fill IT positions. This is especially the case in the realms of mobile app development and cybersecurity. By outsourcing these services and functions to a managed service partner who has specialized engineers and technically skilled individuals in emerging technologies helps to alleviate this pressure. 5. Improved Vendor Management With the right managed services provider, you have someone to interface with vendors on behalf of your business. They can ensure that any issues your business encounters are resolved promptly. The MSP is going to take on the role as the primary point of contact for third parties, escalate any problems to the proper vendor, and track the progress until a resolution is reached. The fact is, vendor coordination is complicated. Employees who don’t have much experience working with all types of vendors are often caught unprepared or easily overwhelmed. By outsourcing vendor management to your MSP, you can remove the pain of having to work with several vendors, and have a single, trusted partner to coordinate everything for you. Also, this individual can streamline your operations and help to avoid burdening employees with tasks that should be handled by the experts. 6. Scalability With the rate of technological advancements available today and the
What Is Secure Printing? 5 Essential Tips to Stay Safe
A Guide to Privacy Using Secure Print Only 44% of IT professionals believe their companies are adequately addressing printer security. Unfortunately, many organizations still fail to recognize network printers as a significant security threat. Today’s printers are sophisticated devices, akin to computers and smartphones, equipped with hard drives and network connections, making them an easy entry point for cybercriminals. To prioritize your company’s printing security, consider these five essential tips for implementing secure print solutions. 1. Manage Users Effectively The cornerstone of print security lies in effectively managing your employees. Over 90% of data breaches stem from human error, making your staff a major security risk. Often, employees unknowingly compromise security by leaving sensitive documents unattended on printers. To mitigate this risk: Train and Educate: Provide training on secure printing procedures and the risks involved. Control Access: Limit printer access by creating user accounts with specific printing privileges. Ensure that only authorized personnel can print confidential documents. 2. Invest in Your Hardware The security of your printers is paramount. Here’s how to enhance printer security: Know Your Devices: Track the origin and security features of each printer, especially if you’re using rental equipment. Implement Firewalls: Use firewalls to restrict printer access to trusted IP addresses and set strong passwords for network access. Memory Management: Regularly erase confidential documents stored in the printer’s memory. Upgrade to printers that offer built-in security features if necessary. Strategic Placement: Position printers in visible areas to monitor usage easily. 3. Use the Right Software Tools Investing in the right software tools can provide a cost-effective solution for secure printing, especially in larger organizations. Secure print software can: Hold Print Jobs: Place print jobs in a holding queue until a PIN or access code is entered at the printer, ensuring that users are present to collect their documents. Reduce Waste: By preventing unclaimed print jobs, you can also minimize paper waste. 4. Check Your Security Regularly assessing and updating your printer security is crucial: Vulnerability Assessments: Just as you track the security of your other devices, conduct vulnerability assessments for your printers. Software Updates: Keep printer software up to date to patch vulnerabilities and improve security. Integrate Security Protocols: Include printers in your overall security protocols to strengthen access points. 5. Get Help with Secure Print Solutions Cybersecurity is a growing field, and many IT departments struggle to keep up with evolving threats. If printers are often overlooked in your security strategy, consider partnering with a third-party provider who specializes in secure print solutions. They can: Identify Security Features: Help you select the right security features and software. Integrate Securely: Assist in securely integrating printers into your network. Monitor and Patch: Provide ongoing support for monitoring and patching vulnerabilities. Better Security Today Implementing secure print solutions is crucial for protecting your business’s sensitive information. By following these tips, you can significantly enhance your printing security. If you’re looking to improve your overall business security, get in touch with us. Our experts can help you design a comprehensive security solution tailored to your needs. A guide to privacy using secure print. Just 44 percent of IT professionals feel their companies take steps to address printer security. The fact of the matter is that most people don’t recognize network printers as a security threat. This may have been true in the past, but today’s printers are an easy entry point for cybercriminals. They have hard drives and network connections. Printers are more like computers and smartphones than ever. That’s why more IT leaders and business owners need to make secure print solutions a top priority. With this guide to privacy using secure print- five essential tips in hand, you can put printing security at the top of the queue for your company. 1. Manage Users Effectively The most important part of your print security efforts is managing your employees. Over 90 percent of breaches are the result of human error. Your employees represent a major security threat. Most of your employees aren’t trying to cause a breach. In the case of printing, they might print a copy of a confidential document, then leave it sitting on the printer. In some cases, you may want to give an employee or a department access to a private printer. This way, you can be sure files remain confidential when HR needs to print documents. Even with a private printer, there’s the issue of printer memory storage. Confidential documents might be stored in the printer’s memory. Without the right security in place, these documents could then be accessed. There are several steps you can take to make sure your employees are printing in a secure way. The first is to train and educate them. Show them the procedures they should follow when they need to print a document. Education also helps them understand the risks that printing presents. When they understand why printer security matters, they’ll be more likely to practice it. You should also manage who has access to the printer. You can create accounts with certain printing privileges. Employees who need to print confidential documents will need clearance to do so. 2. Invest in Your Hardware Another factor to consider in secure printing is the printer itself. You should know where each device on your network came from. This is especially important if you have rental equipment. Take stock of the security features your printer has. Most of today’s models come with security features designed to protect your network. You should install a firewall that will only let trusted IPs connect to your printers. You can also set a password on network access. This limits the devices that can connect to the printer. Also, limit printing to your local network. As noted, another potential risk is documents stored in the printer’s memory. Most printers have security settings that let you erase confidential documents from the printer’s memory. If your printers don’t have these security features, it might be time to upgrade. Finally, don’t forget about the placement of the
Why Customer Data Privacy Is Important
Understanding Data Privacy and Its Importance Data breaches have dominated headlines in recent years, with the recent Equifax Data Breach Settlement reigniting public focus on the necessity of data privacy. It’s not just large corporations that should be concerned; in fact, 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses, and 60% of those businesses fail within six months following an attack. But what exactly is data privacy? In this article, we’ll explore this emerging tech trend and explain its significance. What Is Data Privacy? (And Why Is It Important?) Data privacy involves ensuring that sensitive information is handled according to its level of importance. For instance, while sharing your name typically poses little risk, providing details required to open a bank account is far more sensitive, and that information must be safeguarded. As our lives become increasingly intertwined with the internet, data privacy is gaining importance. The rise in high-profile data breaches has led to increased federal regulations surrounding data privacy and security. In response to these breaches, several legal frameworks have emerged, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA), both granting consumers rights to access and request deletion of their data. Additionally, individual states have implemented their own rules and regulations regarding data privacy. Consequently, companies often develop their own policies to address these concerns, making the discussion around “What is data privacy?” complex yet essential in our digital economy. Why Data Privacy Is Important We generate a staggering amount of data daily—approximately 2.5 quintillion bytes on the internet. This volume will only increase as connectivity and smart objects, like the Internet of Things (IoT), continue to rise. Given the sheer amount of data produced, it’s crucial to implement measures to secure sensitive information. Data Privacy Limits Power As the saying goes, knowledge is power. The more someone knows about you, the more influence they can wield over your life. Data privacy helps restrict unauthorized access to your personal information. The unethical use of personal data isn’t limited to cybercriminals; consider companies that sell your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes. Furthermore, data privacy has political implications, as demonstrated by the Cambridge Analytica data breach. It ensures that only authorized parties can access consumers’ personal data. Data Privacy Is About Respect We live in a customer-centric era where brand loyalty and word-of-mouth recommendations are paramount to a company’s success. Data privacy safeguards how a consumer’s data is used, fostering trust in your business. This trust translates into increased brand loyalty and the likelihood of positive recommendations. Data Privacy Protects Consumers In response to widespread data breaches, governments are tightening regulations around data privacy. Business owners must enhance their data security to comply with these regulations, as failing to do so can result in penalties. This shift benefits consumers, as many organizations previously had lax data security measures. In Q2 2018 alone, there were nearly 963 million blocked digital attacks from 187 different countries. Each of these breaches could have had severe repercussions for consumers without the necessary security measures in place. Data Privacy Preserves Brand Value According to research, 46% of companies suffer damage to their reputation and brand loyalty following a digital breach. Companies that actively demonstrate their commitment to protecting customer data foster positive perceptions among consumers. Data Privacy Strengthens and Grows Businesses A significant majority of Americans—93%—believe it’s crucial to control who collects their information. Furthermore, 90% feel it’s essential to manage what data is collected. Companies that prioritize data privacy will gain an edge over competitors, as customers reward them with trust and loyalty. It’s the Right Thing to Do Most organizations adhere to some form of ethical guidelines. Even if there’s no formal statement, there’s often an implicit commitment to ethical practices. Ensuring data is used solely for its intended purpose is fundamental to ethical business practices. Selling personal data to third parties is a clear breach of trust that can alienate customers. Negative press and reviews can quickly escalate, causing significant harm to a business’s reputation. Implementing data privacy practices now can help prevent potential infractions rather than attempting to mitigate the damage later. Are You Looking For Data Security? Whether you’re interested in understanding “What is data privacy?” or seeking managed IT services, we have the solutions to ensure your office is current and secure! Contact us today with any questions or to schedule a consultation! Data breaches have been dominating headlines in recent years. The recent Equifax Data Breach Settlement returned that scandal to public focus, reminding people of the necessity for data privacy. Data privacy isn’t just something that big businesses need to worry about, either. 43% of cyber attacks are targeted at small businesses. 60% of those small businesses will go out of business in the six months following a cyber attack. But what is data privacy? We’re going to delve into this emerging tech trend and help you understand why it’s important. What Is Data Privacy? (And Why Is It Important?) Data privacy is the act of ensuring how sensitive information should be handled, depending on its importance. One example would be someone’s name. You don’t think much about giving out your name, as there’s not much risk associated with. Think about opening up a new bank account, however. The additional information after your name is going to be more sensitive. You need to make sure that information is secure. Data privacy is becoming increasingly important as the internet continues to become more intertwined with our daily lives. With the rise in high profile data breaches in recent years, we’re seeing increasing federal regulation around data privacy and data security. Several legal actions and rulings have emerged in the wake of these data breaches. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA) both offer consumers the right to see the data that’s been collected about them. They can also request the deletion of certain sensitive data. Certain states
