Data Security Methods

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The internet is a commodity with several different ways of accessing it — but be careful. Although the internet is easy to access, one may be exposing personal information in ways that compromise data security.

Some of the most common ways that people can access the internet are through cellular technology, WiFi, and dial-up. However, dial-up internet users are dwindling. With the threat of cybercrime on the rise, these avenues through which the internet is accessed should be evaluated periodically for security holes by which criminals attempt to take advantage of the privacy of internet users. Evaluating data encryption (security) options and determining a budget for it can be daunting. Consider the scheme below to exemplify this point.

Password

Accessing the internet through WiFi can be done in one of two basic ways with regard to security. One way is if the WiFi network being used requires a password to access it. This password implies that data on the WiFi network is encrypted. Therefore protected from prying eyes, for the most part. However, once the data leaves that network and goes out to the internet, it can be open for anybody to see depending on the website being accessed — websites using addresses with the prefix ‘https‘ are safe to use (the ‘s‘ must be there). 

No Password

The second way of accessing the internet through a WiFi network is if no password is used. Data therein will be open for everyone to see all the way through to the destination. However, if the websites accessed use the ‘HTTPS in the prefix of the website address, the data will be protected all the way through. Regardless of whether a password is required to access the WiFi network.  

The above is simply stated regarding the security of WiFi data transfer. Even within this simple description, one can see that protecting computer data over a network and the internet can be complicated. Different networks used to access the internet, other than WiFi, can require different types of encryption protocols. This depends on what the needs of a user or business are.  It might be best to acquire the services of professionals to assist in the process. 

Please contact us for assistance in determining appropriate data security and transfer methods.

Five Essential Computer Maintenance Tips

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Computer Maintenance

Performing computer maintenance on your devices is a matter of both convenience and savings.

With proper maintenance, you’ll experience less downtime and fewer unexpected malfunctions, helping you work with greater efficiency and productivity. You’ll also save on the costs of major repairs or device replacement.

The following computer maintenance tips will help you prolong the life of any device:

  1. Clean it, and treat it gently. The chances that a device will break down increase if it’s kept in hot, humid, or dusty conditions, banged against hard surfaces, or covered in food particles or spilled liquids. Regularly clean your device, eat or drink next to it with caution, and handle it with care.
  2. Take care with what you install on it. For instance, if you’re downloading a file or an app, make sure it comes from a legitimate source, it’s compatible with your device, and it’s free of malware.
  3. Investigate suboptimal performance. Sometimes, a computing device may perform poorly because you’re taxing its resources. For example, a computer with relatively low RAM (the memory called on when you’re using various programs) will struggle more with software involving videos or graphics. However, always check the reasons for slow performance or other problems, such as a program crashing repeatedly. You may have to perform some sort of disk repair, or perhaps it’s a sign that your device is harboring a virus.
  4. Keep your device updated. Updated versions of software include fixes for previous problems, such as security holes that hackers can readily exploit. A device operating with outdated software is much more likely to get compromised by a cyber attack. (One example comes from the healthcare industry, where outdated technology is one of the major cybersecurity vulnerabilities.)
  5. Use a surge protector. If your device is plugged in during a storm, a surge protector can help defend it against a sudden sharp increase in power flowing through your electrical lines. Power surges can wreak havoc with hardware.

For additional computer maintenance advice, please contact us. We can help you maintain your devices by keeping them in good condition and detecting and resolving problems before they have a chance to become emergencies.

Four Major Benefits of an MSP

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When so many of your business operations depend on computers and digital communications, high-quality IT services are essential for your company’s success. Hiring a managed service provider (MSP) to oversee critical IT functions can help your company grow and thrive.

What are Some of the Key Benefits of an MSP?

The services an MSP provides are flexible and can change with your business’s evolving needs.

Sometimes, MSPs serve as a well-run, outsourced IT department, managing a wide variety of IT functions and precluding your need to hire in-house IT staff. On other occasions, MSPs manage a smaller set of IT tasks or are hired for specific projects. If you already have in-house IT personnel, the MSP may work as their partners and share responsibilities with them.

They enhance your abilities to handle complex IT issues.

MSPs bring their support and expertise to bear on a range of areas, including cyber security, cloud computing, communications (e.g. email and VoIP), vendor management, network maintenance and monitoring, and data backups and restoration. Their round-the-clock management and support give you reliability of service, improved productivity, compliance with regulations, and stronger security.

They can provide you with a more proactive approach to IT services.

Rather than merely reacting to IT emergencies, your MSP works to anticipate and act on problematic issues before they develop into disasters. MSPs can also help you with IT planning, guiding you in IT-related decisions that best serve your company’s short-term and long-term needs.

They save you on various expenses.

When working with MSPs, you pay only for the services that you need, and often you can sign up for deals that include a bundle of essential services. Furthermore, with the reliable support and management you receive from MSPs, you minimize costly downtime and reduce the chances of suffering devastating IT disasters. By taking over different IT functions, MSPs also free up more of your time, so that you can focus on growing your business.

Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information about our managed services. Working with an MSP will give you reliable, high-quality IT services tailored to your business needs.