The Internet of Things (IoT) is expanding rapidly, with more devices connecting to the internet every day. However, this growth also brings new security risks. Let's explore some ways to keep your IoT devices secure.
A strong business network is essential for smooth operations—it’s the digital lifeline that facilitates everything from email to vital applications and cloud services. When disruptions occur, the impact can be severe: communication stops, productivity falters, and customers may be left in the lurch, leading to lost revenue. This is the harsh reality of network downtime.**
When outages strike, quick identification of the issue is crucial. Understanding the problem can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. Let’s explore six practical tips to help troubleshoot common network challenges for small businesses.**
In today's interconnected world, the software your small business relies on is part of a larger network, whether it's installed locally or used in the cloud. Protecting the entire process that creates and delivers your software is crucial. From the tools developers use to the way updates reach your computer, every step matters. A breach or vulnerability in any part of this chain can have severe consequences.
A recent example is the global IT outage that happened last July, which affected airlines, banks, and many other businesses. The culprit was an update gone wrong from a software supplier called CrowdStrike, a key link in many software supply chains.
Microsoft 365 is a powerful suite of tools that enhances productivity and collaboration, especially for small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs). However, to fully leverage its capabilities, it's crucial to optimize its settings. Otherwise, you might only be using a fraction of its potential.
Are you ready to get more from your Microsoft 365 business subscription? This guide will walk you through essential settings to maximize your use of Microsoft 365.
Has your small business's software system gone from sleek and nimble to a tangled web of shortcuts, patches, and workarounds? Welcome to the world of technical debt. It's a silent saboteur that builds up over time, threatening your efficiency.
What is Technical Debt?
As technology continues to evolve, so do the options available for design tools. Microsoft, a pioneering company in the realm of business applications, has expanded its offerings significantly. Initially starting with just seven apps, Microsoft 365 now provides users access to over 20 different tools and features.
One of the noteworthy additions to this suite is Microsoft Designer, a user-friendly design tool that has captured the attention of designers, professionals, and even small business owners. Whether you're a seasoned graphic artist, a marketer, or simply someone looking to create a humorous meme, Microsoft Designer has something to offer.
For small businesses, moving can be a tumultuous and stressful experience, especially when it involves handling valuable technology. Whether you're relocating your home office or office space, it's crucial to take extra precautions when packing and moving your devices and other tech items.
To help you navigate this process smoothly, we've compiled a practical checklist to ensure your technology remains safe and secure during the move.
No business wants to suffer a data breach. But unfortunately, in today’s environment, it’s difficult to completely avoid them. Approximately 83% of organizations have experienced more than one data breach. (IBM Security 2022 Cost of a Data Breach Report) These breaches hurt businesses in many ways. First, there is the immediate cost of remediating the breach. Then, there are the lost productivity costs. You can add lost business on top of that, and lost customer trust. A business could also have extensive legal costs associated with a breach. |
Microsoft released the Windows 11 operating system (OS) over a year ago. It was largely well-received as stable and user-friendly. The OS is not a large departure from the Windows 10 experience. But it does offer a lot of enhancements over the older environment. Yet with several improvements and a free upgrade for Windows 10 users, it still lags in adoption. As of November 2022, Windows 10 still owns the lion’s share of Windows PCs. It has a 69.75 percent usage share as compared to 16.13 percent for Windows 11. |
One constant struggle in offices is the balance between productivity and security. If you give users too much freedom in your network, risk increases. But add too many security gates, and productivity can dwindle. It’s a fine balance between the two, but one you can achieve. Organizations need to recognize the importance of both. And not sacrifice one for another. |
Few things invoke instant panic like a missing smartphone or laptop. These devices hold a good part of our lives. This includes files, personal financials, apps, passwords, pictures, videos, and so much more. The information they hold is more personal than even that which is in your wallet. It's because of all your digital footprints. This makes a lost or stolen device a cause for alarm. |
Your data is pivotal to running a successful company. If you don’t have proper security measures in place, hackers can easily steal your data and take you out of business. Cybercriminals might be the biggest threat facing your company. Besides gaining access to your money and accounts, they can also take over critical software, preventing you from collaborating with clients. |
Is your team also using their Android mobile devices to do their tasks? Incorporating an Android suite of apps into your workplace can dramatically improve productivity. Many organizations opt for Android to take their office productivity to the next level. After all, they can provide higher flexibility, better workflows, and efficient communication. |
Microsoft Word is an indispensable part of most business environments. It has numerous features that can help you boost productivity. Microsoft Word is one of the most popular office programs in the world. It allows millions of people to complete their duties more efficiently. |
Public networks expose your business to security threats. Switching to a VPN can greatly help in reducing those threats. Many companies rely on public networks for communication and data sharing. It allows them to cut costs and allocate their funds elsewhere. |
There are numerous suites of apps that can improve your productivity. One of them is Office 365, which features an array of underappreciated tools. Office 365 has helped millions of organizations streamline their operations. One of the most famous examples involves Kohler, the manufacturer of kitchen and bath fixtures and plumbing. |
Increasing productivity in your business doesn’t just entail optimizing your equipment and sharpening your attention. Decluttering your computer desktop is also essential. A clutter-free office is paramount to improving your productivity. Piles of stationery on your desk can cause you to waste a lot of time searching for a critical document. As a result, you’re less likely to meet deadlines. |
Cybersecurity continues to be in the news, with a wide range of actors in the space. Some are malicious entities that aim to steal data or simply stop businesses from operating. Others work to prevent those malicious entities from doing so. As a small business, you need endpoint security to ensure that you are safe and that you can keep doing business as normal.
What Exactly Is Endpoint Security?
Simply put, endpoint security is the practice of securing end-user devices. These can be desktops, mobile devices, laptops, and smart devices. Anything that is connected to your network can be a point of attack, including wireless cameras, smart fridges, and even smart thermostats.
Windows 10 allows you to choose from a plethora of options and customizations. Microsoft has done a great job with that. Although most small businesses tend to keep the default settings in place, some users like to change the way the interface looks and customize it to their liking.
One of the popular customizations in Windows 10 is the ability to change the size of the icons. Depending on the size of your monitor, you may want to change the size of the icons to match what you're trying to do. Others might want to change the size of the icons due to their eyesight recommendations.
As everyone knows, the more you use your computer, over time your computer will slow down and become more sluggish. Your Internet browser will go slower, opening up applications will become sluggish, and when you reboot your computer it seems to take forever.
Windows 10 users are no exception to this. Even the latest operating system tends to fall victim to occasional slowdowns. This can be extremely frustrating for your small business and reduce your overall efficiency. Here are some tips that will help you keep your computer running smooth, fast, and may eventually help save you some cash.
