How Data Backup Differs From Disaster Recovery

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A disaster recovery strategy is vital when running a business. This preemptive solution helps you cope with all sorts of catastrophes while reducing downtime.

You can never be too careful when you’re running a business. Whether you own a small startup or an established enterprise, you need reliable tools to assist your team in their daily pursuits. Unfortunately, information technology can be damaged easily, especially when exposed to today’s wide landscape of threats. A multitude of dangers are constantly swarming around your network, and not all are potential cyberattacks. Physical disasters can be just as devastating.

This blog shows you how to optimize your risk management strategy with backup software and disaster recovery support.

Data Backup and Disaster Recovery—What You Need to Know 

Many people put together a defense strategy without actually knowing what these two terms mean. Data backup and disaster recovery are completely different remedies that complement the perfect defensive mechanism. Here’s how they break down:

What Is Data Backup?

Data backup is a file-copying process. Data can be copied to many different platforms, including secondary computers and external hard drives. The most popular (and safest) backup procedure is a cloud backup. It places all your sensitive files within an easy-to-use internet dashboard, so if disaster does strike, all you have to do is log in and retrieve your most important information. 

With the right backup software, you’ll always have access to everything you need. This ensures you never lose anything of value, even when disaster presents itself. For the safest measures, you’ll want to partner with a managed security provider (MSP) that can back up your data automatically and regularly.

What Is Disaster Recovery Support? 

Disaster recovery complements the work of your data backup software. No business deserves to go through a rebuilding process against its will, but sometimes disaster strikes no matter how prepared a company is. Whether it’s a cyber or physical issue, downtime might be necessary just to get things running again. Disaster recovery can help expedite this process. This preemptive solution allows businesses to restore their most important data quickly and efficiently. So even if your firmware does take a hit, you’ll be able to recover your files and pick up with business when everything stabilizes. 

And when you have an experienced managed security professional in your corner, you’ll be able to take advantage of a robust collection of benefits, including:

  • 24/7 on-call support
  • Flexible cloud management programs
  • Redundant backups
  • Offsite storage space

With disaster recovery support, you’ll be able to have peace of mind knowing you’ll always have access to your most valuable information in its most relevant form. 

Stay Ahead With CTMS

Whether it’s disaster recovery, data backup, or any other form of cybersecurity, the experts at CTMS are the best team to have in your corner. We’ll be there to help restore your data and create a backup strategy that allows you to keep your most valuable assets safe. 

Start taking advantage of the best data security solutions from the premier managed service providers in Ohio. Why wait for disaster to occur before you start taking action? 

Contact us today to set up your [free IT evaluation] with a certified professional!

Why Outsource Your IT Services?

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What is a managed service provider? Many companies have internal IT staff who handle the day-to-day maintenance of their systems, manage end-user support, and generally keep things functional. This can work for smaller organizations with only a few workstations, but as your business grows, support with more reach and expertise becomes critical.

An IT managed service provider {MSP} handles all things IT, from cyber security to your email platform and every system critical for your operation. An MSP can work independently or in conjunction with your existing staff to create a tailored solution that meets your needs.

How a Managed Security Service Provider Keeps You Safe

While an internal IT staff will likely have some experience with cyber security, their capabilities are inherently limited. Unless you’re employing a massive IT department (unlikely for most companies) an MSP will have far greater expertise and resources to deal with cyber threats. 

Cyber security is often one of the core competencies of a good MSP. Not only can they keep you safe from threats like malware attacks, but they will often offer training solutions or consulting on company policy. Well-educated employees are your first line of defense against threats. An MSP can help ensure that your organizational policy and employee practices are up to snuff.

Depending on your industry, regulatory compliance can also be a major factor. Certain regulatory frameworks like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act {HIPAA} and Payment Card Industry {PCI} exist to protect confidential information, among other things. If your security profile is not up to these standards, your organization may be at legal risk. While compliance is not a standard service offering through many MSPs, it should be considered when choosing a provider.

Efficient Communications With Managed Network Services

Outside of security, a critical component of any operation is their communications infrastructure. From VoIP phone systems to wireless networking, an effective MSP will be able to create the network infrastructure that allows your organization to function.

Capabilities vary from MSP to MSP, which is why it is critical to communicate your needs before signing on the dotted line. Imagine if half of your employees knew how to write and the other half simply used images to communicate. Your operations would grind to a halt, right? An improperly set up communications infrastructure poses similar, though less comical, problems. 

Managed Services Solutions in Eastern Ohio

Security and communications are just two aspects of a complete IT strategy. You could be leveraging the cloud, employing effective business continuity planning, using geolocation and other technologies, and much more. The only way to fully take advantage of technology to meet your business goals is to consult with a qualified managed service provider. 

Computer Technology Management Services is one of the premier MSPs serving Eastern Ohio and the Pittsburgh region. To learn about our capabilities and where we could fit into your business strategy, let’s connect!

Data Backup Services Are Critical for Cyber Security

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Data backup solutions are among the most necessary components of an IT strategy for a business, nonprofit, or any other organization. From business continuity to risk mitigation, a comprehensive backup strategy is what keeps an operation…well, operational. 

In this piece, we cover some of the basics, from the reasons that backups are so crucial to some of the ways you, your internal staff, or your outsourced provider can keep your systems working in any scenario.

Why Backup Your Data?

Audits and Taxes

A government agency comes knocking and you don’t have what they’re looking for…what are you supposed to do? This situation can be easily avoided if you take data backup seriously in advance of any audit situation. No one can predict exactly when Uncle Sam will stop by for a visit, but you can certainly be prepared.

Safety and Compliance

Many industries have strict regulatory frameworks that require data backup solutions. This offers two fairly obvious motivations for backing up your data. First, you could be at legal risk if your data is not secured properly. Whether you are working in healthcare or any other industry, you need to verify that your firm is meeting legal standards. Second, data backup and security allows you to keep doing business effectively. If you somehow lose critical records, how are you supposed to do business?

Business Continuity

Whether you are simply trying to reduce downtime and enhance productivity or are hoping to mitigate the dangers of a disaster situation (just take a look at the recent earthquakes in California), data backup keeps your organization functional. There are countless threats out there, but by backing up your data—or ensuring that your current provider is already doing so—you don’t have to worry. Peace of mind can go a long way toward helping you achieve your mission.

A Variety of Data Backup and Recovery Services 

On-Premises Backup

Whether you have one location or several, a dedicated IT infrastructure system can be built to house a complete backup of your systems and data. While this doesn’t mitigate all risk, it ensures all of your eggs aren’t in a single basket. Also, an onsite solution is easily accessible for both use and maintenance. The advantage here is the control you get keeping from your systems close to home.

Public and Private Cloud

The best cloud data backup service is one that is properly set up from the get-go. There are a number of public options—from Amazon Web Services to Microsoft Azure—and private cloud solutions that can be set up by your managed service provider. Which solution is best for you depends on the needs of your organization and the regulatory standards that must be met for your industry, but the cloud can be a great solution that lets your system be restored from anywhere to anywhere.

This list of reasons and solutions is by no means exhaustive, but it should give you a starting point when you’re considering a backup solution. Whether you work with an online data backup company or work with your service provider to create a physical, onsite system, it’s critical that it is working properly before you need it. 

Computer Technology Management Service (CTMS) is a data backup service provider that can find the best solution for your organization. Get in touch if you’d like to learn more.

5 Tips From a Managed Security Service Provider

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Have you heard any of these panic-inducing exclamations? 

  1. Cyber criminals are out to steal your data! 
  2. Vulnerabilities in your systems are being exploited as you read this! 
  3. Regulatory noncompliance could end your business!

These aren’t necessarily disingenuous statements, but you don’t need to panic. By taking appropriate steps, you can focus on your mission and organizational goals instead of cyber security woes keeping you up at night.

This is not to say that you can let your security fall by the wayside. Taking cyber security seriously means having the appropriate policies and strategies in place before an incident occurs. There are some steps you can take on your own, while others might require hiring a firm that specializes in cyber security. 

Either way, it’s critical that your organization advances on the path toward true security. From privacy to business continuity, your entire operation can be affected. Below are five tips to enhance your security profile.

1. It Starts With Smart Policy

One of the biggest vulnerabilities within any organization is the staff that works within it. If employees are clicking links in suspicious emails, sharing passwords, or are simply unaware of security threats like malware, you are asking for trouble. 

Conduct regular cyber security training to keep your employees on the side of common sense when interacting with coworkers or clients electronically. Have your employees regularly change passwords in company systems, teach them not to click suspicious links in emails (or to verify with the sender first), and consider blocking websites that may contain viruses. 

Policy extends from employees’ workstations to their mobile devices as a part of your small business phone solution. Your internal staff should be able to conduct basic training to give you some semblance of security. 

2. Don’t Forget Physical Security

When focusing on cyber crime or electronic threats, managers and business owners too often forget good old-fashioned physical threats. Restrict access to servers and data centers to all but those professionals who absolutely need to be there. Other steps can include prohibiting employees from leaving passwords written down and left visible on a desk. These rules don’t need to be draconian and are just as common sense as locking the door at night.

3. Stay up to Date

If you are relying on software like firewalls or antivirus programs to keep your systems secure, make sure everything is updated regularly. Cyber threats are always evolving, and new malware is created every day. Most software platforms have options to enable auto-updating. Make sure these settings are enabled.

Sometimes your systems will need more than just a simple update. For instance, Microsoft will soon be ending its support for Windows 7. It won’t be long before systems that use it will no longer be secure. 

4. Use an Effective Backup Solution for Small Business

Business continuity is a critical aspect of any organization’s cyber security strategy. If you don’t have plans and infrastructure in place to navigate the maze of a disaster situation, the loss can be catastrophic. Threats range from natural disasters to intrusion from hackers. Both are dangerous and both can be mitigated with appropriate disaster planning. 

Creating offsite backup solutions or leveraging the cloud are both viable strategies depending on your situation and security needs. Cloud solutions for small business have the extra benefit of staying updated per the third item on this list. 

5. Consider a Professional Managed Security Provider

Training and software updates can only get you so far. Network security solutions companies are the key to reducing risk and ensuring that your business is protected. Computer Technology Management Services (CTMS) offers a holistic suite of cyber security solutions that range from compliance to system backup. 

If you have concerns about your existing security profile or think your internal staff could use a helping hand, give us a call today.

Cyber Security Solutions and the Ohio Safe Harbor Law

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As of November 2, 2018, Ohio’s Data Protection Act, also known as a “safe harbor” law, grants businesses protection from lawsuits relating to data breaches if they are reasonably complying with industry-standard and federal regulatory frameworks. This groundbreaking legislation may soon be mirrored by other states but is limited to Ohio for now. 

To qualify for “safe harbor,” as it were, a business must design its cyber security strategy to:

  1. Protect the security and confidentiality of confidential information
  2. Protect against any unanticipated physical or cyber threats or other hazards to that information
  3. Protect against unauthorized access to and acquisition of information that is likely to result in a material risk of identity theft or other fraud to the individual to whom the information relates

Cyber Security Frameworks Enumerated in the Law

The three provisions listed above can fit under a variety of regulatory frameworks. This means that businesses, including those in the healthcare industry, that reasonably conform to these frameworks are granted safe harbor. Although safe harbor does not provide total immunity—and thus businesses cannot use it as an impenetrable shield—it does offer protection against torts, which can result in closed businesses, especially for smaller operations.

The Regulatory Frameworks Under Safe Harbor:

  • National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework
  • NIST Special Publications 800-53, 800-53A, or 800-171
  • Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program Security Assessment Framework
  • Center for Internet Security Critical Security Controls for Effective Cyber Defense
  • International Organization for Standardization/International Electrotechnical Commission’s 27000 Family – Information Security Management Systems
  • Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 Security Rule
  • Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act
  • Title 5 of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999
  • Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014

Reasonably Conform—What Does That Entail?

There are some situations where safe harbor will not apply. This can include a breach of contract or a violation of other law. Safe harbor is designed as a defense against tort claims claiming that the security protocols mandated by the regulatory standards mentioned above were not met. 

To use a safe harbor defense, an organization must demonstrate that they have taken steps to meet all of the requirements under a given framework. Moreover, when these frameworks are updated based on new technology or processes, organizations have one year to conform or they may be forced to abandon the safe harbor defense.

Because many of these regulatory frameworks can be general in their suggestions whereas others can be quite specific (like HIPAA’s 29 required organizational policies), it can be hard for businesses to know if they are meeting standards or not. This is especially complex based on a variety of factors: the nature of the information being protected, the size of an organization, the resources available to that organization, and the availability of compliance tools.

In this sense, a cyber security solution provider like Computer Technology Management Solutions may be required so that organizations can mount the best defense possible and avoid being put out of business. Surveillance and cyber security solutions are not just crucial to keeping a business running efficiently; they are vital to keeping an organization running at all.

Industrial Cyber Security Solutions

Depending on the industry, compliance with one or more cyber security frameworks is critical to ensuring efficient operational functions and privacy. Although compliance can seem like a burden at times, through the Data Protection Act Ohio has added an extra layer of defense and protection for businesses and other entities that are making their best effort to conform and protect patients and other entities they may work with.

By consulting with a cyber security solution provider like CTMS, business owners and IT directors can improve their chances at fighting torts and reduce the risk of harmful data breaches.

How to Prepare for Windows 7 End of Life

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On January 14, 2020, Microsoft will end its support of Windows 7. After that date, Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, software updates, or security updates for Windows 7. Windows 7 captured 37% of the market share last year, which means that hundreds of millions of users will be affected by Windows 7 end of life. If you are one of those users, here’s what you need to know about this process.

Your Network Will Lack Security

After the end of life date hits, your network will stop receiving security updates from Microsoft. It’s important to note that mainstream support for Windows 7 ended on January 13, 2015. After that, no new features were added to Windows 7, and warranties for it were no longer valid. January 14, 2020 marks the end of extended support for Window 7. When an operating system (OS) enters the extended support phase, the software provider still offers extended security updates and patches, so the OS is still safe to use. After end of life kicks in, however, that extended support goes away, and if your network still uses an OS that’s in the end-of-life phase of its support lifecycle, it will be exposed to all sorts of security threats. In fact, hackers often wait until after an OS’s end-of-life date hits to unleash attacks on newly unprotected systems and networks that are still in use. 

Consider Updating Your Operating System

If you upgrade to Windows 10, you will receive mainstream support until October 13, 2020, and extended support until October 14, 2025. Even if you decided not to stay with Microsoft for your OS, you should select an OS with end of mainstream and extended support dates that are several years away. This will allow you to install and activate a system that will offer you strong security updates as well as new features, if it’s still in its mainstream support phase. If you decide to move to Windows 10 or another OS, you should do so before Microsoft stops supporting Windows 7 so that your network will stay secure.

What Happens Next?

Ultimately, you can choose what to do when faced with Windows 7’s end-of-life date. You can continue to use Windows 7, but you’ll have to accept that your network will always be at risk without Microsoft’s Window 7 support. You can also choose to upgrade to Windows 10. Microsoft is currently offering free upgrades to Window 10 for Windows 7 users. You can also choose to move away from Windows operating systems. The choice is yours, but you should make it an informed one.

Managed IT Services For Your Ohio Business

At CTMS, we can work with you to make sure that your network transitions smoothly from Windows 7 to your new OS. If you are interested in our services or if you have any question about them, contact us today.

How to Prepare for Windows 7 End of Life

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The end of Windows 7 is quickly approaching. Don’t wait to upgrade to Windows 10 otherwise you may compromise everything that you worked for. 

Circle January 14th, 2020 on your calendars now, because that will officially be the end of Windows 7 as we know it. Now that this operating system is on life support, it’s important for businesses to move on. Fortunately, Microsoft introduced a new solution in 2018 to make this easier for everyone. But while more and more businesses are converting to the Windows 10 model, we’ve broken down everything you need to do in the meantime.

The Ultimate Guide to Windows 7 End of Life

Before Windows 7 officially becomes a past time, there are a few important things that you should know. This is what you need to keep in mind when preparing for Windows 7 end of life:

Vulnerabilities at Risk

When it comes to network security, taking a proactive approach is always your best option. If you choose not to move on from Windows 7, then be prepared to face the consequences. Sure, you could pay extra for extended support, but there’s no escaping the inevitable. The fact is that Windows 7 is guaranteed to become obsolete, so why waste your money to keep this operating system running for a few extra months?  It won’t matter once it reaches end-of-life status anyways. Once the support date passes, the floodgates to your network will be lifted, allowing for a variety of hazards to cripple your most important data. 

These are some of the most alarming issues to be concerned with:

  • Malware Viruses
  • Adware Scams
  • Ransomware Invasions
  • Zero-Day Attacks
  • Crypto-Jacking
  • Computer Worms
  • Trojan Horses
  • Phishing Attacks
  • IoT Attacks
  • Malicious Bots

What You Should Expect 

With extinction in site, Windows 7 systems are only inviting more security hazards. And most of these threats are just getting more malicious as time goes on. Since the threat landscape is expanding, we may start to see more companies fail to meet their business objectives. What’s most concerning is that some of these network hazards are strong enough to put businesses completely out of operation. 

 

To further avoid these issues, we can expect to see more companies adopt Microsoft’s latest OS platform. With a Windows 10 enterprise system, you’ll be able to take advantage of more managed security support. This solution will help save businesses time and money that would be otherwise spent tending to disruptions. By updating your infrastructure with this technology, your business gains an edge, where your staff can perform more efficiently and turn a profit much faster. 

Steps to Prepare

Windows 7 isn’t completely obsolete yet, but you should still have an effective defense strategy to keep your infrastructure ahead of the curve. To do that, you’ll need to follow these six critical steps: 

  • Audit your IT system: Examine your infrastructure and make note of any alarming concerns. Keep a record of any hardware or software that needs to be updated or replaced with something better.
  • Update or extend: If you’re really not ready to let go of your legacy system, then signing up for extended support is always an option. This is a limited solution though, so you may want to commit to the full makeover. With this said, it’s wise to adopt the latest version of Windows 10.
  • Establish a game plan: Once you decide what to do with your IT, you’ll need to prioritize your data. Collaborate with an experienced IT specialist and develop a migration timeline so you get access to your most important documents in the most efficient operating system.
  • Add more security: You can never be too careful when it comes to protecting your data. Allowing for managed security can help prevent disaster from striking your network. Windows 10 is updated with a stronger layer of protection, so it is more immune to cybersecurity issues roaming around the web.
  • Educate the staff: Provide training sessions to show your staff how to properly use your operating system. Make sure that the instructions are clear and filled with best practice advice. 
  • Create a backup strategy: When it comes to IT management, two of the most crucial components are disaster recovery and data backup. Establishing a proactive backup plan gives your network more cushion, as it ensures that you always have a firm grip on your most important information. 

Call CTMS to Update Your Operating System 

Moving from Windows 7 doesn’t have to be difficult. The CTMS team can help make the migration as seamless as possible for your business. And since you have less than a year to make the switch, now is the perfect time to makeover your infrastructure with this fresh and innovative source of technology. Whether you are ready to bring Windows 10 into your home or office, or you just have concerns about Windows 7 end of life, CTMS will help you find peace of mind through it all. Give us a call to schedule a free IT consultation with a Windows 10 pro!

What Can VoIP Do For Your Business?

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Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology reduces expensive telephone bills while simplifying workplace communication in the process. 

Get ready to say goodbye to traditional phone systems. The internet is becoming more important by the day and it continues to transform our everyday lives. For businesses, the way employees communicate has completely changed and that is mainly attributed to VoIP technology.  

VoIP-The Ultimate Business Phone Solution 

VoIP, otherwise referred to as Internet telephony, is the staple telephone service for companies all over the world. When it comes to business phone systems, VoIP technology is the gold standard as it offers a number of features that can help make our lives easier. Here are four of the primary areas that it aids businesses with: 

Improve Flexibility and Mobility

VoIP phones do a lot more than just give employees the ability to make speedy telephone calls. Users can integrate their favorite software programs including email, conference calling, and instant messengers. With a VoIP service, you can speak to someone over the phone while accessing other applications simultaneously. And the best part is that you can do this from virtually anywhere. More business may need to be performed outside of the office, but that’s not an issue when you have a VoIP calling plan. Just find access to an internet signal and dial long distance phone calls without the fear of racking up expensive telecom bills.

Enhance Productivity

VoIP telephone systems make multitasking easier than ever before. These sophisticated telecom solutions provide innovative ways for team members to collaborate on certain projects. Users are able to share documents with respondents, even while they are conversing on the phone. Additionally, you’ll be able to conduct virtual meetings with multiple people by dialing into the intuitive video conferencing system. And with a VoIP system from CTMS, you can expect only the clearest sound quality. We work tirelessly to simplify workplace communication with solutions that eliminate distorted connections, lagging internet transmissions, and dropped calls.  

Reduces Labor and Improves Safety 

No longer are you responsible for hardwiring a phone system to an expensive line. Installing a VoIP system is a seamless procedure. The phone connection process only takes a few minutes because all you need is the right platform and a strong internet signal. And since VoIP cuts down on electrical cabling, the number of fire hazards dramatically fall. Finally, VoIP technology is scalable, meaning that it aligns with any vertical movement that your company might endure. Administrators can add new workstations with minimal hassle and little expense.

Boosts Cost Savings

VoIP plans are much more affordable than any landline service would be able to provide. Don’t expect to see your phone bills skyrocket with outrageous fees. Customers pay a fixed cost every month and that’s only for the features that they sign up for. Some features can be added with no additional charges attached. And with VoIP, international rates are lower than ever. You won’t be responsible for paying for the minutes used. Instead, administrators will be responsible for covering one-time fees every time that a workstation needs to be added to the network. This alleviates tremendous financial stress as businesses will have more freedom to make long-distance phone calls.

Call CTMS to Take Advantage of the Best VoIP Solution

Computer Technology Management Services is your ultimate source for business phone solutions in Ohio. We are a team of problem solvers with more than 11 years of industry-leading experience under our belts. Every day, we make a relentless commitment to help businesses create the most efficient working environment. If you are in the market for a highly-functional phone system for an affordable price, then contact CTMS to learn all about our sophisticated VoIP solutions. Give us a call to schedule a free consultation with one of our certified experts!

3 Stellar VoIP Solutions That You Need to Know About

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When it comes to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, the experts at CTMS deliver sophisticated solutions that streamlines communication and boost productivity in the workplace. 

Traditional phone systems no longer have a place in the world of business. When it comes to business telecommunications, VoIP technology is the staple for offices, large and small. Since these intuitive phone systems are heavily reliant on the power of an internet connection, there is no need to put up with anymore messy hardwiring. But these multi-line solutions are good for much more than just placing and receiving telephone calls. Today’s surplus of VoIP solutions brings a wave of innovation and efficiency to virtually any type of work environment.  

A Sophisticated Collection of VoIP Solutions 

When it comes to VoIP technology, there is no one-size-fits-all option. There are plenty of unique solutions dedicated for specific business purposes and choosing that right solution is no easy task. Fortunately, you can enhance your business with any of these world-class solutions:

Integrated Access

This unique VoIP service is the closest thing you’ll get to a traditional phone line. An integrated access device (IAD) automatically transmit phone signals through a wide area of networks. By taking this approach, you’ll be able to integrate your VoIP software with any working legacy phone systems that you have. This helps preserve your old equipment while eliminating the need to change your phone number in the process. 

SIP Trunks

Session Initial Protocol (SIP) is a flexible VoIP solution that transmits voice and video data to multiple users. A SIP trunk is popular VoIP software for businesses due to its compatibility with most cloud-based phone systems. If you decide to take advantage of a SIP trunk, you eliminate the need to purchase a physical phone line. Users will only be responsible for paying for used minutes, so this can help businesses save a substantial amount of money in the long run. Finally, SIP trunks are scalable solutions, which makes them the ideal small business phone systems. 

PBX Systems

One of the most common forms of VoIP technology is PBX or private branch exchange. To put it simply, a PBX is like having your own private telephone network. PBX technology gives administrators the ability to manage calls both internally and externally. Think of a PBX like a specialized phone route for companies. This unique solution can be managed on-premise, through the cloud, or even in a hybrid outlet that combines the two. When it comes to business VoIP, there are two primary PBX solutions that you can choose from. 

  • Managed IP: This is a unified communication solution that’s managed by a third-party. Though the phone service is outsourced, the hardware is housed on-site. Managed IP PBX solutions generate charges based on how many phone lines are in your particular network. Your telecom provider will take care of all management responsibilities including configurations, upgrades, and software migrations.  
  • Hosted IP: With hosted PBX, all responsibilities lie solely with your telecom provider. This includes hardware deployments, software decisions, maintenance, security treatments, and so much more. Hosted IP solutions are popular solutions for small and medium-sized businesses as it saves business owners a significant amount of time and money. Since you don’t have to worry about purchasing equipment or installing hardware, you’ll be free to focus on more critical priorities. Additionally, users will also be able to utilize many unique functions like call queueing, call to message conversions, and auto attendant support. 

Let CTMS Make the Decision Easy

The experts at Computer Technology Management Services work tirelessly to support businesses with technology that fuels growth. We’ll be there every step of the way to set your business up for success. If you’re ready to take advantage of an affordable VoIP phone system makes workplace communication easier, then contact us today to schedule your free consultation with one of our certified technicians.

Windows 7’s Biggest Security Issues

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Circle your calendars for January 14, 2020. On that day, Windows 7 will become a thing of the past and your network could face some very serious dangers if you don’t upgrade your operating system (OS) before then. 

It won’t be long until Microsoft takes Windows 7 off life support. Since this operating system (OS) is nearing its final days, many businesses have begun taking advantage of the latest and greatest collection of office utilities—Windows 10. But users aren’t moving to Windows 10 solely to upgrade their software. The fact is, the cyberthreat landscape is becoming increasingly dangerous, and if you fail to move on from Windows 7, be prepared to confront a toxic mess on your computer system. 

The Top Security Risks Windows 7 Causes 

You may still have six months to prepare for [Windows 7 End of Life], but it’s never too early to practice some necessary risk management. If you’re not careful and neglect to make the switch to Windows 10 on time, you can open the door to a host of cybersecurity issues.

The Spread of Malware

Malware is one of the biggest problems circulating on the web. Since Microsoft won’t provide any security updates for Windows 7, the likelihood of this OS experiencing a malware attack increases dramatically. What’s most concerning is that malware is just getting stronger and more malicious by the day. If you don’t ditch Windows 7 in a timely manner, be prepared to put up with a wave of viruses, data breaches, and expensive repairs. 

More Ransomware Viruses

Ransomware is the most dangerous form of malware found on the web. This malicious software has a mind of its own. If it breaks through your firewall, ransomware can automatically install itself on your Windows OS. When that happens, sensitive data such as credit card numbers, business reports, and customer information can be held hostage until the hacker’s ransom is paid. Don’t expect a security premium to bail you out, because there won’t be any unless you decide to upgrade to Windows 10. 

Disruptive Behavior 

Outdated technology can leave a variety of issues in its wake, but one of the most frustrating is a lack of compatibility. An alarming number of PCs still rely on Windows 7 support, and once End of Life kicks off, most of these computer systems will lose their touch. Expect slower applications, more compatibility issues, and very little peace of mind. 

Email Invasions 

One of the easiest ways to encounter a cybersecurity issue is through one’s inbox. Hackers try to introduce threats through a variety of email attacks. And since the Windows 7 version of [Outlook] has a security deficit, it’s a lot easier for spam, phishing traps, and malware viruses to make their way into your network, paving a clear path to your most valuable data. 

Take Advantage of Better Network Security

At CTMS, we are a team of problem solvers who do whatever it takes for you to get the most from your technology. We know that change can be tough, but we’ll make the move over to Windows 10 well worth it. 

 

Work with the top managed service providers Ohio has to offer. [Set up your free consultation] with our team and begin taking advantage of exceptional [computer security], more efficient business utilities, and greater peace of mind!