A short guide to IT security lingo

As more and more businesses move their operations online, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been greater. However, many employees are still unfamiliar with many cybersecurity terms. Here are some of the most commonly used terms in IT security. By understanding these terms, you will be better equipped to protect your business from cyberattacks. Malware For a long time, the phrase “computer virus” was misused to refer to any type of attack that harmed computers and networks. The more appropriate term for these harmful programs and files is “malicious software,” or “malware.” Whereas a virus is a specific type of malware designed to replicate itself, any software created for the purpose of destroying or accessing networks and data with the intent to steal, corrupt, or encrypt these should be referred to as malware. Ransomware Don’t let all other cyberthreats ending in “-ware” confuse you; they are all just subcategories of malware. Currently, one of the most notorious of these is ransomware, which is malware that encrypts valuable data until a ransom is paid for the decryption key. In a ransomware attack, the victim organization may feel compelled to pay the ransom to regain access to their data. Intrusion prevention system (IPS) There are several ways to safeguard your network from malware, but an IPS is one of the nonnegotiables. An IPS sits behind your company’s firewall and monitors for suspicious and malicious activity that can be halted before it can exploit or take advantage of a known vulnerability. Social engineering Not all types of malware rely solely on fancy computer programming. Experts agree that the majority of attacks require some form of social engineering to succeed. Social engineering is the act of tricking people, rather than computers, into revealing sensitive or protected information. For some cybercriminals, it’s less tedious to convince a potential victim to give them the data they need than to create and deploy complicated software to obtain the same information. Phishing Phishing is a type of social engineering scheme that involves defrauding people using an app or a website that impersonates a trustworthy or often well-known business in an attempt to obtain confidential information. Just because you received an email that says it’s from the IRS doesn’t mean that it is. Don’t take such emails at face value — always verify the source, especially if the emails are requesting your sensitive data. Antivirus Antivirus software is often misunderstood as a way to comprehensively secure your computers and workstations. These applications are just one piece of the cybersecurity puzzle and can only scan the drives on which they are installed for signs of well-known malware variants. Zero-day attacks When a vulnerability is found within a piece of software, vendors will release an update to fix the gap in security. However, cyberattackers can release a piece of malware that exploits the security vulnerability before software developers can address it. This is known as a zero-day attack. Patch When software developers discover a security vulnerability in their programming, they usually release a small file to update and “patch” this gap. Patches are essential to keeping your network secure from the vultures lurking on the internet. By checking for and installing patches as soon as these become available, you keep your software protected from the latest malware. Redundant data When antivirus software, patches, and intrusion prevention fail to keep your information secure, there’s only one thing that will: quarantined off-site storage. Duplicating your data offline and storing it somewhere other than your business’s workspace ensures that even if your systems get infected with malware, you’re equipped with backups to keep your business running. Our cybersecurity professionals are always available to impart more in-depth knowledge of the many different kinds of cyberthreats. Get in touch with us today and find out how we can help you with your IT security woes.

3 Types of hackers: What you need to know

While there are many similarities among hackers, there are also some key differences among them. Some hackers want money for themselves and resort to evildoings, while others just want to make the world a better place. In this blog post, we will discuss the three main types of hackers and what you need to know about them. A complicated history In the 1950s, the term “hacker” was vaguely defined as someone who explored the details and limits of computer technology by testing them for a variety of purposes. But by the 1980s, when computers became more accessible, “hacker” became closely associated with teenagers who broke into government computer systems. These teens referred to themselves as hackers, perhaps because the word has an aggressive ring to it. Believe it or not, several of those pioneering hackers now run multimillion-dollar cybersecurity consulting businesses, while countless others still run amok online, hoping to make a quick buck off of hapless victims. 3 Types of hackers Knowing the history of hacking can give you a background on the different kinds of hackers, and this information can also help protect your business from cybersecurity threats. Let’s take a look at the three main types of hackers that can impact your organization. “Black hat” hackers Black hat hackers create programs and campaigns to commit all sorts of malicious acts. They’re what most non-IT people think of when the term hacker is mentioned. Black hat hackers typically use hacking tools to attack websites and steal data. They may also create viruses or malware to damage computers and other devices. They commit crimes such as identity theft, credit card fraud, and extortion for their sole benefit, but they can also work for a corporation or a state and commit espionage and cyberterrorism. Kevin Mitnick is a prime example of a black hat hacker. In the 1990s, Mitnick went on a two-and-half-year hacking spree, committing wire fraud and stealing millions of dollars of data from telecom companies and the US National Defense warning systems. After spending five years in prison, he set up his eponymous cybersecurity firm and became its CEO and Chief White Hat Hacker. “White hat” hackers Sometimes referred to as ethical hackers or network security specialists, white hat hackers are considered the good guys. They use their hacking skills to find weaknesses in websites and systems to help fix these vulnerabilities so that they can’t be exploited by black hat hackers. Whether it’s selling what they find to hardware and software vendors in “bug bounty” programs or working as full-time technicians, white hat hackers are interested in making an honest buck. Linus Torvalds is a great example of a white hat hacker. After years of experimenting with the Sinclair QDOS operating system, he released Linux, a secure open-source operating system. Linux is built to prevent malware, rootkits, and other computer pests from being installed onto your device and operated without your knowledge. This is because most infections are designed to target Windows computers and can’t cause any damage to the Linux OS. “Gray hat” hackers Gray hat hackers fall somewhere in between black hat and white hat hackers. Whether a gray hat hacker works as a security specialist or is a cybercriminal, the majority of their work is usually conducted over the internet. While most gray hat hackers usually enjoy the anonymity that gives them the opportunities to try their hands at both white hat and black hat hacking, not all gray hat hackers live in the shadows. For example, Marcus Hutchins is a known gray hat hacker. He’s most famous for stopping the WannaCry ransomware by finding a “kill switch.” However, Hutchins also created the Kronos banking malware. He was arrested in 2017 and pleaded guilty, accepting full responsibility for his mistakes. He now uses his talent by working for Kryptos Logic cybersecurity firm. According to Hutchins, he has since been using the same skills that he misused several years ago for “constructive purposes“. The rapid evolution of the cyber realm means there is more information available online every day, and there are many sorts of hackers looking to misuse it. While the purpose behind each hacker’s action varies, the danger they pose to your data and company is constant. If you think your website or data has been hacked, contact our cybersecurity experts as soon as possible. You can also contact us if you have any questions about how to secure sensitive business information.

Cloud computing in healthcare: 5 Benefits you can’t ignore

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way businesses operate, and practices in healthcare are no exception. Cloud-based solutions offer many benefits over traditional methods, including reliability, convenience, security, and scalability. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the main advantages of cloud computing in the healthcare industry. Better data backup and recovery Data loss is a major concern for healthcare practices. For instance, your business continuity may suffer when your office IT suddenly becomes inaccessible. Even a couple of days or even just a few hours of downtime can have serious repercussions for your organization. But with a cloud storage solution, data loss is not something you should worry about. Nearly every cloud solution stores files in more than one location so backups can be restored quickly if anything goes wrong. Efficient information access Updating patient records used to be a manual and time-consuming activity. In the past, doctors had to either lug around reams of documents or spend hours in front of a computer to retrieve health records. But with cloud applications for managing electronic medical records (EMRs), doctors are now able to conveniently access medical records anytime and anywhere with an internet connection. Improved security and HIPAA compliance The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) stipulates rules and regulations on protecting patient health information. Whether you use a browser-based tool or a mobile app, cloud computing makes it easy to adapt to HIPAA regulatory updates and changes. For instance, a vendor can update its data encryption standards in the cloud. These changes will automatically take effect on all accounts and devices without needing to reinstall programs or manually update certain configurations. Reduced costs Implementing a cloud solution can also eliminate the need for on-site hardware, maintenance fees, and expensive one-time software licenses. And in terms of less quantifiable cost reductions, the ability to access work from anywhere at any time boosts productivity and makes your IT department more efficient. Scalability Unlike in-house hardware, you can easily scale cloud storage solutions in a matter of minutes. Through the cloud, web-based EMR software enables you to retrieve records in a few seconds, and it also gives you more storage than you can ever need. Scalability combined with efficiency allows you to organize your data in a simpler manner. Want to learn more about the ideal cloud computing solutions for your healthcare organization? Get in touch with our tech experts today for personalized recommendations.

Windows Hello makes logging in hassle-free

You can now log in faster and more securely to your Windows 10- or 11-powered device with Microsoft’s Windows Hello. This feature allows you to log in to your computer without having to enter a password. All you need is a fingerprint, iris, or facial scan, or a PIN code. How to set up Windows Hello To get started with Windows Hello, click the Start menu icon and open Settings. From there, choose Accounts, followed by Sign-in options. You should see options for setting your PIN or scanning your face, iris, or fingerprint. Select which method you want to set up and follow the prompts to create a login profile. You can even save your biometric data or scan more than once to boost accuracy. The system collects more data every time you scan, so it’s better to complete a few scans before enabling the login feature. After setting up your account, you can start adding other trusted users who share the same device. Each of them can set up their own PIN or biometric profile in a separate account. Passwords and PIN codes can be used as backup login options in case the camera or fingerprint scanner aren’t working. Limited availability As of this writing, Windows Hello is only available on select Windows 10 and 11 laptops and tablets. To see which devices have Windows Hello, go to the Windows website, scroll down to the “Filter by” section, then select the Windows Hello option under the “Features” column. The resulting selection lists devices that have the infrared camera and/or fingerprint scanner required to enable this feature. Microsoft’s promise of security Your Windows Hello login info is saved only on your device and never on Microsoft’s servers. Furthermore, Microsoft assures users that third parties cannot access locally saved PIN codes and biometric data. All of this means that you never need to worry about your login info falling into the wrong hands. In addition to Windows Hello, there are other Windows features that can make your life easier. Our IT experts can help you get more out of your Windows devices. Contact us today!

Why IT security audits are important

In today’s world, it’s important for organizations to take their cybersecurity measures seriously to avoid cyberattacks and data breaches. A good way for companies to keep their security up to date and compliant is to conduct regular IT security audits. What is an IT security audit? An IT security audit is a thorough evaluation of the cybersecurity measures of your organization. Performing IT security audits will help you identify and assess vulnerabilities in your networks, associated devices, and applications. It involves scanning for security vulnerabilities and performing penetration tests to determine how well your IT infrastructure can defend against various cyberattacks. The results of these tests will help you customize security policies and achieve compliance. Types of IT security audits There are two forms of IT security audits, namely: Internal audit In an internal IT security audit, a company uses its own resources and auditors to conduct the assessment. The organization conducts an internal audit to determine if its systems and cybersecurity policies are compliant with its own rules and procedures. External audit An external audit is carried out by a third-party. External audits are performed when a company needs to ensure that it’s complying with industry standards and government regulations. Why is an IT security audit important? An IT security audit provides a roadmap for your company’s key cybersecurity vulnerabilities. It shows where your organization is meeting important security criteria and where it doesn’t. IT security audits are essential for creating risk assessment plans and prevention strategies for businesses dealing with sensitive and confidential personal data. What does an IT security audit cover? During an IT security audit, every system an organization uses will be checked for weaknesses in the following areas: Network vulnerabilities Auditors identify vulnerabilities in any network component that cybercriminals could use to access valuable information or cause systemwide damage. This includes unsecured access points, instant messages, emails, and network traffic. Cybersecurity controls In this part of the audit, auditors will check how effective an organization’s security controls are. This includes assessing how well the company has implemented existing policies and procedures to protect its information and infrastructure. For example, an auditor will evaluate an organization’s existing security policy on data breaches to determine if the proper measures are in place and if everyone is strictly adhering to those measures. Data encryption This will verify that your company has controls in place to manage the data encryption process effectively. This is to ensure that digital data is kept confidential and protected while being stored on site, in the cloud, on portable devices, and while it is in transit. If you need help in conducting an IT security audit for your business, contact us today to see how our managed solutions can help.

What you need to know about the Microsoft Office Delve feature

Many small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) rely on Microsoft 365 to do a variety of tasks, enable team collaboration, and streamline processes. And because it is widely used for many different functions, several programs and data tend to overlap within the Microsoft 365 environment, making it challenging for users to track information and connections. This is where the Office Delve feature comes in handy. What is Office Delve? Office Delve is a cloud-based data solution, file hub, enterprise social network, and collaborative tool developed using Microsoft Graph. Delve is available for Microsoft 365 Business Basic and Standard, Office 365 Government, Office 365 Education, and Office 365 Enterprise. This nifty tool allows you to: Discover new information – Delve displays information from different sources in Microsoft 365 that you may find useful for tasks you’re currently working on. Discover what you need – Documents you have seen before or have recently worked on are highlighted and made easier for you to find, regardless of where they are stored. This makes it less taxing to find work you have done/started in the past, and continue from where you left off. Discover new connections – Typing a name in Microsoft 365 will allow you to see what a user is working on, their connections, and even connect with them to build relationships and share information. How does it work? Microsoft created Delve with a tool called Graph to provide users with information they’ll find useful. Graph maps the relationships among the various Microsoft 365 users in your company and the content/information related to them. This “map” is then used by Delve to provide users with the information they need, when they need it. Content and information are displayed on a card-based screen, which is found under the Delve tab in the main Microsoft 365 launch screen. Aside from content such as profile information and document links, users can also see favorites, views, comments, and tags. This feature brings a deeper social integration into Microsoft 365. Delve also orders content in different ways. Delve shows you what you’ve recently worked on and content that has been shared with you or has been presented to you. These are laid out in cards format for easier tracking and interaction. Note that the Delve mobile app for Android and iOS are no longer available. If you’re working remotely and don’t have access to Delve via desktop, you can use Outlook Mobile instead, which has functionalities similar to the now-discontinued apps. Is my data safe with Office Delve? Delve keeps all your documents private by default, but you have the option to share them with other users. For example, if you have a document stored in a private folder, you’ll be the only one who can access and modify it through Delve. If that document is in a shared folder, it’s accessible to you and the people you shared it with. If you want to learn more about Delve or have questions about other useful Microsoft 365 features, contact us today. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

The business continuity benefits of cloud technology

Where you store your company’s data backups is vital to the success of your business continuity strategy. There are various storage media to choose from, but if you value flexibility and convenience, then you should look no further than cloud storage. Here are the benefits that the cloud offers. Improved uptime Many business owners think it’s enough to store copies of their files either on an external hard drive or a separate computer housed within their office. Unfortunately, this tactic can go wrong in so many ways. First, it’s possible for bad actors to steal these devices and obtain the data they contain. Second, these devices are susceptible to damage caused by local disasters, cyberattacks, and errors committed by staff. If any of these were to happen, the business would lose access to its backups and might suffer downtime. In contrast, cloud-hosted backups are always readily accessible with an internet-connected device. Cloud servers are located off-site, so they are not vulnerable to natural disasters in your immediate locale. What’s more, cloud service providers (CSPs) are obligated to keep their servers operational at all times. They make this possible by implementing top-grade cybersecurity measures and various redundancies, such as alternate servers and power supply systems. Fast resource provisioning During the backup creation process, spikes in user activity and resource usage can slow down websites and applications running in the background. A CSP can help you address this issue by monitoring user activities, enabling them to see spikes before or as they happen. The provider can then provision resources and virtual machines as needed to manage the influx of users. Control over backup frequency Since your employees could work on files and update information throughout the day, you must back up your files as frequently as necessary. Doing so ensures that you have the latest copies of your files even after a sudden outage. With the cloud, you no longer have to worry about the frequency of your backups. CSPs offer round-the-clock and other fixed backup frequencies, as well as custom backup schedules tailored to your business’s unique requirements. Some services can even create backups as you perform changes on your files, ensuring up-to-date information at any time. Support for flexible work setups With flexible working arrangements becoming more and more popular, it’s now even more imperative for your business to invest in the cloud for backup storage. External hard disks, flash drives, and other offline storage media are accessible only to employees working in the office. During events that prevent workers from going to the office, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, depending on offline backups could result in your business ceasing operations altogether. Cloud storage is accessible anywhere and anytime. This means that no matter where they choose to work, your staff will be able to access the files they need and remain productive as long as they have an internet connection. Businesses around the world are leveraging the power of the cloud not just to ensure their continued operations but also to support their growth. If you’re looking for a managed cloud backup service to protect your business data, give us a call today to see how we can help. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

Make your desktop clutter-free with these tips

Filling your desktop with shortcuts to files and applications may seem practical because it lets you quickly access the resources you need. But when more than half of your screen is filled with icons, you’ll waste time looking for the files and programs you need. Ultimately, this will lower your productivity. You can avoid that by making your desktop clutter-free. Here’s how. Do a bit of recon Before decluttering your desktop, sort out which files and folders you need to keep and which ones you can let go of. For instance, you can OR you may want to delete files and folders that haven’t been opened in a long time. You can easily find these by right-clicking on an empty area of your desktop, selecting View, and then clicking Auto arrange icons. This will organize your icons into a grid format that makes them easier to view. Then, right-click once again on the empty space on your desktop and go to Sort by > Date modified. This will arrange the icons by the date they were last opened, with the latest on top. Create holding and app shortcut folders People often use their desktop folder to store downloads, photos, screenshots, email attachments, and other files, which easily messes up the desktop screen. To prevent these files from cluttering up your desktop, you should create a folder for nonessential files and folders. To create a folder on your desktop, simply right-click on an empty space on your desktop and then click New > Folder. Use this folder to store temporary items, including those you’re keeping in the short term. Then, delete the files inside the folder once you no longer need them. You can also create a folder for shortcuts to frequently used programs. This will allow you to quickly find the program you need and help you avoid cluttering up your desktop. Be ruthless in decluttering Once you have your folders set up, it’s time to get rid of the clutter. If you haven’t used a file or folder in the past two months or so, seriously consider getting rid of it. Uninstall programs you no longer use, delete images you no longer want or need, move unimportant files elsewhere, and place the rest in relevant folders. Once you’re done, take a look at your browser to see where it stores downloaded files. If your browser downloads files to your desktop by default, go to Settings and change the target location to the Downloads folder. Stick with your plan Once you have decluttered your desktop, try to stick with the rules you’ve made. Whenever you download something, ask yourself whether it should go to the desktop or someplace else. Of course, sticking with these rules won’t always be easy, so aim to clean up your desktop at least once or twice a month. Use the taskbar or Start menu for apps Pinning apps to the Start menu and the taskbar is a great alternative to simply having program shortcuts on your desktop. To pin apps, go to the apps list via the Windows Start menu and right-click on the app you want to pin. Then, simply select Pin to Start or Pin to taskbar. Strategically position your wallpaper An interesting way to minimize clutter is to pick a wallpaper that you like, which could be your favorite picture or slogan. Frame the image so the focus is in the center of your desktop. Then, place your icons around the image in a way that allows you to still see the image. If you can no longer see the image, that means you have too many icons and it’s time to get rid of a few. If you want to learn other ways to optimize your Windows PC, contact us today for more tips and tricks from office IT experts. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

The crucial role of MSPs in SMB cybersecurity

With modern cyberattacks targeting companies of all sizes, businesses cannot afford to relegate cybersecurity to the bottom of their list of priorities. When it comes to cybersecurity, even small- and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) would do well to get help from an expert. Here’s how having a managed IT services provider (MSP) implement robust cybersecurity solutions for you will benefit your business. The numbers Through the years, the number of SMBs falling victim to cyberattacks has drastically increased. Ransomware attacks, misconfigured systems, credential stuffing, and social engineering are among the many cyberthreats that SMBs face. Also, according to Verizon’s 2021 Data Breach Investigations Report, one in every five data breach victims was an SMB. What’s more, only 47% of SMBs are able to detect breaches within days. The financial consequences have also considerably increased. IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2021 shows that “data breach costs rose from USD 3.86 million to USD 4.24 million.” The numbers don’t lie, so it’s only about time SMBs take cybersecurity seriously. You can safeguard your business from cyberattacks and provide a more secure customer experience by working with a trusted MSP. Why managed services? Partnering with MSPs is the most effective way to prevent attacks and defend against malicious threats. MSPs offer a full range of proactive IT support that focuses on advanced security, such as around-the-clock monitoring, data encryption and backup, real-time threat prevention and elimination, network and firewall protection, security awareness training, and more. Here are some of the services an MSP can offer: Around-the-clock monitoring – A cyberattack can happen at any moment. By having someone watching your networks and systems 24/7, MSPs ensure that any potential threats are identified and dealt with quickly. Data encryption and backup – Data encryption transforms readable data into an unreadable format. This can be done through the use of a key, which is only accessible to authorized users. This way, even if the data is compromised, it can’t be read without the key. Meanwhile, data backup is the process of creating and preserving copies of data so that it can be restored in the event of data loss. Real-time threat prevention and elimination – By using technology that can detect and stop threats as they happen, this security solution can minimize the impact of an attack and keep your business data safe. Network and firewall protection – Networks and firewalls create a barrier between the business network and the internet, securing confidential data, such as customer information, employee records, and trade secrets. Networks can be configured to allow certain types of traffic through while blocking others, so that only authorized users can access specific resources. Security awareness training – Now, more than ever, SMBs need to be aware of cybersecurity threats and how to protect themselves. MSPs can facilitate security awareness training that can help employees spot red flags and know what to do (and not do) to keep company data safe. Managed IT services are designed to identify and fix weak spots in your IT infrastructure, enabling you to optimize the digital backbone of your business processes. With managed IT, you’ll also have faster network performance, a solid business continuity and disaster recovery strategy, and minimal downtime. You’ll also get a dedicated team of IT professionals ready to assist you with any technology-related problems. This is much more effective and budget-friendly than having in-house personnel juggling all of your business IT needs. Being proactive when it comes to cybersecurity is the only way to protect what you’ve worked hard to build. If you’d like to know more about how managed services can benefit your business, just give us a call — we’re sure to help. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

The benefits of online scheduling solutions for healthcare practices

When patients choose a healthcare facility, their primary consideration is quality of care. However, convenience and organization are also becoming increasingly significant factors, as patients want their experiences to be as simple and stress-free as possible. One way healthcare companies can do this is by deploying a reliable online scheduling solution. Online scheduling is one of the simplest and most popular technologies used by forward-thinking health clinics and hospitals. It shows your patients which doctors and what times are available for appointments, and then allows them to book the appointment right on your website. Practices that have kept up with tech trends like this have seen an uptick in both the number of patients they take in and the quality of care they are able to provide. They are also able to reap the following benefits. More potential new patients Today, people are less inclined to make phone calls, especially if it involves ringing up someone they don’t know. For many people looking for a new doctor or specialist, they will simply keep looking for one whose information and appointment booking system can be found online. More time for your staff, better care for your patients Think about how much time your staff spend each day answering phone calls from people making an appointment. It’s probably a lot if you have a busy practice. Online scheduling lessens phone time required so that your staff can better focus on and tend to patients. As a result, patients will feel truly cared for and will more likely return to your healthcare facility in the future. Setting appointments beyond clinic hours In the past, patients had to wait for the clinic to open just to make an appointment. With online scheduling, they now can simply log in to your website and see available appointment times so they can plan their schedule accordingly around their visit. Still unsure whether you need online scheduling? Sure, you probably can get away with not having it at the moment, but eventually, most patients will expect this technology from you. And the sooner you roll out online scheduling, the sooner your staff will get the hang of it, and the sooner your patients can enjoy its benefits. Need help setting up online scheduling for your practice? Talk to our IT experts today and we’ll make sure this technology will make things easier for your patients. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

Microsoft 365 Apps admin center capabilities for better management

IT administrators are in charge of supervising and securing workflows, devices, and software to ensure optimal user experience while keeping cyberthreats at bay. The shift to remote work — and more recently, hybrid work — has not been a walk in the park for them. The good news is that Microsoft is doing all it can to help them be more efficient at their jobs. Here are some of the new features in the Microsoft 365 Apps admin center that IT administrators can take advantage of. OneDrive sync health With the OneDrive sync health feature, maintaining data integrity is easier than ever. IT admins can now readily check for sync statuses or errors by going to the OneDrive sync health dashboard and generating reports for specific administrative purposes. From the dashboard, admins can generate insights ranging from executive summaries to specific sync statuses of given devices, enabling them to filter the information they need so they can take action immediately in case they find sync issues. Intelligent insights Intelligent insights include features like Apps Inventory, Add-In Inventory, and Security Currency that allow IT administrators to strategically find and mitigate any issues. With these tools, they can gain an in-depth understanding of the organization’s Microsoft 365 environment and be privy to information such as: What devices are running Office apps and which versions they’re running; What Office add-ins are installed or running; and Which servicing channel each device belongs to. Knowing all this information can help administrators identify and manage unsupported Office versions and add-ins to ensure security and compliance. Servicing automation with controls This feature streamlines and automates Microsoft 365 Apps servicing to eliminate manual deployment and accelerate the rollout of updates and security patches. With this new feature, IT admins only need to apply a specific servicing profile to a set of devices to automatically deliver monthly updates for users or groups. Admins can also specify exclusion date periods, or when Office apps updates should not run, such as during holidays or company meetings. They can schedule these dates to happen only once or regularly, depending on their organization’s schedule. Servicing profiles: Roll back to a previous version For businesses that use a servicing profile, admins can now roll back devices to the previous version if users encounter issues with the most recent version of Monthly Enterprise Channel. For instance, if there’s an issue in Outlook’s latest update that hampers employee productivity, your IT team can revert Outlook to the previous stable version. IT administrators can also view, pause, and resume updates on a per-device basis. If a user experiences issues during rollout, for instance, administrators can pause that user’s update and restore their software to a previous version while an IT personnel troubleshoots the issue. Microsoft 365 Apps health Microsoft 365 Apps health calculates an organization’s overall app health based on three criteria: app reliability, app performance, and supported versions. It also gives pertinent information such as Office app session crash rates and who reported such crashes, making it easier to identify issues and see how well Microsoft 365 apps are running during and in between deployments. With these new features, administrators can better manage Microsoft 365 apps, and users can count on better experiences and fewer downtimes. If you want to learn more about how technology can increase your business’s operational efficiency, call us. Our IT experts are always ready to help. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

Why dashboards are vital tools for business growth

People are visual creatures, so we interpret visual data better than written words. That’s why most businesses turn to dashboards to present data in a way that’s easy to understand. Here are some common uses of dashboards across various business functions. Marketing insights Your organization’s marketing department analyzes a significant amount of data from various channels. Whether their purpose is to forecast monthly sales, predict trends, or build marketing strategies, marketing specialists use dashboards to compare, sort, and analyze raw data to produce meaningful information presented in an easy-to-understand manner. This helps key decision makers in your organization to formulate better marketing campaigns. Tracking sales opportunities Sales dashboards are ideal for tracking your organization’s products and services. They help you identify sales opportunities by monitoring top-selling products and comparing the growth in revenue on a regular basis. Sales dashboards sync to your raw data, so your charts are always up to date. This eliminates the need to manually enter and prepare sales reports and charts. Social media management Social media management is more than just posting statuses on your business’s social media accounts. And in most cases, your social media platform’s default dashboard doesn’t give you deep insights into your social media campaigns. What’s more, managing multiple social media accounts can quickly become tedious since you have to use several login credentials. Instead, you can manage all of your accounts through a comprehensive social media dashboard, saving you valuable time and effort. Financial reports Presenting financial data is a complex process that often leads to misinterpretation of critical information. Dashboards simplify the creation of financial reports, and financial analysts can take advantage of dashboards to display sensitive data — be it customer invoices, progress toward revenue goals, or business expenses — in an understandable graphical format. Project collaboration All businesses require their employees to collaborate on projects, whether on site or online. Project supervisors need to get their teams together to give them project requirements, deadlines, and responsibilities, and to get progress updates. By using project collaboration dashboards, team members will see a project’s complete workflow, allowing for a more efficient and collaborative working environment. Dashboards streamline the presentation of complex business data and make your team more efficient. If you’re looking to implement dashboards and other cutting-edge tools to make your job easier, contact our consultants today. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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Includes: Practical IT tips, security updates, and managed services insights to help your business run smoother.