We are well into the new year and an IT budget should be a part of your plan for 2023. As a business owner, you may ask yourself why your business should outsource its IT management. It is not a simple question to answer, as there are many variables. It is not a question of “if”, but “why”.

IT outsourcing is the use of an external resource or service provider to provide IT-related services, such as hardware and software maintenance, cloud computing, network design, server monitoring, and more. It can benefit you in a number of ways. An IT company will provide the expertise, time, and resources needed to help keep your business running smoothly and securely. With outsourcing, you will also have access to new technology that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive for most businesses. This blog will break down reasons why your business should outsource its IT management and how it can greatly benefit you to include it in your budget for years to come.

Save Money By Outsourcing IT Services

Outsourcing IT services can help you save money and reduce risk. Working with an experienced IT company will provide extra support, expertise, and knowledge that your current team may not have. By outsourcing your IT management needs, you are able to access a larger talent pool of highly skilled professionals with technical experience specific to the work required for your business. This helps you to avoid the need for full-time in-house staff, and drastically reduces labor costs.

You also save money by outsourcing IT services because you are preventing disastrous issues that will end up costing you a lot more money. It is much better to spend an affordable rate protecting your business than to pay the unexpected, extensive amounts that come with cyber attacks, data breaches, and more. The price you pay for outsourced IT support is actually for protection and peace of mind as a business owner. You do not want to get caught paying for the irreparable damage that was completely preventable.

Increase Efficiency By Outsourcing IT Services

Outsourcing your IT management needs can also help to increase productivity and efficiency. Working with an experienced IT company allows you to access more reliable, secure, and up-to-date technology solutions that are tailored specifically for your business. This will save you time spent researching, troubleshooting issues, or attempting to find solutions on your own. When you have a tailored IT business plan in place from an outsourced partner, they have the ability to manage and run it, staying up-to-date on changes and trends in the cyberspace. You do not need to worry about having expertise on your team when you have it through a partner.

You Can Focus On Your Business By Outsourcing IT Services

You should be able to focus on your business. By outsourcing your IT management needs to an experienced IT company, you can free up resources and personnel who would otherwise be occupied with technical tasks. This allows your team to focus on what they are best at – growing and managing your business. With the help of a managed IT services provider, you can rest assured that all of your technology needs are taken care of while you concentrate on taking your business to the next level.

Gain Control Over Security Risks By Outsourcing IT Services

In today’s digital age, cybersecurity threats are always present and are better to be prevented than fixed after they begin. Gaining control and getting ahead of security risks in your business is a vital part of running it. Working with an experienced IT company allows your business to access the latest security solutions available, so you can gain control over any potential threats and mitigate associated risks.

If your company does not have a cyber attack prevention plan, it needs one. The right outsourcing partner can help you create a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and provide the necessary support when needed. This will not only save you time but also give you peace of mind that your systems are secure.

Stay Ahead Of Competitors By Outsourcing IT Services

Outsourcing IT services allows your business to stay ahead of the competition by leveraging the most up-to-date technology and solutions. They also have access to more resources than you might be able to afford, which can help you compete in your industry space. Working with an experienced IT company enables you to access the latest tools and processes available, so you can remain competitive in your industry. The continuous development of software and hardware capabilities means that outsourcing helps ensure you never miss out on any relevant advancements.

Remain Productive, Not Reactive By Outsourcing IT Services

Outsourcing IT services allows your business to remain productive and proactive, instead of reactive. By outsourcing IT management needs to an experienced provider, you can access the tools and resources needed to proactively identify potential issues and efficiently fix them before they become larger problems. This will help keep your operations running smoothly while allowing you to focus on growing your business.

As you can see, outsourcing IT management can provide your business with a number of benefits that cannot be achieved by doing it on your own. It will save you money, increase efficiency and productivity, and allow you to focus on growing and managing your business. By outsourcing IT management, you can access the expertise and knowledge of an experienced, reliable IT company that will be tailored specifically for your business.

Do not wait. Do not become the victim. Data breaches and network failures are catastrophic to businesses and they happen every day. Get ahead by choosing to outsource your business’ IT management. Elevated Technologies is among the leading managed IT services providers. Our managed IT services include firewalls, PCs, printers, networked devices, routers, and servers. We provide a flat-rate IT support plan and are your tailored, one-stop shop for all your business’ IT needs.

If outsourcing IT services is something that interests you for 2023, contact us today and see how we can help you put a plan in place and support you through IT management to protect your business from cyber-attacks for years to come.

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Preparing Your Business for the New Year

As the new year approaches, small business owners are likely thinking about their goals and how to achieve them in 2023. One area that is often overlooked when it comes to New Year’s resolutions is technology. Here are our 2023 small business technology tips.

When small businesses overlook services like IT, cybersecurity, and technology processes, they can face a number of problems that can impact their efficiency, productivity, and overall success. 

Some of the problems that may arise include:

• Outdated hardware and software: If a small business doesn’t regularly update and upgrade its hardware and software, it may end up using outdated technologies that can slow down business processes and make it harder to get things done. This can lead to decreased efficiency and productivity, which can ultimately impact the bottom line.

• Cybersecurity risks: Small businesses are increasingly targeted by cyber attacks, and if they don’t have strong cybersecurity measures in place, they are more vulnerable to these threats. This can lead to data breaches, which can result in the loss of sensitive data, financial damage, and damage to the company’s reputation.

• Inefficient processes: Without a comprehensive IT plan in place, small businesses may struggle to manage their IT systems and processes effectively. This can lead to inefficient use of resources, as well as delays and downtime that can impact the business.

• Lack of employee training: If small businesses don’t invest in employee training, their employees may not be equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to use technology effectively. This can lead to decreased efficiency and productivity, as well as a higher risk of errors and mistakes.

Overall, it’s important for small businesses to prioritize IT, cybersecurity, and technology processes to avoid these problems and ensure success in the long term.

Making Improvements in your IT and technology processes can have a big impact on the efficiency and productivity of your business. 

In this blog, we’ll share some tips on how to prepare your small business for success in 2023 with the right technology strategies. Whether you’re looking to update your hardware and software, implement a strong cybersecurity plan, or invest in employee training, these tips can help you get your business ready for the new year.

In welcoming 2023 as a small business, it’s a great time to reflect on goals and make resolutions to improve operations and succeed in the new year. 

Making improvements in the area of technology can have a big impact on the efficiency and productivity of a small business.

At Elevated Technologies, a managed IT company based in Houston, we have seen firsthand the benefits that come with investing in IT infrastructure and processes. 

Here are 6 resolutions that small businesses in Houston can make to improve their IT in 2023:

Update and Upgrade Your Hardware and Software

Outdated hardware and software can slow down your business processes and make it more difficult to get things done. Take the time to assess your current IT setup and consider investing in new hardware or software if it will improve efficiency and productivity. This could include upgrading to faster computers, installing new software programs, or investing in new servers or networking equipment. 

If you need support with updating and upgrading your hardware and software, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Elevated Technologies.

Implement a Strong Cybersecurity Plan

Cybersecurity is a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. With the increasing prevalence of cyber attacks, it’s more important than ever to have a strong plan in place to protect your company’s data and systems. This could include installing antivirus software, implementing strong passwords, training employees on how to identify and prevent cyber threats, and implementing backup and disaster recovery systems. 

As you work toward creating a comprehensive cybersecurity plan, Elevated Technologies can provide the expertise and support you need. Reach out any time for advice or support on the right steps to take and priorities to emphasize in your 2023 cybersecurity plan.

Create a Comprehensive IT Plan

An IT plan can help you stay organized and on track with your IT goals and objectives. It should outline your current IT infrastructure, as well as any planned updates or upgrades. It should also include details on your cybersecurity plan and any policies or procedures you have in place to manage IT risks and prevent downtime. 

Elevated Technologies provides guidance and support to small businesses in Houston building comprehensive IT plans. 

Invest in Employee Training

Your employees are a critical component of your IT infrastructure. Ensuring that they are trained on the latest technology and processes can help improve efficiency and productivity. Consider offering training on new software programs, or hosting workshops on topics such as cybersecurity or data management. 

Regularly Review and Assess Your IT Systems

Technology is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay up to date with the latest trends and best practices. Make it a resolution to regularly review and assess your IT systems to ensure that they are meeting your business needs and are in line with industry standards. This could involve conducting a security audit, testing your backup and disaster recovery systems, or simply staying informed about new technologies that could benefit your business. 

If you need assistance with reviewing and assessing your IT systems, Elevated Technologies can provide expert guidance.

Work With a Trusted Managed IT Provider

Managed IT services can be a valuable resource for small businesses looking to improve their IT systems. A managed IT provider can handle all of your IT needs, from hardware and software upgrades to cybersecurity and data management. This can free up time and resources for your business to focus on other important tasks, and it can also provide peace of mind knowing that your IT systems are being monitored and managed by a team of experts. 

In conclusion, making resolutions to improve your IT in 2023 can have a big impact on the efficiency and productivity of your small business. By updating and upgrading your hardware and software, implementing a strong cybersecurity plan, creating a comprehensive IT plan, investing in employee training, regularly reviewing and assessing your IT systems, and working with a trusted managed IT provider, you can position your business for success in the new year.

If you’re a small business in Houston looking for support with your IT resolutions for 2023, Elevated Technologies is here to help. We offer a wide range of managed IT services to help businesses of all sizes improve their IT infrastructure and processes. 

Contact us today to schedule a free consult and learn more about how we can help your business succeed in the new year.

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2FA (two-factor authentication) is an additional security measure that can be used to further protect your online accounts. 2FA requires you to enter an additional code, typically sent to your mobile phone, in order to log in to your account. This makes it much more difficult for someone to hack into your account, even if they have your password. 

2FA is not a new concept. It has been used by banks and other financial institutions for years. However, it is only now starting to become more widely used by online services such as Google, Facebook, and Twitter. We strongly recommend that you enable 2FA for any online accounts that support it.

Why You Should Use 2FA

There are many reasons why you should use 2FA. Here are some of the most important reasons you should use 2FA.

Security

With 2FA in place, even if someone manages to obtain your password, they will not be able to log into your account unless they also have access to your mobile phone (or whatever device you are using to receive the 2FA code).  This makes it much more difficult for someone to hack into your account.

Privacy

In addition to increasing security, 2FA can also help to protect your privacy. For example, if you use Google Authenticator for 2FA, Google will not be able to track your online activity as easily. This is because Google Authenticator generates a new code every 30 seconds, so even if Google were to try and track your activity, they would only see a string of random numbers.

Convenience

2FA may seem like an inconvenience at first, but it is actually very convenient. Once you have set up 2FA, you will only need to enter your password and the 2FA code when logging in. This only takes a few seconds and is much easier than trying to remember a long string of characters.

Benefits of 2FA

2FA adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. Even if someone manages to obtain your password, they will not be able to log in to your account unless they also have access to your 2FA code. This makes it much more difficult for someone to hack into your account. 2FA is especially beneficial when working for a big company. There are so many programs and accounts you have to login to. You might not even realize if someone hacked it if you don’t have 2FA.

When to use 2FA

2FA can be used for any online account that supports it. We recommend that you enable 2FA for all online accounts. Especially accounts that contain sensitive information, such as your bank account. 2FA is also a good idea for any online account that you use frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 2FA and how does it work?

2FA is an extra layer of security that is added to your online accounts. It works by requiring you to enter a 2FA code in addition to your password when logging in. This code is usually sent to your mobile phone via text message or generated by an app such as Google Authenticator.

How can I get my 2FA code?

There are a few different ways to get your 2FA code. The most common way is to receive it via text message or email. Another option is to use an app such as Google Authenticator to generate the code.

Do I still need to use a strong password if I have 2FA?

Yes, you should always use a strong password in addition to 2FA. A strong password is at least 8 characters long. It should contain a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

Let Us Help

We at Elevated Technologies want to make sure every company can keep their accounts and information safe. Your employees having 2FA set up is a great way to keep your company safe and secure. If you have any questions contact us today!

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In this day in age, it is very common for people to use online shopping. It has become a favorite way to buy presents during the holidays. No matter what holiday you celebrate, online shopping has become the new way of life. A lot of people use online shopping because it is very convenient. You can shop from the comfort of your own home, and have gifts shipped directly to your doorstep. Businesses do their shopping online as well. Whether it is buying for your business, or employees, or allowing your employees to surf the web while using company equipment, make sure you are protected. 

Cyber Safety During The Holidays

Although shopping online is very convenient, it is important to be aware of the dangers along with it. One of the biggest dangers of online shopping is cybercrime. Cybercriminals are always looking for ways to take advantage of people. The holiday season is a prime time for them to strike. There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from cybercrime when you are shopping online.

Tips For Staying Safe During The Holidays

There are many ways to stay safe when the holiday shopping season begins.  Here are some simple cybersecurity tips to help you out this holiday shopping season.

Shop On Secure Websites

During the holidays, only shop on websites that you know are safe and you can trust. Verify that the website’s URL includes “HTTPS”, this means the site is secure. Another way to make sure the site you are on is safe is to look for the lock icon that appears on the right of the URL. If there is no lock, it is safe to say that it is not a secure site. You also want to make sure that the URL is spelled correctly. It is common to come across sites that are almost the exact same as the secure site but the URL is spelled wrong.

Emails

Never click on email links from people you don’t know. Cyber-criminals often send phishing emails that look like they are from a reputable website. A good way to check this is to click on the sender and check the actual email. Most times it will look like the sender is reputable but the email isn’t. Be aware that the links these people send can be fake websites. People will create websites that look like real websites. These websites are created for the sole purpose of stealing your personal information. Do not enter any personal information on these websites.

Check Your Accounts Regularly

When you are checking your accounts, you will be able to catch any fraudulent activity. This way you can report it and get your money back. Some websites will ask you to save your card information. Make sure that you do not save your payment information to any website/app. Even if the website is secure, cyber-criminals can still hack your account and get your information.

Passwords

When you are shopping online, it is important to keep your personal information safe. Be sure to use a different password for each website you shop on. Your passwords should be strong. It should include a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Strong passwords will be harder for online thieves to get into your accounts and steal your financial information. If a cyber-criminal gets a hold of your password, they will have access to all of your accounts.

Protect Your Information During The Holiday Season

When shopping online, you want to make sure you do everything to protect your personal details. By following the tips above, you can help keep yourself safe from cyber-criminals. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be aware of the dangers that come along with shopping online. Make sure you take the necessary security tips and precautions to protect yourself.

FAQs

What is the best way to stay safe when shopping online during the holidays?

The top 4 ways to make sure you are safe online are:

• Make sure to only shop on secure sites
• Never click on emails if you don’t know the sender
• Check your account regularly
• Make sure you use strong passwords and never use the same password for your accounts

Why is it important to be cautious during the holidays?

Cybercriminals are more active during the holidays because people are shopping online more. They know that people are busy and may not be paying as much attention to their personal information. This is why it is important to be extra cautious and make sure you are taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself.

What is the number one way people try to steal information during the holidays?

The number one way people try to steal information during the holidays is through phishing emails. These are emails that look like they are from a reputable website or company but are actually fake. The email will contain a link that takes you to a fake website. This website is created to look like the real website but is actually a fraud. Do not enter any personal information on these websites.

Let Elevated Technologies Help You

Protect yourself and your business from the risks of identity theft and scams. Elevated Technologies is a cyber security company you can trust! During the holiday season, we want to make sure our clients stay as safe as possible. Contact us today to learn more about how Elevated Technologies can help you stay safe when you shop online.

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October is cybersecurity awareness month. It’s a great time for small businesses to focus on cybersecurity prevention. There are many threats out there that can harm your business. It’s important to be aware of them and take steps to protect yourself and your business in Houston.

October is the perfect time to start! As a small business, you may be wondering how you can get involved in cybersecurity awareness month. The first step is education. Learning about the threats and the different ways they affect your business is everyone’s responsibility.

To get your employees prepared for cybersecurity this month, take these steps:

• Educate your employees about cybersecurity threats and how to prevent them.
• Encourage employees to use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
• Make sure all your business and employee devices are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
• Implement a comprehensive cybersecurity plan that includes employee training, regular updates, and monitoring.
• Engage with them throughout the year with weekly themes so it becomes a part of their daily routine.

By taking these steps during cybersecurity awareness month, you can help keep your business safe from cyberattacks and on the cutting edge of online safety practices. Cybersecurity awareness month is the perfect time to start! Let’s make October the month of cybersecurity prevention in Houston!

Games and Activities to make it fun!

Not everyone gets geeked out over information technology and cybersecurity, but it is important for everyone to be aware. Below are a few ideas that might be more engaging for your team. 

A Cybersecurity Scavenger Hunt:

This can be done in person or online. Give employees a list of cybersecurity terms and have them find the definition within a set time limit. The first person to finish or with the most correct answers wins!

A Cybersecurity Quiz Show:

Similar to the scavenger hunt, this can also be done in person or online. Create a quiz with questions about cybersecurity threats, prevention tips, and more. Employees can compete individually or in teams.

A Cybersecurity Obstacle Course:

This one is best done in person. Set up a series of “obstacles” that employees have to navigate while keeping cyber hygiene in mind. For example, an employee might have to type a password while someone is looking over their shoulder, or they might have to open a suspicious email and not click on any links. The first person to complete the course without making any mistakes wins!

With those activities, they are bound to not only have some fun but learn about the resources and support they have when at home or in the office.

What is Cyber Security Month?

Cyber Security Month helps organizations worldwide create awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. It is a global initiative that takes place every October.

Cybersecurity Month 2022

2022 is different in the sense that it’s the first time the world is recognizing it as a month-long event. This means that more businesses and individuals are expected to be involved in promoting cybersecurity awareness and prevention.

In the past, many small businesses have been caught off guard by cyber attacks. This year, make sure you’re prepared as a business in the area of cybersecurity.

You can always find free resources to stay connected on the SBA’s website. Visit their website today and be sure to stay safe and secure online!

Ways to Protect Your Business

As a small business, you may be wondering how you can get involved in cybersecurity awareness month. The first step is education and learning about the threats out there.

Why is October Cybersecurity Month?

The month of October was chosen because it is the perfect time to start creating awareness about cybersecurity and its importance. It works for small businesses because it is a slow time of year and businesses have more time to focus on cybersecurity prevention.

How can my business participate in Cyber Security Month Awareness?

There are many ways businesses can participate. One way is to promote cybersecurity awareness within your organization by hosting events, webinars, or training. You can also create blog posts or social media content related to cybersecurity.

Why is it important for businesses to participate in Cyber Security Month?

Businesses need to participate in Cyber Security Month because their technology, department lead, users, websites, and communications all benefit.  Also, this is an excellent way to display your business’s commitment to cybersecurity best practices.

What are the different types of threats that could harm my business?

There are many types of threats that could harm your business. Some common ones include viruses, malware, phishing attacks, and ransomware. The most common form is a phishing attack, which is when someone tries to trick you into giving them sensitive information. The most common place phishing is found is in email. However, all platforms now allow you to report an email that you feel might be a threat to your business.

How to phish your employees?

You can test your employee’s knowledge by phishing them. This is when you send an email that looks legitimate but is actually from a malicious source. You can use this to see if your employees are clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources. This not only gives you awareness but also provides an awesome learning opportunity for your team.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Theme

The theme for this year’s cybersecurity awareness month is  “Own IT. Secure IT. Protect IT.” This theme was chosen to help businesses understand that they need to take ownership of their cybersecurity and protect their data.

The first step is understanding what cybersecurity is and how it can affect your business. Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting electronic information from unauthorized access or theft. It includes both physical and logical security measures. Physical security measures protect hardware and devices from attack, while logical security measures protect data and information from unauthorized access.

When it comes to your business, you need to take ownership of your cybersecurity and make sure you are doing everything you can to protect your data. This includes having a strong password policy in place, investing in security software, and regularly backing up your data.

Cybersecurity is important for businesses of all sizes. By participating in Cybersecurity Awareness Month, you can show your commitment to protecting your business and its data.

If you would like to know more about how you can stay safe online, contact us today!

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What is IT Infrastructure?

Information technology (IT) infrastructure is the component required to run and manage business enterprise IT environments. IT infrastructure can be deployed within a cloud computing system or onsite at an organization. A company’s IT infrastructure is comparable to a building infrastructure in that it includes physical components that support the activities and services required by users to run business processes.

IT infrastructure management is the process of overseeing critical IT infrastructure components required to deliver business services. Software applications and networking components are examples of IT infrastructure management, but the emphasis is generally on physical elements such as computer and networking hardware, as well as the facility itself.

IT Infrastructure Management

Infrastructure Management Solutions

Systems administration, network administration, and storage administration are three primary divisions of IT infrastructure.

Systems Management: This covers a wide range of key activities as it includes the administration of all IT assets normally found within data centers. A Chief Information Officer is typically responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the data center and managing the integration of new applications and third-party services into the organization’s hybrid cloud environment.

Network Management: The art of managing IT security networks. IT security and operations analysts maintain control over and configure networks to guarantee that resources are properly allocated to applications and services, as well as their quality and availability. Network management also has a component of security since IT operators must keep track of the network in order to safeguard the company’s security posture while limiting unauthorized

Storage Management: Data storage space is a precious and limited resource for businesses and IT. As a result, data storage technologies and resources, such as virtualization, storage provisioning, data compression, and data security, are important components of IT infrastructure management.

Management Components

IT infrastructure management may be easier understood by breaking it down into three key categories.

• Server hardware and computer platforms – Computer hardware includes clients such as laptops and desktop computers, as well as servers and mainframes.
• The operating systems that run on computer hardware platforms are the second element of IT infrastructure. Windows, UNIX, Linux, and Mac OS X are all popular operating systems.
• Software Applications – Focuses on the physical elements of IT infrastructure, but it may also have some oversight of major corporate software applications. This generally includes programs that are important for ensuring service delivery at the business level, such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, and others.

IT Infrastructure Management Processes

Because IT infrastructure managers are in charge of the design, implementation, upkeep, and retirement of each of these IT infrastructure components, it’s critical to understand how to manage them effectively. The following are some examples of superior IT infrastructure management methods:

• Knowledge Gathering
• Creation of Standards
• Implementation of Standards
• Maintaining Consistency
• Documentation

Benefits of Infrastructure Management Services

The advantages of strong IT infrastructure management are numerous. They include financial and operational savings. These benefits include:

• Boosted response times to operational changes, accidents, and other confounding situations. 
• Proactive efforts emerging from more agile procedures.
• Reduced operational costs and improved capacity planning as a result of automation.
• Solutions that streamline processes and responsibilities to optimize labor effectiveness

Contact Elevated Technologies today to find the best IT Infrastructure management and enterprise solutions for your company. 

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Cloud hosting is a type of hosting that has grown in popularity as it is more flexible and useful. This service may be used to host websites, domain names, and databases. The benefits of cloud hosting over in-house hosting are the use of offsite server resources. This can quickly scale to handle large amounts of traffic.

How Cloud Web Hosting Works

Each machine in a cloud environment performs a particular set of duties. If one’s own server fails, multiple virtual servers take over in a backup capacity to ensure that hosting services continue to be available. Therefore, there is not solely one dedicated server. When you host your website the information is duplicated across numerous locations. This is to guarantee that it is always accessible online for both you and your visitors.

Cloud servers generally provide all of the tools you need. Whether it’s administering a website, cloud storage, or database management. Many services are geared toward non-technical users. This includes a control panel with numerous functions that make it easier than ever to establish and manage a website and virtual environment.

Cloud Services in Action

In order to host your own website, you’ll have to buy a cloud server, install the appropriate software, learn how to operate it, and ensure that your website is accessible. The cost alone of this may be thousands of dollars. Instead of pursuing this option, you can pay about $10 per month to have a cloud web host keep your costs down.

Types of Cloud Hosting Solutions

Traditional hosting: Virtual private servers (VPS) are another type of hosted hosting. Clients use hosted servers to get storage services from them. Storage servers are positioned at various sites and, through the use of the Internet, services are made available to clients.

Public cloud hosting: The public cloud is a web host service approach in which a hosting company gives shared resources, such as applications, virtual servers, and storage, to the general public. It’s a multi-tenant setting with various consumers utilizing the same pool of IT infrastructure. You pay for these common resources on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Private cloud: A hosted private cloud resides on-premises or in a data center and is maintained by the cloud service provider. These resources are not shared with other businesses and are managed by the cloud service provider. All upgrades, updates, and maintenance must be carried out by the cloud provider.

Benefits of Cloud Hosting

Cloud hosting has a variety of advantages. Ranging from simple convenience to enterprise-level solutions. You can anticipate finding the following advantages as a result of offsite hosting:

• Dependable: Cloud hosting is more dependable than in-house hardware. It occurs in an offsite data center with hundreds of servers and backups that protect against failures and ensure ongoing access to both you and your web traffic.

• Physical security: Data centers where servers are kept often include numerous security precautions. Such as ID card readers and surveillance cameras, to prevent unauthorized persons from gaining access or disrupting servers.

• Flexibility. You don’t have to purchase additional server space or hardware, and there’s no extra maintenance cost. The resources available in a cloud hosting environment can simply be expanded to meet the demands of a customer without regard for the physical limitations of a single server. If your site sees an increase in traffic, the cloud hosting service may readily borrow unused resources

Contact Elevated Technologies today to get your cloud hosting solutions!

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What is IT Support?

IT support refers to any help with technology-related services and items. This includes everything from installation to forgotten passwords.

Small businesses or large, IT support solutions give staff the tools they need to address difficulties and get their job back on track. Employees may obtain IT assistance at any time of day or night and anticipate a rapid, dependable response. This implies enhanced employee productivity, as well as higher job engagement and satisfaction.

The Following are More-Common Tasks Associated with IT Support for Businesses:

• Installing computer hardware, software, systems, networks, printers, and scanners

• Recovering forgotten passwords

• Communication with employees to determine the nature of any problems they encounter

• Respond to device breakdowns

• Logging and processing tech support calls

• Scheduling maintenance upgrades

• Creating accounts for personnel, making sure they are aware of how to get into them

• Investigate and fix computer software or hardware issues

• Network infrastructure equipment repairs

How Can IT Support Benefit Your Business?

The advantages of IT solutions are just as numerous as the duties it entails. IT support services improve nearly every part of a modern business.

IT Solutions Include the Following:

Increased ROI and Reduced Spending

The cost of an IT outage is more than just the money it takes to restore service after it’s been lost. Given that a data center downtime costs approximately $8000 per minute on average, it’s an investment that may pay for itself very quickly. You can save a significant amount of money by reducing resolution time within your company. IT support can assist you to make the most of your tools and systems. This results in improved employee performance and revenue-generating capabilities of your business.

Enhanced Cyber Security

Cyber security threats are changing rapidly. Attackers are employing tools, techniques, and tactical approaches to adapt to traditional cyber security services. Having dependable IT support on call improves your security profile, allowing you to react more quickly to new dangers as they emerge.

Happy Employees

Employees who have access to adequate IT support services can resolve issues more promptly and directly. This results in significantly reduced downtime. Employees will be able to solve their own difficulties faster by being able to connect to IT wherever they are working.

Increased IT Adaptability

To be competitive, organizations must stay up to date with new technology. IT support is a valuable tool for evaluating, testing and incorporating new tools and systems in order to improve corporate objectives.

Less Time Worrying

With few exceptions, leadership shouldn’t have to spend their limited time chasing down IT issues. IT support takes many IT-related tasks off of management’s plate, freeing up leadership to instead focus on managing teams and growing the business.

Maximized Company Efficiency and Productivity

There’s a reason that business technology has become so widespread in virtually every sector: the appropriate tools assist and enhance workers’ activities, allowing businesses to do more while spending less.

Managed IT Services

Because your business is unique, so are the IT challenges you face. IT support service may handle these difficulties in a way that is tailored to your specific requirements and restrictions.

Elevated Technologies is your support company for business solutions. More than just tech support, we offer on-site and in-house solutions for all your IT problems. Contact Elevated Technologies today!

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As a small business you must take the time to think about all of the unforeseen expenditures that might be necessary if your company were to grow. Most small businesses work within a predetermined budget lower than what huge enterprises can afford. The truth is that organizations like yours usually cannot afford to hire an in-house IT team. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t afford to hire an outside team of IT professionals. There’s no such thing as a modern company without IT assistance. Here we will go through the top reasons why you need IT support for small businesses.

Network Security

Small businesses are targeted by hackers because they’re known to lack internet security and basic tech support. An IT audit by a professional can reveal any flaws in your present cybersecurity and hardware security. As well as suggesting ways to improve security measures. IT companies with a dedicated team such as Elevated Technologies, offers immediate IT support. IT support, sets up, maintains, and improves networks, servers, desktop computers, and mobile devices. If money is the main reason you haven’t hired employees in IT yet, outsourcing significantly lowers spending without sacrificing quality.

IT Support Improves Productivity 

For small businesses, it’s tough to handle everything. If you’re not technical, your company may suffer if something goes wrong with a device. This is why IT support for small companies is crucial. IT experts have the ability to troubleshoot software, and get your business back up and running swiftly. They can also help you increase overall productivity by enhancing current procedures. Computers, software, and telecommunications systems are inherently complex. Technology can lead to decreased productivity as a result of constant downtime. This includes things like; server crashes, emails going offline and office router problems. You’ll need a tech team that is ready to react and address all these difficulties as they arise.

Better Communication

One of IT’s primary jobs is to enhance communications. For example, IT professionals can connect small businesses to video chat or set up company phones and tablets for you. These technologies will make keeping in touch a lot easier, resulting in enhanced communication (which, as we all know, leads to increased productivity). Enhanced communication is a huge reason why you need IT support for small businesses.

Data Storage

Data storage is becoming increasingly essential for small business owners. For small businesses, data includes employee files, client records, financials, and so on. Unfortunately, this information is enticing to hackers; it’s precisely what they’re searching for. IT experts can set you up with a secure internal database that accommodates all of your documents. Protect your sensitive data with managed services from an IT support team.

IT Professionals Understand New Technology

IT support professionals can not only advise small businesses on new and innovative technology but also operate, monitor, and maintain them. After all, it is their expertise. Small businesses should consider IT support as cost-effective, not costly. If you’re hacked or your hardware/software breaks down, you might end up spending more than it would have if you had simply hired IT assistance to begin with. Even beyond what’s mentioned above, the IT industry is a good investment that provides the comfort of business running smoothly.

Best IT Support for Small Businesses

The benefits of hiring an IT support company for business needs are insurmountable. Small business owners have an idea what it’s like to work with a technology problem all day. It’s either a shocking surprise and a minor setback, or a headache and irritation, or a complete collapse and operational paralysis, as you likely know. If you have an IT team on your side, you won’t have to worry about computer problems anymore. You would hire specialists to deal with concerns that aren’t yours to worry about in the first place. This means you and your staff can focus on what’s truly essential: your business and getting the job done properly. 

At Elevated Technologies we are here to prevent disasters for large and small businesses. Here we can implement solutions and overcome challenges. This leads to ultimate business success. Contact us or read this blog today to learn more about IT support for small businesses!

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Remote Work Security

Cyber attacks are becoming more common and sophisticated, which makes remote workers an easy target for hackers. More companies now allow employees to work remotely. It’s important to consider the remote work security risks that come with this freedom. By implementing a few simple remote access security control measures, you can help protect your company’s data.

Remote Access Security Risks

There are a few remote work security risks to be aware of. Be sure to educate yourself as a remote worker on how to identify and avoid these threats.

• Targeting: You as a remote worker often have access to sensitive company data, which makes you a prime target for cybercriminals.

• Unsecured Networks: When working remotely, it’s important to only use secure WiFi networks. Hackers can easily set up fake WiFi networks, pretending to be a legitimate business, and use them to gain access to your data. Only connect to familiar networks.

• Malware/Phishing: Remote workers may not be as familiar with security measures as on-site employees. They may be more likely to accidentally download malware or open phishing emails.

Remote Access Security Controls

As the world becomes connected, remote control security for cyber security becomes important. Remote access security controls help protect organizations from attacks that come from outside.  These controls can include firewalls and virtual private networks. As well as intrusion detection and prevention systems. By implementing these controls, organizations can reduce the risks of hacks and improve security.

How to Prevent Cyber Security Attacks/Tips for Remote Security

There are a few things you can do to help keep yourself safe from cyber attacks. By taking these remote work security measures, you can help protect your company’s data and keep you and your devices safe.

• Make sure to use a secure VPN to connect to your work devices
• Have strong anti-malware software, and learn how to use it
• Educate yourself about remote work security risks
• Be cautious with the emails you open and the websites you visit

Remote Control Security for Cyber Security

There are a few things you as a remote worker you can do to help protect yourself from cyber-attacks. These are in addition to the remote work security measures your company takes. It’s important to be extra vigilant about your cyber security. By following these remote work security tips, you can help keep yourself and your company safe from cyber-attacks.

• Always use a strong password and never reuse passwords
• Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible for extra security
• Be cautious about the emails you open and the links you click
• Only connect to familiar, secure WiFi networks
• Never download software from unknown sources
• Disconnect from all networks if you suspect a malware attack
• Contact your IT support team if you suspect a cyber attack

FAQs

How do you protect remote connections?

The best way to protect remote connections is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts all data that is sent between your device and the VPN server, making it more difficult for hackers to intercept and access your data.

What are some security issues in remote access?

There are a few remote access security issues to be aware of, such as unsecured networks, malware/phishing, and targeting. Be sure to educate yourself on how to identify and avoid these threats.

What is a remote security attack?

A remote security attack is from a hacker attempting to gain access to your data or devices. They do this by exploiting vulnerabilities in remote access tools or systems.

What are the techniques that to overcome security attacks?

There are a few techniques that can help overcome security attacks. These include using a VPN, having strong anti-malware software, and being cautious. Be extra cautious about the emails you open and the links you click.

Let Us Help You 

If you need help with making sure you stay safe as a remote worker, let us help you get you started. We can make sure you have quality security as a remote worker, so you don’t have to worry. Contact us today to learn more about how we can meet your remote work security needs!

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