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Optimize your new laptop with these tipsLaptop computers aren’t cheap, so you’d want to make sure you get every bit of performance for your buck. Bear in mind that they may not be set up to function at their best straight out of the box, so to do just that, you’ll need to take these steps. 1. Update your laptop’s operating […]

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Optimize your new laptop with these tips

Laptop computers aren’t cheap, so you’d want to make sure you get every bit of performance for your buck. Bear in mind that they may not be set up to function at their best straight out of the box, so to do just that, you’ll need to take these steps.

1. Update your laptop’s operating system

One of the first things you should do before using your laptop is to update its operating system (OS). Assuming you did not purchase the laptop when it was first released, it will still be running an older OS. Because important patches and fixes are released with each new update, you must install the latest ones to ensure your laptop doesn’t have vulnerabilities that malicious third parties can exploit.

2. Remove bloatware

When turning on your laptop for the first time, you might notice that there are several preloaded software in the system — some of which you will probably never use. These are known as bloatware.

These apps take up a lot of your valuable drive space, so consider getting rid of them. The easiest way to do this is by downloading a bulk uninstaller, which allows you to check all the bloatware apps you don’t want and remove them in one fell swoop.

3. Install protection software

It’s no secret that there are cybercriminals who would steal sensitive data, such as your account credentials, protected health information, and sensitive company files. It is therefore necessary to protect yourself from losing important data from your computer. The solution to this is very simple. By installing antivirus software that can scan your computer at a scheduled time or whenever you feel like it, you can thwart potential attacks.

Not only is the data stored in your laptop vulnerable to cyberattacks, but there is always a chance that your laptop will get lost or stolen. While there are preventive steps you can take — such as being mindful while using your laptop in public places — installing anti-theft software like Find My Device for Windows 10 can help you locate your device if it’s ever stolen or misplaced.

4. Optimize your power settings

One of the most frequent problems that laptop users have is that their batteries run out of juice too fast. However, you can actually extend the battery life by making a few tweaks to your power settings.

Reduce your display brightness, but not so much that it causes eye and mental fatigue.
Use the Sleep or Hibernate mode for your operating system.

5. Set up a backup plan

Imagine spending months working on an important project and suddenly finding it corrupted because your laptop crashed. Deadlines will be missed. Profit margins will decrease. Customers will leave unhappy. And if worse comes to worst, you’ll be out of business.

Why add stress if you can prevent it from happening in the first place? By setting up an automatic backup system, you can regularly save all your important files. This way, you’d still be able to recover your data should anything happen to the original file.

You can also store all your important documents in the cloud, which ensures access whenever you need it, even if your laptop crashes or gets stolen.

Getting a new laptop can be fun, but the joy might be short-lived if you don’t set up any preventive measures from the start. Call us for information on how we can help you secure your company’s laptops today.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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Have you updated your firmware yet?When was the last time you checked if the firmware of your gadgets are up to date? If it has been a while, then you need to do so right away. This is because you might be using outdated firmware, and doing so makes you vulnerable to data breaches and other cyberattacks. What is firmware? […]

The post Have you updated your firmware yet? appeared first on Complete Technology Resources, Inc..

Have you updated your firmware yet?

When was the last time you checked if the firmware of your gadgets are up to date? If it has been a while, then you need to do so right away. This is because you might be using outdated firmware, and doing so makes you vulnerable to data breaches and other cyberattacks.

What is firmware?

Firmware is a basic type of software that is embedded into every piece of hardware. It controls the device it’s installed on, cannot be uninstalled or removed, and is only compatible with the make and model of the hardware it is installed on. Think of it like a translator between your stiff and unchanging hardware and your fluid and evolving software. For example, the firmware of a TV remote control processes the button presses and sends that data into a format that the TV can understand.

Why is firmware security important?

To clearly explain the importance of firmware security, let’s use the firmware installed in a router as an example.

When you buy a router and plug it in, its firmware allows it to connect devices to your wireless network with almost zero input from you. However, if the router manufacturer is outside of California, then they might still be using the same username and password for the same router model, if not for all router models. If you don't change these default settings, you could be exposed to hackers.

Default usernames and passwords is an example of a known vulnerability, and firmware could have other vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit. Black hat hackers could use these to spy on you, steal or corrupt your data, or even damage your systems. Unfortunately, firmware exploits are not rare occurrences. Not too long ago, a cybersecurity professional discovered that sending a 33-character text message to a router generated an SMS response that included the administrator username and password.

How do I protect myself?

The best way to defend yourself from firmware exploits is to immediately roll out firmware updates from the device’s manufacturer. With that said, you need to keep in mind that every manufacturer has different procedures for checking and updating firmware. For instance, if you have a D-Link router, typing “192.168.0.1” into a web browser will allow you to access its firmware and update process, assuming you have the username and password. If you’re unfamiliar with your router manufacturer’s procedures, you can type “[manufacturer name] router firmware update” on any search engine like Google.

But remember, routers are just one example of how firmware affects your cybersecurity posture. Hard drives, motherboards, and even mice and keyboards need to be checked as well. We understand this can be extremely tedious, and that’s why we highly recommend hiring an IT provider to take care of it for you. If you’re curious about what else we can do to help, give us a call today!

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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Are your mobile devices protected?Mobile devices are indispensable. Smartphones, tablets, and other mobile gadgets play a big part in everyday processes, especially for individuals and companies that value connection and convenience. But as the number of mobile devices used in business operations increases, so do the cyberthreats that target them. Be sure to follow these steps to safeguard company […]

The post Are your mobile devices protected? appeared first on Complete Technology Resources, Inc..

Are your mobile devices protected?

Mobile devices are indispensable. Smartphones, tablets, and other mobile gadgets play a big part in everyday processes, especially for individuals and companies that value connection and convenience. But as the number of mobile devices used in business operations increases, so do the cyberthreats that target them. Be sure to follow these steps to safeguard company mobile devices.

Ensure mobile OS is up to date

The updates on Apple and Android operating systems (OS) improve overall user experience, but their most important function is to fix security vulnerabilities. Reduce your business’s exposure to threats by installing updates for all devices as soon as they become available. Don’t wait for a few weeks or months to update, as this gives cybercriminals ample time to exploit vulnerabilities on devices that run on an outdated OS.

Install business applications only

Downloading apps seems harmless. But lenient policies on what should and shouldn’t be downloaded on company mobile devices could lead to staff downloading and installing non-business-related apps from third-party stores, most of which are notorious for malicious advertising codes and other threats. It’s imperative that employees download and install only business applications necessary for their work on their company mobile devices.

Be careful when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks

Emergencies may compel you to use password-free Wi-Fi networks in hotels, airports, cafes, and other public places. Connecting to an open network can expose your confidential information and sensitive company data to cybercriminals connected to the same network.

You can avoid this by providing a practical internet data plan, preferably one that includes roaming services, for remote workers. And if you really have to connect to a public Wi-Fi network, don’t use the connection for transferring sensitive data.

Enable phone tracking tools

Losing a company-issued mobile device is unfortunate but inevitable. Devices can be misplaced or stolen, but enabling Find My iPhone for iOS devices, GPS Phone Tracker for Android, or any device-tracking app helps users locate lost phones. Some also have the option to delete data on stolen devices. Downloading and setting up such an app only takes a few minutes, and it will give you peace of mind knowing that even if your phone is lost or stolen, its contents will not be compromised.

Screen SMS carefully

SMS phishing can be used to trick you into clicking malicious links. Cybercriminals send messages purporting to be from someone you know, asking you to urgently disclose confidential information. Should you encounter such an SMS, you can either delete it or alert your IT department. You can also block unknown senders without even opening their message.

Mobile devices are becoming more critical to operations. And with more devices open to attacks, businesses must bolster their cybersecurity efforts. Malicious actors will exploit every possible vulnerability, and that includes those in unsecured smartphones and tablets. Get in touch with us if you need comprehensive security solutions for your business.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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How to reduce IT costs with thin and zero clientsIf you want to save money on your IT system, one way to do so is by getting low-priced computer hardware. But that doesn't mean you should settle for cheap but old or low-end models. Instead, consider investing in thin or zero clients. What are thin and zero clients? Thin clients are stripped-down computers with […]

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How to reduce IT costs with thin and zero clients

If you want to save money on your IT system, one way to do so is by getting low-priced computer hardware. But that doesn't mean you should settle for cheap but old or low-end models. Instead, consider investing in thin or zero clients.

What are thin and zero clients?

Thin clients are stripped-down computers with minimum processing power and memory. They rely on a basic operating system (OS) and a network connection to access a more powerful system where almost all computing processes take place.

Zero clients work the same way. The only difference is that there’s no local storage or OS installed on the device; all the software, storage, and processing power sits on a server until you need it. This setup makes a zero client ideal for cutting costs.

What are the benefits of using thin and zero clients?

Reduced hardware costs
If you want computers with low upfront costs, choose thin and zero clients. Conventional desktops start at $600 per user, while thin clients can go as low as $250 per user. And since they have no hard drive or other moving parts, lean devices tend to be more durable and have a longer life span than their traditional counterparts.

Simplified IT management
Another benefit of thin and zero clients is that they can be managed from a server. Suppose a new software update is released. Instead of manually downloading the patch on each computer, you can simply install the update on your server and roll it out to all thin and zero clients.
Apart from installing updates, you can also make backups, security configurations, and application deployments in the data center. This quickens setup, reduces downtime, and increases employee productivity.

Minimized security risks
Thin and zero clients also help you prevent costly malware attacks and data breach incidents. Your employees and poorly managed endpoints are the biggest vulnerabilities with traditional desktops. Thin and zero clients reduce these problems by limiting direct access to the OS. This prevents employees from copying sensitive data to removable media and installing software, malicious or otherwise.

If your thin or zero client is damaged or corrupted, you don’t have to worry about your data, as it’s originally stored in an impenetrable server.

Decreased energy consumption
Because processing is done locally, traditional desktops generate a lot of heat and require more power, resulting in huge power and cooling bills. In contrast, thin and zero clients consume only 4 to 6.5 watts of power, almost 1/50th of thick client requirements. What’s more, they require little to no cooling, allowing you to enjoy significant cost savings.

Do not overlook thin and zero clients if you’re searching for ways to cut costs without compromising outcomes. The reduced hardware costs, power bills, and security risks are just too good to pass up.

If you’re still unsure about this technology, give us a call. We’ll assess your tech needs and determine whether or not thin or zero clients can help you succeed.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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