Cloud computing is more than just a trend; it’s a vital lifeline for many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). In fact, 80% of organizations use multiple public or private clouds, leveraging them for various purposes, including data storage, software hosting, website management, and enhancing operational efficiency. Cloud services empower SMBs to scale their operations, streamline…
Online transactions are essential to the success of any business. As e-commerce grows, ensuring secure payment from these transactions for you and your customers is more imperative than ever. Relentless cyber threats, from credit card fraud to data breaches, magnify the need for comprehensive security measures. Business owners must understand how to secure their transactions,…
The total cost of global cybercrime reached $8 trillion in 2023, with the average cost to businesses reaching $4.45 million. At this point, we are all aware that cybersecurity breaches are inevitable to one degree or another. Businesses face various risks, from network breaches to ransomware attacks, that can lead to significant financial losses. According…
Businesses across all sectors are striving to improve customer experience to gain a competitive edge. One of the most impactful ways to achieve this is through exploring current IT trends and incorporating any. Companies that embrace these trends can help streamline their operations and strengthen customer relationships and trust. By utilizing innovative software, businesses are…
From contracts and invoices to internal messaging and customer data, the number of documents your business generates can become a daunting challenge to maintain. In the U.S. alone, there are 4 trillion paper documents, and that number continues to grow by 22% annually. This is where a Document Management System (DMS) comes into play –…
Every minute, small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly becoming targets for cybercriminals. With limited resources and a lack of dedicated IT staff, many businesses underestimate their vulnerability to cyber threats. However, performing a routine cybersecurity audit can significantly protect your data and strengthen your overall business operations.
Intellectual property (IP) has emerged as one of the most valuable assets for companies, researchers, and creatives alike. With that, it is also a massive target for cyber criminals. Intellectual property theft costs the U.S. Economy $600 billion annually. These are threat actors working alone or hired by your competitors on the dark web to…
Predictive analytics software helps businesses use data to make better decisions about the future. It looks at past information, like sales trends and customer behavior, and uses that data to create forecasts. For example, a store might use this software to predict which products will be popular next season, allowing them to stock up on…
According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), 1 in 3 homes with computers is infected with malicious software. With the rise of smart home devices, online banking, and social media, our personal and financial information is more vulnerable than ever to hackers and cybercriminals. There are also the worries of ensuring our children’s…
A network disaster recovery plan is more crucial than ever; yet only 54% of organizations have one. A single cyber-attack or natural disaster can bring your business to a standstill, costing you an estimated $9,000.00 per minute. This factors in the expenses of production shutdown, loss of potential sales, dissatisfied customers, and reputational damage. Data…
As all industries continue to evolve and rely more heavily on technology to drive efficiency and profits, cybercriminals continue to find ways to exploit vulnerabilities in organizations’ networks. The consequences can devastate your business, damaging your operation and credibility with your partners and clients. Cybersecurity in manufacturing businesses is a constant challenge due to the…
Let’s begin by understanding what a container is. It’s an operating system virtualization that offers numerous advantages for businesses—containerization packages software code with all the files and libraries it needs to run code on any infrastructure. The main benefits of containerization for organizations come from the freedom that application developers gain. Containerization allows developers to…
IT systems are integral to most industry’s daily operations, from communication and collaboration to data management and customer engagement. However, for all of the positive advances technology has brought us, there is also a level of risk involved. IT problems can arise unexpectedly, which can cause significant disruptions to a business’s productivity and profitability. This…
The daily threat of cyber attacks on our financial security is more common than ever. With the increasing use of online banking, shopping, and investment platforms, we are constantly exposed to risks that could potentially compromise our financial well-being. Cyber attackers continuously seek ways to exploit vulnerabilities in our online presence, from identity theft to…
The importance of cyber hygiene cannot be overstated. With the unrelenting amount of daily cyber threats such as malware, phishing scams, and ransomware, individuals and businesses must take every proactive step at their disposal to protect themselves against cyber attacks. Cyber hygiene refers to the practices and measures to protect all digital assets from potential…
Without question, artificial intelligence (AI) brings numerous benefits to businesses, such as increased efficiency, enhanced decision-making processes, and improved customer service. However, along with these advantages come the potential risks of artificial intelligence. One significant threat associated with AI is the potential for data breaches and privacy violations. As this technology becomes more sophisticated and…
The brutal reality of ransomware attacks is that they can strike anyone at any time, and it is only getting worse. 2023 saw a 55% increase in attacks, and in the fourth quarter alone, there were 1,154 documented ransomware incidents globally. Keep in mind those numbers are likely higher. Not all businesses report being attacked…
Two out of three cyber security professionals saw malicious deepfake technology used as part of a strike against businesses in 2022, a 13% increase from the previous year, with email as the top delivery method. The rise of deepfake technology presents a new and growing threat to industries worldwide. Deepfakes are realistic and often undetectable…
The satisfaction rate for chatbots is about 87.5%, which is 2% higher than live chat conversations. Without question, instant communication is the current standard, and chatbots have emerged as indispensable tools, revolutionizing the way businesses interact with customers. These AI-powered conversational programs have rapidly evolved from simple scripted responses to sophisticated virtual assistants capable of…
Of the many ways we have all been impacted by the global pandemic, the considerable shift in our working dynamics has been one of the most significant. With the number of remote workers expected to increase by 20% in 2024, it’s clear that the traditional in-office model has forever changed. This creates a great deal…
New year, new cyber threats to industries worldwide. As SMBs become more interconnected and reliant on technology, they become more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. As we enter 2024, business owners must prioritize their commitment to securing their company’s assets. This blog will explore the top ten cyber security threats SMBs will likely encounter in 2024 and…
The emergence of cybercrime-as-a-service (CaaS) has become a chilling reality successfully operating inside the dark web. The dark web is a hidden corner of the internet accessible only through special browser software and has become a marketplace for illicit activities where cybercriminals offer their services to the highest bidder. As businesses increasingly rely on digital…
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, business owners face many challenges, with cybersecurity being a top concern. As much as sales and production are critical elements in your business plan, so is cybersecurity. Technology continues to evolve, as do the threats that can compromise your company’s sensitive data. A cybersecurity mesh defense strategy is one solution…
We must alert you to a new cybersecurity threat that demands immediate attention. Akira is a new ransomware that poses a significant risk to businesses of all sizes and has targeted multiple sectors, including finance, real estate, manufacturing, and healthcare. It will encrypt your valuable data and demand ransom payments in the millions, or your…
A study released in June 2023 indicated that a successful cyberattack hit 61% of small and medium-sized businesses in 2022, and 39% have lost customer data due to one. In today’s interconnected world, where every facet of our lives seems to rely on technology, the need for robust cybersecurity has never been more critical. Cyber…
There are 1.5 billion Virtual Private Network (VPN) users worldwide. The whole purpose of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is to make your internet connection private and more secure by encrypting your data and disguising your IP address. This hides users browsing activity, identity, and location, allowing for greater privacy and autonomy. However, with all…
So, what is datafication, you ask? Data has become the life source of many businesses, driving decision-making, innovation, and growth. This technological trend entails converting vast amounts of information into digital form for analysis and application. Although this transformation has fundamentally and positively changed how many businesses function, it also introduces cybersecurity risks that can…
Automation has become the foundation of efficiency and productivity for businesses across various industries. It covers everything from customer service chatbots to inventory management, making operations smoother and faster. However, with great convenience comes great responsibility, especially regarding cybersecurity. One of the negative effects of automation is that businesses may be even more susceptible to…
Patient data protection has become paramount in the medical field. 95% of all identity theft incidents are from stolen healthcare records. With electronic health records and online communication becoming increasingly commonplace, doctors and patients must actively safeguard against cyber-attacks. The enormous amounts of information stored within medical records are so valuable on the dark web…
The first and foremost reason behind introducing new cybersecurity regulations is the ever-evolving threat landscape. Cyberattacks have become more sophisticated and prevalent, targeting everything from personal data to critical infrastructure. With the rise of ransomware attacks, data breaches, and state-sponsored cyber espionage, a wealth of new official cybersecurity regulations exist on state, national, and global…
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the world, and cyber security is no exception. AI is being used to develop new and innovative ways to detect and prevent cyberattacks. However, at the same time, it has also created new cybersecurity risks that business owners must be aware of. Artificial intelligence and cyber security already have…
In today’s digital age, where technology has become an integral part of our lives, we must also remember the dangers that come with it. Threats of cyberattacks or worse are not only concerns for business owners and adults but our children too. You must know how to safeguard your children, who spend countless hours using…
In an increasingly digital world, the threat of hackers accessing personal information is a constant concern. So, how do hackers hack your information? While we know some common tactics, such as phishing emails and data breaches, they employ lesser-known methods to access sensitive data too. From mobile game apps to infected USB drives, there is…
Security researchers report that over 700 organizations fall victim to social engineering attacks yearly. Social engineering uses psychological methods to trick people into disclosing private information or allowing unwanted access. Human error accounts for 95% of all cybersecurity breaches, which is why employees are the primary target. From opening up an email, responding to a…
Data has been referred to as the new “gold,” and we have seen the lengths people willingly subject themselves to mine both. However, data is exponentially easier to acquire. Where most data mining isn’t illegal and is taken from public sources, it is a mere step away from what hackers are looking for when they…
Microsoft users were up in arms on March 23rd, when what is supposed to be a regular part of its Azure and Microsoft 365 sign-on process experienced a widespread error. The Geolocation API was not working correctly, typically used to detect a user’s current location and signal the safe or unsafe use of features like…
Cyberattacks are happening roughly every 32 seconds worldwide. Without effective cybersecurity measures in place, your business is highly vulnerable to a security breach. One way to ensure that your computer network is protected is to run a penetration test, which is an authorized simulated attack to test the effectiveness of your cybersecurity. There are different…
The security landscape continues to change with the advent of cloud services and remote and hybrid work. As a result, creating one single firewall to protect a network is no longer enough. With employees logging in from anywhere, companies need a better way to control access to their critical data. One of the benefits of…
Gone are the days when cyberattacks only targeted large companies. As businesses of all sizes increasingly rely on data, smaller businesses are becoming targets, too. One of the latest challenges comes from botnets. Botnet attacks can cause immense damage to small businesses, even threatening their existence. Read on to find out how they can affect…
With almost everything in the world moving online, it’s no surprise that the risk of cyber threats has increased. Cybersecurity statistics show that the cost of cybercrime will reach $8 trillion in 2023 and increase to $10.5 trillion by 2025. One type of cyber threat that continues to take center stage in online security is…
The world economy, from corporations to small businesses, depends on the supply chain to efficiently move market goods and services. Unfortunately, a growing concern exists about cyberattacks causing massive global supply chain disruption.
In 2021, over 22 billion records were exposed in more than 4,100 publicly disclosed data breaches from major companies. By the third quarter of 2022, the number of exposed data records had risen 37% from the previous quarter to approximately 15 million. Cybersecurity threat prevention can no longer be accomplished with a good antivirus alone.
Smartphones, tablets, and laptops have become indispensable in people’s daily lives, with the average American spending approximately five hours daily on these devices. These devices keep you connected, help you navigate your days, purchase items, pay bills and store a plethora of data. Yet, while we’ve come to rely on these conveniences, we can’t forget…
Cybersecurity threats have become a major concern for businesses due to the devastating impact they can have. A successful attack can result in stolen customer data and financial losses and halt company operations. Therefore, businesses must be proactive to protect themselves from these threats, which is why any organization with computer operations needs a cybersecurity…
Cybersecurity is on everyone’s mind these days, and for a good reason: more than 80 percent of businesses say they’ve been hacked at least once. Unfortunately, the ones most at risk are smaller companies. Many either don’t think it will happen to them or simply do not treat the threat seriously enough. How do hackers…
As a brick-and-mortar small business, you might think you’re not at risk of cyber-attacks this holiday season. That it’s just something for e-commerce to worry about. Unfortunately, it’s not. In 2020, Trustwave found that 24% of all cyberattacks target retailers. Most retailers are a combination of physical brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce systems. Even if you…
There has been a 28% increase in global cybersecurity attacks in 2022 than the same time last year. With cyberattacks becoming more sophisticated, your company’s cybersecurity needs reinforcement to protect it from hackers and data breaches. Sadly, some companies don’t have the capacity or budget for an in-house cybersecurity team. Outsourcing to a managed security…
Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) or Two-factor authentication (2FA), a subset of MFA, is a security feature to protect your account from hackers. With MFA, users must provide two or more pieces of evidence (factors) to verify their identity before being granted access to their account. The most common MFA options are Short Message Service (SMS),…
In the last two years, ransomware attacks have increased dramatically. As a result, you need a small business cyber security plan more than ever for your company and your customers. Small businesses are attacked more than larger companies for many reasons, but mainly because they have poor or no cyber security at all.
Suffolk County’s computer systems were the latest victims of cyber attacks that are becoming increasingly common among local governments and private businesses. On September 8th, 2022, Suffolk County information technology officials noticed unusual computer coding and alerted the county to take down its systems.
Education institutions need to prioritize cybersecurity policies for schools. It’s a constantly growing threat, and schools are not spared from this concern. In fact, they are being targeted more and more. The main reason is the vast amount of valuable data they store, from sensitive financial material to an endless supply of sensitive and confidential…
The rate of cybercrime is increasing daily. Research shows a 31% increase in security attacks from 2020 to 2021. Organizations must ensure that all hands are on deck to secure cyber systems. In 2022, hackers and cybersecurity breaches are more sophisticated and malicious, making intercepting attacks more difficult. According to a report from the World…
The three cloud operating models can be a little difficult to discern. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS) will all help you reach your desired goal of enabling client devices to access data and cloud applications over the internet just by different means. Cloud computing…
The dark web is a breeding ground for endless illegal activities and criminal minds. It hosts marketplaces dealing with drugs, guns, espionage, and human trafficking. Any illicit service or activity one can think of can be found on the dark web. The mere fact that there are dark web pricing indexes is a wake-up call…
One thing is sure about the future of work: hybrid work arrangements will be the standard for many companies, from tech to pharmaceuticals to customer service. There are strong reasons why many businesses and workers are pleased about this combination of in-person and remote work, and equally good reasons why many are concerned. However, as more…
Are you new to Microsoft Excel and finding it hard to compare lists within the program? No worries, we’ve got you covered. This guide will explore a few great tech tips for comparing lists in Excel with multiple methods. Compare Lists in Excel Tech Tips Method 1: Highlight Unique Cells Using Excel’s unique “highlight” function,…
Over the last few years, how we work has drastically changed. While some employees have returned to the office, many are still working remotely. As the landscape continues to evolve, employee productivity remains a top priority. But how does one maintain productivity with an increasingly decentralized workforce? While there are many ways to boost employee…
Beginning next month, the Microsoft Office 365 subscription your company relies on to fuel productivity will cost you more. Microsoft recently announced that it revised its pricing structure to reflect growing demand in today’s hybrid world of work.
Are you one of the more than 145 million daily active users on Microsoft Teams? If so, you probably know that it is an excellent tool for improving collaboration and productivity. But chances are you are only scratching the surface with this platform. Unlock its full potential by putting these Microsoft Teams tips and tricks into practice.
Over the last few months, cybercrime has continued to dominate the headlines. In late September, VOIP.ms, a Canada-based VoIP provider, experienced a massive ransom distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack, which impacted tens of thousands of customers in over 124 countries. High-profile VoIP cyberattacks like this one have thrust VoIP security into the spotlight. If…
If your business is currently using a cloud-based IT solution, the chances are that you have run into issues like unnecessary costs and performance problems. But don’t be too quick to blame it on the cloud. Instead, consider the benefits of optimizing your systems to use a multi-cloud strategy.
Is your company still running older versions of Outlook? If so, it might be time for an update. Microsoft has announced it will be shutting off old Outlook clients’ access on November 1, 2021. After this date, only commercial customers who are running Outlook 2013 Service Pack 1 or later will be able to connect…
Over the years, Microsoft Outlook has been a leader in supporting the needs of businesses and workforces across the globe. Although it is best known as an email client, Outlook now supports various other features, including note-taking, task management, and more. But, if you’re still looking for ways to expand what you can with Outlook,…
Later this year, Microsoft plans to roll out the highly-anticipated Windows 11. It is Microsoft’s first new operating system in seven years. This OS includes many big and exciting changes, including a slick, new interface and a slew of new features designed to enhance productivity, creativity, and ease of use. If you think your company…
Video conferencing software is now entrenched in many businesses worldwide. When COVID-19 forced workers to stay home, remote communication became the norm. But how much will remote communication continue to be a part of your workday after the pandemic and the restrictions it brought recede?
Nowadays, people love to use buzzwords. It is not uncommon to hear expressions in a meeting like “the cloud” or “hybrid-workspace.” Cloud based phone systems are another one of those buzzwords you will be hearing for the next couple of years. Find out why cloud phones are the talk of the town (and how they…
On June 7, Apple announced the release of iOS 15 for iPhone and iPad devices. The update appears to be one of the most robust that Apple has made to its operating system in years. Even though major changes have been made to FaceTime, Messages, Notifications, Maps and Safari, many people have put off software…
The dust has settled, and now we can more clearly examine the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack that occurred on May 7. Colonial Pipeline Co. paid approximately $5 million to Eastern European hacker collective, DarkSide, after a ransomware attack. But if Colonial had the protection of a reliable IT company, it may have been able to thwart the attack before…
Many attribute the massive increase in work from home (WFH) to the COVID-19 pandemic. Though the pandemic forced many businesses to pivot, remote office work has been trending since 2010. Even after business restrictions loosen, WFH is likely to become the new normal.
A lot happened last March. Our lives were turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic. Microsoft attempted to rebrand one of their most popular products amid the crisis, and you may have missed it. Office 365 (O365) is now Microsoft 365 (M365). Previously, M365 was a standalone integrated bundle of Windows 10, Office 365, and Enterprise Mobility+ Security. From…
Google Chrome is one of the most popular internet browsers that is used by approximately 60 percent of all people who surf the internet. Hackers have recently exploited the built-in functions, creating security threats on Chrome browsers. Scareware is adware designed to make users believe their computer has been infected with malware. They utilize both…
Over the last few years, hacker groups as far away as China have penetrated Microsoft products, like its Exchange Servers, compromising sensitive business information. Learn the history of these targeted Microsoft cyberattacks so you can protect your business from being victimized.
In the past, phishing attacks were exclusively targeted at email users. With the rise of smartphones and text messaging, a new type of cyberattack is growing in popularity. Within the cybersecurity community, this cyberattack is called SMishing. It is a scam text message that appears to be from a reputable business or organization. This type…
As firewalls and spam filters continue to become more sophisticated so do the cyberattacks by hackers. Gone are the days of scam emails from Nigerian princes, full of grammatical errors. Today, many of the most sophisticated scams come from seemingly legitimate sources, like co-workers, clients, or even vendors. The goals of these malicious emails vary…
Logging into your computer and your accounts with a username and password has been the standard in cybersecurity for decades but even the strongest passwords can be stolen, guessed, or even attained through inventive phishing and social engineering scams. Figures for 2020 are not yet available but in 2019, business email compromise (BEC) accounted for…
The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the landscape of how business is conducted with more employees working from home than ever before. Cyberattacks against Internet-connected smart devices (IoT) is not a new phenomenon but with more employees working from home these devices are now a potential threat to your business. 15% of IoT device owners…
Your smartphone, whether it is an iPhone or an Android, is your only lifeline for keeping you up to date on emails, chatting with coworkers and employees when you are out of the office. These devices are virtually owned by everyone and their popularity naturally attracts cybercriminals like hackers and scammers. In recent years there…
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), cyberattacks have increased by 400% since the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic. As more companies and individuals move to Microsoft Office 365, the platform grows as a target for hackers and scammers. Phishing attacks are some of the most common types of attacks…
In recent years “the cloud” has become a tech buzzword you hear on almost every commercial about emerging technologies and it can refer to a wide array of services. Office 365 cloud backups are possibly one of the most game-changing aspects of cloud computing. Your business can purchase services that seamlessly backup your Microsoft Office…
No matter which way you spin it, cyber security is and will continue to be a threat for small businesses, especially in the age of remote workplaces. Therefore, to keep your company’s data and privacy, well, private, you need to master a few smart, yet simple small business cyber security tips, and our tech experts…
With a tumultuous 2020 drawing to a close, many people are starting to look forward into 2021, especially when it comes to tech. People are speculating about what new innovations we may see considering everything that’s happened over the last year. With that in mind, check out some of these tech trends that our IT…
In today’s day and age of COVID-19, flexibility for businesses is paramount. For that reason, corporate use of cloud computing is on the rise. If you’re unsure what it is or are just looking to learn the advantages of it, we’ve got you covered with a full list from our professional team of IT experts.
When it comes to a business/ cyber security, all approaches must be holistic. That means no stopgap fixes that only get the job done in the short-term. Proper cyber security should be constant and all-encompassing, since there could always be nooks and crannies where data can be accessed by hackers. So, when it comes to…
With the almost universal introduction of caller ID, choosing who and when to answer calls has become a tad bit easier. However, unfortunately, people still fall victim to vishing attacks. But what is vishing exactly? In this blog, we will explore this newfangled type of phishing while laying out some helpful ways to avoid becoming…
The newest update of Windows command-line tools was recently unveiled in Windows Terminal version 1.3. This update came with multiple new features as well as some experimental tools to keep fans of the application interested. Keep reading to find out more details about this release.
If you own a computer, it’s likely you have some basic knowledge on cybersecurity. However, as threats become more sophisticated and damaging, it is important to stay educated on new and improved cybersecurity trends and systems to protect your machine. Read on for news on cybersecurity and what to keep an eye out for.
As working from home becomes permanent for many, it is important to enhance your home network security. This may not have been a priority while your home computers were not being used for your job, however it has become a crucial part of working from home. We will go into how to make sure both…
If you have a computer, you’ve probably heard of malware. Although there are many different types of malware – and new variations are created constantly – we are only going to focus on the top five, along with the best ways to prevent these common attacks. We will also show you the best ways to…
It seems like the number one piece of advice when your computer is on its way out is to backup your data. You may still be asking: how do I backup my computer? You’re in luck! Read on to receive some simple tips on backing up your computer data.
Within this new era of remote work, there are more unknowns and threats than ever before. While in the office, you have ultimate control over your company’s computer systems and can ensure a level of comfort within your cybersecurity. However, now that most business is being done from home computers, there is no guarantee that…
Parting with your current computer and investing a large chunk of money into a new machine is a daunting thought. However, you may have no choice. If there are signs you may need a new computer, it may be time to consider this purchase.
As with many other areas of daily life, the coronavirus pandemic has turned most of the workforce remote. Along with the multitude of changes businesses have undergone, employees affected must juggle their workload along with household maintenance, and the newest culprit – cybersecurity threats. This new threat is enhanced by the use of at-home devices…
Everyone has been there before. You accidentally delete a file or folder without a clue of how to, or even if you can, get it back. Well, rest easy, because we’re here to tell you that file recovery is entirely possible. So, if you’re wondering how to recover files in Windows 10, check out some…
Since social media accounts hold so much private information, it makes sense that you would want to protect yours from hackers. That’s especially true when you consider the volume of social media cyber attacks that have swept the web recently. So, if you operate accounts and are looking for an extra level of protection, check…
Although some workplaces are heading back to the office, there are still many people working remotely for the time being. And when you’re working from home, the strength of your Wi-Fi is paramount. After all, you need to stay connected when you’re on the clock! So, if you’re looking for information about how to strengthen…
With COVID-19 changing many of our daily functions, it’s also causing ripples in some unexpected places. One of which is cyber security. With the increase in targeted attacks and the proliferation of remote workers, challenges arose and necessitated solutions. However, these solutions may also lead to some cyber security trends we can anticipate seeing from…
Believe it or not, despite everything going on in the world, Father’s Day is right around the corner on June 21, so have you gotten your dad or father figure a gift yet? Unfortunately, with COVID-19 still preventing in-store shopping in many parts of the country (including New York), it’s become a bit harder to…
With all that’s going on in the world, it’s understandable that people are constantly seeking up-to-the-date information about what’s happening. Unfortunately, this has also made it easier for hackers to take advantage of people’s general fear and vulnerability with phishing scams. With that being said, we know what these attacks look like, as well as…
With most people still sheltering in place for now, there’s never been a better time to get a jump start on your spring cleaning, especially with electronic devices. Considering most people don’t even consider cleaning out these devices, it’s probably been a long time since yours have received any kind of care. That’s why we…
After the much-hyped rollout of Windows 10, there were bound to be some hiccups along the way. Well, they’ve arrived in the form of a very specific type of malware attack. Although there’s no telling how widespread the issue may be, this Windows vulnerability is affecting many users. That’s why we decided to dig a…
With businesses in flux due to the coronavirus pandemic, workplaces are relying on video conferencing apps to maintain their status quo. They are helping people work together and replicate their usual daily functions. Although Zoom has been the most popular option out of the gate, it does come with serious privacy concerns. With that in…
For a long time, people looked at Macs as the safer alternative to Windows. And for a while, that was true. However, in recent months, there’s been an uptick in malware attacks on Mac computers. With Mac malware on the rise, we look at what’s going on, as well as how we got here.
Businesses have a difficult time keeping up with their own challenges, let alone any technological issues. For this reason, many companies are utilizing an outside IT consultant to secure their business, improve their bottom line and gain that competitive edge. Here are some additional reasons why you should consider hiring one, too.
With many people under shelter in place orders, video-conferencing apps are on the rise among businesses, organizations and educational institutions. The most popular of which is Zoom. However, the platform has recently been under fire due to a string of cyber attacks affecting user meetings. In light of these privacy concerns, we break down what…
For the past few years, Microsoft Office 365 has been the top cloud-based suite application for businesses. During that time, programs like Outlook, Word, Excel and more have become the industry standard. However, recently the Microsoft team unveiled Microsoft 365. That’s why we decided to break down Office 365 vs. Microsoft 365, and the main…
Cyber security is vastly important in the current state of business. However, since it can sometimes be a complicated process, there’s a fair amount of conflicting, outdated and downright inaccurate information that has led to various misconceptions on the topic. For this reason, we decided to break down a few of the most common cyber…
In an effort to stop the spread of coronavirus and flatten the curve, states like New York have mandated that businesses reduce their workforces for the time being. As a result, many people are working remotely for the first time in their professional careers. With so much new technology available at home, you need some…
As tensions rise surrounding the global coronavirus pandemic, cyber criminals are gearing up to take advantage. In recent weeks, cyber security firms have noticed an uptick in malicious online activity. Capitalizing off people’s worst fears, these predatory coronavirus cyber attacks are on the rise, so here’s all that we know.
When it comes to security for mobile devices, people need complete protection against malware and cyber-attacks. That’s especially true for Android products, which have encountered their fair share of security threats. But is antivirus for Android the answer to these issues? That’s what we’re here to find out.
I n January 2020, a bipartisan group of United States senators introduced legislation that would require the Department of Homeland Security to select cyber security leaders for each state. This legislation comes in the face of growing cyber threats to local, state and national governments.
An organized email inbox can seriously change your life. Not only is having a cluttered inbox stressful, it could literally result in losing clients and revenue, if you miss a few messages. We’ve prepared some tips to help you with organizing emails in Outlook.
Windows 7’s end-of-life date was on January 14, 2020. That means Microsoft is no longer offering technical support, bug fixes or security updates. It’s high time to upgrade to Windows 10, but we’ve noticed that some people are resistant to the change. Read on to learn how to make Windows 10 look like Windows 7.
New research from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York indicates that financial cyber security is dangerously insufficient. One successful attack on one of the United States’ five most active banks could potentially have a ripple effect that impairs much of the financial sector.
More and more business owners are beginning to realize the importance of implementing cyber security measures at their company. However, simply having a cyber incident response plan isn’t enough. Incident response must take place in a quick enough time to minimize an incident’s impact.
The ever-changing technology can make it incredibly difficult to manage an IT budget successfully. We’ve compiled some simple IT budget management tips to make it a little bit easier for your company.
The internet is riddled with malicious links and viruses, and nobody is safe. With more and more consumers and businesses falling victim to data breaches, we can all stand to brush up on some basic computer security tips.
Whether you’re a power user or you’re relatively new to Microsoft’s operating system, customizing the Windows 10 Start menu tiles can improve your productivity significantly. Let’s look at a few different ways to do so.
With the year coming to an end, it’s time to reflect upon the worst data breaches and cyberattacks of 2019. From theft of medical data to corporate account credentials, here they are (in no particular order).
As technology rapidly advances, it’s not uncommon for the average business to be stuck playing catch-up. It’s not necessary to have all of the latest technology, but an outdated IT environment can seriously hamper productivity and even become a security flaw. Here’s a highly-simplified IT modernization roadmap strategy for businesses in 2020.
Thanks to ever-evolving threats, cyber security is an ever-evolving industry. New and improved software and defense methods are constantly being created to keep businesses and individuals alike protected from the bad guys. Read up on these 2020 cyber security trends to make sure you’re up to speed.
Information technology costs can eat up a huge chunk of any company’s budgets, and it can be extremely difficult to find ways to lower them. So many IT expenses seem to be fixed, and it’s not easy to find alternatives. In this blog, we’ll detail a few actionable IT cost reduction strategies.
Wi-Fi 6 is scheduled for release in 2019. The first questions that arise after hearing this are probably “what is Wi-Fi 6, and what does it mean for my business?” In this blog, we’ll answer those questions.
Phishing is a highly-effective cyberattack, which has led hackers to use it more and more over the last few years. Learn how to recognize common phishing emails so you can avoid them at all costs.
“Managed service provider” is a generic term that gets thrown around a lot, but isn’t always explained as thoroughly as it should be. In this blog, we’ll provide a few examples of things managed services providers do in order to clarify.
The amount of money that consumers spend online has been steadily growing each year. There’s often a dramatic increase each November and December—the beginning of holiday shopping season. Watch out for these common holiday cyberattacks, which can target individuals and businesses alike.
Most laptops have relatively long battery life at first. However, after a few years of usage, the battery typically begins to die more quickly. In this blog, we’ll detail a few simple ways to help extend laptop battery life.
Ransomware is one of the scariest cyberattacks to deal with. Typically, a big, alarming message pops up on your computer, alerting you that all of your files have been locked and will be permanently deleted unless you pay a ransom. In this blog, we’ll discuss whether or not to pay ransomware.
Out of office messages, also known as automatic replies, allow you to send automated messages to anyone who emails you while you’re out of the office. Here’s how to set up an out of office message in Outlook.
Microsoft recently discovered a new strain of fileless malware that essentially hijacks PCs and turns them into hubs for carrying out further malicious activity. Here’s what we know about Nodersok malware so far.
At best, spam emails are just annoying. At worst, they contain harmful malware that can infect your entire network if you click on the wrong link. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to stop Outlook spam and other unwanted messages.
Internet outages. Cyberattacks. Outdated software and hardware. All of these things, while easily avoidable, can disrupt or even completely halt business operations. If you’re in search of an IT company on Long Island to prevent these sorts of things, ask each candidate these questions before hiring them.
Steganography refers to the act of hiding data in other types of content, such as images, videos, website traffic and more. You can probably guess where we’re going with this: hackers have been using it to carry out cybercrimes. In this blog, we’ll discuss steganography attacks.
Windows 7, one of the most popular operating systems for both personal and business usage, is reaching end-of-life in early 2020. This means that Windows 10 is on its way to becoming the most widely-used operating system. In this blog, we briefly breakdown how to use Windows 10 and give a few helpful tips that…
The Monroe-Woodbury Central School District of Central Valley, New York emailed parents on Tuesday, announcing that the school year would start a day late, on Thursday, September 5, thanks to a ransomware attack.
Without a well-thought-out plan in place, adding cloud capabilities to your company’s network can result in considerable downtime. In this blog, we’ll go over some quick tips to develop a smooth cloud migration strategy.
Cyber security can cause both short- and long-term issues for businesses of all sizes. However, many small- to mid-sized companies feel as if they’re not large enough to be targeted by cyberattacks. These cyber security stats might be an eye opener for local business owners.
Cyber security experts have been warning for years now that the Internet of Things (IoT), which refers to any internet-connected devices, can easily be exploited by hackers. We’ve seen some pretty crazy IoT attacks during that time. Here are just a few of them.
Microsoft Excel is undoubtedly one of the most useful applications for almost any company. However, there’s a pretty steep learning curve between the basics and becoming a spreadsheet pro. This list of Microsoft Excel tips will help you become more productive when using spreadsheets.
Virtual desktops allow employees to access their work computers remotely. They essentially store the company operating system and data on a network that can be accessed from anywhere, on any device. As you might have guessed, this can be extremely beneficial for businesses.
Understanding how to schedule an email in Outlook is a nifty trick, and it’s certainly better than scrambling to unsend an email you meant to send later. This guide explains exactly how to do so for Microsoft Outlook 365, 2019, 2016, 2013 and 2010.
Whether it’s a cyberattack or a natural disaster, no company can consider their network or data center to be 100 percent secure. Having a comprehensive disaster recovery plan in place can help ensure business continuity if a catastrophe occurs.
In the age of ransomware attacks and other data breaches, securing your network is more important than ever—and that includes Wi-Fi. Watch out for these common router attacks that can put a company offline relatively easily.
With more and more employees using devices to connect to the company network remotely, endpoint security has become increasingly important. Read along to understand what it is, and why it’s vital for companies of all sizes to invest in it.
It’s a good practice to use a complex, unique password for every account you have. The problem is, it’s nearly impossible to remember so many different login credentials. The solution is using a password manager to store all of them.
Voice phishing attacks are similar to phishing attacks—they trick you into giving sensitive information to criminals. However, most phishing attacks are carried out using the internet. Voice phishing scams are done over the phone. Here’s what to look out for.
Windows 10 has been around for quite some time, but due to the popularity of Windows 7, many people are only just adopting Microsoft’s latest operating system now. If you’re one of these new users, this list of Windows 10 tips will come in handy.
No organization is truly safe from cyberattacks. Even the most comprehensive cyber security strategies with state-of-the-art software falter from time to time. An incident response plan is necessary for those occasions.
During the last two weeks, the City of Baltimore has had all of its computer data encrypted due to an anonymous ransomware attack. Since the breach, email systems are offline, payments to city departments can’t be made online and real estate transactions cannot be processed. Despite the disruptions, the city has refused to pay the…
Windows XP reached end of life in 2014, meaning Microsoft stopped issuing critical security updates for it. However, that hasn’t stopped people from using it. Hackers have been exploiting it like crazy ever since, which urged Microsoft to issue an emergency Windows XP patch recently. Here’s why that doesn’t mean it’s safe to start using…
The health care industry has evolved for the better thanks to the latest technology that streamlines everything from clerical tasks to patient care. However, along with new technology comes new risks. Health care cyber security threats are real and are evolving at a terrifying pace.
Microsoft Office 365 is one of the most powerful, productive applications for most businesses. With Outlook, Word, Excel and more, it has just about every program a business could possibly need. However, as amazing as it is, it’s still absolutely critical to conduct Microsoft Office 365 backup regularly.
Traditional, run-of-the-mill malware usually makes its way onto a victim’s computer via the download of an infected file. However, that’s not always the case. Fileless malware attacks use tools that are already on your computer to carry out attacks. Here’s what you need to know.
As tempting as it might be to simply close out of those annoying software update popups that seem to appear every few minutes, there are a few reasons you shouldn’t. Whether these popups are coming up on your phone, your tablet or your desktop, here’s why you shouldn’t ignore them.
Microsoft Chromium Edge is simply Microsoft Edge built on Chromium, the same engine that powers Google Chrome. At the moment, it’s in development phase, but a more stable version will be available soon. It could become your new favorite browser of choice, so you might consider switching over from the default version of Microsoft Edge.
Office relocations tend to go best when the project is thoroughly planned and organized. Use this list of office relocation tips to help your move go a bit more smoothly.
Just like Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008, the Microsoft Exchange 2010 end of life date has been set at January 14, 2020. Here’s what you need to know about this date and what you can do to prepare for it.
Searching for “IT companies near me” yields a long list of businesses. However, determining which is best for your company takes a bit of research.
The Windows Server 2008 End of Life date has been set at January 14, 2020. Learn what that means for you and your company, and what you can do about it.
Webroot is one of the best cyber security solutions available on the market today. In this blog, we’ll briefly discuss how to use a few Webroot features so the average computer user can keep their personal information and their company’s data secure.
An unfortunately clever new form of ransomware uses a PayPal phishing page in an attempt to steal your credit card information. Learn about this cyberattack to recognize it and avoid being scammed by it.
Cloud computing and cloud storage aren’t new concepts. However, it’s becoming clearer every day that the cloud will be relied upon even more heavily in the future. Here’s how.
Cyber threats evolve constantly, and each new threat is often more grave than the last. In this blog, we’ll break down a few of the top cyber security risks we are likely see in 2019.
Introduced in 2016, Microsoft Teams now comes standard with most Office 365 subscriptions. In order to communicate and collaborate more effectively, familiarize yourself with these awesome Microsoft Teams features.
Hackers have done a pretty good job at impersonating DocuSign, a leading electronic signature company that many businesses rely on. Learn how to recognize and fight a recent DocuSign scam email that has already claimed thousands of victims.
Technology in the workplace is all about increasing productivity and empowering employees to work smarter, not harder. These productivity and collaboration apps can help your team do just that in 2019 and beyond.
The cyber security industry changes constantly, especially as hacking and malware threats become stronger and more dangerous. With the year winding down, let’s look ahead at some cyber security trends we expect to see in 2019.
It’s virtually impossible for companies to do business without word processors and spreadsheets. Microsoft Office 365 is the most popular of all, but some business owners are turned off by its price. In our opinion, most of the time, it’s worth it. Let’s break down some of the key features of Microsoft Office 365.
With so much interactive technology that can truly streamline the way we work and collaborate with one another, businesses are able to literally transform their office spaces to spur productivity. These items will be key pieces of smart offices in the future.
Most people understand that cyberattacks are often conducted via email. However, few actually know how to successfully recognize common types of spoof emails. In this blog, we’ll break down a couple of examples.
Every year, cybercriminal Grinches rejoice at the fact that they can make some easy money by stealing credit card information from unsuspecting victims. Learn to recognize and avoid holiday scams this year so you don’t have your holidays ruined and your identity stolen.
Nearly everyone has a basic understanding of how to use Microsoft Word, but a surprising amount of people never really learn more than typing, spellchecking and printing. In this blog, we’ll break down a few Microsoft Word tips and tricks that will make you more productive when using the application.
ShareSync is a useful cloud backup, file sync and file sharing service. Although it’s relatively simple to navigate, many people don’t learn how to use ShareSync properly, simply because they don’t understand why it’s so important.
Saving files in a central location that you and your coworkers can access streamlines your work process drastically. Use these quick tips to make the most of your company’s shared network folders.
The Google Pixel 3, the latest flagship phone to contend with the iPhone and Galaxy, is officially available for purchase in the United States. Let’s look further into this brand new phone and its specifications.
October marks National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Online safety in the workplace is a shared responsibility between all levels of employees, from the owners down to the interns. Use these simple tips to stay safe online.
The Microsoft Outlook calendar can be one of your best friends when it comes to keeping track of important meetings, events and deadlines. These tips will help you navigate and organize your calendar with ease.
We’ve all received spam emails before, and most of us are pretty good at identifying which messages are phony without even opening them. However, there is a sinister breed of spam emails that employ familiar email addresses to send fake messages, enticing even the foremost cyber security experts to open them. It’s called the “spoof…
When it comes to keeping your business protected, a holistic, integrative approach to cyber security works best. This should include sandboxing software that quarantines and analyzes threats.
Apple’s newest phones, the iPhone XS, XS Max and XR, are once again being met with mixed opinions. Let’s discuss the features and prices of the three new models, so you can decide for yourself whether or not it’s worth purchasing one.
Every year, wearable technology just gets cooler and cooler. In this blog, we’ve detailed some of our favorite new wearables—specifically the ones that can be used for business.
KeyPass ransomware is a global cyberattack that has been gaining more and more traction over the few months. Understand how to identify and prevent this Trojan-style attack to keep your files from becoming permanently inaccessible.
Support for one of the world’s most popular operating systems is going to be killed within a few years. Here’s what you need to know about the impending Windows 7 end of life date, including when it is, what its impact will be and what you can do about it.
A strong password is crucial to preventing hackers from stealing personal and business data. Use these rules to improve your password strength and keep hackers away.
We’ve all been there before. Sending an email before you finished writing it is embarrassing at best, and downright catastrophic at worst. Fortunately, you can unsend an email in both Outlook and Gmail relatively easily.
Phishing is a dangerous cyberattack that seeks to prey on unsuspecting victims. Spear phishing attacks are even scarier and more dangerous. Learn how to identify and prevent them from compromising your sensitive data.
The zombie apocalypse is all too real, but it’s not people who are having their brains overtaken by a cannibalistic disease. In what are known as “botnet attacks,” hordes of computers, smart devices and social media accounts are being stolen and used to conduct large-scale cyber assaults.
A laptop not turning on is a nightmare for most people. The loss of important files, inability to do your work and the necessity of dropping money on a brand new one aren’t fun. Make sure you take these simple steps to troubleshoot your laptop before you consider it truly broken.
Cloud backup is a convenient way for businesses of all sizes to protect data. However, some of our clients have been confused as to how it actually works. In this blog, we’ll clear that up.
You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t view innovation as a good thing, and we’re no different. However, it’s important to understand that with new technology comes new cyber security threats. Here’s why, and what you can do to stay ahead of the hackers.
A man in the middle attack is a type of cyberattack that’s becoming more and more common (see the latest Russian malware incident). Businesses of all sizes should be familiar with what they are, and how to prevent them from causing a cyber security disaster.
Limited resources make it difficult to streamline IT functions in a way that make daily life at your business easier. However, virtual desktop infrastructure provides a welcome solution to many software obstacles.
A recent Russian malware attack has infected some 500,000 routers around the world, and it’s not done yet. While it mainly targets home routers, businesses are not safe either. Here’s what we know about the attack, its capabilities and how to stop it.
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), recently passed by the European Commission, aims to give European citizens more control over their personal data. Understanding the answer to the question “what is GDPR?” is critical, because it may affect Americans as well.
There has been a cost to the increased affordability and power of laptops: excess heat. As that heat builds up, it can eventually cause permanent damage. Use these tips to cool an overheating laptop and prevent damage.
When you hear the term “hacker,” you probably imagine a scary, hooded computer genius, infiltrating innocent victims’ computers in the dead of night to steal their data. Reality is a bit more nuanced. There are black hat, gray hat and white hat hackers, all using their skills for different goals.
Facial recognition technology is the next aspect of biometric authentication to hit the mainstream. It’s now present on the iPhone X and a few Android phones, and we can expect the vast majority of smartphones to have it over the next few years. As convenient as it may be, it doesn’t come without potential data…
No matter how advanced smartphones get, their battery life always seems to be an issue. Rather than having your phone die halfway through the day, use these tips to learn how to extend battery life as long as possible.
TCI Technologies is proud to announce that, as of May 6, 2018, we’ve been in business for 15 years. In celebration of this milestone, we’d like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us this last decade and a half.
Low memory on your hard drive can cause your computer to run extremely slowly. However, it’s rather easy to clear up computer memory to improve speed and make more space for new files with these five tips.
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) binds all organizations that accept, transmit or store cardholder data. Failure to maintain PCI compliance may result in hefty fines and/or security breaches by hackers. Here are some ways to prevent that from happening.
As a business owner, you don’t have the time to oversee the installation of new IT infrastructure. You’re busy running a company. By hiring an IT project manager, you can make sure everything runs smoothly, punctually and on-budget.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) mandates that health care organizations protect the privacy of patients’ personal information. Maintaining HIPAA compliance requires several key cyber security measures.
Regardless of how many steps you take to secure your company’s network, it can still be at risk. That’s because of a type of attack known as a zero day exploit. Learn about this dangerous malware and what you can do to defend against it.
In 2019, Microsoft will roll out a new option for the Windows 10 operating system. It’s called “Windows S Mode.” Here’s what we know about it so far.
The security of your company’s network is not something that should be taken lightly. You may know by now that small, local businesses are no safer from hackers than large businesses. Cyber security practices like penetration testing and vulnerability scans can help keep your network safe.
Although much of business technology has gone wireless in recent years, structured cabling systems are still vital to your IT infrastructure. It’s the basis for all communication at your company.
Although few official announcements have been made about the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+, plenty of information has been leaked to the internet. Here’s what we know about Samsung’s newest flagship phone so far.
With several great options available, it can be tough to decide which cloud storage provider to use. We’ve pit Dropbox vs. Google Drive vs. OneDrive in a fierce battle to determine which is best.
A 2017 Verizon study determined that 43 percent of cyberattacks were social engineering scams. Perhaps one of the scariest things about this type of attack is that firewalls, antiviruses and other software cannot guarantee protection from them.
With the increasing popularity of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, you’ve probably noticed the term “blockchain technology” being mentioned more commonly. Here’s what it means.
Since more and more businesses are allowing employees to use their own devices at the office and to work remotely from other locations, forward-thinking companies have begun issuing “bring your own device” policies. Here’s what that means.
Mobile telecommunications seem to evolve with each new smartphone that comes out. The iPhone 8 is better than the 7, the Google Pixel 2 is better than the first version. The same goes for mobile internet—4G is better than 3G. Of course, 5G will be the best. In this blog, we discuss what is 5G,…
Anyone who uses the internet (basically everyone) should know how to delete cookies and clear cache on their browser. If you’re unsure of what this means or don’t know how to do so, you’ve come to the right place.
The frequency of ransomware attacks exploded between 2016 and 2017, and there’s no sign that they’re just going to disappear any time soon. Quite the opposite, actually: hackers are designing even more complex attacks that are harder to identify and remove. Use this information to understand how they work and avoid them.
Year after year, advancements in technology change the landscape of business. We decided to break down some technology trends we believe will dominate 2018.
Since March 1, 2017, most businesses in New York State were required to implement a cybersecurity policy thanks to a New York cybersecurity law entitled 23 NYCRR Part 500. On February 15, 2018, affected businesses must submit their first compliance certification to the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS).
The names may be similar, but Windows Azure Active Directory and Windows Server Active Directory are far from the same thing. One of the two can almost definitely streamline your business’ operations, so you’ll want to learn the difference.
Hackers are no strangers to the fact that online holiday shopping is going to reach record levels this year. They know it’s the perfect opportunity to exploit unsuspecting consumers who are looking to find the best deals. Keep these computer security tips in mind to stay ahead of the crooks.
Although it’s a vital cybersecurity device for both personal and business usage, we often find our clients asking us, “What is a firewall?” In this blog, we’ll discuss what firewalls are, and why every business, small or large, should have one.
Digital assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, which is the persona associated with the Amazon Echo, have made existing technology even more convenient. They’re most often used in smart homes, but the Amazon Alexa Skills kit has many uses for the office as well.
Every time a new iPhone or Android is released, people wonder if they’re worth the steep price. Apple’s newest, most expensive mobile device, the iPhone X, is no different. In this blog, we’ll help you determine whether the new iPhone X features are worth $1,000, or if you should stick to your current smartphone.
Cyberattacks can potentially cripple small businesses, the lifeblood of the American economy. For that reason, the United States Senate passed the Main Street Cybersecurity Act, which aims to reduce small business’ cybersecurity risks. Here’s what you need to know.
If your business has a website, you have a responsibility to keep both your company’s and your customers’ personal information secure. One of the easiest ways to do this is by installing an SSL certificate to your website. What is an SSL certificate, you ask? We have the answer.
Between incoming and outgoing messages, your email can become a chaotic disaster in the matter of hours. Luckily, once you know how to set up rules in Outlook, your inbox will basically take care of itself.
On October 4, the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL were officially announced, although there were several leaks beforehand. Here’s what you should expect from the new version of Google’s flagship smartphone.
Two factor authentication, also known as 2FA, is absolutely one of the best ways to protect your online accounts from hackers. However, since there are three main authentication methods, many people are left wondering: is it best to use an app, email or SMS message as an authentication factor?
When small businesses are targeted by cyberattacks, the results are catastrophic. Lost revenue, broken technology and a tarnished brand reputation can cause irreparable harm to even the most thriving companies. That’s why more and more business owners are entrusting their cybersecurity measures to a managed services provider.
Android Oreo was officially unveiled on August 23, and is expected to be available on most Android-friendly devices by February 2018. As with past Android updates, Oreo has been met with mixed reactions by users. If it’s not yet available on your device to test for yourself, read this blog to learn about some of…
Anyone researching technology solutions for their business has certainly encountered tons of information about “the cloud.” It sounds like a lofty, complicated tech term, but in reality, cloud services are rather easy to understand.
Adobe Flash, the software that once provided the best way to run animations on the internet, is nearing its final days. After several subtle indications over the last few years that the end was near, Adobe itself has finally announced plans to cease its distribution. Here’s what you need to know about Adobe Flash end-of-life.
Maintaining effective communications, particularly email, is obviously important for operations at your business. That said, it’s time to differentiate between webmail and desktop to figure out the best email client for your company.
Of all the common cyberattacks we see, phishing is perhaps the most dangerous because there is no single, foolproof way to prevent it. Rather than ask, “What is phishing?” after you’ve already fallen victim, learn to stay ahead of the hackers.
A slow, unorganized computer is undoubtedly one of the most frustrating things to deal with in both your personal or professional life. We understand that, so we’d like to share with you some top tips for optimizing your machine, straight from a computer service expert.
Microsoft Office 365 is an all-in-one package that includes apps that are vital to business operations. Hackers know how widely Office 365 is used in the business world, and have designed cyberattacks intended to exploit it. These data loss prevention tips will combat them.
Credit card fraud is on the rise, and, unfortunately, small businesses are top targets. No matter the type of product or service your business sells, it’s potentially susceptible to fraud. That’s why it’s important to recognize and avoid today’s common scams.
Despite the proliferation of text messaging, video conferencing and emails, having a reliable business phone system is crucial to smooth operations. You may not even realize that your business’ telecommunications are outdated simply because you’re so used to the way they work. If the following points speak to you, it’s time to upgrade.
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) can cripple a business’ internet and technology operations indefinitely. Even scarier, it’s almost impossible to prevent a DDoS attack from taking place. Mitigating their impact is all about response and recovery.
As it grows in popularity, more and more clients have asked “What is artificial intelligence?” It sounds like something found only in science fiction movies, but it’s quickly becoming more commonplace in both personal and business life.
With so many options available, it can be tough to choose the best web browser for your business. The only way to decide is to examine the features and functions of each. Let’s begin.
Small business owners may have come across the abbreviation “VPN” as they’ve researched technology solutions for their company. However, many articles on the internet toss around complicated jargon like “Tunneling Protocol” and “TCP port,” as if everyone familiar with those terms. Rather than bore you with that nonsense, we’re going to straightforwardly answer the questions:…
If you’ve been looking into tech solutions for your business, you may have heard the term Active Directory a few times. However, we’ve found that many clients are unfamiliar with it, and sometimes have a hard time deciding whether or not it’s right for their business. In this blog, we’ll answer the question: what is…
No company is too big or too small to stay off the radar of hackers and cybercriminals. So whether you’re experiencing a security breach right now or just preparing for the worst, it’s important to know how to recover quickly.
Computer viruses have been around since shortly after the internet’s inception. While virtually everyone is aware of their existence, few people are familiar with the types of viruses and how they harm the computers they infect.
The outbreak of the ransomware, known as WannaCry, has quickly become one of the worst cyberattacks in recent memory. On Friday, May 12, 2017, it began infecting thousands upon thousands of computers around the globe, destroying countless files in the process. Here’s everything we know about the WannaCry ransomware attack so far.
At one point or another, many small businesses need to upgrade their technology to operate as efficiently as possible. There comes a time when they may ask the questions “what is virtualization? Does my business need it? Is it different from cloud computing?” This blog will answer them.
When you’ve worked yourself into a routine of any sort, you become comfortable and content. That makes it hard to see when it’s time for a change. To help yourself out of the mundane and into something better, we’ll help you figure out if your business needs a software update.
When the term “deep web” is thrown around, people typically have one of two reactions. They either ask “What is the deep web?” or they say something like “I heard there’s all sorts of awful stuff on there.” In this blog, we’ll discuss what exactly the deep web is.
There’s no real risk in downloading free Windows 10 apps because you can always uninstall the ones you dislike. But when it comes to apps that cost money, you’ll want to make sure they provide enough bang for their buck.
A while back we wrote a blog that discussed the inception and evolution of computer viruses. We focused on the ones that were the most important in terms of outlining how modern viruses, malware and ransomware were created. This time, we’re going to strictly discuss the world’s most horrifying computer bugs.
At long last, the Samsung Galaxy S8 is ready to hit the market. In this blog, we’ll discuss our favorite features of the newest Galaxy as we excitedly anticipate its release. Let’s begin!
Many businesses are blissfully unaware of the information security risks that plague them. If you’ve never been stressed about the safekeeping of your business’ data, this blog may change that.
Ransomware has gained serious notoriety over the last few years. Bugs like CryptoWall and Locky have claimed countless victims through a variety of tactics, particularly spoof emails. But recently, ransomware attacks have utilized a new point of entry to victims’ computers: Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol.
Time and time again, we see high-profile hacking cases popping up in the media. Cybersecurity is clearly an issue for businesses of all shapes and sizes, as well as individuals. In this blog, we’ll take a look back at some of the most controversial examples of hacking that have ever happened.
If your business depends on technology to ensure smooth operations, you know how stressful and inconvenient it is when that technology malfunctions. Whether your infrastructure is faulty, your software is slow or you’ve suffered a data breach, outsourcing whoever’s in charge of your tech solutions is likely what your business needs.
There’s a good chance you’re aware of how terrifyingly clever cybercriminals have become in the last few years. Unfortunately, they’re great at their jobs, meaning it’s possible for them to conduct a successful data breach of your business without you even realizing.
The staggered release of Google’s latest and greatest operating system to Android devices has been frustrating for many, to say the least. But, as more and more devices receive the Android Nougat update, it pays to know what its best features are.
While browsers like Chrome, Firefox and Safari have rightfully forced Internet Explorer into obscurity, the relatively-new Microsoft Edge is not to be slept on. And we’re about to tell you why.
Since technology is integral to the operations of your business, it’s vital to have qualified professionals to manage it. You may be thinking about hiring an IT support company instead of using an in-house tech team. If that’s the case, you should learn what exactly IT companies do.
Accidentally deleting an important document is one of the most stressful things that can happen. Your heart drops, your palms sweat and you might even choke back tears. But all hope is not lost. If you know how to recover deleted files, your hard work may not be gone forever.
As more and more devices are capable of being connected to cyberspace, the Internet of Things will continue to expand. That could be good or bad, depending on how you look at it. In this blog post, we’ll focus on the security liabilities that come with increased connectedness.
While some people are quick to compare Google Assistant to Siri, they’re just not the same. Google’s virtual assistant is much more helpful, and in this blog, we’re going to teach you how to use it.
As a businessperson, a hacked email can have devastating results. At best, the hacker sends a few spam emails to your contacts, tarnishing your reputation. At worst, sensitive information falls into the wrong hands. With the increasing number of hacking cases, knowing how to send a secure email is more important than ever.
For whatever reason, many people are under the impression that their smartphones are impervious to cyberattacks. The source of this myth is unknown, but it’s certainly founded on falsehoods. To prevent your device from suffering an Android virus that renders it useless and steals your information, take these steps to security.
If you’re a Windows 7 user, you might be curious as to why update scans are taking hours, even days, to complete. There’s a Microsoft-related reason why Windows Update is taking ages to work. Luckily, there’s also a fix for it.
Technology has shaped the way in which businesses operate for centuries. Each year, new trends emerge that streamline business operations. In this blog, we’ll focus on some of our favorite wearable tech gadgets that can be used in the workplace.
The ever-changing landscape of technology is so interesting to monitor. There are always cool new products coming out, touching our lives for better or worse. So join us as we excitedly anticipate these technology trends for 2017!
There’s a good chance that your Google account houses tons of valuable personal information. If you use Gmail as your email client, Chrome for browsing the web or have an Android phone, you’re using Google a whole lot more than you may realize. That said, you’ll want your account to be as secure as possible.
The holiday season is in the air. It’s about time you got that special business owner in your life a present, whether it’s your boss or a family member. To save you from some unneeded stress, we’ve put together this list of the best technology gifts for a business owner.
Opportunistic cybercriminals love this time of year just as much as anyone who can’t stop quoting “Elf” or belting out Christmas carols at inappropriate times. The holidays mean lots of people are shopping. Which also means they’re entering their credit card information often. While you’re shopping, use these identity theft protection tips to your advantage.
It’s no secret that we love user-friendly smartphone and computer apps that make our lives easier. We’ve written two blogs about productivity apps in the past (which you can read here and here), and now we’re back to talk about choosing the right budget app.
Any business that deals with sensitive information has to be cautious with it. One way confidential data can be made secure is through file encryption. Your Microsoft Office files are a good place to start.
Despite widespread paranoia about Internet security, people share a remarkable amount of sensitive personal information on their social networking profiles. Usually, this isn’t on purpose. Many people don’t fully understand how to tweak social media privacy settings to keep their information confidential.
Using the Internet to shop has become increasingly popular over the years and shows no sign of slowing down. As you make your holiday purchases from the comfort of your own computer this year, be sure to remember these tips on how to know if a website is safe.
Nowadays, our computers are used for nearly everything. As a result, they contain a ton of our personal information. Information that we don’t want to fall into the wrong hands. Learning how to protect your computer is an invaluable skill that you’ll need for the rest of your life.
One criticism of Windows 10 is that its interface is catered largely to touchscreens. Though it’s a valid argument, traditional PC users still have plenty of keyboard shortcuts at their disposal, helping them save time and boost productivity.
A while back, we wrote a blog about five of our favorite productivity apps. We still love all the software listed in that blog, but there’s just so much more out there that we’d like to share. So without further ado, here are seven of the best Windows 10 apps for business.
If you’re having trouble loading a website, one of the first pieces of advice any tech expert will give you is to clear your browser cache. But what is a cache, why should you clear it and, most importantly, how do you clear it?
If you’re having trouble loading a website, one of the first pieces of advice any tech expert will give you is to clear your browser cache. But what is a cache, why should you clear it and, most importantly, how do you clear it?
Nobody is okay with surfing the net at a snail’s pace. Faster Internet is better Internet. So whether your connection is awful and you want to improve it or you just have a need for increased speed, follow these router optimization tips to enhance your Wi-Fi.
Microsoft OneNote is a must-have for anyone who takes a ton of notes, attends several meetings per week or works in teams often. It keeps that overwhelming flow of information packaged neatly in an organized fashion. If you’ve had a bit of trouble using it, or you just want to sharpen your skills, this list…
If you want to get notifications on your Windows 10 PC from your mobile device, Microsoft won’t make you purchase a Windows Phone. All you have to do is learn how to sync Android with Windows 10, which we explain in this guide!
“The version of the software you are using is no longer supported.” You X out of that annoying popup for the hundredth time and go about your business. Eventually, you fall victim to a malicious cyberattack and your identity has been stolen. For this very reason, end-of-life software should be dealt with immediately.
Slow browsers can be torturous. Searching Google and flipping between tabs should never take more than an instant, which is why sluggish browsers are so frustrating. To give your blood pressure a break, we’ve put together this list of factors that could be affecting your browser speed.
Despite its techy-sounding name, two factor authentication is one of the simplest ways to keep your information secure online. But what is two factor authentication, exactly?
Computer viruses didn’t just manifest through natural means like biological bugs. They’re manmade, of course. But where and why did they start? This lesson on the history of computer viruses will help you understand their origin and evolution.
For some reason, many people are under the impression that their smartphones are invulnerable to cyberattacks. That’s a dangerous assumption, especially with the increasing threat of ransomware. To anyone who’s asked the question “should I encrypt my phone?” the answer is yes.
Recently, we wrote a blog defining ransomware and detailing the threat it poses to the cybersecurity of businesses. After learning about it, most people seek out ransomware prevention methods to avoid falling victim to the dreaded form of malware. With these simple tips, you can foil cybercriminals’ plans to hold your data hostage.
Viruses like Locky and CryptoWall are plaguing the Internet. These malicious cyber-infections are known as ransomware. But, what is ransomware, exactly? And, perhaps more importantly, why should you be concerned? In this blog post, TCI explains.
Businesspeople often hate traveling for work. It’s a lot like traveling for pleasure, except all those flight delays and cancellations don’t result in leisure time spent in a scenic European city or seaside resort. To make your next business trip a little less infuriating, check out this list of our favorite travel gadgets.
If your business has employees who are always on the go, you know how hard it is to get everyone together for a team meeting. Many businesses have considered implementing a video conferencing solution to solve the problem of conflicting schedules. But, since there are so many programs out there, how do you know which…
The rapid evolution of technology leaves most people playing catchup. It’s costly to always have the latest and greatest gadgets, and the average business doesn’t have thousands of dollars lying around to upgrade their equipment monthly. There’s a fine line between using outdated office technology and making unnecessary purchases, so we’ve decided to provide some…
As the frequency of malicious software attacks increases, so too does the importance of maintaining strong cybersecurity policies. For most small businesses, a data breach signals disaster. But, if your business’ sensitive information is effectively fortified, you can steer clear of catastrophe.
All businesses, both small and large, need efficient methods of telecommunication in order to operate smoothly. Cost effectiveness, reliability and capability are often concerns of business owners when they consider buying a new product. Luckily, all three of those things are major benefits of using VoIP for business!
Credit card theft, particularly skimming, is a common way by which consumers are cheated out of credit card data. Skimming refers to the reading of your credit or debit card’s magnetic strip by a malicious device installed on a payment terminal or ATM by a thief. In this blog, we tell you how to beat…
“Microsoft buys LinkedIn.” This message flooded social media and news outlets throughout the morning of Monday, June 13. The acquisition of LinkedIn by Microsoft for $26.2 billion signals a foray by the tech giant into the world of social media.
While its name sounds kind of silly, the Locky Virus has been one of the most active and dangerous malwares of 2016. One of the latest examples of ransomware, Locky essentially holds your files hostage by encrypting them. It then prompts you to pay Bitcoins to recover your files, similarly to CryptoWall.
Internet browsers are designed to streamline your experience as your surf the net. Shortcuts aside, browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and Microsoft Edge, which is a Windows 10 exclusive, are already extremely useful and provide great data security. But, when you mix in these user-friendly browser shortcuts, life gets even easier.
A messy, unorganized computer can impede your workflow and cause unneeded stress. It’s easy to let your computer get cluttered with old documents and outdated folders. But once you know how to organize computer files the right way, you’ll be on your way to an easy-to-navigate computer.
Microsoft recently announced their plans to roll out Windows 10 Build 14328. According to Gabe Aul, Microsoft’s Vice President, this update is a “MAJOR build.” Though this new build, known as the “Anniversary Update,” has no specific release date as of yet, it’s set to come out sometime during the summer of 2016. As we…
Criminals are engaged in many types of Facebook scams. At TCI Technologies, our goal is to help you stay safe while browsing the Web. Here’s what to look out for to protect your personal privacy.
Your Internet browsing activities expose you to security and privacy threats. Malware can infect your system, advertisers can follow your every move and hackers can compromise sensitive data through keyloggers and phishing attacks. Protect yourself by exploring the best browsers for secure Internet searches.
You can easily learn how to block spam emails at in Outlook and Gmail. The different types of spam emails include unwanted marketing, phishing schemes that masquerade as friendly emails, and identity theft operations that request your user name, password and credit card information. Here are some helpful tips for how to block and report…
Many offices use email as a critical communication tool, but it’s easy for your inbox to become a source of stress. You have important business messages, useless newsletters and unending spam vying for your attention. It’s no wonder Adobe discovered people spend an average of 3.2 hours per day checking their work email. Don’t let…
Are you someone who wants to get more work done in less time and with less stress? If you count yourself among this group, productivity apps can help you streamline your days, organize information, coordinate communications and make effective use of your time.
Did you know that 47 percent of the American population has had their personal information exposed by hackers? Or that a hacker could crack an eight-character lowercase passcode in only two hours? There is a solution: A password manager can reduce the chance of your valuable information being stolen by data thieves and provide you…
In a data-driven world, we expect the information and numbers we need to be at our fingertips. Excel is a great way to efficiently gather and sort through data, but it can be even easier. With these five helpful Microsoft Excel shortcuts, you can make the most of the data in front of you.
INTRODUCTION: The list post is one of the most popular and readable blog formats on the web. It is composed of — you guessed it — a list, and includes short explanatory paragraphs about each item. Use your introduction as a way to tell the reader how this collection of ideas will help them. Keep…
With major data breaches recently affecting many big businesses, data security is more important than ever. Data breaches could cost your company a huge amount of money, and also damage your company’s reputation, so it’s vital to establish some data security best practices to protect sensitive data and reassure customers that their private information is…
While it’s nearly impossible to avert an oncoming disaster, businesses who are prepared will fare far better in the face of an unexpected problem like an infestation of malware. An IT disaster recovery plan can save your company time and money when things go wrong.
Microsoft Outlook is the go-to email client for many offices. Outlook has a ton of bells and whistles that can make your life much easier when you use them properly. To help you maximize your email efficiency, we’ve put together a list of our favorite Microsoft Outlook tips.
Whether they know it or not, any person who has used a computer has been confronted with malware. But what is malware, anyway, and how can it be prevented from infecting a computer?
When you think about the number of hacking cases we’ve seen over the years, it begs the question: how secure is my password? For most people, the answer is not as secure as you think. In fact, “123456” and “password” were the most commonly used of 2015. To make sure your greatest line of defense…
The art of encryption, a tactic for securing the secrecy of a message, is far from new. It’s likely you rely on encryption regularly but did not even realize it. Today, encrypting data to protect personal information has become more commonplace than ever before. But, the question remains: what is encryption, exactly, and how does…
If you’ve had trouble sending certain files via email, don’t worry. It’s probably not a malicious virus that’s preventing your email from sending. Chances are, the file you’ve attached is just too big. You may also be confused when transferring large files between your PC and smartphone. However, once you know how to send large…
Is your business struggling with finding technology solutions to fit its needs? Do you believe you are losing money due to a lack of technological efficiency? A Virtual Chief Technology Officer, an outsourced, off-site IT manager, solves these issues and more every day.Generally speaking, the overall objective of a Virtual CTO is to advise and…
Changing your password is not the same across all devices. For example, creating a new password on an iPhone is different than changing it on a Windows operating system, predictably. To ensure your device is secure, we’ve put together this guide on how to change your password.
As technology reshapes the way we work, communicate and play, it’s clear that the future is now. It seems like new devices hit the marketplace quicker than the time it takes to restart your desktop computer. And, with each new breakthrough, there are three more around the corner. These evolving technology trends give us a…
The recent Windows 10 upgrade (available for free for a limited time) offers a slew of new features on an enhanced operating system. Find out how it has the potential to increase workers’ productivity.
We all know a slow computer can be an absolute nightmare. It always seems that when you have an important document to print, something to buy online or a bill to pay, your computer decides to slow down drastically. To free yourself of frustration, try out some of these tips on how to make your…
Online holiday shopping has become as much a tradition as caroling and tree decorating. In fact, consumers spent about $53 billion online during the 2014 holiday season. With all the money being spent, hackers and fraudsters have seized the opportunity to fatten their own wallets during the holidays. We’ve seen some serious hacking cases in…
It’s easy to forget how much technology improves our lives. To remind everyone of the power of computing, we are highlighting ingenious ways to improve upon its progress even further. Our nine clever life hacks take the latest tech to the next level.
Android’s Marshmallow update is now available for certain, but not all, devices. While it’s not a complete overhaul of their Lollipop operating system, there will be some exciting updates. Below are our favorite Android Marshmallow key features.
Microsoft recently released a major upgrade to its Office suite that further integrates its programs, including Word, Outlook and Excel, into a more shareable format. If you are considering upgrading, this is what to know about Microsoft Office 2016. With its latest upgrade, Microsoft is touting enhanced on-the-go capability. It’s now easier to switch from…
In 2015, as in past years, we’ve seen plenty of hacking cases that drew tons of attention from the media. From the celebrity iCloud hack to the scandalous data compromise of the Ashley Madison database, it’s been a busy year for hackers and security teams alike. So, without further ado, here are the most controversial…
Soon after debuting the iPhone 6s, Apple has released a significant upgrade to its mobile operating system. With improvements across the board, the new features of iOS9 create an easier, more enjoyable experience.
Join Fat Guy Media’s own Filippo Impennato and TCI Technologies Matt Galiano for a great night of guest bartending in efforts to raise money for Long Island Fight for Charity. Enjoy a night of appetizers, cocktails and win great raffle prizes, while supporting a great cause!
Since the Internet is so prominent in the life of just about every American, President Obama has designated October as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Participating in National Cybersecurity Awareness Month will not only provide you with education about cybersecurity, but will give you the opportunity to educate others as well.
Thursday, October 1, 2015 marked the beginning of the end for magnetic strip credit and debit cards. With the alarming number of companies hacked for consumer credit card information, it’s about time that security measures were taken. Here’s what you need to know about the new chip-enabled credit cards.
Highly-publicized data hacking like the Ashley Madison scandal raises the question everyone should be asking themselves: “is my computer secure enough?” Unfortunately, it probably isn’t. If you are one of millions of Americans worried about how to secure your computer, here is some helpful advice.
Started by founder Steve Jobs, the yearly Apple launch event has become a subject of cultural curiosity where Americans aim to guess what to add to their technological wish lists. Prior to this year’s event, rumors of new products flew across the Internet. And while the iPhone 6s rumors rang true, the details of the…
Skype for Business, which has the capability to video conference 250 people at once, will soon be in the palm of your hand.
Windows 10 was released by Microsoft on July 29, 2015. While the Windows update will be familiar to users of previous versions, there will be some new and improved features, too.
Talk of airborne, unmanned hacking devices has come to light after an email exchange between a Boeing subsidiary and the Hacking Team, an Italian malware manufacturer, was leaked. The proposed drones would be able to invade Wi-Fi networks and take control of any users on the network.
In light of the breach of the Italian security company known as the Hacking Team, Microsoft has published an urgent security update for Windows in order to patch a dangerous zero-day exploit. The Hacking Team data breach has disclosed a huge number of vulnerabilities, including one for Adobe Flash.
After Facebook’s chief security officer has called for the death of Adobe Flash Player, Mozilla decided to actively block the plugin on Firefox. When it was brought to world’s attention once again that Flash is extremely vulnerable, Mozilla made the decision to block it until there was an Adobe Flash update that addressed security issues.
Although CryptoWall 3.0 ransomware has been around for a while now, we’ve recently seen a surge in the number of PCs infected. Lately, many CryptoWall 3.0 infections have come from malicious spam (malspam) emails and the Angler Exploit Kit, a software package that contains easy-to-use attacks against vulnerabilities in browsers such as Chrome, Internet Explorer…
The latest update to the Google Chrome web browser, version 42, now blocks Java, Silverlight and other plugins. However, not all is lost. As long as you remember to update Java, you can continue to utilize all of Google Chrome’s features. As a security measure, Google has blocked NPAPI (Netscape Plugin API) plugins, including Java,…
Our world was decidedly simpler when there was no omnipresent threat of cyber-terror or cyber-vandalism. Today’s computer world is not the happy go-lucky world of developers dedicated to opening up new streams of communication. No, the digital world over the past few years has gone a bit rogue.
Spartan. It’s a word that still carries a fair amount of weight despite the fact that the warriors that originally gave the word its’ gravitas have been dead for over 2000 years. Unfortunately, brands have begun to hop on the Spartan bandwagon so we’ve seen everything from Spartan races, Spartan athletic equipment and, now thanks…
Last week we covered how you can set up email on your iPhone 5 but, we realized we were leaving out our readers who did not have iPhones. So, in our blog this week, we figured we would go over how to set up email on Android (since that seems to be the next most…
Cloud computing has become a major buzz word over the past four years and it doesn’t seem as though it’s going away anytime soon. You may have heard that tech giants like Amazon, Google and Apple are all battling to be the top cloud provider for consumers. There are advertisements everywhere for Apple’s iCloud and…
In todays’ world, being mobile is a necessary attribute for any Long Island small business. But, you also need to be able to stay in contact with your clients, co-workers and employees throughout the day. With e-mail on your iPhone you’ll be able not only be more mobile, but be more responsive to the needs…
David Pogue is one of the most well-respected (and well known) personalities in the tech world. For the past thirty years David has seen the tech industry grow from a fledgling industry into the most dominant corporate power in America. He has worked as a columnist for the New York Times, hosted NOVA and is…
At this point, the countdown until Christmas is entering hyper-speed (if you haven’t already bought presents for your loved ones that is). And that race against time may force you to spend more on said presents thanks to elevated shipping costs and convenience fees. While that might be fine for less expensive products (like socks),…
Now, if you’re like any normal American you probably don’t know what a CAPTCHA is, but… you’ve probably seen them before. A CAPTCHA (which is an acronym for Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart) is a little program that websites use to determine whether or not the thing visiting their…
It’s hard to imagine that in just two days, you, me and millions of other Americans will roll out of bed, lace up our boots and risk our own personal well-being (all before the sun dares to show its’ face) just to get a deal. Well, I say just. On no other day during the…
Black Friday is a week away, which, for me doesn’t mean much beyond seeing a million Black Friday status updates on my Facebook timeline. I don’t participate in Black Friday. The idea of shopping amongst a thousand rabid people who are determined to get that newest version of Tickle Me Elmo for their children at…
Whether you’re just starting your first business or you have been in business for decades finding an IT provider and consultant is an essential part of any serious business today. We live an age where our ability to do business is heavily influenced by the technology that we are able to use (and buy). Unfortunately,…
For the past four years I have relied on a free subscription to Microsoft Office through my alma mater, Hofstra University. Then I graduated. My subscription disappeared and I was left between a rock and a hard place as I looked to replace Microsoft Office on my Macbook. To fully replace it I would have…
Clouds used to be puffy white abstractions in the sky that served as the ground for gods, angels and the occasional demon (see Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel); then science came along. Clouds became a collection of water particles that drifted aimlessly in the sky and the wonder that used to be associated with the upper troposphere…
Spiders, snakes and darkness. They may be the favorite companions and pets of those upper-echelon villains that pervade our literature, films and streets on the 31st of October but, I have to say, they would not be my preferred form of company. Fortunately, I do not typically end up in the hands of my arch-nemesis…
With all of the press Apple has been getting over the past few weeks, it only makes sense that we start giving one of their primary competitors a look too. Just the other day I was looking on the Mac app store at cloud storage apps and was surprised to see that OneDrive, an application…
Apple rolled out Yosemite last week to some pretty rave reviews and I have to say, I was pretty impressed. The new flat design and simplified icons made for a more enjoyable and contemporary aesthetic experience. It was easy to use and it made my 2010 Macbook Pro feel like it was a brand new…
In light of a current Kickstarter project that has more than doubled its funding goal with just under a month left of fundraising time to go, it looks like Chromecast better get ready for company. Matchstick is a new streaming stick built on the Firefox OS that is completely open-source, and from the look of…
Security experts across the globe have been working around the clock to create patches for the Shellshock bug that uncovered 20 years of server vulnerability on systems using Bash. It’s beginning to appear that despite the longstanding claim that Apple products are less susceptible to viruses than PCs, internal bugs are just as easily exploited…
If you thought that Heartbleed was bad, brace yourselves for the server vulnerability that we’re up against now. Last week, a 20-year-old bug was discovered that affects almost all Linux and Mac OS X deployments. You heard that correctly: malware that’s not confined to PCs. The new bug is called Shellshock, and it affects Bash,…
In short, it’s the new “anti-Facebook” that’s creating quite a buzz in digital media. But why is this different from every other time someone claimed to have made the “new Facebook,” and why are people so excited about it?
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently said that the average Facebook user spends about 40 minutes a day on the network. Putting that into perspective, only 20% of Americans actually fulfill the CDC’s recommended 21 minutes of daily exercise. Let’s break that down a bit further to uncover the shocking link between social media and obesity.
Microsoft Office‘s PowerPoint is a pretty great tool for setting up presentations. It does however have its shortcomings. Take for example that you can’t change the slide orientation per slide. Some data or images will just display better in landscape than they would in portrait mode or vice versa. While PowerPoint limits you to one…
Much like millions of other iPhone users, today I updated my iPhone 5S to the just-released iOS 8. We’ve already talked about a ton of the cool new iOS features when we discussed the iPhone 6 unveiling, but now I got to play with these things on my own—how exciting! Let’s just say that excitement…
Technology moves fast. In the past hundred years, we have moved from primitive machines, barely capable of simple mathematics equations, to mobile phones capable of taking photos, sharing data, and communicating across the globe, in an instant.
The pre-order for the new iPhone 6 is now fully underway…or is it? As per the Apple announcement event on Tuesday, pre-sale should have begun at 12AM PST, or 3AM EST (yuck, I know). Nevertheless, all sorts of Apple aficionados either stayed up late or set their alarms to be awake for the release time.
It’s official: the 8th generation iPhone is here, and it’s called the iPhone 6 (and iPhone 6 Plus). Right off the bat, what do you think of the new name? While I thought the C for Color was kind of lame, am I the only one who thinks the “Plus” is a bit reminiscent of…
Tomorrow’s the big day for Apple-lovers everywhere: the unveiling of the iPhone 6 (or so we hope)! There’s some speculation floating around—from leaked photos and factory orders to mock-up drafts and insider hints—but the long and short of it is that all will be revealed in less than 24 hours.
So now that you know what’s stored in your web browser history, let’s work on how to clear your search engine history. There could be plenty of reasons you’d want to erase your search history—you’re on a public computer, you share your computer with other people, you don’t want your previous search history to influence…
There are plenty of reasons that someone would want to clear their web browser history. To better understand these reasons, we should probably start by establishing exactly what types of things are included in your web browser history.
Have you ever started writing an email to a colleague, and before you were ready to send it, you wound up accidentally hitting “send” somehow? As soon as it happened, you probably muttered some expletive, maybe pounded a fist on your desk, and then hastily sent a follow-up email to correct the error. Don’t worry—everybody’s…
Whether you’ve set it or not, your computer has a default browser, which is the program that will open anytime you click on something linked to the Internet, such as a link in an email or a desktop shortcut to a website. If you open a new browser, it will often ask if you would…
No matter what size your company is, there are plenty of benefits to using Active Directory. Being able to control your network from a single location using Group Policy Objects makes managing all of your employees who operate on the network a breeze. We’ve already talked about active directory basics, the benefits of group policy,…
Active Directory is a system that allows an entire computer network to be controlled from a single, central location by a network administrator. Through the use of Group Policy Objects, the administrator of your network can control the way that daily tasks are done throughout your company, permitting or restricting access to specific elements as…
So we’ve shed some light on the myriad of benefits of Group Policy, but what else can you do with it on your Local Area Network (LAN)? Most importantly, you can use it to keep your network safe, but there are a whole slew of other helpful ways that Group Policy Objects (GPOs) can streamline…
Once you’ve put Active Directory in play in your office, how does it all come together? Group Policy is a system within Active Directory that gives the network administrators the ability to define user, security, and organization-wide policies throughout the network. Interested in learning the benefits of Group Policy? We’re here to help you out!
In our last post, we talked about some of the advantages of using Active Directory for your business. To illustrate just how important Active Directory is to the success and efficiency of your business, we wanted to give you an example of what could happen to a company that isn’t using Active Directory.
Last week we went over some Active Directory basics to answer the question “What is Active Directory?” We concluded that it’s a database system that connects all of the individual machines within your network. We wanted to dig a little bit further into the benefits of using Active Directory for businesses, because it makes a…
Remember when you started college and they gave you a username and password to use on the school’s computer network? With your username and password, you were able to log onto any computer that was on the network, and upon startup you would have access to all of the files and drives to which your…
When you’re deciding what type of exchange server will best suit your company, there are a number of factors that you have to take into consideration. The most important factor is the size of your business. Do you have more than 50 employees? If the answer is ‘yes,’ then local is, without question, the way…
When you’re deciding what type of exchange server will best suit your company, there are a number of factors that you have to take into consideration. The most important factor is the size of your business. Do you have more than 50 employees? If the answer is ‘yes,’ then local is, without question, the way…
So. Many. Yellow. Bars. At least that’s what it looked like… A few weeks ago, I plugged my iPhone into my computer with the intent to upload the entirety of the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix audiobook to my phone’s library for a road trip back to Buffalo (8 hours in the…
If you have a computer, you’ve probably had a computer problem. The severity of each problem can range from just having a slow computer to the infamous SBBOD (Spinning Beach Ball of Death). No matter what the problem is it can really set you back if you don’t know how to deal with it properly.…
We’ve put out a lot of blogs about IT news, some of the services we provide and ways to improve your small businesses cyber security just to name a few. But, what we haven’t covered much is what IT is. It’s a pretty large field filled with a plethora of subfields which means, at least…
If you are a Russian-speaking Android user you could be in trouble (and if you don’t speak Russian you might be in trouble too). A piece of Android malware has been causing some serious havoc for Russian users around the world. It’s called “Android/Samsapo.A” and it has developed a habit for abusing people’s contacts and…
Jobs, jobs, jobs. That’s been the major focus of politics and politician’s for the past couple years (and probably ever since politics was invented (thank you Greece)… I think?). It used to be easy to debate about jobs in America. Where do we want jobs? America! Great, case closed (not much of a debate). But…
In our last blog we discussed how to diagnose whether your computer has been infected by a virus or malware (or any other kind of insert-prefix-here ware). It’s important to be able to diagnose the problem. But a diagnosis without a plan of action to fix your computer’s affliction is about as useful as going…
What is a Computer Virus? Viruses, spyware, adware, malware, scareware, ransomware, worms (yay! one that doesn’t have ‘ware’ at the end), rootkits, bots and droppers (gross) are all potential problems for your PC. Problems that could expose you to things like identity theft and corporate espionage. But many of them are largely ignored or brought…
A little over a month ago, Mozilla launched its’ newest version of Firefox and internet users have had some time to examine all of the ins-and-outs of the updated browser. It’s no secret that the old version of Firefox had become extremely dated. It was a browser living in the modern age who refused to…
When you think cloud, you typically think gigantic white fluffy thing that’s mostly water vapor and takes a bunch of random shapes. They look like gigantic pillows. Not exactly the most terrifying thing. But for Figaro Pho, clouds are about the worst thing since brussel sprouts (no offense to any of our readers who actually…
Clouds, clouds, clouds. We just can’t stop talking about them. From Box, to Dropbox, to other cloud technology services named after boxes, there seems to be no shortage of cloud storage options for your business. Except (cue sound of car brakes screeching), those options may begin to dry up if Apple, Google, and Microsoft have…
Since the advent of the smartphone consumers, have been looking for the ‘next big thing’ in commercial mobile technology. That future was predicted to come in the form of small, mobile devices that you could wear on your head, arm, or wrist (pretty much everywhere, check out smart socks). Wearable technology was supposed to be…
Load your anti-virus software, back up your hard drives, and prepare yourself for the internet hack of a lifetime. Wait…put everything on hold for a minute. Microsoft just issued a patch for a zero day exploit in Internet Explorer that should protect users against malicious hackers.
INTRODUCTION: Your “how to” blog post should teach the reader how to do something by breaking it down into a series of steps. Begin your blog post by explaining what problem you are going to solve through your explanation and be sure to include any relevant keywords. Add in a personal story to establish your credibility…
Do you ever feel like you’re being overrun with post-its? I do. They have managed to overrun both my desk at work and my one at home. Besides the post-its, there’s notebook paper everywhere (some of which I can’t even remember scribbling on), and trying to find a pen is like buying a lottery ticket;…
In a previous post, we discussed how cloud computing firms are a little nervous about the future of their online services after Edward Snowden’s now infamous (or famous) leak of confidential NSA surveillance information. That leak could cost cloud companies between $22 billion to $35 billion in foreign business over the next three years. Even…
They say the cure for a hangover is to crack open another beer, and fortunately for us, the day after Cinco de Mayo is another cause for celebration—TCI’s anniversary! Since TCI’s inception, from service additions, team expansion, and an entire company rebranding, the past eleven years have been both fun and exciting. In honor of…
Cloud computing companies based out of the United States have had one hell of a time trying to reassure customers that the information they put in the cloud, stays in the cloud. With an increase in NSA surveillance, as well as greater public awareness about clandestine malpractice (thank you Edward Snowden), these companies stand to…
Since his notorious intelligence leak back in June of 2013, Edward Snowden has become a household name. Surrounded by controversy, many are uncertain of the character of the man who exposed classified NSA documents to the press. Some will call him a traitor, while others sing his praises. With little agreement over whether to condemn…
Calling all iPhone users (4S and above, at least)! If you have updated to iOS7, then you may want to check out the upper right corner of your home screen. There you will find (unless it has been turned off) a grey squiggle next to your battery. Your phone has been Bluetooth enabled, but that’s…
Have you ever noticed how difficult it can be to find your keys when you’re in a rush? They’re never where you’d expect them to be. You may have even bought that little $5 organizer thing that you promised yourself you’d always put your keys in after the last time your ripped apart half of…
Microsoft Office has been the go-to office suite for businesses around the world since its introduction in November of 1990. With very few viable alternatives to choose from, small businesses have had to rely on the tech-giant’s applications for the better part of the last 24 years. The price of running the programs can cost…
Two weeks ago, the Heartbleed Bug rocked the world (literally). Some are calling it the greatest security threat the Internet has ever seen, while others are less certain of the damage inflicted by the virus. The truth is, as of right now, we don’t know a whole lot about it, and sometimes not knowing how…
Do you remember your first toy? For some people it was a teddy bear, for others it was a doll, and then there were those poor, unfortunate souls who got a pet rock. Regardless of what the toy was, people typically form a strong emotional attachment to that first toy. It’s the first thing you…
Upgrading all of the hardware in your workplace can be a bit scary. The common fears are a hefty, upfront cost, potentially losing data, and that any combination of the two could result in a loss of revenue for your company. For some Windows XP users, the thought of having to attempt such an overhaul…
The last few grains of sand in Windows XP’s hourglass are beginning to run out, and one group in particular sits eagerly awaiting the discontinuation of the old operating system. Eventually, the OS will stop receiving security updates; updates that keep you and your system safe from cybercriminals and hackers. On April 8th, those defenses…
April 8th, 2014 will be the end of an era for Microsoft as they terminate support for Windows XP. For the past 10 years, people have used the company’s first mass-market operating system, and in just a few weeks it will be time to say good-bye. Most programs would have been completely phased out by…
As they say, all good things must come to an end, and the Windows XP end of life is long overdue. If you haven’t already heard, all support and updates for the 12-year-old OS will come to a halt on April 8, 2014. So what does that mean, exactly? It means it’s time to say…
The Night Sky: A Source of Security In honor of the return of Carl Sagan’s Cosmos to television, we are going to take a minute to appreciate the night sky. Being so close to a major city can make it a little difficult to see the stars due to the exorbitant amount of light pollution…
The Internet is constantly changing the way people do business. In a world where efficient solutions are constantly being pursued, it was only a matter of time before an alternative to the way we handle phone systems came about. VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is the revolutionary concept of converting analog audio signals, such…
In 1965, an American psychologist who went by the nickname “Lick,” claimed that one day the entire world would be completely interconnected, and be able to share information through the “Intergalactic computer network.” Besides that being an awesome name, J.C.R. Licklider predicted the invention of what we now call “cloud computing.” Through programs like Google…
Content marketing has become the here-and-now of the marketing world in order to better engage and interact with consumers. But what exactly is it?
Water, the bane of the smartphone’s existence, has been responsible for the deaths of Androids, iPhones, and pretty much every other neutral-colored, metal, and glass-covered mobile device. Users have gone out of their way to protect their companions, but the fact of the matter is they just keep finding their way into water–it’s the toilet,…
We weren’t kidding when we said that the Internet was abuzz with internet security concerns in a recent blog about password management, and Friday made that all the more clear as Apple released iOS 7.0.6. The update was released quietly, simply stating that prior to the update, “an attacker with privileged network position may capture…
Everybody has had that moment when they are trying to get somewhere, they’re running a little late, and they’re using Google Maps or another GPS device. Then they enter a dead zone. Even the calmest, most zen, person on the planet starts screaming expletives at their GPS wondering, “WHY? Why now?” Thanks to a new…
There has been a recent surge in hacker activity; it seems like every week we get news of another security breach into the customer database of big-name companies. On Saturday, the crowd-funding site Kickstarter sent out an email to all registered users, and posted a blog on their website, notifying users of a security breach…
IT Support Long Island: We’ve Got Your Back Search the web for IT support and there will be thousands of companies at your disposal. They might be able to offer similar services as TCI does, but how many of these companies offer immediate service and response for your business? With respect to IT Support in…
We’ve already discussed the Windows 8 Charms bar in a previous tech tip. Today we look at the Windows 8 “Switch List”. Similar to the Charms bar the Windows 8 Switch List is a navigation bar that only appears when it is activated. When it is activated your Switch List will be seen on the…
For first time users, Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 8, can be a bit overwhelming. The key to remaining productive with Windows 8 is to learn the new interface elements that are available throughout the operating system. One of the more useful of these elements is the Windows 8 Charms (or Charms Bar).
Last month the new broke of some savvy hackers pulling off a never-before-seen scheme in Europe. As BBC reported, this operation came to light at the Chaos Communication Congress in Hamburg, Germany, an annual event where hackers from all over the world go to meet.
An individual’s technical skills can carry her professionally for quite a distance in virtually every industry. The world of cyber security is no exception to this rule, evidenced by a shift in hiring choices being made by many organizations, especially government agencies. In this day and age, protecting classified information is of utmost importance, and…
What will they think of next?! That seems to be the question every time some breakthrough technology emerges, and today is no different after Amazon’s latest announcement. Yesterday, news broke of their newest R&D lab project: Prime Air. As the leaders in shipping efficiency, it should come as no surprise that they’ve been cooking up…
How frustrating is it when you write an email to someone, intending to attach a relevant document, only to find that you forgot to actually attach it after you’ve already hit “send”? Before I knew about the MS Outlook attachment reminder, whenever this used to happen to me I would get extremely annoyed, not only…
Apple has done it again—released a product that tops its predecessor and pulls them back to the top of their market. With the Microsoft Surface tablet commercials taking a direct jab at Siri, and the iPad’s lack of functionality by comparison to the new MS device, it looked like the iPad was going down. However,…
There’s a new virus causing potentially irreparable damage spreading across the entire internet. CryptoLocker is a ransomware program that infects entire computer networks and encrypts many file types, causing potentially irreparable damage. The virus enters an individual system when a user clicks a link, often sent via email that opens the door for the virus.…
Your email signature can serve as a digital business card that you attach to the end of every email you send. You can build your signature to contain valuable contact information to share with the people that you interact with online, such as your name, phone number, office address, website, etc. You can even include…
At Transitional Computing, we pride ourselves in our position at the forefront of technological development. Every time our industry experiences an evolution of any magnitude, we strive to become masters of the changes, to ensure that we are always providing our clients with the most current support available. For the last ten years, we have…
Keeping your IT infrastructure operational and up-to-date is an important part of running a successful business. Failing to keep your computer network properly optimized leaves it prone to cyber-attacks, hardware failure, and malware. That is why here, at TCI Techs, we recommend yearly maintenance and upgrades for each network we support. As computers get faster,…