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How Will the End of Net Neutrality Affect My Small Business?

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You may not realize it, but the end of net neutrality is a serious concern for small businesses. Larger companies will now have an advantage over small ones.

What is net neutrality?Net Neutrality

According to Google, network neutrality is “the principle that Internet service providers should enable access to all content and applications regardless of the source, and without favoring or blocking particular products or websites.”

What does it mean now that net neutrality is dead?

Internet service providers can now decide which websites and apps they will allow access to, as well as, the speed at which they will run. Now, service providers can make companies pay a fee in order for their website to run faster. It turns a level playing field into a skewed one, especially for smaller businesses. Not only will this affect companies, but internet users, as well. It is possible that we might have to pay to use a certain website or to make it speed up.

How will it affect my small business?

Smaller businesses have always had to compete with larger corporations and it hasn’t always been an easy task considering that large corporations have more means. But, they did find relief when it came to the internet because they always had an equal playing field. Now that net neutrality is dead, internet service providers will be charging fees that small businesses just won’t have the money to pay. That means that their websites will run slower than the corporate giants which will result in irritated customers. You have to admit that when your internet is running slow and you’re trying to do some online shopping, most of the time you just throw in the towel. Then, you continue your online shopping at a later date when the internet is back on track. Well, this is how it’s going to be every day for smaller companies. It won’t be as easy to take a quick glance at the menu of your favorite, local restaurant. You won’t be able to as easily buy that product from a mom and pop e-commerce site. The end of net neutrality could have some serious repercussions for small businesses.

Adobe, Target & Snapchat. Is Your Company at Risk?

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Security ImageIt feels as though every time you turn on the news, there’s a story about a company being hacked. If it’s happening to companies like Target and Adobe, then it could certainly happen to your company. That is why security and protection are key for having a successful business.

What can a security breach do to your company?

A major data breach, such as Target’s, can cause significant damage to your company financially. It not only costs you thousands of dollars, but it also ruins your company’s credibility and public image. Customers can no longer trust you with their personal information. Although it may not be your fault directly, there are things that could have been done to better protect your business and its data.

Here are 5 tips to help you protect your company from hackers:

  1. Get a firewall that filters traffic as it goes in and out.
  2. Keep your anti-malware and anti-virus up to date.
  3. Update your software to the latest version.
  4. Set a password for your Wi-Fi.
  5. Create strong, effective passwords and change them at least every 90 days. (Click here for more information on creating passwords)

How can we help?

According to an article on CNBC.com, for the upmost protection, you should go one step further and call in outside help. This is where Carolina IT Group can assist you. Instead of waiting until you are hacked, we take a more proactive approach. From monitoring your system around the clock to setting up the best and most efficient IT system, Carolina IT Group helps prevent and protect you from security breaches, spam, viruses, and other threats. If you want a free, no strings attached demo, get with us. Fill out the form below.

photo credit: Stian Eikeland via photopin cc

Network Security: Is It Really That Important?

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A Story about the Risks of “Non-Vaccination”

On a recent appointment, I met with a pediatrician to perform a network review. In our preliminary meeting, we discussed the issues they were having and I was certain I’d find a pretty sick network. My suspicions were correct.

It’s our practice to schedule a follow Vaccine - a doctor giving vaccination girl, health, preventionup appointment after the report of findings has been written and risks weighed. During this meeting, the pediatrician told me about the struggle she having with unimmunized children coming into the practice. She was very concerned about how to care for these children without putting her staff and other patients at risk. The pediatrician was very passionate about this subject and demonstrated a thorough understanding of how these non-vaccinated children were at risk themselves and putting others at risk.

As the conversation turned towards her internal network and the issues that were plaguing the practice’s technology, I realized there was a direct link between immunized children and properly secured networks. When properly “vaccinated” both resulted in diminished breaches, health-wise and data-wise.

With all of the security breaches in the news lately, I’ve been investing considerable time and energy in understanding HIPAA Compliance laws so that I can effectively secure our medical clients’ networks. I’d also recently enlisted a HIPAA Security Firm to perform a Risk Assessment on our company. So, network security and privacy laws were close to my mind during this meeting.

This physician understood the risks of unvaccinated children and could easily articulate the danger inherent to the child and to those around him or her. Sadly, however, she did not see the importance of “vaccinating” her own network and diminishing the risk she was imposing on her practice, staff and patients.

A recent study showed that 44% of healthcare organizations have experienced a data breach. Specifically speaking in the medical industry here are some implications to an Server First Aidunsecured network.

1. Unsecured networks put patient records at risk.

2. Unsecured networks allow for the bad guys to use your network as a proxy to hide themselves to infect other networks.

3. Improperly designed networks rob hundreds of man-hours of efficiency from the medical practice as well as lower morale.

4. Improperly designed networks often do not have a viable backup solution for patient data and will affect the care of patients and ultimately the viability and longevity of the practice.

5. Unsecured networks put the practice in a high-risk position in regards to HIPAA regulations and fines.

6. Embarrassment and loss of trust from clients when reporting a security breach.

I am aware of all of the added pains the new health care laws have put on the healthcare industry. This is of the primary reasons I wanted to fully understand the rules so that I can help employ practical solutions. Below is a list of some very practical solutions that will go along way in securing your network.

1. Setup your network properly in Stethoscope on computer keyboardthe first place. Install a Domain Controller on the network to manage your data in a central place, the access your users have two that data, and be able to set automated complex password changes every 90 days.

2. Deploy a proper Email solution. Email is a small business’ greatest risk. Only allow your corporate email to be checked from the office. Block all other types of email traffic. Also employee a good encryption on your email that has PII.

3. Deploying a UTM (Unified Threat Managed) Firewall that is managed by professionals. A properly installed firewall will filter out Intrusions, Viruses, Spyware as well as control Web Access.

4. Install Managed Desktop Security software. Every device on the network needs to have a local Security Software that alerts if an infection happens.

5. Encrypt all mobile devices. All devices that leave the physical security of the network need to have some form of Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solution that will allow for data encryption, remote password change and ultimately remote wipe if necessary.

6. Deploy a Remote Management and Monitoring Software. All computers need to have their Microsoft Security Updates run consistently as well as have all of their software monitored with alerting if new software is installed or uninstalled.

7. Deploying a Managed Disaster Recovery System. Patient data is one of the most valuable assets of a practice. Not only to continue the practice but also in order to give good care to patients. An encrypted off-site backup that is monitored for success and failure daily is necessary.

Although I was unable to educate this particular physician my hope is that this blog will help others. In one regard, just as it is our duty to vaccinate our children, it is also our duty to vaccinate our network. Failing to do so puts ourselves as well as others at risk.

Understanding Managed Services

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Understanding Managed Services

Managed Services – Proactive IT Support

The IT Support buzzword of today is “Managed Services”. It’s a concept that’s picking up increasing traction and for a very good reason. Every day, more and more businesses are evolving from a reactive IT model to a proactive IT model to save money and run more efficient operations.

But what does the term “Managed Services” actually mean? And how can you tell if an IT Support company is truly offering Managed Services or just using the buzzword as a marketing tool? With all the options out there, it’s important to know the difference between actual Managed Services and flat rate services merely packaged as Managed Services.

By definition, Managed Services allow businesses to offload IT operations to an IT service provider, known as a Managed Services Provider. The Managed Services Provider assumes an ongoing responsibility for 24-hour security, network monitoring, management and problem resolution for the IT systems of a business within a given timeline. This timeline is often referred to as a Service Level Agreement. (SLA)

The History of Managed Services

It all started with the Break/Fix Model. Meaning, you waited for your computer system to have a problem. It broke and you called someone out to fix it. Hardware and software companies wrote monitoring and logging systems into their programs, which enabled after-the-fact pointers to aid in resolution. Technicians would read through these logs, or use diagnostic tools, to see if an error was captured and then they’d work on resolution.

This model required an error to happen, then for the error to be reported by client, then for the technician to drive to the site and pour over logs to identify the issue. At best, this process took multiple hours to resolve. But often times, the error was no longer happening by the time the technician arrived and the logging had already been overwritten.

Over time, technology improved. Protocols such as Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) and others were developed to keep better records for longer periods of time. These protocols were then used in real-time monitoring and alerting systems.

These systems now allow for 24/7 alerting and even remediation before or when the event is happening.  Modern tools allow us to detect failures in a system well before the system actually fails. It also allows us to perform preventative maintenance and security measures during scheduled times to avoid negative impact on the business.

Does My Company Need Managed Services?

Fortune 500 companies are not the not only companies that require efficiency and effectiveness. A whopping 80% of small businesses fail within their first five years and much of that failure is related to inefficient use of technology. As reliance on IT grows and systems become more complex, the need for comprehensive IT support will only increase exponentially.

If your company falls behind on proactive maintenance, backups, asset management and security – the odds of system failure increase and so does the likeliness that you’ll face an IT-related issue that negatively impacts your business.

For instance, if your phone system, accounting package, customer relationship management system, email or network system were to go down, you’d be facing impacts like marred credibility, embarrassment, decrease of office morale, diminished productivity and/or financial loss. Often times, businesses only focus on the financial side of this equation and miss the much bigger impact of client and employees trust.

Managed Services vs. The Break-Fix Philosophy

The Break/Fix Model actually rewards the IT Provider. In that, they make money when the system fails! For this reason, you might find that they’re only treating the symptoms rather than solving the real problem. In the Managed Services model, however, it is in everyone’s best interest to never have an issue.

Managed Services also create a philosophical shift in the way a business deals with its technology. Instead of following the old-school tradition of Break/Fix, there’s a proactive focus on keeping systems running optimally and moving maintenance to after normal business hours, so employees and clients are not affected.

In today’s business environment, no business has the time or can take the risk of running the Break/Fix Model. The costs of downtime in relation to the full and actual loss of productivity is just too high. The full and actual loss shows itself in security risks, client embarrassment, low employee morale and many other negative potentialities. Businesses must realize they are technology dependent and work to become technology strategic.

Does Managed Services Cost More Than Traditional Break/Fix Services?

Actually no! Surprisingly, most Managed Services cost less than traditional Break/Fix services, especially when you consider the true cost of downtime. 24/7 network and security monitoring, proactive maintenance, immediate access to Help Desk Support Engineers and the prevention of major issues allow a Managed Services Provider to be more efficient than a Break/Fix company who is constantly making you wait while their rolling a truck to visit customer sites. Therefore, the Managed Service Company can offer a “better” service and actually cost much less.

The Real Benefits Of Managed Services

Put in simple terms, one of the biggest benefits of Managed Services is discovering and fixing problems before they can negatively impact your business.

Prevent Issues
A proactively-serviced computer network will always run better than the alternative. A “managed” network will make a tremendous impact in all aspects of operations. You will reap the benefits of fire prevention rather than constantly fighting them.

Reduced Costs
Businesses are better able to control and reduce their overall operating costs thanks to the flat-rate billing structure of the Managed Services model. By contrast, issues often go unreported and unresolved in the Break/Fix Model as companies attempt to avoid big bills. This usually results in issues growing worse and costing more to fix.

Help with Vendors
Managed Services Providers also manage all of your vendor relationships, issues with internet slowness/outages, printers, phones, cell phones, websites are dealt with directly with the vendor by the Managed Service provider. As a result of this “always-eyes-on” network monitoring 24 hours per day, businesses experience an additional level of comfort and security.

What to Look for in a Managed Services Company

Choosing the right IT Provider can literally keep you from being one of the 80% of small business that fails. Below is a list of essentials for hiring a Managed Service Provider.

  • Do they take a consultative approach to partnering with you? Many IT companies sell products that don’t have your best interest in mind. They push whatever is most profitable or happens to be the “flavor of the day” rather than what’s best for your company.
  • Do they have a full team of experienced professionals? There is often strength in numbers. Small teams can only provide limited support in terms of client load and skill sets available.
  • Do they have a fully staff Help Desk? In the Managed Services model, issues can be resolved remotely about 75% of the time. You don’t want to wait for someone to drive to your location (and bill all of that time) for an issue that can simply be resolved in minutes remotely.
  • Do they have a Full Team of Field and Project Engineers? You need a partner that can handle the next big thing so you don’t get left behind.
  • Do they have a real Remote Monitoring and Management Tool (RMM) with trained staff to manage the product? Many IT Providers are just using the language and don’t really have the essentials to pull it off.
  • Do they offer a comprehensive offering of solutions? Today’s systems are largely integrated. Therefore, having the same vendor is paramount in quick problem resolution. For instance, the overall knowledge and needs can also be taken into consideration when sizing a data circuit, phone system, website and office printing equipment.
  • Do they offer Fixed Rate Pricing? The Fixed Rate Pricing Model puts the burden on the IT Provider to perform well and quickly. Whereas the Break/Fix Time and Material Model has no real penalty for making mistakes and moving slowly.
  • Do they finger point at other vendors? Finger pointing often clouds the issues and prolongs the problem.
  • Do they use Geek Speak? Every industry has jargon, but using Geek Speak does not end in clarity for all parties. It often is a sign of weakness on the part of the IT provider.
  • Do they try to lock you into long-term contracts with no way out? Often times, a bad decision with long terms can be disastrous.
  • Do they offer Money Back Guarantee if they don’t perform? Both parties having accountability or “skin in the game” is essential to a good partnership.

The list could go on and on. But the most important things to look for in a Managed Service Provider is someone that has experience in the business, is widely reputable and who really understands your needs. Your business is probably the single most valuable asset you have and you don’t want to put it at risk.

5 Traits of an Effective Leader

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I have often heard it said that there are three types of leaders; those who make things True Leaders Don't Create Followers, They Create More Leaders - IT Support - Mobile, ALhappen, those who watch things happen and those who wonder what happened. In working with hundreds of small to midsize businesses as CEO of Carolina IT Group over the past 15 years I would have to concur. Sadly, many of those are in the latter category of wondering what happened in most situations. This failure in leadership costs companies countless dollars each year in revenue, huge missed opportunities, droves of unsatisfied clients and multitudes of unhappy employees.

What is it that these leaders lack that keeps them from performing to their potential?

The Gallup Organization and Hay Group did a study that showed that 50% to 70% of how employees perceive their organization’s climate can be traced to the actions of their leaders. The study found the more positive the overall mood of the leaders, the better the company’s results. Another 25-year Gallop study based on interviews with 12 million workers at 7000 companies found that the relationship with the leader largely determine the length of an employee’s stay.

This data is challenging to myself and quite frankly not usually how the conversation goes when I speak with leaders about their team. Most leaders I speak with today are struggling with finding quality team members. So how is it that leadership can find better followship?

Below are five traits of an effective leader that will improve company culture, increase client satisfaction, add big numbers to the bottom line while creating a lasting organization.

  1. An effective leader has a vision and communicates that vision clearly.

    A strategic decision maker focuses on long-term strategies that will carry out the vision. It is important that everyone on the team knows where we are going, why we are going there, how we’re going to get there and most importantly how we’ll work together in order to get there. This requires an endless amount of communication; even to the point where the team pokes fun at the leader for repeating the same things over and over.

  2. An effective leader realizes the “right” people are the most important assets – Talent Wins, Hire the Best!

    This starts with the marketing of top talent. It continues with strategic interviewing, personality profiling, and meticulous onboarding. The new employee must understand the vision, mission, goals and core values of the company before moving on to understanding their responsibilities. If new team members understand the why completely the what will flow naturally. Conversely, if they are only focused on the what they will likely never understand the why.

  3. An effective leader understands leadership is not power, but rather influence.

    Organizational goals must always come before personal goals. A great leader is most effective when they have developed a team that understands why they do what they do and what needs to be done and then simply clears the way.

  4. An effective leader must know what people want.

    Managers think employees want good wages, job security, promotions and interesting work. Although these are all good things they often miss the mark. Studies have shown that employees really want appreciation, being part of the solution, proper training, good wages and a leader that is concerned with and willing to help with the employee’s challenges.

  5. The most effective leaders don’t just create followers – They create more leaders!

    A great leader must nurture the growth and development of other leaders at every level of the organization. In order for a company to perform over the long haul and must have a solid foundation of leaders being developed at every level. This enables a company to not only survive but thrive.

As a leader and entrepreneur it is of utmost importance to realize there is really not a shortage of good employees; but rather there is a shortage of inspirational leaders and inspiring places to work. Our goal must be to create these types of environments and wants that is accomplished many of the other challenges of business are supported by the strength of a great team.

The Good, the Bad and the VoIP

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The Good, the Bad and the VoIP

Have You Heard?

In the day and age of cell phones, tablets, video calling and texting, the telephone has certainly come a long way since Alexander Graham Bell placed his first call. Well the advancement in voice communication has just taken another step into the future with VoIP technology, which is Voice Over Internet Protocol (IP). While VoIP is a sensational system when it comes to communication advantages for businesses of all sizes and industries. Here are a few of the Good and the Bad when it comes to VoIP:

Show Me the Money

The Good – Companies are saving as much as 50% when it comes to the phone bill. And the ability to trim operating costs is a huge positive for every company. This savings often comes in the form of businesses that find themselves making a lot of long distance calls.

The Bad – There is not guarantee of how much you will save, or if you’ll save at all. The variety of savings really depends on your VoIP system and your provider.

Listen Up

The Good – VoIP systems offer you all the features and perks you are used to and depend on. Call forwarding, call waiting, conference call ability and voice mail are all among the features your VoIP system can offer you. Again this still depends on the quality of your system and the provider.

The Bad – While VoIP systems are wonderful, it really depends on your system and provider. If you cut corners and don’t do your homework when it comes to a provider and a system, you could end up with dropped calls, poor sound quality and a lot of missed calls.

Power Down

The Good –  With a strong bandwidth and a quality system, there are really not limitations to the quality and abilities of your VoIP system and the money you can save with it.

The Bad – Do you own a backup generator? No? Then we might have an issue. Since telephone companies transmit power over phone lines to power the system, a power outage is really no problem. This isn’t the case for the internet. If your connection to the internet goes down, so does your VoIP system.

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740 Greenville Blvd. SE., Ste. 400-374
Greenville, NC 27858

Phone: (252) 565-1235