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Managed IT

6 Ways a Finance Company Can Benefit from a Managed Servicer Provider

Financial services companies experience unique challenges when it comes to IT and security, as every aspect of your business–from operations to regulatory compliance to processing transactions–depends on having a mature IT infrastructure in place.

Finance companies need a strong internal IT team and/or a responsive IT partner who can ensure your data, and your customers’ data, remains secure.

Here are 6 things finance companies should be focused on when it comes to your IT infrastructure:

Enhanced Security

With sensitive financial data at stake, the risk of cyberattacks is an ongoing concern for financial institutions. Companies should ensure they have proactive security measures in place to protect against breaches, malware, and other emerging threats and offer training so employees can recognize phishing attempts and practice safe password management.

Finance companies need to adhere to state and federal security standards regarding data privacy and security. Your IT provider should be well-versed in government-regulated standards, and able to implement a layered security solution to safeguard sensitive information and control access.

24/7 Monitoring and Support

Financial operations run around the clock, and so should your IT support. 24/7 monitoring ensures your systems are always up and running. In the event of an issue, you want an IT team that will be available to provide immediate assistance, minimizing disruption and maintaining efficient operations.

Your IT services provider should begin with an audit to identify any vulnerabilities in your current systems and design a plan to fix them. Long-term management will include ongoing updates and patches to maintain security and avoid costly emergency fixes.

Business Continuity

Downtime can have a disastrous impact on financial firms. When a system failure occurs and employees are unable to work for an extended period, the consequences are costly. That’s why it’s important to have a business continuity plan in place. Your IT service provider should have an in-depth knowledge of the finance industry and take the time to understand how your company works. That will allow them to identify potential points of failure and create a plan to get you back in business with minimal downtime.

Depending on your company’s needs and the potential severity of an interruption to operations, your business continuity plan may include a failover recovery system. Failover is a backup system that syncs all your data to a server at an offsite location so the duplicate system can take over if the primary server is disabled.

Proactive Management

Rather than waiting for problems to arise, finance companies need to take a proactive approach to IT management. With continuous monitoring, potential issues can be dealt with before they become significant problems. In an industry where timing is crucial, being proactive will reduce the risk of system failures, data loss, and downtime that can impact day-to-day operations and damage your company’s reputation.

A well-thought-out backup plan is essential to any financial firm to eliminate the possibility of lost data or work that has to be re-done. To make sure your data can be quickly restored, your IT provider should run regular recovery system tests.
Your in-house IT team or managed service provider is responsible for keeping your company systems up-to-date and patching potential points of failure. They will also recommend and facilitate hardware, software, and system upgrades when necessary to maintain IT maturity.

Scalability and Flexibility

Finance companies should have an IT infrastructure that’s flexible and scalable so it can easily grow with your business. Fluctuations in demand can mean greater volumes of data, transactions, and storage requirements, and the ability to adapt to changes quickly is essential.

Your IT provider should be able to scale your resources–from cloud storage to network capacity–so your company stays competitive, agile, and prepared for future growth. Whether you’re expanding your markets, onboarding employees, or integrating new technologies, effective IT management will ensure that your systems can seamlessly adapt to meet your business needs.

Expertise and Innovation

For finance companies, it’s important to have an IT infrastructure that can keep pace with change in order to handle everything from cyber threats to new industry regulations to rapid market fluctuations. You want a provider with deep expertise who is always looking for new ways to improve your systems and streamline operations.

Whether your IT is managed in-house or by an MSP, your team needs to be proactive in implementing the latest technologies, security solutions, and best practices to ensure your business needs are supported by your infrastructure. Having an IT partner who brings both experience and innovative ideas can make all the difference in keeping your company efficient, forward-thinking, and future-ready.

Technology is the backbone of the finance industry and effective IT management is critical to success. You need a trusted partner that will tailor their services to meet your company’s specific needs, ensuring your infrastructure is secure, reliable, and efficient. Contact us to learn more about how our managed IT services can give you peace of mind and enable you to achieve your business goals.

Understanding IT Maturity

Why It’s Important for Your Business and How Nessit Can Help

The effectiveness of your IT infrastructure greatly impacts the success of your business. Having basic IT systems in place is not enough. Achieving IT maturity is critical for long-term growth, innovation, and competitive advantage. So, what exactly is IT maturity, why is it important, and how can Nessit help your business get there?

IT maturity refers to the development and optimization of your organization’s technology infrastructure, processes, and capabilities. As your business evolves, so should your IT strategy, moving from reactive problem-solving to a proactive, streamlined, and strategic approach that integrates technology into every facet of your organization. The more mature the infrastructure, the better your business can adapt to changes, ensure security, improve efficiency, and innovate.

IT maturity is typically categorized through stages, ranging from basic operations to fully optimized systems. The level of maturity usually predicts how well an organization’s IT infrastructure supports its employees, processes, and end-users. The more mature the system is, the less likely a business is to be affected by security breaches, disruptions, and lost productivity. Identifying your organization’s current level of IT maturity is the first step toward optimization.

Stages of IT Maturity

Initial: At this stage, IT is often ad hoc and reactive, addressing issues as they arise without a cohesive strategy. Processes are inconsistent, insufficiently defined, and poorly documented, and overall IT support is ineffective.

Managed: IT systems are more structured and managed, but still largely focused on day-to-day operations. Some processes and procedures have been implemented, but there is no overarching strategy. IT is still reactive, rather than proactive.

Defined: Processes and framework are standardized and documented. IT is more predictable and there is some alignment with business goals. IT is more proactive and progressing toward standardization.

Quantitatively Managed: Metrics and performance indicators are used to assess and improve IT systems and processes. Objectives are defined and align with business goals. Processes can be measured, duplicated, and tracked, and overall efficiency is improved.

Optimized: IT is fully integrated with business objectives, driving innovation, automation, and long-term growth. Processes are monitored, updated and continually optimized. Performance is improved and risk is mitigated.

Why is IT Maturity So Important for Businesses?

Achieving IT maturity provides several key benefits for your business.

Increased Efficiency: Mature IT systems streamline workflows, reduce downtime, and boost productivity by automating repetitive tasks and eliminating bottlenecks.

Enhanced Security: As your business grows, so do your security risks. IT maturity ensures a robust, proactive approach to cybersecurity, minimizing vulnerabilities, preventing data breaches, and protecting sensitive information.

Cost Savings: Well-optimized IT systems reduce waste, duplication, and unnecessary IT expenses, providing cost-effective solutions that maximize ROI.

Scalability and Agility: With a mature infrastructure, your business can easily scale operations and adapt to new market demands or technological advancements. This makes it easier to grow, innovate, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing environment.

Alignment with Business Goals: Optimized IT means that your technology supports and enhances business goals and objectives, rather than being an afterthought. This alignment promotes a forward-thinking company culture and ultimately drives success.

How Nessit Helps Your Business Achieve IT Maturity

At Nessit, we understand that achieving IT maturity is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. Every business is unique, and we take the time to really get to know you and your long-term business goals. We work closely with you to assess your organization’s current IT capabilities and create a tailored roadmap to help you reach the highest level of optimization. Here’s how we help:

Assessment and Strategy Development: Nessit begins by evaluating where your business stands in terms of IT maturity. We identify gaps, inefficiencies, and security risks in your current systems, and then develop a comprehensive IT strategy that aligns with and supports your business goals.

Proactive IT Management: We take a proactive approach to managing your IT infrastructure. Rather than waiting for issues to arise, we continuously monitor, maintain and optimize your systems to ensure seamless operations and prevent potential problems.

Security Solutions: Nessit implements cutting-edge cybersecurity measures to protect your business from attacks. We ensure that your security systems are robust and proactive to eliminate any vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.

Scalable IT: As your business grows, we provide scalable IT solutions to meet new demands and opportunities. Whether you need to add new systems, upgrade infrastructure, onboard new employees, or improve cloud computing capabilities, we help your business stay ahead of the curve.

Data-Driven Insights: Using advanced analytics and reporting tools, we help you gain deeper insight into your IT performance. This allows you to make smarter business decisions and continually refine your strategies.

Ongoing Support: Nessit doesn’t just implement solutions. As your IT Managed Service Provider, we provide continuous support and guidance. As industry trends and technology evolve, we make sure your IT systems are always aligned with the latest best practices and innovations.

IT maturity is essential for your business to succeed in a competitive landscape. With the right strategy and support, you can successfully transition your company from reactive IT operations to a fully optimized system that drives efficiency, enhances security, and drives long-term growth. Nessit is here to help you on that journey, from initial evaluation to ongoing support. Our comprehensive IT services ensure that your IT systems evolve with your business. Contact us to learn how we can help your business use technology to thrive. Your success is our success.

Why Cybersecurity Training is Essential for Employees

The single most effective way to safeguard your business from cyberattacks is through employee training. Human error due to inadequate training accounts for the vast majority of data breaches. To foster a collective security-first culture, awareness about potential threats is essential. Nessit’s Managed IT Service includes comprehensive cybersecurity education that will allow you to rest easy knowing your company’s assets are protected.

Employees can unknowingly become the gateway for cybercriminals by clicking on malicious links, using weak passwords, falling for phishing scams, or accidentally sharing sensitive information that can compromise your entire network. Here’s what you need to know to protect sensitive data and maintain the integrity of your IT infrastructure:

Understanding Common Threats

Employees should be familiar with the most common types of cyber threats, including phishing, ransomware, malware, and social engineering. Training sessions should include real-life scenarios and case studies to illustrate how these attacks happen and their potential impact on your business.

Safe Online Practices

Everyone within your organization should be able to recognize suspicious emails, avoid clicking on unknown links, and verify the authenticity of email senders and domain names. Employees should also be instructed on how to create secure passwords and the importance of multi-factor authentication.

Data Protection and Handling

Cybersecurity training should include instruction on the principles of data protection. Employees at every level should understand how to securely store, transmit, and dispose of sensitive information. Training should also emphasize the importance of keeping software and systems up to date to eliminate vulnerabilities.

Incident Response Protocols

Knowing how to respond to a potential security threat is crucial. Employees should be given clear guidelines about what to do if a data breach is suspected, including their first point of contact and what steps to take to mitigate the impact.

Ongoing Training

Maintaining security is a constantly evolving undertaking, and staying updated on the latest threats and best practices is critical. Ongoing training sessions and refresher courses will help ensure that your employees’ knowledge remains relevant and effective.

Invest in Success

Investing in cybersecurity training is an investment in the overall success of your business. Most security breaches are not the result of complex hacking schemes, but simple human error. Ongoing education empowers employees to become your company’s first line of defense rather than its weakest link. Knowledge about how to identify and respond to cybersecurity threats protects your organization from the inside out. Partnering with a Managed Service Provider like Nessit will ensure a secure and resilient IT environment for the long term.

Cyber Security

Cybersecurity – An Ongoing Process, not a One-Time Fix

Cybersecurity is a critical component in any organization, large or small. The increasing frequency and evolving nature of threats means that simply installing antivirus software or setting up a firewall isn’t enough. Security is an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance, regular updates, and proactive measures. As a Managed Service Provider (MSP), Nessit understands the complexities of maintaining robust cybersecurity and is dedicated to safeguarding your business.

The Continuous Nature of Cybersecurity

Unlike a one-time software installation, staying on top of your cybersecurity is a continuous process. Threats emerge rapidly, exposing new vulnerabilities and attack vectors. We ensure that security protocols are regularly updated, unusual activities are monitored, and adaptations are taken to address new threats.

Regular Software Updates and Patches: Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Ongoing updates and patch management are essential to close security gaps and protect against potential attacks.

Continuous Monitoring: Proactive monitoring of your network for suspicious activities can help detect and mitigate threats before they cause significant damage. An MSP provides 24/7 monitoring to ensure your systems are always protected.

Security Audits and Assessments: Periodic security audits and assessments identify vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure, allowing for timely remediation.

Staying a Step Ahead of Hackers

Hackers are always looking for new ways to breach security defenses. Staying a step ahead requires a combination of technology, education, and proactive strategies.

Advanced Threat Detection: Your MSP can implement advanced threat detection tools like intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to help identify and block malicious activities in real-time.

Ongoing Employee Training and Awareness: Educating employees about cybersecurity best practices is crucial. Regular training sessions on recognizing phishing attempts, using strong passwords, and safe internet practices will significantly reduce the risk of a security breach.

Incident Response Planning: Having a robust incident response plan ensures that your business can quickly and effectively respond to a security incident, minimizing damage and downtime.

Spotting Phishing Attempts

Phishing remains one of the most common and effective methods used by cybercriminals. Employees are the most common point of entry to sensitive information, and the ability to identify phishing attempts is crucial to prevent data breaches.

Recognizing Suspicious Emails: Be wary of emails from unknown senders, especially those that contain urgent requests, grammatical errors, or unusual links and attachments. These emails are getting harder and harder to spot, so staying vigilant is key.

Verifying Links and Attachments: Always hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking and examine URLs and email addresses closely, as hackers often purchase domain names that are very similar to those of legitimate businesses, with a single letter changed. Never open attachments from unknown sources as they might contain malware.

Using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Organizations should implement MFA to add an extra layer of security. This makes it harder for attackers to access accounts even if they manage to steal login credentials.

How Nessit Can Safeguard Your Businesss

Partnering with Nessit provides you with comprehensive cybersecurity solutions tailored to your organization’s specific needs. Our team brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in managing and mitigating cyber threats. We stay up to date on the latest cybersecurity trends and technologies, giving you the peace of mind to focus on your business, knowing that we have all the bases covered.

Comprehensive Security Solutions: We provide a range of services, including firewall management, antivirus protection, data encryption, and secure backup solutions, to create a multi-layered defense strategy.

Proactive Threat Management: With continuous monitoring and threat intelligence, we can identify and neutralize potential threats before they escalate into major incidents.

Customized Security Policies: We help develop and implement customized security policies and procedures that align with your business objectives and regulatory requirements.

Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: In the event of a cyber-attack, we ensure that your business can recover quickly with effective disaster recovery and business continuity plans.

Nessit isn’t your average MSP–we’re hands-on partners acting as an extension of your team. We understand that safeguarding your business is an ongoing process requiring constant attention, and we implement and maintain proactive measures to protect your digital assets. Don’t wait for a security breach to happen. By making cybersecurity a priority today, you can protect your business from tomorrow’s threats.

5 Common Questions to Ask Managed IT Service Providers (MSPs)

Technology isn’t just a tool–it’s the backbone of your business operations. From managing your network infrastructure to safeguarding your data and enhancing productivity, effective IT support is crucial. The benefits to partnering with an experienced IT service provider–one who is invested in your company’s long-term success–are numerous.

The Nessit team had the pleasure of attending the Small Business Expo in Miami recently, where we got to meet and talk with lots of business owners about all things IT. Here are the top questions we heard from small business owners, and our answers!

1. What Exactly Does an MSP Do?

Whether you’re a small startup or a large organization, your Managed Service Provider (MSP) acts as your go-to IT partner. Your MSP’s comprehensive services are designed to keep your technology running smoothly and securely. Strategic guidance, proactive monitoring and maintenance, and round-the-clock support are all part of the package. A provider can offer solutions about how to better leverage your existing technology and make recommendations about cost-effective upgrades and improvements. Your MSP essentially becomes an extension of your in-house team, ensuring that your IT infrastructure aligns with your business goals and objectives.

2. Why Do I Need IT Support?

Having proper IT support for your small business can prevent costly downtime and cyber threats and maximize efficiency and scalability. IT support is the cornerstone of your company’s success. An effective Managed Service Provider will handle your organization’s tech issues as they arise, optimize your infrastructure, and safeguard your data. As your business grows and evolves, so do your technology needs. With the right MSP by your side, you are free to focus on what you do best and leave the complexities of IT management to an expert.

3. I’m just getting my business started. What should I be doing now to prepare for an IT partnership as I grow?

As you lay the foundation for your new business, now is the perfect time to start thinking about your IT strategy. Begin by assessing your immediate and future technology needs. Outline your business’s growth objectives and identify potential pain points. Partnering early on with a Managed Service Provider will ensure that your systems are optimized and save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. Your MSP will help you scale your business as it grows and support you on your journey from startup to long term success.

4. I have an IT provider, but it’s an informal partnership. What should I be asking them?

If you already have an IT provider but feel like the partnership lacks structure, support, or accountability, you should address your concerns head-on. Schedule a meeting to discuss your expectations, service level agreements, and areas where there’s room for improvement. Ask your provider about their approach to proactive maintenance, the typical response time for support requests, and their plans for scaling your technology as your business grows. Transparent communication and clearly defined expectations are essential to a successful IT partnership.

5. How can a great MSP help my business grow?

A great MSP is a strategic partner who is invested in your company’s success. Your provider brings expertise and industry insights to help your business grow in many ways.

Increased Productivity – Proactive monitoring and maintenance will keep your systems running smoothly, minimizing downtime and improving overall productivity.
Robust Security – Cybersecurity solutions and round-the-clock monitoring, as well as regular vulnerability assessments and technology updates, will ensure your data and assets are protected from cyberattack.
Scalability – As your business grows, an MSP provides scalable IT solutions that grow with it. With an IT strategy in place, your organization will be able to adapt to changing needs and new opportunities.
Cost Savings – By outsourcing your IT management to an MSP, you reduce overhead costs associated with office space and equipment, hiring and training in-house staff, and reduce the likelihood of unexpected tech expenses. Your provider can help your company leverage its existing technology and propose cost-effective IT solutions.

Partnering with a Managed Service Provider is a strategic investment in the future of your business. Your MSP will streamline operations, enhance security, and provide solutions to enable growth and innovation, while increasing productivity. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your IT management is in experienced hands, so you can focus on what matters most–your thriving business.

Talk to Nessit about how we can help your business succeed with our Managed and Co-Managed IT services.

In The Know: Florida Cybersecurity Incident Immunity Act

Designing a cybersecurity program is complex, and expecting everyone within your organization to follow complicated policies is bound to fail. As with most things, simpler is better. At Nessit, experience has taught us that easy-to-understand cybersecurity policies are the most effective, and as cyber threats become more sophisticated, protecting sensitive data has never been more critical. Data breaches can have devastating consequences, including lost productivity, damage to reputations, and potential lawsuits.

The risk of neglecting cybersecurity may be compounded as new legislation is continually introduced across the country to incentivize data security. Florida’s recent Cybersecurity Incident Liability Act (HB 473) would have offered immunity to companies that suffer data breaches–but only under certain conditions. Contingent on compliance with Florida’s data breach notification law and cybersecurity measures that meet defined standards, this legislation provides companies significant legal protection. Governor DeSantis vetoed the bill in late June saying in a press release, “the bill could result in Floridians’ data being less secure as the bill provides across-the-board protections for only substantially complying with standards.”

While this bill hasn’t passed, many states are implementing new legislation regarding consequences for businesses for not properly protecting your customer data.

Many businesses simply don’t see the value or feel daunted by the prospect of implementing a complex cybersecurity program. That’s where a Managed IT Provider can help. At its core, cybersecurity is about designing and maintaining policies and technologies that prevent unauthorized access to valuable company data. Nessit believes that the best way to do this is to introduce straightforward policies that are directly tied to their real-life impact.

Here are a few examples of how companies can frame cybersecurity measures to clearly explain their importance:

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

We enforce Multi-factor authentication because passwords are compromised faster than companies can keep up with. MFA adds an additional layer of security beyond just a password, making it significantly harder for attackers to gain access.

Device Encryption

We mandate device encryption because we have seen the forgotten laptop at TSA without its owner. Encrypting all company devices ensures that even if a device is lost or stolen, the data remains secure.

Disabling Former Employee Accounts

We ensure past employee accounts are disabled the day they leave because breakups aren’t easy and company data is invaluable. This prevents former employees from accessing sensitive information after their departure, reducing the risk of data theft or sabotage.

While HB 473 could have provided real benefits to businesses, it can also present challenges. Companies would have to demonstrate compliance with the law’s provisions. Adherence to requirements of cybersecurity industry standards would have been carefully scrutinized. Businesses would need to be proactive in documenting their program’s compliance to mitigate potential legal risks. This requires time and expertise that many companies just don’t have, but Managed IT Providers can help navigate the challenges.

Nessit’s comprehensive cybersecurity services include:

Risk Assessment: Regularly evaluating an organization’s cybersecurity measures to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Policy Development: Creating clear, understandable policies that are easy for employees to follow

Training: Educating employees about cybersecurity best practices and the importance of these policies.

Continuous Monitoring: 24/7 monitoring to ensure a quick response to potential threats.

Compliance Assistance: Making sure cybersecurity measures meet industry standards and legal requirements.

Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated for business owners. The right Managed IT Provider can simplify the process, implementing and maintaining effective policies that ensure your company’s security. Partnering with our team provides the expertise and resources to protect your data and gives you peace of mind. In our interconnected world, having robust cybersecurity is a strategic advantage that protects you from threats and positions your company for long term success. Prepare now for future legislation that could have negative impacts on your business if you’re not ready for them.

How Nessit helped a New Hampshire Engineering Firm Save $200,000 a Year on IT Costs and Increase Productivity

In the tech world, it’s easy to overlook the human connections that drive successful business relationships. At Nessit, we believe in the power of partnerships. We know that every client is unique and there are no one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to IT. That’s why we take the time to really get to know our customers, to learn about their current IT issues and long-term goals. We want to understand a business inside and out before we propose a solution.

When a Portsmouth, NH engineering firm approached us in late 2022, they had 50 employees and were spending roughly $500,000 annually on their IT. They were unhappy with their current managed service provider, and the systems they had in place weren’t compatible with their organization’s workflow. It was clear to us that a deeper dive into their operations was needed, and a thorough audit confirmed that they were spending far too much on IT. We learned that their previous provider had steered them toward a full migration to the cloud, a cookie cutter approach that isn’t right for every business. Their cloud infrastructure was set up to mirror a traditional office model, which proved ineffective and inefficient. Their work required a very specific approach to IT systems, and we knew that to come up with a solution we had to ask the right questions and get creative.

We began with an in-depth conversation to understand the challenges they were facing, from both an employee and a management standpoint. This helped us uncover several ways we could help them improve productivity while reducing their spending on tech. This client uses engineering-specific software that allows multiple employees to access and work on the same files and drawings at the same time. These massive files include “parent” files that link to hundreds of other dependencies, which we’ll call “child” files, that pertain to a specific aspect of the project (electrical systems, sprinkler systems, etc.). Their former MSP hadn’t considered file size when setting up the network, and employees were frustrated by the long download times that hampered workflow.

We also found that some of their existing technology, like project management software, wasn’t being used at all. We recommended that the company purchase engineering grade laptops, and to better leverage their current cloud software including Microsoft 365 which they were already paying for. We worked with them to come up with a more secure, cost-effective storage solution, moving files from an on-prem cold storage server that wasn’t backed up, to SharePoint. Our team reworked the remote management model of future machines, making the onboarding process smoother and faster for new employees.

The client was also unhappy with the level of customer service they were getting from their provider–a smaller company who had recently been bought out by a large corporation. We assured them that this would never be the case with Nessit. We value personal connections with our clients and cultivate relationships that go beyond the transactional. When our customers get in touch, they already know the person on the other end of the phone. Whether it’s about a technical glitch or a strategic decision, they have a trusted ally ready to offer personalized guidance.

A commitment to understanding our clients’ unique needs and challenges and designing customized solutions sets Nessit apart. By thinking creatively, we were able to tailor an IT solution that aligned with this engineering firm’s specific needs and goals. As a result of our partnership, the company has been able to save $200,000 a year on technology costs, while at the same time boosting productivity. We were able to leverage, rather than replace, many of their existing tools, and successfully transition to a hybrid model that made more sense for them than the one-size-fits-all fully cloud-based infrastructure. The business has been appreciative of our reliable support, and the peace of mind in knowing we’ll always have their back. We look forward to a long-term partnership and to celebrating their ongoing success.

For Nessit, IT management is a partnership and our clients’ success is our success.

If you think your IT could be more cost-effective, structured more efficiently, or you’re looking for better overall support for your team and your business, let’s talk.

Fully Managed or Co-Managed IT Services: What’s Right for Your Business?

No matter what industry you’re in, effective IT management is critical to your organization’s success. Day-to-day operations hinge on having an accessible, reliable, and secure IT infrastructure. A failure in just one area can have severe repercussions for your business in terms of productivity, profits, or reputation. Achieving peak performance from your IT systems means more than just investing in the latest technology or services. Forward-thinking companies recognize the importance of having a future-proof IT strategy in place, and both co-managed and fully managed IT services can provide an effective solution for your business.

So what’s the difference between co-managed and fully managed IT?

Having co-managed IT services will complement your company’s existing IT department and shares responsibility for infrastructure management. An effective provider brings expertise and a wide variety of experience with situations that your in-house team may not have been exposed to. In this collaborative model, your provider shares reporting, pre-configured management and automation tools, documentation, and processes that enhance your in-house team. Co-Managed IT is ideal for organizations looking to augment their existing IT capabilities and team, for businesses seeking help with a transition, and those that require more flexible resource allocation.

A Fully Managed IT service provider assumes all responsibility for managing, monitoring, and maintaining your company’s IT infrastructure, removing the need for an internal IT department. An advantage to Fully Managed IT is that it provides a single point of contact for your business, eliminating the responsibility of maintaining vendor lists, negotiating pricing, and evaluating technical capabilities for hardware and software purchases. With strategic, long-term planning, your service provider will make sure that your technology can scale as your business grows, and that systems are optimized to support your business goals. Ideal for smaller companies, a Fully Managed service allows you to focus on your core business, and cuts the costs associated with employee training, salaries, benefits, and office space. IT expenses are predictable and can be budgeted for with Fully Managed services, reducing costly surprises.

Shared Benefits of Co-Managed and Fully Managed IT Services

Proactive Maintenance and Updates – Your service provider will ensure that your network and infrastructure are always up to date and that new technology is integrated seamlessly. As a strategic partner, they can offer unbiased advice about technology upgrades and investments to better support your business goals. The service will also take a proactive stance, actively monitoring and addressing potential IT issues before they escalate.

24/7 Monitoring and Compliance – Around the clock monitoring means problems are identified and resolved promptly, reducing the chance of downtime and lost productivity. A Managed Service provider will implement robust cybersecurity measures and data recovery planning to ensure business continuity in an emergency. For clients operating in industries with data compliance requirements, a provider will make sure standards regarding privacy, reporting, and security are strictly followed.

With technology evolving at an accelerated pace, effective and efficient IT management is more important than ever. Both Co-Managed and Fully Managed IT offer distinct advantages and the choice depends on your organization’s unique needs, goals, and existing infrastructure. Whether you opt for Co-Managed or Fully Managed IT Services, your provider will ensure that your technology is up-to-date, secure, and aligned with your organizational objectives.

If you’re still not sure what option is best for you, let’s talk! We’ll meet your company where you are today, and help you grow.

How is the Dark Web a Threat to Your Business?

Your business relies on digital technology, and as cyberthreats evolve and become more advanced, protecting your data with proactive, robust security measures has never been more important. A data breach can have a catastrophic effect on your company’s finances, productivity, and reputation, and may involve legal repercussions if industry regulations have been violated. Many of the threats businesses need to guard against originate in the internet realm known as the “Dark Web,” a breeding ground for criminal activity and a marketplace for stolen data.

The “Surface Web” that we all frequent is made up of public websites with indexed information accessible by search engines. There, internet use is tracked (via cookies and other methods) to create a “digital footprint” unique to each user. This footprint contains identifying information about online behavior, including geographical location and browsing history. Most of the tracked data is legally obtained and utilized for targeted marketing purposes. Hence, your online search for a particular sneaker results in a barrage of sneaker ads that follow you across multiple platforms.

What exactly is the Dark Web and what kind of information is available there?

The Dark Web is made up of encrypted sites that are only accessible using special software, providing a platform for anonymous–and often illegal–communication and transactions. This aptly named corner of the internet is home to scores of botnet servers responsible for Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, identity theft, phishing scams, and spam emails, and serves as a repository for the illegally-obtained information. The data available for purchase on the Dark Web ranges from personally identifiable information (PII) like names, birth dates, and Social Security numbers, to financial data, like online banking passwords and stolen credit cards, to medical data that includes patient prescription history and test results, to confidential corporate data such as Intellectual Property (IP), patents, and other proprietary information.

If your businesses login credentials are circulating on the Dark Web, you’re at risk. Login information opens the door to unauthorized access of your networks and systems, where cybercriminals may steal data for resale and infect computers with malware that can cripple operations.

Is my business at risk?

Small-to-medium sized businesses, who may not prioritize cybersecurity–are especially vulnerable to attacks that can expose employee credentials and sensitive company data on the Dark Web. Studies show that 123456 continues to be the most commonly-used password. Other weak passwords that incorporate names, birthdates, or other personal details are easily cracked using one of the widely available password-cracking tools. No matter the size or nature of your business, if you’re online you’re at risk and should take precautions to prevent data theft. Often smaller companies lack the personnel or expertise to properly safeguard sensitive data, and this is where using a managed IT service can be invaluable to your business.

How do I know if company information is already on the Dark Web?

Managed IT services have tools available that will conduct a scan of the Dark Web to determine if your company’s data has been compromised. If employee credentials or other sensitive information is found on the Dark Web, there’s no way to tell whether it’s already been copied or sold, so removal doesn’t remove risk. The first step to mitigate the impact of a breach is to immediately make the stolen information irrelevant. This means changing all company passwords, and implementing second factor authentication or using a secure password manager. Weak or reused passwords are the most common vulnerability that criminals exploit. Managed IT services can help your business manage damage control, implement security protocols, and safeguard against future data breaches.

What can I do to protect my business from cyberattacks?

Employee Education

The first line of defense for every business is education, and its importance cannot be overstated. Comprehensive training to make sure employees understand the tactics used in data theft–including phishing scams and social engineering–is crucial, as is emphasizing the importance of password protection. Teaching employees at every level of your organization how to recognize and avoid potential cyberattacks will go a long way toward safeguarding your data.

Secure Devices

With many employees now working remotely, individual devices also pose a security risk. Your IT service will ensure that all devices connected to your network, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and phones, are protected with endpoint security solutions like antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. Employees should be educated about the use of secure wifi networks, VPNs, and encrypted communication to keep company information safe.

Access Control and Monitoring

Another priority is the implementation of strict access control. Define which employees can access sensitive data like financial information or customer records, based on their job roles and responsibilities. Even with these controls in place, round-the-clock monitoring is essential in order to catch any suspicious activity.

Proactive Prevention and Rapid Response

An IT management service can provide ongoing Dark Web monitoring that will routinely scan illicit platforms in search of your company data. This is a complex process that is best left to trained professionals, as accessing the Dark Web can unintentionally lead to increased security risk. Should a breach be detected, your service provider will have a rapid response plan in place to address potential problems before they can escalate into a crisis.

Don’t wait until your company’s sensitive information becomes a commodity on the Dark Web. The long term damage to your business from a data breach far outweighs the cost and effort involved to prevent one. We live in an age where robust and proactive security measures are essential in protecting your data. Partnering with a professional IT management service will provide peace of mind with the knowledge that all your bases are covered.

Benefits of Managed IT for Architecture Firms

Architectural firms have unique IT needs, and rely on specialized software and applications, large data storage, and seamless connectivity. Employees working in-office and remotely need to be able to access, share, and collaborate on files, blueprints, schematics, and 3D models. Managing your network infrastructure can be a time-consuming and complex task, and unforeseen IT issues can have serious consequences in terms of diminished productivity, disrupted deadlines, data loss, and compromised security.

Managed IT services can provide myriad benefits for architectural firms.

Customized IT Solutions

Every architecture firm is unique and IT needs may vary. In an industry that requires highly specialized software, large file storage, and CAD support, a Managed IT services provider with experience in the field of architecture and building design is invaluable, offering custom tailored solutions to meet your firm’s specific needs.

Streamlined Operations

The architecture industry demands precision and efficiency. By outsourcing IT management, firms can streamline operations, reduce downtime, and ensure that teams have access to the resources they need. This translates into greater efficiency and allows architects to concentrate on their core competencies without getting bogged down by IT issues.

Enhanced Cybersecurity

Protecting sensitive client information, intellectual property and proprietary design plans is essential to your business. Managed IT services provide robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, antivirus software, and threat detection monitoring, ensuring that valuable data is secure.

Proactive Maintenance and Support

Rather than waiting for issues to arise, a Managed IT services provider takes a proactive approach to maintenance and support. Regular system updates, software patches, and preventative measures will be implemented to address potential problems before they impact daily operations. Round-the-clock monitoring means issues are addressed promptly, minimizing downtime and providing a stable and reliable IT environment.

Cost-Effective Solutions

Managing an IT department in-house can be financially burdensome, particularly for smaller architecture firms. Managed IT services offer a cost-effective solution, with a predictable payment schedule, your business can budget effectively, strategically allocate resources, and avoid unexpected IT expenses.

Improved Communication and Collaboration

Architectural design demands effective collaboration. Managed IT services ensure that your team has access to seamless communication tools, file-sharing capabilities, and real time collaboration platforms, whether working in the same office or remotely.

Data Backup and Recovery

It goes without saying that data loss can have devastating consequences for architectural firms. Managed IT services include comprehensive data backup and a robust recovery strategy to protect critical files and avoid disruption to operations.

Compliance and Regulation

Following regulations regarding client confidentiality and data privacy is essential for architecture firms, both to meet legal obligations and maintain client trust. Managed IT service providers understand industry-specific compliance standards and will ensure that your business adheres to them.

An efficient, secure, and accessible IT system is critical to your company’s success and effective management and monitoring is an often-complex task. Among the many IT challenges architectural firms face is integrating the latest technology into existing infrastructure, performing proactive maintenance, and ensuring security, compliance, 24/7 monitoring, and ongoing management. This is where Managed IT services can help, by providing customized, comprehensive IT solutions that allow you to focus on what you do best and position your business for success.