Avenues to Contact AhelioTech  

• Call in to AhelioTech’s at 614-333-0000 and utilize the AI automated system  
• Email helpdesk@aheliotech.com  
• Use the client portal (contact your Team Lead for more information)  
• On our website at https://www.aheliotech.com/report-an-issue/  

Opening New Tickets in the New Phone System 

Our new AI-driven phone system can use speech recognition technology to convert spoken words into text. This technology will allow users to open tickets in our system and assign your support request to the appropriate team needing to be addressed.  

Getting Status of Your Existing Tickets 

AhelioTech’s automated AI phone system uses natural language processing and machine learning to understand the caller’s intent to route them to the most appropriate agent or department. This can reduce wait times, improve customer satisfaction, and increase conversion rates.  

 When clients call in to get an update, you will be asked to provide your ticket number for the issue on which you want more information. Your ticket number is more important than ever and is the key to getting the latest status of what is happening on your ticket or getting you routed to the technician working on your issue.  

Improve Analytics to Improve Service 

AhelioTech’s new AI phone system can use data analysis and predictive analytics to provide us with valuable insights regarding call performance, customer behavior, technician productivity and more. AhelioTech will use these insights to make informed decisions, optimize our processes and provide improved processes that will positively impact our service and resolution times.  

 AhelioTech’s AI phone system is a smart and powerful solution that we feel will take our business communication with you, the client, to the next level. While this system is an enhanced automated system, there will still be an option provided to opt out and be directed to a technician.   

Contact AhelioTech Today with Any Questions about this New Service.  

The post SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: AhelioTech Unveils New AI Phone System  appeared first on AhelioTech.

Duo is a Multifactor Authentication (MFA) security method that requires users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to verify their identity before accessing a system or service. MFA prevents unauthorized access, data breaches and identity theft by adding an extra layer of protection to an organization’s security. 

Why is MFA a Crucial Security Tool? 

        Passwords are Not Enough. Passwords alone are not enough to secure your online accounts and data. Hackers can easily guess, crack or steal passwords using various methods, such as phishing, brute force attacks or malware.  

        Reduces the Risk of Compromise.  MFA reduces the risk of password compromise by requiring users to provide something they know (such as a password), something they have (such as a smartphone or a token) or something they are (such as a fingerprint or a face scan). If one method is hacked, other factors are still needed to breach the system or service. 

        Customer Trust and Satisfaction. MFA shows customers or clients that you care about their privacy and data protection. MFA shows your organization is following the best practices and standards in the industry. 

        Compliance. MFA provides compliance for various regulations and laws that require strong authentication methods, such as HIPPA, PCI, DSS and more.  

MFA Options for an Organization:  

• Authenticator Apps: Users scan a QR code or enter a secret key to link their account with an app that generates a time-based code to enter along with a user’s password. 
• Hardware Tokens:  Users carry a physical device that generates a code or displays a symbol needed to enter or match with their password. 

Contact AhelioTech for More Information on Our Duo Solution 

The post What is Duo? appeared first on AhelioTech.

The short answer is, after October 2023, businesses still using Microsoft Server 2012 R2 will no longer receive critical security updates and patches. At this point, AhelioTech is recommending any clients using Microsoft Server 2012 R2 update your server operating system now. 

When Does Windows Server 2012 R2 Go End-of-Life? 

Unlike its higher-profile software offerings, such as Microsoft 365, Microsoft has a specific lifecycle for its Windows Server products. 

More specifically, these operating systems are released under what is known as Microsoft’s Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC).  In a nutshell, this means that each product is supported for 10 years: the first five of which are known as  mainstream support, and the second five known as  extended support. 

As of October 2018, Server 2012 R2 entered its “extended support” phase, which will end in October 2023.  

Why is This a Problem for Your Organization? 

Cyberattackers know this timeline too! It is almost certain that cyberattackers will be waiting patiently for the product’s extended support to end, at which point they will do all they can to find exploits. 

If you continue running the server operating system, you are exposing your data and your network to potential breaches. 

What does that really mean?  Mainstream Support vs. Extending Support 

This is a simple breakdown of mainstream support vs. extended support for products such as the Windows Server range of operating systems: 

• Mainstream support is essentially the glory days of a Microsoft product. It is the first five years of the product’s lifespan, and it is being continually updated with new features, service packs, updates, fixes, and more. Microsoft also offers real-time support (i.e. phone support) during this phase.  The earlier you invest in a product during its mainstream support phase, the more you’ll get out of it in the long-term – up to a decade, if you play your cards right. 

• Extended support refers to the latter five years of product support per the LTSC system.  It is no longer the focus of the Microsoft team and will likely have been succeeded by at least one more product in the meantime. During extended support, customers will only receive critical security updates and reliability patches. Non-security hotfixes will not be delivered unless the customer has an extended support agreement with Microsoft – and that comes at a cost. 

What happens when Extended Support ends? 

The most important thing to remember about extended support is that, once it is expired, the product will be almost entirely unprotected by Microsoft.  So, after October 2023, Windows Server 2012 R2 will no longer receive any security updates or critical patches for key exploits.  You won’t even be able to pay for support anymore, as you can during extended support – the product is simply unsupported going forward. 

You do not want to leave your organization exposed to cyberattacks.  It is time to upgrade now to prevent any network breaches.    

What are the next steps? 

Start budgeting and planning for either replacement hardware or cloud server option.  Contact AhelioTech at sales@aheliotech.com to start planning your server replacement project in 2023. 

The post Windows Server 2012 R2 End-of-Life appeared first on AhelioTech.

Mobile devices have become an integral part of our daily lives. From communication and productivity to banking and entertainment, we rely heavily on our smartphones and tablets. 

However, with increased connectivity comes increased risks. Mobile devices are vulnerable to various security threats, such as malware, data breaches, and unauthorized access. Therefore, it is crucial to take proactive measures to enhance the security of your mobile devices. 

In this article, we will explore the best practices to improve the security of your mobile devices, safeguard your personal information, and protect yourself from potential cyber threats.

Keep Your Operating System and Apps Up to Date

One of the fundamental steps to bolster the security of your mobile devices is to ensure that both the operating system and apps are regularly updated. Operating system updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities. By keeping your device up to date, you minimize the risk of exploitation by cybercriminals who prey on outdated software.

Similarly, app updates often contain bug fixes and security enhancements. Developers constantly release updates to address vulnerabilities that may have been discovered since the previous version. Enabling automatic updates on your device is an excellent way to ensure that you always have the latest security improvements without manual intervention.

Enable Strong Authentication

The first line of defense against unauthorized access to your mobile device is a robust authentication method. Instead of relying solely on a four-digit PIN or a simple pattern lock, consider using more advanced options such as fingerprint recognition, facial recognition, or a secure alphanumeric password. These methods provide an extra layer of security and make it harder for unauthorized individuals to gain access to your device.

Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible adds an extra layer of protection. 2FA requires you to provide a secondary form of authentication, such as a fingerprint scan or a unique code sent to your trusted device, along with your regular password. This ensures that even if your password is compromised, the attacker would still need the additional authentication factor to gain access.

Be Cautious of App Downloads

Downloading apps from official app stores, such as the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, significantly reduces the risk of installing malicious software on your mobile device. These platforms have security measures in place to detect and remove apps that violate their guidelines. However, it is not foolproof, and some malicious apps may still slip through the cracks.

To minimize the risk further, be cautious when downloading apps. Read user reviews, check the app’s ratings and permissions requested, and be wary of apps that ask for excessive access to your personal data. Stick to reputable developers and avoid downloading apps from third-party sources, as they are more likely to contain malware or other security threats.

Exercise Caution with Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient for staying connected on the go, but they can be a breeding ground for cyber threats. When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, your data becomes vulnerable to interception by malicious actors on the same network. Therefore, exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi and follow these best practices:

1. Avoid accessing sensitive information: Avoid logging into banking apps, making online purchases, or accessing confidential emails or documents while connected to public Wi-Fi. If you must perform such tasks, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection and protect your data.
2. Verify network legitimacy: Only connect to networks that you trust or those provided by reputable establishments. Hackers often set up fake Wi-Fi networks with similar names to lure unsuspecting users into connecting to them. Verify the network name with the staff if you are unsure.
3. Disable automatic Wi-Fi connections: Turn off the “auto-connect” feature on your device to prevent it from automatically connecting to any available Wi-Fi network. This way, you have more control over which networks you connect to.

Implement Device Encryption

Encrypting the data on your mobile device is an essential step in securing your personal information. Encryption converts your data into an unreadable format that can only be deciphered with the appropriate decryption key or password. This ensures that even if your device falls into the wrong hands, your data remains protected.

Both Android and iOS devices offer built-in encryption features that you can enable in the settings. Take advantage of this feature to encrypt your device’s storage and any external SD cards or storage devices you use. Additionally, consider encrypting specific apps that contain sensitive information, such as banking or password manager apps.

Regularly Back Up Your Data

Data loss can occur due to various reasons, such as device theft, physical damage, or malware attacks. Regularly backing up your mobile device’s data ensures that even if something happens to your device, you can easily restore your information on a new or repaired device.

Take advantage of cloud storage services, such as Google Drive or iCloud, to back up your important files, photos, contacts, and app data. Set up automatic backups whenever possible to ensure that your data is continuously backed up without manual intervention.

Install a Reliable Mobile Security App

To further enhance the security of your mobile device, consider installing a reputable mobile security app. These apps provide features such as malware scanning, app reputation checks, anti-theft functionalities, and web protection. They can help detect and remove malware, protect your device from malicious websites, and remotely locate, lock, or wipe your device in case of loss or theft.

Research different mobile security apps and choose one that has positive reviews, a good track record, and offers the features that align with your security needs. Keep the app up to date to ensure that it can effectively combat emerging threats.

Protect Yourself Today 

As mobile devices continue to play an integral role in our lives, it is vital to prioritize their security. By implementing the best practices outlined in this article, you can significantly enhance the security of your mobile devices, protect your personal information, and safeguard yourself from potential cyber threats. 

Remember to keep your operating system and apps up to date, enable strong authentication, be cautious of app downloads, exercise caution with public Wi-Fi, implement device encryption, regularly back up your data, and install a reliable mobile security app. 

If you have any further questions or need assistance with mobile device security, contact AhelioTech today. Our team of experts is ready to help you secure your mobile devices and ensure your online safety.

The post How to Improve the Security of Your Mobile Devices: Best Practices appeared first on AhelioTech.

Multi factor authentication (MFA) is a security method that requires users to provide more than one piece of evidence to verify their identity when logging in to an online service such as email, social media, banking, or Microsoft 365.   

How is MFA Used?  

MFA requires a user to provide more than just a username and password.  With MFA, users are required to provide a second factor of identification.  This second factor can be an ever-changing code that is sent to an application on a phone, a token, a fingerprint or facial recognition.  MFA is a crucial form of security as it prevents unauthorized access and protects sensitive data. 

Many industries and insurance companies are making MFA a security requirement which organizations must implement to be compliant with regulatory requirements and industry standards.  MFA also meets many regulatory requirements for remote work and utilization of cloud-based applications by enabling secure access from any device or location. 

Why is MFA Required if I Have a Password? 

User error remains a major issue when it comes to the overall security of an organization.  Often passwords are not enough to ensure security for several reasons such as:   

• The same password is used for multiple accounts.  If one account is hacked, all accounts are likely at risk. 
• Weak passwords are used. 
• Users fall victim to phishing scams that trick you into revealing your password. 
• Passwords are stored in an insecure place, such as a sticky note on your desk or a plain text file on your computer. 
• Devices may be lost or stolen, which may give someone access to saved passwords. 

MFA adds an extra layer of security to your account sign-in to protect against these pitfalls.  If someone steals your username and password, they cannot access your account without the second factor.  MFA is very successful in protecting users from phishing attacks, password breaches, and other common threats often caused by users.  MFA also helps you detect suspicious activity on your accounts, by sending the authorized user a notification or a prompt for the second factor authentication whenever someone tries to sign in as you. 

How Can You Implement MFA? 

For organizations to avoid user inconvenience and get total buy-in, it is important to implement MFA in a way that balances security and usability.  AhelioTech will work with your organization to implement the best form of MFA by determining the best practices for your business.  Factors to consider when selecting a type of MFA include: 

•  Choosing the right elements:  Organizations should select components that suit their needs and risks, as well as their users’ preferences and capabilities.  For example, are your users more comfortable using their own mobile devices to access SMS codes or are company issued tokens more practical for your staff? 
• Using adaptive MFA:  Organizations should use relative information to adjust the level of authentication required for each user and session.  For example, a user may only need a password when logging in from a trusted device but may need an additional factor when logging in from a public or unfamiliar location or device. 
• Educating users:  AhelioTech can help educate users about the benefits and challenges of MFA, as well as how to use it properly and securely.  For example, users should be advised not to share their codes or tokens, not to reuse their passwords across different accounts and not to click on suspicious links or attachments. 

MFA is a cost effective and efficient security tool that can be used by every organization in any industry.  

Contact AhelioTech today to add an extra layer for security and implement MFA. 

The post TRENDING AT AHELIOTECH: What is Multi Factor Authentication?   appeared first on AhelioTech.

In today’s fast-paced and digitally driven world, staying up-to-date with the latest technology trends is essential for small businesses. Technology not only helps streamline operations but also enables businesses to stay competitive and deliver exceptional customer experiences. 

From artificial intelligence to mobile commerce, there are numerous technological advancements that can revolutionize the way small businesses operate. In this article, we will explore some of the most significant technology trends that small businesses should be watching in order to stay ahead of the curve.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence and machine learning have become buzzwords in the business world, and for good reason. These technologies have the potential to transform the way small businesses operate. AI can automate repetitive tasks, analyze vast amounts of data, and provide valuable insights to make informed business decisions. 

Machine learning algorithms can learn from data patterns, allowing businesses to enhance customer experiences, personalize marketing campaigns, and optimize operations. Small businesses can leverage AI and machine learning through chatbots, virtual assistants, predictive analytics, and recommendation systems to enhance efficiency, increase productivity, and deliver better customer service.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way businesses store and access data. Small businesses can benefit from cloud-based solutions, which offer scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. 

Cloud platforms provide access to storage, computing power, and software applications without the need for expensive infrastructure and maintenance. This enables small businesses to focus on their core competencies while leaving the technical aspects to cloud service providers. 

Cloud computing also enhances collaboration among teams, enables remote work, and improves data security through robust backup and disaster recovery mechanisms. Small businesses should consider migrating their operations to the cloud to gain a competitive edge.

E-commerce and Mobile Commerce

The rise of e-commerce and mobile commerce has transformed the retail landscape. Small businesses can no longer afford to ignore the online marketplaces and mobile shopping trends. 

Establishing an online presence through an e-commerce website or mobile app can expand the customer base and boost sales. Mobile commerce, in particular, is gaining popularity, with more people using smartphones and tablets to make purchases. Optimizing websites and applications for mobile devices, integrating secure payment gateways, and offering personalized shopping experiences are crucial for small businesses to succeed in the digital marketplace.

Cybersecurity

As technology advances, so do the threats associated with it. Cybersecurity has become a top priority for businesses of all sizes, including small businesses. Data breaches, ransomware attacks, and identity theft can have devastating consequences for a small business. 

Implementing robust cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, encryption, multi-factor authentication, and employee training, is essential to protect sensitive data and maintain customer trust. Small businesses should stay vigilant and regularly update their security protocols to mitigate the risks of cyberattacks.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of interconnected devices that can exchange data and communicate with each other. IoT has tremendous potential for small businesses across various industries. 

For instance, retailers can use IoT sensors to monitor inventory levels in real-time, manufacturers can track equipment performance, and service-based businesses can offer personalized experiences based on customer preferences. Implementing IoT solutions can improve operational efficiency, optimize resource utilization, and enable proactive maintenance, thereby reducing costs and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies are no longer limited to the gaming industry. They have found their way into various business applications, including training, product demonstrations, and customer experiences. 

Small businesses can leverage VR and AR to provide immersive experiences, showcase products in 3D, and enhance training programs. For example, a real estate agency can offer virtual property tours, and a clothing retailer can allow customers to try on clothes virtually. Integrating VR and AR can differentiate small businesses from their competitors and create memorable experiences for customers.

Keep Up With New Technology Trends 

Keeping up with technology trends is essential for small businesses to remain competitive in today’s digital era. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, e-commerce, mobile commerce, cybersecurity, Internet of Things, virtual reality, and augmented reality are just a few of the trends that small businesses should be watching. 

Embracing these technologies can lead to increased efficiency, better customer experiences, and a stronger market position. Small businesses should continuously evaluate the potential of emerging technologies and adopt the ones that align with their goals and objectives. 

Contact AhelioTech today to learn how our technology solutions can help your small business stay ahead of the competition.

The post Small Business Technology Trends You Should Be Watching appeared first on AhelioTech.

Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving and increasing in sophistication, making it essential for companies to take robust security measures to protect their valuable data. One of the most effective strategies is the defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach.

The defense-in-depth approach involves deploying multiple layers of security measures to protect against potential threats, ensuring that if one layer fails, there are additional measures in place to protect the system. This article will delve deeper into the benefits of adopting a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach and the essential elements that make up a robust defense-in-depth strategy.

What are the Benefits of a Defense-in-Depth Cybersecurity Approach? 

Increased Protection

The primary benefit of adopting a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach is increased protection against cyber threats. By deploying multiple layers of security measures, companies can ensure that their systems are protected against a wide range of threats, including malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access attempts.

Improved Detection and Response

In addition to providing increased protection, a defense-in-depth approach can also improve detection and response to cyber threats. With multiple layers of security measures in place, companies can quickly detect and respond to threats before they cause significant damage.

Reduced Risk of Data Breaches

Data breaches can be costly and damaging to a company’s reputation. By adopting a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach, companies can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches. With multiple layers of security measures in place, hackers will find it challenging to penetrate the system and steal sensitive data.

Compliance with Industry Regulations

Many industries have strict regulations governing data privacy and security. Adopting a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach can help companies comply with these regulations, avoiding fines and legal liabilities associated with non-compliance.

What are the Essential Elements of a Defense-in-Depth Cybersecurity Approach? 

Perimeter Security

Perimeter security is the first layer of defense in a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach. It involves securing the perimeter of the network to prevent unauthorized access. This can be achieved by deploying firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and access control mechanisms.

Network Security

Network security is the second layer of defense in a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach. It involves securing the network itself by implementing network segmentation, virtual private networks (VPNs), and other security measures that restrict access to the network and protect against network-based attacks.

Application Security

Application security is the third layer of defense in a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach. It involves securing applications and software by implementing secure coding practices, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing. This layer of security protects against attacks that target vulnerabilities in software applications.

Data Security

Data security is the fourth layer of defense in a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach. It involves securing sensitive data by implementing encryption, access control mechanisms, and data backup and recovery strategies. This layer of security protects against data theft and data loss.

Physical Security

Physical security is the fifth layer of defense in a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach. It involves securing physical access to the network and devices by implementing security controls such as biometric authentication, security cameras, and access control mechanisms. This layer of security protects against physical attacks and theft.

User Education

User education is the sixth layer of defense in a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach. It involves educating employees and other system users about cybersecurity best practices, such as password management, phishing prevention, and social engineering awareness. This layer of security protects against human error and negligence, which can lead to security breaches.

How to Implement a Defense-in-Depth Cybersecurity Approach

Identify Critical Assets

The first step in implementing a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach is to identify critical assets. These are the assets that are essential to the business and require the highest level of protection. Examples of critical assets include financial data, intellectual property, customer information, and sensitive business operations.

Assess Risks

The next step is to assess the risks associated with these critical assets. This involves identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities that could compromise the security of these assets. This assessment helps organizations prioritize the security measures they need to implement.

Develop a Plan

Once the risks have been identified, organizations can develop a comprehensive plan to implement a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach. The plan should include the security measures to be implemented for each layer of defense, as well as a timeline for implementation.

Deploy Security Measures

The next step is to deploy the security measures identified in the plan. This includes implementing firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, access control mechanisms, encryption, and user education programs. It is essential that each layer of defense is properly configured and integrated with the other layers to ensure maximum protection.

Test and Monitor

After implementing the security measures, organizations must test and monitor their effectiveness regularly. This involves conducting vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and other security tests to identify any weaknesses in the system. It is also essential to monitor the system for any suspicious activity, such as unauthorized access attempts or data breaches.

Continuously Improve

Finally, organizations must continuously improve their defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach to stay ahead of evolving threats. This includes staying up to date with the latest security technologies, regularly assessing and updating the system, and providing ongoing education and training to employees.

Implement Defense-In-Depth Today 

Cyber threats are becoming more complex and sophisticated, making it essential for organizations to adopt a robust cybersecurity approach. The defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach provides increased protection against cyber threats by deploying multiple layers of security measures to protect against potential threats. 

If you need help implementing a defense-in-depth cybersecurity approach or have any questions about cybersecurity, contact AhelioTech to get started today. 

The post Why You Should Consider Adopting a Defense-in-Depth Cybersecurity Approach appeared first on AhelioTech.

Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) is a cloud-based delivery model for a variety of communication and productivity tools that are integrated into one platform. UCaaS platforms are tools designed to align multiple communication technologies into one cohesive space to make the user experience more efficient.

UCaaS integrates communication through a cloud model, as well as integrating with cloud-based software applications. There are five major components of an UCaaS offering:

• Voice
• Video
• Messaging
• Collaboration
• The Cloud

Why upgrade to AhelioTech’s UCaaS solution?

1. Seamless Communication: UCaaS integrates various communication channels into a unified platform including voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools enabling real-time communication and collaboration across different devices.
2. Scalability and Flexibility: UCaaS provides businesses with the flexibility to scale their communication infrastructure to adapt to your business growth.
3. Cost Savings: UCaaS eliminates the need for upfront investments in hardware and complex infrastructure. The service is typically subscription-based, allowing businesses to pay only for what they use and reduces maintenance and management.
4. Enhanced Productivity: UCaaS centralizes communication tools and features, streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity. Employees can easily communicate, collaborate, and access information from a single platform, reducing the time spent switching between different applications and systems.
5. Increased Mobility: UCaaS enables employees the ability to stay connected and productive regardless of their location. With features like mobile apps and softphone clients, users can access communication tools and collaborate on-the-go using their smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
6. Integration with Existing Systems: UCaaS solutions can seamlessly integrate with existing business applications such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems, project management tools, and email platforms enhancing workflow efficiency, reducing data duplication, and improving overall business processes.
7. Enhanced Collaboration: UCaaS fosters collaboration by offering features such as video conferencing, screen sharing, document sharing, and real-time messaging. These tools enable teams to collaborate more effectively, even when geographically dispersed, leading to faster decision-making and improved teamwork.
8. Business Continuity: UCaaS provides built-in redundancy and disaster recovery capabilities. In the event of a network outage or disaster, the service can automatically redirect calls ensuring business continuity. This resilience minimizes disruptions and helps businesses maintain communication even in challenging situations.
9. Simplified Management: UCaaS solutions are managed by the service provider, reducing the burden on IT staff. Updates, maintenance, and security patches are handled by the provider, ensuring that businesses have access to the latest features and technologies without the need for in-house expertise. It can also simplify onboarding and make it easy to add new users as teams grow.
10. Up-to-Date Technology: UCaaS solutions utilize the latest technological enhancements and upgrades to provide businesses with the best-in-class experience.

Contact AhelioTech Today for UCaaS Options.

The post HOW TO MAKE SURE YOUR BUSINESS TOOLS COMMUNICATE EFFICIENTLY with UCAAS appeared first on AhelioTech.

With increased security and backup measures needed to protect businesses, we have many clients asking what they need to make sure they have immediate access to backups should any networks become compromised. Microsoft’s 365 Backup Solution is a trusted solution that AhelioTech is recommending for our clients.

Doesn’t Microsoft already backup your Microsoft 365 data?

Yes and No.

While it is true that Microsoft has some native retention and recovery capabilities, Microsoft does not provide complete and robust backup and recovery services. Microsoft states in their documentation, data integrity and retention is your responsibility.

For all cloud deployment types, you own your data and identities. You are responsible for protecting the security of your data and identities, on-premises resources, and the cloud components you control (which varies by service type).

Regardless of the type of deployment, the following responsibilities are always retained by you:

• Data
• Endpoints
• Account
• Access management

How quickly do you need to recover backed up data?

Immediately.

That is the problem with native Microsoft backups. The problem is not so much in the saving of the data but in the retrieving. There is no easy way to find the file that you want to restore. Unlike the elegant management consoles you experience with leading third-party backup solutions, you cannot simply navigate a document or folder to restore it.

AhelioTech backs up your Office 365 data every 12 hours and keeps it for 14 days. In the event of a ransomware attack, we can reach out to Microsoft, and they can perform a full restore of your data meaning everything else will be overwritten. This form of basic backup will not help you if you need to restore a single file or folder.

Many clients do not find the Recovery Time Objective (RTO) in this approach to be acceptable in the event of a successful attack.

Does Microsoft’s native data protection meet security standards?

Not always.

Organizations must retain data for a host of businesses, compliance, or other legal purposes. Microsoft’s native data protection may not meet the requirements of every industry or type of data. While Microsoft’s default retention is 30 or 90 days, depending upon data type, many organizations are required to retain data for years. Healthcare, financial services, and other heavy-regulated industries are often required to retain data for decades if not indefinitely.

Do we need the Microsoft 365 Backup Solution if we use OneDrive?

Yes!

Many Microsoft 365 users don’t think they need to back up their files because they use OneDrive. OneDrive is not the same as backing up; it’s a file-syncing tool designed to optimize file sharing and collaboration.

If a local document is compromised, the document that is synced in the cloud will immediately be compromised as well. If a file is deleted or infected by malware on your local drive, that change will propagate automatically in your synced OneDrive account. File versions are not immutable or isolated recovery points within Microsoft 365. If a file is deleted, all older versions of that file are also deleted. If they are permanently deleted, no viable recovery points are available.

If it is Microsoft’s platform, shouldn’t they be responsible for backing up data?

Not according to Microsoft.

Microsoft makes it clear in their Shared Responsibility Model that they are not responsible for your data. They are only responsible for the infrastructure they maintain to deliver their services.

Here is what the Enterprise Strategy Group has to say about the subject:

“Given Microsoft’s responsibility and supporting technology is limited to infrastructure levels, organizations are exposing themselves to risks such as data loss and security breaches, retention and regulatory compliance exposures, and lack of data control in hybrid deployments if they are without third-party backup plans. In addition, many customers have their data stored in a combination of on-premises and cloud environments, while others have different teams on different versions of Microsoft 365 suites, which can make data protection more challenging in hybrid deployments without a unified backup solution.”

“We strive to keep the Services up and running; however, all online services suffer occasional disruptions and outages, and Microsoft is not liable for any disruption or loss you may suffer as a result. In the event of an outage, you may not be able to retrieve Your Content or Data that you’ve stored. We recommend that you regularly backup Your Content and Data that you store on the Services or store using Third-Party Apps and Services.”

Do I need Microsoft 365 Backup Solution?

Yes!

Microsoft’s 365 Backup Solution is a vital part of your Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity plan.

Contact AhelioTech today to review your Backup Plan.

The post MICROSOFT 365 BACKUP SOLUTION appeared first on AhelioTech.

Moving an office is a complex and multifaceted process that requires detailed planning, precise execution, and a great deal of coordination. Among the many considerations that need to be made when preparing for an office move, one of the most critical aspects to keep in mind is the technology that your office relies on. 

Technology is an essential component of modern offices, and ensuring that it is safe, secure, and functional during a move is of paramount importance. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive technology checklist for a safe and successful office move.

What is Your Current Technology Setup? 

The first step in preparing for an office move is to assess your current technology setup. This assessment should encompass all the technology equipment and infrastructure that your business relies on, including: 

• computers
• servers
• printers
• phones

By conducting a thorough assessment, you can identify any gaps or areas that require upgrading or replacement, as well as gain a clear understanding of the scope of the technology move that will be necessary.

Technology Checklist for a Safe & Successful Office Move

Create a Detailed Technology Plan

Once you have assessed your current technology setup, the next step is to create a detailed technology plan for the move. This plan should include a comprehensive inventory of all the technology equipment and infrastructure, including the make and model of each item. 

It should also specify a timeline for the move, outlining when each piece of equipment will be packed, transported, and set up in the new office. The plan should also include a contingency in case of any unforeseen issues or delays.

Hire a Professional Moving Company

Moving technology equipment and infrastructure requires specialized knowledge and expertise. It’s essential to hire a professional team that has experience in moving technology equipment. The company should have a proven track record of successful technology moves, and they should be able to provide references from satisfied customers.

Backup Your Data

Before the move, it is crucial to back up all data to prevent data loss in case of any unforeseen issues or accidents. All data should be backed up to a secure, off-site location, such as the cloud or an external hard drive. This will ensure that all data is safe and can be easily accessed once the move is complete.

Secure Your Equipment

During a move, technology equipment is vulnerable to damage or theft. It is essential to take measures to secure the equipment during the move. All equipment should be securely packed, with all cables and accessories properly labeled and stored. 

Additionally, all computers and other equipment should be transported in a secure vehicle, and the moving company should have procedures in place to prevent theft or damage.

Set Up a New Network

The next step after transport is to set up a new network. This involves configuring the servers, routers, switches, and other networking equipment to ensure that they are working correctly. It is also essential to test the network to ensure that it is functioning correctly and that all devices are connected.

Test and Verify All Systems

After the new network has been set up, it is crucial to test and verify all systems to ensure that they are working correctly. This includes testing all computers, printers, phones, and other office equipment. Additionally, you should test all software and applications to confirm  they are functioning. 

Train Your Employees

Your employees’ training should cover all the new equipment, software, and applications they will be using. You should cover all new security measures or procedures that are in place to ensure that your employees are aware of how to keep the new office secure.

Secure Your Technology

Moving an office is a complex and challenging task, but with proper planning and execution, it can be a smooth and successful transition. Technology is a critical component of modern offices, and ensuring that it is safe, secure, and functional during a move is of paramount importance. By following the checklist outlined in this article, you can help ensure that your office move is safe, successful, and minimizes downtime.

If you are planning an office move, it is recommended to work with an experienced and professional moving company that has expertise in technology moves. This will help ensure that your equipment and infrastructure are handled with care and expertise, and the move is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

At AhelioTech, we have years of experience in moving technology equipment and infrastructure, and a proven track record of successful office moves. We take great care to ensure that all equipment is securely packed, transported in secure vehicles, and properly labeled and stored. If you are planning an office move, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our technology moving services. 

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