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IT Infrastructure and the Need for Upgrade

Monica Morris • Sep 02, 2020

Without IT infrastructure, many business operations in an organization may not run smoothly.

What is IT Infrastructure?

IT infrastructure is all the components of your technology tools that make providing IT Services and Support to employees, clients, and other businesses possible.

It is all of the hardware, software, network, and other equipment required to deliver, manage, and monitor an enterprise IT system.

Components of IT Infrastructure

Hardware

These are tangible parts of an IT infrastructure. They include servers, computers, storage devices, and others. The power, network cables, and dedicated IT rooms are also considered part of the hardware.

Software

Applications that run on top of hardware to provide the various services offered by an organization are the software. They include customer relationship management (CRM) tools, productivity apps, Enterprise resource planning(ERP), and various custom business solutions.

Network

For modern businesses, connectivity is as important as other IT infrastructure components. It helps with communicating with clients, service providers, and employees.

Network infrastructure includes both the hardware and software that makes communication possible in a company.

Cloud

The trend towards cloud adoption has changed the face of many businesses. Instead of ownership and maintenance, a small business can just rent software, storage space, or infrastructure in the cloud to conduct its business operations.

Why You Should Upgrade Your IT Infrastructure

You may want to invest once in your company’s IT tools and forget about it. However, such a strategy doesn’t work. Equipment may degrade over time, become unusable for current tasks, or outdated for security reasons.

Obsolete IT infrastructure can negatively impact your business productivity and leave it open to attacks.

Signs that You Need to Upgrade Your IT Infrastructure

Some of the signs that indicate an urgent need for an infrastructural upgrade are covered below:

Outdated Software

For convenience or other reasons, some businesses ignore timely updates.

Out of date or obsolete software can slow down your business operation. It can put your organization at a competitive disadvantage due to software instability and also expose your network to malware and cyber-attacks.

Even if your employees are used to the old software, upgrades should be done regularly.

Unstable Servers

If one or more of your servers crashes regularly, it is time to upgrade them. Servers can crash for various reasons including processor overload, corrupt disks, or even external attacks. Whatever the cause, crashing servers is a pointer to an urgent need for IT upgrade.

Excessive Energy Use

If your business energy bills are increasing without an increase in service delivery, it is probably due to worn-out infrastructure.

Tech equipment consumes more power as they age. In addition, newer hardware is designed to be more power-efficient and use lesser energy. An IT infrastructure upgrade may reduce your energy bill.

Compromised System

A cyber breach of a business system demands an immediate evaluation of your current infrastructure to see where the lapses are.

Old software and hardware can be vulnerable to cyberattacks which may lead to loss of data, accounts compromise, and system corruption.

Compatibility Issues

As your business grows, you are likely to acquire new hardware and software to cover more operational needs. Unfortunately, some old infrastructure is incompatible with new ones.

Incompatibility can slow down your business operations and require constant IT support to solve the incessant problems that arise from their usage. An upgrade can help solve this problem.

Non-Deployment to the Cloud

There are several benefits to using cloud technology . If your business has not migrated yet, it is time to upgrade the IT infrastructure to take advantage of cloud resources at a lower cost.

Legal Non-Compliance

Violating legal requirements can result in heavy fines. Analyze your current IT system to ensure that you are not using insecure, banned or outdated technology for processing user data.

Any system or processes that can make your business violate compliance requirements should be upgraded asap.

How to upgrade your IT Infrastructure

Unless you are a trained IT expert who keeps abreast of industry trends and standards, you would need the help of experts for an IT infrastructure upgrade.

Moreover, if you or your employees are busy with other projects and cannot regularly monitor your computer systems, you would not know all the kinds of upgrades that your business needs.

It is best to consult with an experienced MSP such as us ( SDTEK ) if your system is showing any signs of needing an IT upgrade. We can better help you determine the areas of your IT infrastructure that need upgrading and the level of changes required. Contact us today , we’d be happy to speak with you.

The post IT Infrastructure and the Need for Upgrade appeared first on SDTEK | San Diego, CA.

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Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats in Fort Wayne: A Guide for Local Businesses

05 Jan, 2024

In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.

The Benefits of Cybersecurity Dark Web Monitoring for Business Owners

06 Dec, 2023

In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.