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Surviving COVID-19 with a Managed IT Services Provider

Monica Morris • May 14, 2020

Just a few months ago most offices were occupied by employees, yet this changed in late March 2020 due to COVID-19. Before the Coronavirus pandemic erupted some businesses already had employees set-up to work remote, however, for some of these businesses they were not set-up to have the whole company be remote. Several company’s have had to switch gears quickly and change their day to day operations so the entire company can now work remotely. Partnering with a Managed IT Services Provider during this challenging time can be a benefit and a helpful tool for your business to survive COVID-19.

Utilizing an outsourced IT provider can help keep your business running smoothly – your IT needs are taken care of offsite and your IT operations are being closely monitored while your business continues to remain secure. There will be little to no interruption to your daily operations especially during uncertain times such as what we are facing now.

Here’s a quick break down how the services of a Managed IT Services Provider can help your business survive COVID-19.

Managed Services

As we just mentioned, several company’s have had to make a quick transition from the office to moving to a virtual environment. To make the switch without interrupting day-to-day operations, having a managed services provider make the switch for you is huge. A managed services provider (MSP) can be working for you in the background so that everyone else can continue along with their tasks. And this includes an in-house IT department who may have their own set of daily tasks to keep up with already. Therefore, an MSP can step in and take care of the rest of any IT needs. In times such as what we’re in now, having an MSP on board is a benefit – as an MSP is working behind the scenes, they can safely move workstations to a remote environment. Business owners can have peace of mind that their technology is operating correctly and employees working remote have access to a secure connection.

In addition, partnering with a MSP provides staff members with complete network, server and computer support. There is proactive monitoring of software and devices alerting to anything suspicious which can reduce down time. Also included in managed it services is helpdesk support, patch management, software upgrades, email protection, server support and more.

IT Security

Presently, during the COVID-19 crisis, we are seeing an increase of hackers creating scams solely based on the coronavirus. Hackers never will stop, in fact they find ways to improve their hacking methods to conform to what is happening in the world. IT security is vital to the health of any business and can protect your staff, clients and sensitive data. Plus it gives you peace of mind knowing your IT operations are safe.

As we discussed earlier, setting up an entire company to be remote is a task for an MSP. There are certain protocols to follow to ensure all employees are using a safe connection such as using a VPN. Other benefits of IT security services or cyber security services from an MSP are anti-virus monitoring or removal, daily backups, managed firewall and employee cyber security training.

Cloud Computing

Due to COVID-19, many organizations have had to make a complete switch over to the cloud to accommodate moving team members to a remote environment. A MSP can help businesses on navigating through the cloud. Cloud computing is rapidly changing the landscape of IT. The effect is dramatic with appreciable benefits including reduced capital expenditure and maintenance costs, increased on-demand agility, rapid deployment and much more.

In addition, utilizing cloud services with an MSP can elevate your business to achieve better communications with your team members, manage office files across different types of devices and gain access to mobile device management for your remote employees. At SDTEK, we blend a combination of Google’s G Suite, Microsoft’s Office 365 and Managed Email Security to offer our clients a best in class solution.

IT Consulting

During challenging times it is still important to continue to plan for the future of your IT. Good IT strategy provides solutions for short term and long term challenges. The right strategy can also reduce capital expenditures and improve your bottom line. Working with an MSP can help achieve your IT goals – it can reduce bottom-line expenses (not just IT expenses), grow your business, enhance customer service through technology, develop IT strategies that are aligned to your business objectives and protect your business from risk and data privacy issues.

With the support of a Managed IT Service Provider, navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic can significantly help your business survive any IT challenges. In addition, working with a MSP allows time for business owners and employees to focus and concentrate on business growth even during uncertain times. Please contact us today to learn more about our IT services and how they can benefit your business.

The post Surviving COVID-19 with a Managed IT Services Provider 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.