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Category Archives: IT Support

Cybersecurity, Essential Eight, IT Support

Who is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment for?

18/07/2023 Marketing Department

Who is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment for?

As we move towards a more digitised world, the importance of Cyber Security continues to increase. Cyberattacks have become more frequent, sophisticated and damaging over the years. It’s essential to ensure the safety and security of your organisation’s information and technology assets. One of the best ways to achieve this is by conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment.

A Cyber Security Risk Assessment is a process of identifying, analysing and evaluating potential risks and vulnerabilities in an organisation’s digital environment. It involves evaluating the security measures in place and identifying any weaknesses that can lead to data breaches, cyberattacks or other security incidents. The ultimate goal of a Cyber Security Risk Assessment is to develop a comprehensive security plan that minimises risks and protects an organisation’s digital assets.

Why is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment important?

The world is witnessing a surge in cybercrime activities. Hackers and cybercriminals are always looking for ways to infiltrate an organisation’s digital environment and exploit vulnerabilities. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment helps organisations identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in their digital environment, enabling them to take proactive measures to mitigate such risks.

A Risk Assessment also helps organisations to comply with various regulatory requirements such as The Privacy Act 1988. Compliance with such regulations is crucial, as non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, legal liabilities and reputational damage.

Who is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment for?

A Cyber Security Risk Assessment is for everyone, irrespective of the size or nature of the organisation. Any organisation that stores, processes or interacts with information over the internet is at risk of cyberattacks. Therefore, every organisation needs to conduct a Risk Assessment to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and develop a comprehensive security plan.

Small and Medium-sized businesses (SMBs)

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) often assume that they are not at risk of cyberattacks because they are small or don’t have much valuable information. However, this is not true. Hackers often target SMBs because they have weaker security measures in place, making them easy targets. Another fact that SMBs should be aware of is that most cyberattacks are non-targeted. It is likened to a fisherman casting a wider net to catch as many fish as possible instead of spending the time and resources to catch the ideal fish. Also, some criminals would prefer not to target high-profile companies for fear of being the centre of an investigation by government enforcement agencies like the Australian Federal Police. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help SMBs identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and take proactive measures to mitigate such risks.

Enterprises

Enterprises often have a complex digital environment, making it challenging to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help enterprises assess their security posture and identify potential risks and vulnerabilities across their entire digital environment.

Government Agencies

Government agencies often store sensitive information such as citizens’ personal information, national security secrets and confidential data. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in government agencies’ digital environment, enabling them to take proactive measures to protect sensitive information.

Healthcare Industry

The healthcare industry is one of the most targeted industries by cybercriminals. Electronic Health Records (EHR) and other digital healthcare information are extremely valuable to hackers. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help healthcare organisations identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and take proactive measures to secure their digital environment.

How is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment conducted?

A Cyber Security Risk Assessment typically involves the following steps:

Scope Definition: Defining the scope of the assessment, including the digital assets to be evaluated, the assessment methodology and the expected outcomes.
Asset Identification: Identifying all the digital assets within the scope of the assessment.
Threat Identification: Identifying all potential threats and vulnerabilities to digital assets.
Risk Analysis: Analysing the likelihood and impact of potential risks and vulnerabilities.
Risk Evaluation: Evaluate the risks and vulnerabilities to determine the most critical ones.
Risk Treatment: Developing and implementing a plan to mitigate identified risks and vulnerabilities.
Risk Monitoring: Continuously monitoring the digital environment to identify any new potential risks and vulnerabilities.

It’s important to note that conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment is not a one-time process. The digital environment is continually changing and new threats and vulnerabilities can emerge at any time. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct regular assessments to ensure the digital environment remains secure.

A Cyber Security Risk Assessment is a critical process that every organisation must undertake to protect its digital assets. It helps identify potential risks and vulnerabilities, enabling organisations to take proactive measures to mitigate such risks. It also helps organisations comply with regulatory requirements, minimise legal liabilities and protect their reputation.

No organisation is immune to cyberattacks and the consequences can be devastating. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct regular Cyber Security Risk Assessments to ensure the digital environment remains secure. Don’t wait until it’s too late; conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment today and protect your organisation’s digital assets.

FAQs

What are the benefits of conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

Conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment helps organisations identify potential risks and vulnerabilities, enabling them to take proactive measures to mitigate such risks. It also helps organisations comply with regulatory requirements, minimise legal liabilities and protect their reputation.

What happens if an organisation doesn’t conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

An organisation that doesn’t conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment is at risk of cyberattacks, data breaches, legal liabilities and reputational damage. It can also face hefty fines for non-compliance with regulatory requirements.

Can small businesses benefit from conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

Yes, small businesses can benefit significantly from conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment. Hackers often target small businesses because they have weaker security measures in place, making them easy targets. Conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help small businesses identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and take proactive measures to mitigate such risks.

How often should an organisation conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

An organisation should conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment at least once a year or whenever there is a significant change in the digital environment.

What are the steps involved in conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

The steps involved in conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment include scope definition, asset identification, threat identification, risk analysis, risk evaluation, risk treatment and risk monitoring.

How long does a Cyber Security Risk Assessment take?

The duration of a Cyber Security Risk Assessment depends on the size and complexity of the digital environment being assessed. However, it typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete.

IT Support, Technology

12 Technical Jargon terms you need to know

06/07/2023 Marketing Department

12 Technical Jargon terms you need to know

Technical jargon can often be confusing and overwhelming, especially for those who are not familiar with the IT industry.

As a company with tech staff, we know that one concern businesses have with dealing with IT support is that they might not answer your questions in a way you completely understand. They may seem as though they are talking down to you with their complicated technical jargon, but in reality, they are terms they are using with each other on a daily basis and sometimes they forget that others don’t know what on Earth they’re talking about.

While you don’t need a comprehensive education in technical jargon — you simply don’t have the time and possibly cannot be bothered learning about it, especially if technology is not an industry you’re interested in — having a brief understanding of these terms can be extremely helpful in communicating with IT professionals and making informed decisions about your IT infrastructure. In this guide, I’ll break down some common technical jargon you might encounter in the IT world.

Bandwidth: This refers to the amount of data that can be transferred over a network connection in a given amount of time. It’s often measured in bits per second (bps), kilobits per second (Kbps), megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps).
Firewall: A firewall is a piece of software or hardware that monitors and controls the flow of data between a computer or network and the internet. It acts as a barrier, blocking unwanted traffic while allowing authorised traffic to pass through
VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) is a secure connection between two or more devices that allows them to communicate over the internet as if they were on the same physical network. They allow users to use a public network to securely and remotely access a different network, such as a company intranet.
Cloud computing: Cloud computing is a way for businesses to store and manage their data, and run software applications on a data centre. Specifically, it’s a way for employees to access their work files, databases, software and analytics via the internet remotely, no matter where they are located or whichever device they use. It allows for greater flexibility, scalability and cost-effectiveness than traditional on-premises IT infrastructure.
SSL/TLS: SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security) are protocols used to establish secure connections between web browsers and servers. They encrypt the data that is transmitted over the internet, making it more difficult for hackers to intercept and steal sensitive information.
API: An application programming interface (API) is a set of protocols and tools that allows different software applications to communicate with each other. APIs are commonly used to integrate different software systems and automate tasks.
DNS: The domain name system (DNS) is a hierarchical naming system that translates domain names into IP addresses. It’s essentially a phone book for the internet that allows users to access websites by entering domain names rather than hard-to-remember IP addresses.
RAID: RAID (redundant array of independent disks) is a storage technology that combines multiple hard drives into a single logical unit for greater performance, reliability and capacity. There are several different RAID levels, each with its strengths and weaknesses.
LAN/WAN: LAN (local area network) refers to a network of devices that are connected within a relatively small area, such as a home or office. WAN (wide area network) refers to a network that spans a larger geographic area, such as multiple offices or cities.
Patch: A patch is a piece of software that is designed to fix a specific issue or vulnerability in an operating system, application or other software system. Patches are released periodically by software vendors to address security concerns and improve performance.
Cache: A way to store frequently-accessed information is through a data cache. For example, web browsers use caches to store and load previously visited web pages more quickly. For a cache to be efficient, it must be quite small, so as they take up space over time and store more data, it can grow too large and slow your computer down rather than speed up processes. When this happens, you will need to clear the cache.
Cookies: HTTP cookies are small files sent by a website and stored in your browser to help the website remember information about the user, like usernames and passwords, billing addresses and browser history. While convenient, they also raise privacy concerns as they can be a security vulnerability.

These are just a few examples of the technical jargon you might encounter in the IT industry. While it may seem daunting at first, taking the time to understand these terms can go a long way in improving your communication with IT professionals and making informed decisions about your IT infrastructure. Since IT is very technical, it has more jargon than most other fields but these words help IT professionals communicate very specific information to each other, especially since the industry is so complex. If you’re ever unsure about a term or concept, don’t hesitate to ask your IT provider for clarification.

Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook as we post explanations of technical concepts once or twice a week. These are in digestible snippets and are in layman’s terms to help you understand a bit more about the technological and Cyber Security world.

IT Support, MSP, Technology

What are Tech Warranties?

27/06/2023 Marketing Department

What are Tech Warranties?

All genuine Australian-certified products sold by a genuine Australian online or physical store have implied warranties under Australian Consumer Law.

According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC):

“Warranties are extra promises that a business makes about the quality of a product or how it will fix any problems with a product or service.”

These are on top of consumer rights to a repair, replacement, refund or cancellation when there’s a problem with a product or service. Warranties must be honoured by businesses and staff must not pressure or mislead consumers to purchase extended warranties.

That doesn’t mean they don’t ask if you want to purchase an extension though, and nearly every time you purchase some new tech, there’s an option to add an extended warranty. You’ve probably found yourself asking, is it worth it? Would I even need it? Am I crazy not to purchase it?

Honestly, the answer is usually no for personal electronics.

Most of the time, the only people that benefit from tech warranties are retailers as they translate into serious profit margins. If people knew the actual statistics for how long their products last, they probably wouldn’t purchase extended warranties. According to Cyber Shack, a quality smartphone has less than a two per cent failure rate while a good laptop is under five.

Under the ACCC, your product has a warranty for however long it is reasonably expected to last. No one purchases a computer with the expectation it’s going to last only one year, but years, so that’s how long you can legally claim a refund, replacement or repair — your choice — as long as you provide proof of purchase and the fault is a manufacturing one. You may also be able to claim compensation if you can prove loss due to the item and companies cannot deny a claim or refer you to the manufacturer unless you agree. Make sure you also register the standard warranty after purchase so there is no hassle when you do need repairs.

Rather than spending money on extended warranties which can cost between 10 to 20 per cent of the retail price, consider spending that money on backup devices.

Extended tech warranties for businesses are different

When considering warranties for your business, you have different factors to consider, such as risk reduction, business longevity and employee productivity, which means extended warranties for business are needed and are usually part of the cost of doing business.

Pronet only sells our clients servers with 3-year warranties and then just before the end of those 3 years, we highly recommend clients purchase an extra 2 years, which we find most businesses are willing to do. Replacing servers are not as simple as replacing workstations as they take longer to install, test and get up and running as they have to be reconfigured around other network components which can cause delays to your business. If you have the warranty, manufacturers will then keep components available to honour the warranty so if you have older equipment without one, you may no longer be able to find the parts to fix them.

Businesses relying heavily on their computers should only be purchasing business-grade computers which have a base 3-year warranty period rather than the 1-year that personal, domestic computers offer. Our clients are then recommended to purchase an extra 2 years to push this up to 5 years, after which business computers are usually replaced.

Businesses that rely on their computers and technology should be using a managed service provider to look after their systems. It saves you the stress and time of dealing with having to contact and wait for manufacturers to come out and fix or replace the device. Experienced MSPs usually carry spare parts for common devices and systems they set up in your business, so if you have an issue, they can fix it for you promptly. Some MSPs would even carry ‘spares’ of critical equipment which they can loan you while your equipment is being fixed.

As a business owner or decision-maker, you’re constantly evaluating how to lower your risk, and using an MSP is the way to do this. We hope that answered some of your questions regarding tech warranties, but if you have any further questions, feel free to give us a call!

Cybersecurity, IT Support, Technology

IT solutions for SMEs with limited budgets

20/06/2023 Marketing Department

IT solutions for SMEs with limited budgets

As a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) with a limited budget, it can be challenging to invest in IT solutions that can improve your business operations. However, several cost-effective IT solutions can help SMEs streamline their processes and remain competitive.

To decide what is best for your business, you need to understand your business’ needs, the people who work there, your budget and how staff need to work to meet the company’s objectives. When it comes to your staff, think about what they really need and if you’re unsure, ask them. Do they all need the same level of licences for the Adobe Suite or other software? Can you work from anywhere or do you need a traditional office setup? Identify what your business constraints are; if that’s a technology solution, direct your limited budget there.

One of the best ways to save money as a business is to make sure your initial investments are quality ones. For example, make sure your Wi-Fi network is properly set up, don’t purchase outdated, subpar equipment, make sure to update and maintain all your devices, invest in a web or mobile presence, install, update and regularly use anti-malware programs and most importantly, work with an IT service to manage your IT systems for you.

Managed service providers are cheaper than hiring an in-house IT team and they ensure your systems are working properly. An MSP is a way to reduce costs in your IT systems as it consolidates your technical support with one IT service. MSPs can provide businesses with access to experienced IT professionals who can help manage their IT systems, monitor for security threats and provide ongoing support and maintenance. A good MSP can help you determine what IT your unique business needs without pushing services on you that won’t benefit your business.

Low-budget IT Tools

Software can quickly become expensive, especially if you rely on multiple, complex systems to run your business and smaller businesses often turn away from investing in good software which can be detrimental to your business.

One of the most popular and cost-effective IT solutions for SMEs is cloud computing. Cloud-based solutions, such as storage and software-as-a-service (SaaS), can be accessed through the internet and can help businesses save money on IT infrastructure and maintenance costs. If you have one, ask your managed services provider to transfer your systems and data to the cloud.

Another IT solution that SMEs can consider is open-source software. Open-source software is software that is freely available to use and modify and can help businesses save money on licensing fees. Popular open-source software includes the operating system Linux, as well as productivity software such as LibreOffice. SMEs can also consider using open-source CRM (customer relationship management) software to manage their customer interactions and sales processes. Open-source CRM solutions, such as SuiteCRM or SugarCRM, can be customised to meet the specific needs of a business and can help SMEs improve customer engagement without breaking the bank.

Keep in mind, however, that open-source software does not come with support and is normally not as stable and reliable as commercial software. If you run into issues with open-source, you’ll need to rely on the goodwill of the community to assist you. As long as you understand this risk, then open-source is a low-cost solution. We generally would not recommend companies with more than five employees rely on open-source software as the risk of business interruption can be costly.

Virtualisation is another cost-effective IT solution that can help SMEs optimise their IT infrastructure. With virtualisation, businesses can run multiple virtual machines on a single physical server, which can help save money on hardware costs and reduce energy consumption.

Cyber Security

When times are tough for business, it might be tempting to cut costs in areas that might seem unnecessary, such as Cyber Security, but it is a decision that can see customers, clients and employees being exposed to cyberthreats.

There are a range of steps a business can take to create a defensive posture around Cyber Security that does not cost a fortune.

Your company should start with procedures and policies to create a Cyber Security culture within the business. This outlines how you will protect your employees, clients and customers. An incident response plan is essential to mitigate damage and protect your business operations, and even more so, training your staff about Cyber Security threats is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce threats as most attacks occur due to human error. Regularly provide tips and refreshers, or ask your MSP to help with training.

There are certain budget-friendly security software you can use to help protect your business and its data. For example, to secure your digital assets and control them when they might be at risk, you can use a software called DriveStrike that can remotely locate, lock and wipe devices.

It’s also a good idea to invest in encryption. Many devices already have some sort of encryption options built into them, so take the time to configure these. Also, if you’re heavily reliant on email, there are security email services that encrypt your information while in transit. Make sure you encrypt your backups too and that these are stored in multiple locations.

While it might seem a hassle, using two-factor authentication adds an extra step of security when logging into accounts, such as emails, bank accounts, work machines or software. Many services and accounts already have this option built-in, so check if yours do and if not, make sure to use a program that does this as it increases the difficulty of cybercriminals accessing your data.

A way to protect your business freely is by making sure your software and applications are up to date. If a vendor notices a security risk in its service, it will fix the issue and release a security update. Make sure you immediately install these to prevent criminals from taking advantage of these risks. This goes with older software too. If you’re not already, make sure you are using Microsoft 365 rather than an older version as these older versions are not updated anymore. This gives cybercriminals the time to build complex threats that they can then use to infiltrate your business as they have no time constraint as they’re no longer being updated.

If your workforce is hybrid or remote, ensure employees know how to secure their home routers as they are usually only using consumer-grade ones compared to a more secure one in the office.

Make sure you’re educating yourself on the technology your company needs so you can understand the value you are receiving from the technology, hardware or software you are using or buying.

There are several cost-effective IT solutions available for SMEs with limited budgets. From cloud computing and open-source software to virtualisation and outsourcing IT support to MSPs, SMEs can take advantage of these solutions to optimise their IT infrastructure and improve business operations. By considering these IT solutions, SMEs can remain competitive in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven business environment.

Do keep in mind though, that to maximise your business’ collaboration, processes, Network and Cyber Security, and long-term growth, businesses should be investing in their IT systems. As your business grows, so do your IT needs, so if you’re trying to cut back on costs, your business might not reach the potential it possibly can. Investing in your IT systems can actually save you time and money, help you stay competitive, inform better decisions and increase revenue.

Well-thought-out IT solutions for SMEs can make the difference between thriving or barely surviving.

IT Support, MSP

What is IT Outsourcing?

13/06/2023 Marketing Department

What is IT Outsourcing?

IT outsourcing involves hiring an external company to provide IT services and support. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), outsourcing IT services can be a cost-effective way to access specialised expertise, improve efficiency and free up time and resources for other areas of business.

There are a few different types of IT offshoring, as well as various models offshore companies use, so this article will give you an explanation of these and when they are beneficial.

Onshore outsourcing involves hiring an external company located within the same country as the SME. This can be advantageous because the outsourcing company is familiar with local laws and regulations, and communication is often easier due to shared language and culture. Onshore outsourcing can also provide opportunities for face-to-face meetings and collaboration, which can be beneficial for building relationships and ensuring quality service.

Offshore outsourcing involves hiring an external company located in a different country than the SME. This can be advantageous because offshore outsourcing can be more cost-effective, as wages and operating costs may be lower in other countries. However, offshore outsourcing can also present challenges related to language barriers, time zone differences and cultural differences, which can impact communication and collaboration.

The two can overlap when you have an onshore outsourced IT service provider who then outsources internationally their after-hours, 24/7 support.

Another outsourcing option is nearshore outsourcing, which is when you outsource your IT systems to a neighbouring country that shares the same time zone as the one your business is located in. This allows for easier communication, however, it’s not always cheap.

Both large companies and start-ups utilise the benefits of outsourcing their IT systems, especially since COVID-19 removed the idea that physical location is needed to develop a trusting relationship in the workplace. IT outsourcing removes the need to hire an in-house IT person, or even a team, making it a cheaper alternative that also brings in industry experience to your current team.

Why is outsourcing beneficial?

Other than outsourcing your entire IT systems, like you would with a Managed Service Provider (MSP), outsourcing can also be beneficial for specific projects. You could be an industry expert with a new idea and it’s imperative you enter the market and test the idea fast. You could be an early-stage start-up that needs to reduce costs by outsourcing a team of professionals for project development before hiring a full-time employee for the role. You could also already have a solution to your problems but just need technical improvements, such as backend problems, adding new language, integrations with apps, UX & UI design, patches or app or website creation.

Companies use various IT outsourcing models that will define how you work with them, each with its pros and cons, so make sure you know what you’re hiring before you sign a contract. Here are three common models:

Project-Based Model

This is when you hire a team to work on a project that you already have planned and a project manager from the outsourced team is accountable for the goals and quality of the project. This works for uncomplicated projects.

Pros:

Saves time for your in-house team
Provides clear timelines for the project
Fast hiring process and a fast result
No micromanagement needed
The project manager takes full responsibility

Cons:

The company has less control over the project
Lack of flexibility
The result may not meet industry standards as the project manager might not be experienced in your industry

Dedicated Team Model

This model involves you hiring an entire outsourced IT team to work solely on the project where the team acts as your technical and product advisor and can offer suggestions and ideas. This model is great for start-ups that have a lot of growth ahead of them and who may not have the knowledge to deal with complex and long-term IT projects. For example, if you outsource to create an app from a company that specialised in that, they will have a dedicated team for project management, design and engineering.

Pros:

More control over all stages of the project
Work with a wider team of industry-specific professionals
More flexibility
No micromanagement needed
The in-house team can work on other projects

Cons:

Long hiring process
Your business has more responsibility for the project

Outstaff Model

This model is available for times you don’t need an entire team, just individual specialists to fill gaps in your team’s experience. This works great for short-term projects.

Pros:

No need to hire an entire team
Fill expertise gaps in your projects
Flexibility to hire as many professionals as you need

Cons:

Can be a long search and recruitment process
More time spent onboarding
Not suitable for long-term projects as outstaff may turn over during that time

Ultimately, the decision to outsource IT services for SMEs will depend on a variety of factors, including budget, expertise and business needs. SMEs should carefully consider their options and choose an outsourcing provider that can meet their specific requirements and provide high-quality service.

Whatever work or software your business is looking to outsource, make sure they are implementing Cyber Security processes while they do so. Also, make sure you are communicating constantly with the outsourced team and ask as many questions as you need to ensure you know what you’re receiving and whether this benefits your business goals.

Cybersecurity, Essential Eight, IT Support, Managed IT Services, MSP

Questions to ask your current IT service provider

08/06/2023 Marketing Department

5 Questions to ask your current IT service provider

If you’re satisfied with the service you are receiving from your current MSP and see no room for improvement, here are five things you can ask them to make sure they are looking after your business.

As a business owner, it’s essential that you’re satisfied with your IT provider’s services and capabilities. Many businesses we’ve contacted are happy with their relationship and service from their IT service provider but when we ask them if there’s any room for improvement, there’s always something. Or, they simply don’t know if there’s anything they should be asking their provider as they’re not technically inclined or up-to-date with regulations and new technologies.

If that’s you, here are some questions to ask your current IT provider to just make sure everything is on the right track, and why they’re important:

What recommendations can you give me to improve my IT infrastructure?

An MSP should be helping support the growth of your business so they should be helping your business to achieve its goals by looking at security, technology, the customer’s perspective and workplace transformation effects. You might even be on track and already have a lot of the latest tech, or might simply not find value in anything new, so they may have barely anything to recommend. As long as they’re open and transparent with you about this, you know you’re with an MSP who has your best interests at heart.

How are you implementing the Essential Eight Cyber Security strategies into my business?

Data breaches can be devastating for businesses, not just for owners but also for customers and staff. Essential Eight is currently a framework recommended by ACSC (Australia Cyber Security Centre) for your business to get started with when implementing Cyber Security strategies to protect your businesses. As it’s likely to become mandated in the future, ask your MSP how they are implementing the strategies and how your business ranks in Cyber Security maturity. You may not need to fully implement all the strategies either as you might not deal with data that is deemed ‘high risk’, but you should not be at Maturity Level Zero, so make sure the MSP is helping you improve.

How often are you backing up my data?

Backing up your data is critical to ensure you can quickly recover in the event of data loss or system failure. Losing that data can be a devastating blow, potentially crippling your business and erasing years of hard work. That’s why it’s so important to have a solid data backup and recovery plan in place. Understanding your provider’s backup and disaster recovery solutions can help you evaluate their ability to restore your data and minimise downtime. Backup is important, but restoring is equally, if not more, important. Make sure your MSP conducts regular restoration tests so that nothing is corrupt and you’re rest assured that your business will be back up and running in the event of a disaster.

What happens if my infrastructure goes down?

It’s one thing to know your MSP is backup up your data regularly but another to know what happens if infrastructure goes down. This is a key concern for stakeholders in any business as this affects production and trade, and enables potential data breaches. The consequences can be disastrous. Therefore, your business needs to know exactly the processes the MSP has in place for an attack or outage, such as remotely accessing data to restore systems and bringing you back online.

How are you staying up to date with the latest technology trends and best practices, and can you give me some examples?

Technology is constantly evolving, so you want to make sure you’re partnering with an MSP that is constantly educating itself and staying current with the latest trends and best practices. Ask them if they’ve implemented any new technology into your business or if there have been any new solutions that could improve your business’s overall IT strategy.

Communication is also key in any relationship, so don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have, whenever you have them, no matter how dumb they may seem. Your IT provider is meant to work alongside you in your growth and since you’re their client who they’re making money off, they should be doing everything they can to ensure the longevity of your business.

Asking these questions can help you evaluate your current IT provider’s services, identify areas for improvement and ensure that you’re getting the most out of your IT investment.

IT Support, Managed IT Services, MSP

Don’t stick with your IT service provider until something triggers you to change

06/06/2023 Marketing Department

Don’t stick with your IT service provider until something triggers you to change

As a business owner or manager, it is easy to become complacent with your current IT service provider. You may have a long-standing relationship with them and feel that they understand your business and its technology needs. This familiarity can often lead to a false sense of security and you may not realise the potential risks and limitations of sticking with your current IT service provider until something triggers you to change.

Over our years of service, we have found that businesses often wish they changed their IT service providers earlier. Change is incredibly complex and can be a hassle when you have to get proposals from different IT companies, then deal with the information transfer between the two, especially when the old provider might be less than cooperative. Ask yourself, what’s the point of even using a managed service provider if you’re not receiving everything you should be?

This article will explore why it is important to review your IT service provider, ensuring they are meeting your requirements and giving you great service, and why you should not wait until the decision to change is forced upon you.

Technology is constantly evolving

The technology landscape is constantly evolving and new solutions and tools are coming out all the time, sometimes even faster than it takes for you to get comfortable with a new one. Your IT service provider should be keeping up with these changes and be able to recommend and run new technologies that can benefit your business.

If your current IT service provider is not staying up-to-date with the latest technology trends, you could be missing out on opportunities to improve your business operations and stay ahead of the competition. What’s more, they need to be constantly on the lookout for new security risks and be updating their processes or technology to keep your business safe.

Your business needs may change

Like technology, businesses also evolve and as your business grows, your technology needs may change. For example, you may need to upgrade your infrastructure to support more users or introduce new software solutions to improve your or your staff’s productivity. If your current IT service provider is unable to accommodate these changes, it may be time to consider switching to a provider that can better meet your evolving needs. This could be because your company is now too big for the provider or because they don’t have the right technology, knowledge or experience in the direction your company is going.

Service quality may decline over time

Over time, service quality can decline as your IT service provider becomes complacent or takes your business for granted. After an initial fantastic six to 12 months, you may notice longer response times, decreased quality of support or a lack of solutions and recommendations. If you begin to feel that your IT service provider is no longer providing the level of service and support you require, it may be time to consider changing your plan with them or even making a change in provider.

Cyber Security threats are increasing

Cyber Security threats are increasing in both frequency and complexity, and businesses of all sizes are at risk. It may surprise you to hear that small businesses are the target of 43 per cent of cyber-attacks. This is why your IT service provider should be taking proactive measures to protect your business from threats, such as implementing security procedures, providing employee training and regularly updating your systems and software. If you feel that your IT service provider is not taking Cyber Security seriously, it may be time to look for a provider that has a strong focus on this area, especially if your business deals with sensitive information.

Cost-effectiveness

Technology costs are an important factor for any business and it’s important to ensure that you are getting good value for your IT investments. Managed service providers are generally on par with each other when it comes to their managed services of looking after your IT systems. Where they differ, are their additional services and level of technical standards, like using CISCO vs. Sophos. You might find that you are not utilising fully everything that you are paying for and wonder why they were offered to you in the first place. Make sure you review your IT costs and ensure you are getting the best value for your budget. An MSP should tailor its services and your plan to what your business requires, as well as be honest and tell you upfront when a higher-level technology is not needed. This also simply comes down to service. Is your business receiving what you’re paying for?

It is important to periodically review your IT service provider and not wait for something to trigger you to change, like a major data breach, loss of backups or issues simply not getting fixed. By regularly assessing your technology needs, service quality, Cyber Security measures and cost-effectiveness, you can ensure that you are getting the best value for your IT investments and that your technology infrastructure is keeping pace with your business growth and evolution.

Remember, switching IT service providers can be a daunting task, but it can also be an opportunity to improve your technology solutions and position your business for long-term success. There are so many benefits of service providers – make sure you’re getting them.

Cybersecurity, IT Support, MSP, vulnerability scan

Can IT issues cause a drop in my employees’ and my company’s productivity?

25/05/2023 Marketing Department

Can IT issues cause a drop in my employees’ and my company’s productivity?

Information technology (IT) is an essential part of any modern business, and IT issues can cause significant problems that can affect employee and company productivity.

Employee productivity generally means either doing more work in less time or taking fewer hours to complete tasks. Increased employee engagement also improves morale which eventually reduces employee burnout.

Low productivity also results in poor performance by employees, affecting the quality of work and deliverables and, ultimately, your company’s profitability will decrease. It’s important to snub the low productivity issue at the core, which, oftentimes, comes from IT-related issues.

What are some IT-related issues in the workplace?

Software malfunctions
Freezing computers
Scanner or printer issues
Old computer systems
Annoying pop-ups
Internet connectivity issues
Viruses and malware
Learning to navigate new updates

How IT issues can cause a drop in productivity

Downtime: IT issues can lead to downtime, which is the period when IT systems are not functioning correctly. Downtime can be caused by hardware failures, software crashes or network connectivity issues. Downtime can lead to a loss of productivity as employees are unable to perform their work, leading to delays in projects and missed deadlines. Network issues can also cause employees to miss online calendar alerts for meetings, events, calls and time-crucial emails, impacting sales, customer relationships and company reputation.
Slow systems: Slow systems can be caused by a lack of memory, outdated software or hardware issues which can lead to a decrease in productivity as employees are unable to complete their work as quickly as they would like. Slow systems can also lead to frustration, leading to a decrease in employee morale.
Data loss: IT issues can lead to data loss, which is the accidental or intentional loss of data. Data loss can be caused by hardware failures, software crashes or human error and can lead to a significant loss of productivity as employees are unable to access the necessary data to complete their work. Data loss can also lead to a loss of trust from customers and stakeholders, which can have long-lasting effects on the company’s reputation.
Cyber Security breaches: Cyber Security breaches can be caused by a lack of security measures, outdated software or human error. Cyber Security breaches can lead to a loss of productivity as employees are unable to access the necessary systems or data, as well as a loss of trust from customers and stakeholders, leading to a significant impact on the company’s reputation.
Support tickets: IT issues can lead to an increase in support tickets, which are requests for IT support from employees. An increase in support tickets can lead to a decrease in productivity as employees are unable to complete their work while waiting for IT support. An increase in support tickets can also lead to frustration, leading to a decrease in employee morale. Not only that, waiting for issues to be fixed can prevent employees from supporting your customers, resulting in company productivity.

How can managed IT services boost productivity?

Increased Uptime: Ensure your IT systems are up and running when you need them as MSPs use a proactive approach to fixing issues by constantly monitoring and fixing issues remotely.

Reduced need for IT support: Less need for in-house IT support as the MSP takes control and responsibility for the management of your systems to prevent issues from arising. When problems do occur, the majority of the time they are resolved quickly and efficiently.

Improved Employee Satisfaction: When employees don’t need to worry about whether or not their systems are working, they become more satisfied with their jobs and will be able to perform at their best.

More time for strategic tasks: By outsourcing your company’s IT systems, there is no need for employees to spend time on troubleshooting, that is, figuring out what is wrong and trying different solutions, or handling system updates. Employees can instead, focus on their jobs.

Better use of technology: MSPs can help your business get the most out of its technology as they’re able to teach you how to fully use your existing systems as well as keep your systems up-to-date with new updates that can help employees. As software continuously becomes more complex, underutilising features can mean missed opportunities for your business.

Reduced IT costs: Your business will no longer need to invest in expensive hardware and software updates and it will be easier to predict and manage your IT budget. This way, you can utilise your spending on other areas of business that will help your employees.

Increased competitiveness: Using an MSP ensures your business’ IT systems are on the same level as others. This software and hardware are usually included in your MSP’s cost. Something as simple as upgraded hard drives can make computers run faster and improve employee productivity.

It might be helpful to ask your IT service provider for some tips on preventive measures for common IT problems which you can then share around your workplace to avoid unnecessary delays in the future as employees can fix issues themselves. This will also prevent many support tickets from being submitted. Most of us are more tech-savvy than we were a few years ago, so it’s a great idea to utilise your staff for smaller IT issues, even if it’s for something as minor as changing a printer ink cartridge.

Continuous training and performance support are crucial for staff, either about how to fix issues or about learning to navigate modern software applications. As reported in a 2019 study by Deloitte, comprehensive training leads to a 218 per cent higher revenue per employee, so don’t skimp on your investments in technological solutions that allow for staff training. Each time a staff member is hired, give them a lesson on the programs they will be using as well as a checklist of IT issues that your team has learned how to fix over the years. That way, they don’t have to then ask another employee and interrupt their momentum when a minor issue arises. Low productivity of one employee often has a domino effect on the entire team.

IT issues can cause significant problems that can affect employee and company productivity. These issues can lead to downtime, slow systems, data loss, Cyber Security breaches and an increase in support tickets. Companies should take steps to prevent IT issues by investing in modern IT infrastructure, regularly updating software and hardware, implementing Cyber Security measures and providing IT support to employees. By taking these steps, companies can ensure that their employees can work effectively, leading to increased productivity and success for the company.

Cybersecurity, IT Support, Managed IT Services

What type of security does my business need?

18/05/2023 Marketing Department

What type of security does my business need?

Let’s explore the differences between Information Security, Network Security and Cyber Security and why they are all important for your business’ safety.

As more companies digitalise their assets, they turn to security measures to protect themselves, and as the cybercrime landscape continues to evolve, so do these security measures.

IT Security is a broad term that encompasses different areas and is often used interchangeably with Cyber Security. The two are actually quite different. While these terms all focus on protecting your personal or business’ valuable assets, they approach the task from different angles.

Information Security

Information security is about protecting both physical and digital data from unauthorised access, use, modification, recording, disclosure or destruction. Information security is where your company should start when protecting itself and aims to keep all your company’s data secure. Network Security and Cyber Security are part of this that look at protecting only your digital data.

Broadly, Information Security risks include access, destruction and availability of data.

Network Security

Network Security protects the usability and integrity of your network and data using different hardware and software. This targets a variety of threats and stops them from entering or spreading on your network, typically by using virus protection and a firewall. It also secures data that is travelling across the network by terminals.

Network threats include viruses, worms and trojans, denial of service attacks and zero-day attacks.

Cyber Security

Cyber Security is the area of Information Security that deals with protecting your company’s digital assets on the cloud, networks, computers, mobile devices and the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as any other digital data your company has, from unauthorised access, attack or damage from digital attacks. Businesses can do this through a range of defence processes, technologies and practices. Cyber Security also encompasses incident response plans so you can contain the threat as quickly as possible and minimise any damage because, let’s face it, no security is perfect, especially with how fast attacks can occur and how complex they can be.

Cyberthreats include ransomware, social engineering, malware and phishing.

Where does your business stand?

Pretty much all businesses have Network Security, which is a great start, but unfortunately, it is no longer enough. If your business has data that cybercriminals want, they will get it and all it takes is one accidental click of a phishing link for your systems to be taken over.

Even if you believe your business will never be hit by a security breach, you must ensure your IT infrastructure is secured at all times as, according to Astra, nearly 43 per cent of cyberattacks are targeted at small to medium-sized enterprises. Of this, only 14 per cent are prepared to face an attack. From a business perspective, an attack exposes your company to fines, data losses and damage to your reputation.

With more and more of our lives moving online, we are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks that can compromise our personal information or even our financial security. It’s important to recognise that Network Security is just one part of a comprehensive Information Security and Cyber Security strategy, meaning you cannot simply rely on firewall and virus protection for your business as they aren’t enough to stop hackers from breaching your business.

Cyber Security is crucial to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for several reasons:

Limited resources: SMEs often have limited resources to devote to Cyber Security, making them more vulnerable to attacks. They may not have dedicated IT staff or the budget to invest in robust security measures.
High risk: SMEs are a prime target for cyberattacks because they often hold valuable customer data and financial information. Hackers know that SMEs may have weaker security measures in place, making them an easier target.
Reputational damage: A cyberattack can have a devastating impact on your business’ reputation. If sensitive customer data is compromised, it can erode trust and lead to a loss of business.
Legal and financial implications: SMEs may face legal and financial consequences if they are found to violate data privacy laws or regulations. They may also be subject to fines or legal action if they fail to adequately protect customer data.
Supply chain risks: SMEs may be part of a larger supply chain, and a breach at any point in the chain can have ripple effects throughout the network.
Continuous threats: Cyber threats are constantly evolving and small and medium-sized businesses may not have the resources to keep up with the latest security measures or invest in new technology.

It’s also important to recognise that Cyber Security is a constantly evolving field. As new technologies emerge and cyber threats become more sophisticated, staying up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in Cyber Security is important. This might involve investing in training and education for your staff, as well as partnering with trusted Cyber Security experts to help you stay on top of emerging threats.

A great guideline to follow is the CIA Triad of Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability. These are crucial components of information security.

C – Confidentiality: ensuring information is inaccessible to unauthorised people, usually through encryption, IDs and passwords, two-factor authentication and other defence strategies.
I – Integrity: safeguarding information and systems from being modified by unauthorised people to make sure the protected data is accurate and trustworthy.
A – Availability: ensuring that authorised people have access to the information when needed, which means maintaining all systems, keeping them updated, and ensuring they’re regularly being backed to safeguard against disruptions or data loss.

When you start your company’s security plan, you’ll also want to create it alongside any governance frameworks established, such as Essential Eight defined by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC).

Your company must adopt a more holistic and integrated approach to security to encompass network, cloud and endpoint — detection and response — security. All these processes become quite complex and confusing, so it might be best to start outsourcing your IT systems and security to an external team, keeping in mind that many managed service providers are not specialised in Cyber Security, so you may have to use two separate companies or look for one that is both.

If you have one, ask your Managed Service Provider (MSP) if there are implementing any Cyber Security practices to protect your business, such as the Essential Eight framework recommended by the Australian Government. A proactive approach allows for early warning of potential threats and attacks which then allows the MSP to respond quickly to stop the attack before they cause any trouble.

How does Pronet help?

Pronet Technology is an MSP specialising in Cyber Security, which is one area that differentiates us from other managed service providers. Oftentimes, you find that these are two separate businesses, an MSP and Cyber Security specialist, and while these days MSPs might incorporate some Cyber Security practices in your business like two-factor authentication, our difference is that this field is something we have been working in for years.

We have the experience and knowledge to recommend your business tailored suggestions to improve your Cyber Security, without being ‘over-serviced’ with products and strategies you don’t need. As one of our new clients said about their Cyber Security:

“I think it’s something that without a doubt, it’s important, but for a company like ours, do we need to go to the extreme? No.”

Unfortunately, we have found that most companies are not well equipped for cyberattacks and are still not convinced of the importance of doing so. While they are aware of cybercrime, they are simply not prepared, with 90 per cent of attacks still being successful due to human error, according to My Business. With Pronet, you can be rest assured that you’re well protected for when a cyberattack happens, because let’s face it, they do, and no MSP should be promising that it won’t, and that your business operations are either unaffected or minimally affected when something occurs.

Being both an MSP and a Cyber Security company allows for seamless management of IT systems and means there is no unaccountability or miscommunication between two separate companies. Pronet ensures the problems get 100 per cent fixed as we’re dedicated to finding and eliminating the problem at the core. Due to the nature of Cyber Security, we also constantly monitor your systems so that threats are picked up before they happen.

It is incredibly important to recognise the difference between the different types of Information Security and the roles they play in protecting valuable assets. While Network Security is important, it’s just one part of a comprehensive Cyber Security strategy that encompasses all digital assets. By understanding the different types of security measures and how they work together, you can help ensure that your assets are protected from both physical and digital threats. So, take your Cyber Security seriously and invest in the necessary measures to keep your assets and information safe.

IT Support, Managed IT Services

Are MSP Contracts Flexible?

16/05/2023 Marketing Department

Are MSP Contracts Flexible?

Managed Service Provider contracts are a popular choice for businesses that want to outsource their IT needs. One question that often comes up when considering an MSP contract is whether they are flexible enough to meet the unique needs of your business.

The pandemic has driven the need for clients wanting flexibility and wanting to steer clear from long-term commitments. That doesn’t mean they don’t want long-term relationships with vendors, they do, they just want flexibility in the contracts.

As a business owner, you know that flexibility is key to success. Your business needs to be able to adapt to changing circumstances and your IT needs should be no different. MSP contracts are designed to be flexible, allowing you to customise your service plan to meet your specific needs.

MSPs no longer need multi-year service contracts in place, instead, what they are depending on is the length of their relationship with their clients. As a business, you’re looking to stick with your outsourced IT service provider for as long as possible as it can be a great hassle to search for and then switch providers. An MSP is relying on this so they should be giving you the level of service your company needs and helping your business grow. This is why they don’t need to lock you into long contracts as you should be willing to stay with them for as long as possible.

Long-term relationships are built on trust where you both share wins and work through losses. If your MSP is honest and willing to work with you on your challenges, you’re hardly going to up and leave for another IT provider.

That being said, some MSPs offer month-to-month contracts while others offer longer, yearly or two-year plans paid monthly or yearly. Discuss this with the MSP you’re looking into if that’s a major concern for you. Keep in mind that you really don’t want to be changing managed service providers regularly.

Another way MSP contracts can be flexible is by offering a range of pricing models that might be valuable to different customers. A long-term contract might suit one business, but another might find value in a month-to-month, no-commitment type of contract that has a higher pricing point. An MSP might offer discounts for long-term contracts or even higher upfront costs with lower monthly fees. There are a range of ways that MSPs can be flexible with their pricing, so double-check with your MSP if they can tailor your plan to one that suits you.

One of the benefits of an MSP contract is that you can choose the level of service that best suits your business. Whether you need basic IT support or more advanced services like Cyber Security and cloud computing, an MSP can offer a range of options to meet your needs.

Additionally, MSP contracts can be tailored so that the services offered fit your budget. You don’t have to pay for services you don’t which means that you can get the services you need without breaking the bank. Take cloud computing services, for example. You could be offered cost-effective solutions like paying for what you use or the MSP scaling the price up or down when you need to work between public and private cloud services.

If you’re already working with an MSP, ask them if there are any new services they are now providing new customers that might now benefit your business.

MSP contracts also offer flexibility when it comes to scalability. As your business grows, your IT needs will likely grow as well, whether that be with more powerful software or hardware or with proactive Cyber Security practices that prevent your data from being stolen. MSP contracts are designed to be flexible enough to accommodate your changing needs, whether that means adding new services, upgrading existing services or scaling back services that are no longer necessary.

Another benefit of MSP contracts is that they can be customised to fit the unique needs of your business. MSPs are acutely aware of how different each business is and should not be offering a one-size-fits-all contract for each of their clients. They should work closely with your business to understand its needs and develop a customised service plan that meets those needs. This means that you can get the exact services you need to keep your business running smoothly. That also means being honest with you about services, software or hardware your business doesn’t need.

Keep in mind that you’re still working with another business so there will be negotiations, notice periods and levels of software and hardware they demand your business have, or eventually have, for them to want to work with you, but there are ways for your MSP to offer your business flexibility without compromising their business.

So, while an MSP might not offer flexibility in one area, it might provide your business with the flexibility you’re after in another. How do you get that? Ask. As mentioned, MSPs depend on building long-term relationships with their clients, so see how they can tailor their services to your business, while also keeping in mind they can’t compromise on everything as, they too, are a business.

MSP contracts are incredibly flexible and can be tailored to meet the unique needs of your business. Whether you need basic IT support or more advanced services, MSPs can offer a range of options to meet your needs. And with the ability to customise your contract to fit your budget, scalability and unique needs, an MSP is an excellent choice for any business looking to outsource its IT needs. Don’t hesitate to explore your options and find the MSP that is right for you!

Who is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment for?

Why is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment important?

Who is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment for?

How is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment conducted?

FAQs

12 Technical Jargon terms you need to know

What are Tech Warranties?

Extended tech warranties for businesses are different

IT solutions for SMEs with limited budgets

Low-budget IT Tools

Cyber Security

What is IT Outsourcing?

Why is outsourcing beneficial?

Project-Based Model

Dedicated Team Model

Outstaff Model

5 Questions to ask your current IT service provider

If you’re satisfied with the service you are receiving from your current MSP and see no room for improvement, here are five things you can ask them to make sure they are looking after your business.

What recommendations can you give me to improve my IT infrastructure?

How are you implementing the Essential Eight Cyber Security strategies into my business?

How often are you backing up my data?

What happens if my infrastructure goes down?

How are you staying up to date with the latest technology trends and best practices, and can you give me some examples?

Don’t stick with your IT service provider until something triggers you to change

Technology is constantly evolving

Your business needs may change

Service quality may decline over time

Cyber Security threats are increasing

Cost-effectiveness

Can IT issues cause a drop in my employees’ and my company’s productivity?

What are some IT-related issues in the workplace?

How IT issues can cause a drop in productivity

How can managed IT services boost productivity?

What type of security does my business need?

Let’s explore the differences between Information Security, Network Security and Cyber Security and why they are all important for your business’ safety.

Information Security

Network Security

Cyber Security

Where does your business stand?

How does Pronet help?

Are MSP Contracts Flexible?

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