Signs Your Small Business Needs IT Support

• Employees spend valuable time fixing tech issues instead of working.
• Cybersecurity threats or phishing scams keep recurring.
• Your business is growing faster than your IT can keep up.
• You must comply with regulations like HIPAA or PCI.
• Downtime is costing your business money and productivity.

In-House IT vs. Outsourced IT Services

In-House IT:

• Deep knowledge of your systems
• High costs for salaries, benefits, and training

Outsourced IT Support:

• Affordable and scalable for small businesses
• Access to a full team of IT experts
• 24/7 monitoring and cybersecurity protection
• Less physical presence (but remote help is fast)
• Less physical presence, but fast remote support

Why Outsourcing IT is More Cost-Effective

Outsourced IT services provide enterprise-level expertise at a fraction of the cost of hiring an IT employee. Instead of relying on one person, you gain a full team that can handle network support, cloud services, cybersecurity, compliance, and more. For most small businesses, outsourced IT support is the smarter, budget-friendly choice.

At LRS Small Business Tech Services, we deliver affordable IT support for small businesses—from managed IT services and cloud solutions to cybersecurity and compliance. Let us be your IT department so you can focus on running your business.

Contact LRS Small Business Tech Services today to get cost-effective IT solutions tailored to your business.

Among the most notable changes ahead:

Microsoft Publisher’s Final Chapter

Introduced in 1991, Microsoft Publisher has been a staple for newsletters, brochures, and DIY marketing for over 30 years. But come October 13, 2026, Publisher will officially reach its end of life. After this date:

• It will no longer be included in Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
• Microsoft will end support for existing on-premises versions.

If your business still relies on Publisher for layout and design, now is the time to start exploring alternatives—and we’re here to help you plan that transition.

The End of the Road for Windows 10

Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025. That means no more security updates or patches, which could leave your systems vulnerable if not upgraded. With Windows 11 offering modern security, interface, and performance improvements, it’s critical to start evaluating your path forward now.

A Bit of Nostalgia: Saying Farewell to Some Old Tech Friends

While some tools are essential for daily operations, others hold a special place in our tech-loving hearts. As we plan for the future, let’s tip our hats to some now-defunct Microsoft products that once felt revolutionary:

• Clippy, the overly enthusiastic Office Assistant, tried (and sometimes failed) to help us write better memos in the early 2000s.
• Zune software and devices, Microsoft’s answer to the iPod, gave us a unique (and purple) way to carry our music.
• Windows Media Center turned our PCs into home theaters—back before streaming was mainstream.
• Internet Explorer, once the most-used browser in the world, now makes way for Microsoft Edge and modern web standards.

These tools might be gone, but they remind us how quickly technology evolves—and how important it is to keep up.

Technology Evolves. We Help You Evolve with It.

Staying ahead of tech changes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether it’s migrating from Publisher, upgrading from Windows 10, or just needing a clear IT roadmap, LRS Small Business Tech Services is here to support your transition.

Need help navigating end-of-life software or preparing your systems for what’s next?
Contact us today to ensure your business stays secure, up-to-date, and ready for the future.

So, should you embrace the change or stick with what’s familiar? Let’s break it down.

New Outlook (Microsoft 365): A Cloud-Centric Evolution

What’s New?

• Modern Interface – A cleaner, web-centric look.
• Improved Search – Faster and more accurate results.
• Seamless Microsoft 365 Integration – Connects with Teams, OneDrive, and To-Do.
• AI Features – Includes Copilot for email drafting and improvements.
• Faster Performance – Quicker load times and effortless account switching.
• Mobile Optimization – Works better across multiple devices.

What’s Missing?

• Limited Legacy Support – No public folders and restricted PST file support.
• Offline Limitations – Designed for an always-online experience.
• Licensing Requirements – Each mailbox requires its own Microsoft 365 license.

Classic Outlook: The Traditional Powerhouse

Why Stick With It?

• Familiar Interface – The ribbon layout we all know.
• Offline Functionality – Work without an internet connection.
• Legacy Support – Compatible with PST files and COM add-ins.
• Standalone Licensing – Available as a one-time purchase in the Office suite.

Downsides?

• Slower Load Times – Especially noticeable with multiple accounts.
• Less Integration with Microsoft 365 – Lags behind in cloud connectivity.
• Not Mobile-Friendly – Lacks the optimizations of New Outlook.

Which One Should You Choose?

Go for New Outlook If…

• You prefer a modern, cloud-based experience.
• You rely on Microsoft 365 apps like Teams and OneDrive.
• You want AI-powered features and faster performance.
• You frequently switch between devices, including mobile.

Stick with Classic Outlook If…

• You need offline access.
• You depend on legacy features like PST file support.
• You have add-ins that don’t work with New Outlook.
• You prefer the traditional interface.

What’s Next?

Microsoft is pushing forward with New Outlook, and support for Classic Outlook will eventually be phased out.

• The opt-out phase begins in April 2026, meaning users will gradually be transitioned.
• Until then, you can still switch back to Classic Outlook by going to:
  • File > Options > General > New Outlook options
  • Uncheck “Automatically switch me to new Outlook”

Need Help Transitioning? Contact LRS Small Business Tech Services!

Switching to New Outlook can be a big change, and ensuring a smooth transition for your business is crucial. Whether you need migration assistance, training, or troubleshooting, LRS Small Business Tech Services is here to help.

Contact us today to discuss your Outlook transition and find the best solution for your business!

The Shift from Traditional IT Infrastructure

The migration from traditional IT setups to cloud-based solutions is not merely a trend; it’s a strategic move for survival and competitiveness. Businesses are increasingly leaning on cloud services for various critical functions, including data storage, collaboration tools, and essential business applications. This transition is reflected in the substantial growth in worldwide end-user spending on public cloud services, which was expected to increase by 21.7% in 2024. As we move into 2025, this upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing down.

Why Cloud Services Are Gaining Traction

Several key factors contribute to the growing popularity of cloud services:

1. Flexibility and Scalability: Cloud solutions offer unparalleled flexibility and scalability, allowing businesses to adjust their resources based on current needs. This adaptability is crucial in a fast-paced and ever-changing business environment.
2. Remote Accessibility: The global shift towards remote work has underscored the importance of accessible IT infrastructure. Cloud services enable employees to access critical data and applications from anywhere, fostering collaboration and productivity.
3. Cost Efficiency: By moving to the cloud, companies can reduce the capital expenditure associated with maintaining traditional IT infrastructure. Instead, they can opt for a pay-as-you-go model, which can lead to significant cost savings.
4. Enhanced Security and Compliance: Managed cloud services often come with robust security measures and compliance certifications, addressing the growing concerns over data breaches and regulatory requirements.

Managed Cloud Services: Simplifying Complexity

Despite the clear advantages, navigating the cloud landscape can be complex. This is where managed cloud services come into play, offering a comprehensive solution to handle data security, integration, and hybrid workflows.

• Data Security: Managed cloud providers employ advanced security protocols to protect sensitive data, including encryption, firewalls, and multi-factor authentication. This ensures that data remains secure both in transit and at rest.
• Integration: One of the challenges of adopting cloud services is integrating them with existing systems. Managed services facilitate seamless integration, ensuring that new cloud-based applications work harmoniously with legacy systems.
• Hybrid Workflows: Many businesses operate in a hybrid environment, where cloud services and on-premises infrastructure coexist. Managed services help streamline these workflows, providing a cohesive and efficient IT ecosystem.

The Future of Cloud Services

As we look ahead to 2025, the momentum behind cloud services is only expected to grow. Businesses that have not yet embraced cloud computing will find it increasingly difficult to compete. The ability to rapidly scale, innovate, and adapt will be paramount, and cloud services provide the foundation for these capabilities.

The simplicity and efficiency offered by managed cloud services make them an invaluable resource for any organization. By mastering the cloud, businesses can unlock new levels of performance and agility, positioning themselves for success in an increasingly digital world.

The rise of cloud services represents a significant shift in the IT landscape. For businesses willing to embrace this change, the cloud offers a path to greater flexibility, security, and innovation. As we move into 2025, staying ahead of this trend will be essential for maintaining a competitive edge and achieving long-term success.

Contact LRS Small Business Tech Services and embrace the future of managed cloud services.

These days, small businesses depend heavily on technology for their daily operations. However, this reliance on digital tools also makes them targets for cyber-attacks. With the increasing number of cyber threats, it's essential for small businesses to have strong security measures. One of the most important steps they can take is to use vulnerability scanning to protect their systems.

At LRS Small Business Tech Services, we understand the unique challenges that small businesses face when it comes to cybersecurity. Often operating with limited resources and expertise, these businesses become prime targets for cybercriminals seeking vulnerabilities to exploit. Here's where vulnerability scanning emerges as a game-changer.

Understanding Vulnerability Scanning

Vulnerability scanning involves systematically identifying, analyzing, and prioritizing potential weaknesses within a network, system, or application. It's a proactive approach that allows businesses to detect and address vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them.

Key Aspects of Vulnerability Scanning:

1. Comprehensive Assessment: Vulnerability scans provide a comprehensive overview of potential security gaps across devices, servers, applications, and networks. This encompasses software flaws, misconfigurations, and other weaknesses that could be exploited.
2. Regular Updates: As new vulnerabilities emerge constantly, regular scanning ensures that businesses stay ahead of potential threats. This proactive approach is vital in an ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
3. Risk Mitigation: By identifying vulnerabilities, businesses can prioritize fixes based on severity levels. This allows them to allocate resources efficiently, focusing on the most critical issues first.

Why Vulnerability Scanning Matters for Small Businesses

1. Strengthening Defense: Small businesses often lack dedicated cybersecurity teams, making them more susceptible to attacks. Vulnerability scanning acts as a proactive shield, fortifying defenses against potential breaches and data compromises.
2. Compliance and Trust: Adhering to compliance standards is crucial for small businesses, especially in industries handling sensitive data. Vulnerability scanning aids in meeting regulatory requirements, instilling trust and confidence among customers and partners.
3. Cost-Efficiency: Preventing a breach is far more cost-effective than dealing with its aftermath. Vulnerability scanning helps in reducing the likelihood of costly security incidents, saving businesses from potential financial and reputational damage.

Implementing Vulnerability Scanning Effectively

For small businesses looking to integrate vulnerability scanning into their cybersecurity strategy, several steps can be taken:

1. Choose the Right Tools: Select a scanning tool that aligns with the business's needs, considering factors like scalability, ease of use, and compatibility.
2. Regular Scans: Perform scheduled vulnerability scans to ensure ongoing protection and promptly address any identified issues.
3. Expert Guidance: Seek professional assistance if needed. Partnering with cybersecurity experts or managed service providers can offer invaluable support in deploying and managing scanning solutions.

Cybersecurity is not a luxury but a necessity, especially for small businesses. Vulnerability scanning stands as a fundamental pillar in safeguarding against potential threats. It's a proactive step towards strengthening defenses, ensuring compliance, and preserving the trust of customers and partners.

At LRS Small Business Tech Services, we recognize the critical role that vulnerability scanning plays in securing businesses of all sizes. By integrating robust scanning practices into your cybersecurity framework, small businesses can mitigate risks and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help improve your cybersecurity through effective vulnerability scanning solutions.

 Let's break down the key points:

1. What's Changing and When? As of February 1, 2024, Google and Yahoo began enforcing stricter requirements for bulk email senders. These guidelines focus on three main areas: authenticating outgoing emails, managing reported spam rates, and facilitating easy unsubscribes. Enforcement will start in April 2024, meaning email rejections for non-compliant senders will commence at that time.
2. Authentication Requirements: Bulk senders are now required to use established authentication practices to verify their identity. This involves implementing mechanisms like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, which help prevent email spoofing and ensure message integrity.
3. Reported Spam Rates: It's essential for senders to keep their reported spam rates low, ideally below 0.10%, to maintain a good sender reputation. Strategies such as sending emails at optimal times and providing preference centers for recipients can help reduce spam complaints and increase engagement.
4. Unsubscribe Functionality: To comply with the new rules, marketing and subscription emails must include a simple, one-click unsubscribe option. Prioritizing quality over quantity is crucial, as focusing solely on list size can negatively impact engagement metrics.
5. Concerns for Email Marketers: While experienced email marketers may find these requirements manageable, challenges may arise for organizations where email responsibilities extend beyond the marketing department. Sales teams, in particular, may need guidance on adhering to authentication standards to avoid email rejection.
6. Why the Changes? These updates aim to combat spam and enhance email security. By implementing stricter guidelines, email providers like Google aim to maintain the integrity of their platforms and improve the user experience. Additionally, these changes underscore the importance of email as a valuable communication channel amidst growing alternatives like SMS and in-app messaging.
7. Impact on B2B Senders: Companies operating in the B2B space, heavily reliant on outbound email for sales, must adapt to these new restrictions. However, Google Workspace accounts used for business purposes are exempt from these rules, offering some relief to B2B senders.
8. Multichannel Approach: Embracing a multichannel approach, particularly in account-based marketing (ABM) campaigns, can mitigate the impact of bulk email restrictions. By diversifying outreach across various channels such as email, phone calls, display ads, and social media, marketers can maintain engagement and gain valuable insights into customer behavior.

Staying informed about these new rules for bulk email sends is crucial for anyone who regularly communicates via email. By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, senders can ensure their messages reach their audience effectively while maintaining a positive sender reputation.

Contact LRS Small Business Tech Services
Ready to navigate the new rules for bulk email sends and optimize your email campaigns for success? Contact LRS Small Business Tech Services to ensure your emails reach their intended audience effectively.

In today's digital age, data is at the heart of every successful business operation. Whether it's customer information, financial records, or internal communications, protecting this data is crucial. Data breaches can lead to significant financial losses, damage to your reputation, and even legal consequences.

Data privacy refers to the proper handling and protection of sensitive information to ensure it doesn't fall into the wrong hands. This includes personal details, payment information, and any other data that could be exploited if accessed by unauthorized individuals. Let’s explore some of the key principals of data privacy.

Key Principles of Data Privacy:

1. Consent: Always seek permission before collecting any data from your customers or employees. Inform them about the purpose of data collection and how it will be used.
2. Security Measures: Implement robust security measures, such as encryption and secure passwords, to safeguard data from cyber threats.
3. Data Minimization: Only collect and store data that is necessary for your business operations. Avoid hoarding unnecessary information that could pose a risk.
4. Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of your data protection practices to identify and address any vulnerabilities.
5. Employee Training: Educate your staff on the importance of data privacy and provide them with guidelines on handling sensitive information.

At LRS Small Business Tech Services, we understand the significance of data privacy for small businesses. Our expert team can assist you in implementing the latest security measures and developing a data protection strategy tailored to your business needs.

Here’s LRS Small Business Tech Services can help:

1. Data Encryption Services: We offer state-of-the-art encryption services to ensure that your data remains secure, even in the event of a breach.
2. Security Consultations: Our team can conduct thorough security assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and provide recommendations for improvement.
3. Employee Training Programs: LRS Small Business Tech Services can organize training programs to educate your employees on best practices for data privacy.

As we observe Data Privacy Week, let's commit to making data protection a top priority for our businesses. By understanding the principles of data privacy and implementing security measures, we can ensure the longevity and success of our enterprises. 

Contact LRS Small Business Tech Services to be your partner in safeguarding your business's data.

The end of support marks a pivotal moment for businesses using Server 2012. While it doesn’t spell immediate disaster, it does necessitate a proactive response to ensure the security and efficiency of your operations. Here’s how our clients and small businesses can navigate this transition effectively with the help of LRS Small Business Tech Services:

1. Assess the Impact: Understanding the implications of the end of support for Server 2012 is crucial. Our team at LRS can conduct a comprehensive assessment of your current system, identifying risks associated with the unsupported platform and providing insights into potential vulnerabilities and compliance issues.

2. Explore Upgrade Options: LRS Small Business Tech Services can assist in evaluating and implementing newer operating systems like Windows Server 2019 or 2022. Our experts will guide you through the features, compatibility, and support duration, helping you make an informed decision aligned with your business needs.

3. Plan and Strategize: Developing a migration plan requires careful consideration. Our experts can collaborate with you to create a comprehensive strategy, offering timelines, resource allocation, and proactive solutions to mitigate challenges during the transition.

4. Data Backup and Security Measures: LRS Small Business Tech Services prioritizes data security. We will help you establish backup systems and implement security measures.

5. Seek Expert Guidance: LRS Small Business Tech Services offers expert guidance throughout the migration process. Our IT professionals specialize in server migrations, ensuring a streamlined process with minimal disruptions to your business operations.

Microsoft's end of support for Server 2012 signifies an opportunity for businesses to modernize their infrastructure and strengthen their IT capabilities. Embracing newer technologies not only ensures security and stability but also unlocks features and enhancements that can significantly benefit your business operations.

At LRS Small Business Tech Services, we understand the challenges of navigating technology transitions. We're ready to support our clients in this crucial phase of upgrading and securing their IT infrastructure. Contact us to learn how we can help you smoothly transition from Server 2012 to newer, supported systems.

Here's why MFA is essential and how LRS Small Business Tech Services can help:

Affordable and Effective: Small businesses often operate with tight budgets, but the good news is that MFA offers robust security without imposing a financial burden. It's a cost-effective means to strengthen your cybersecurity defenses. What truly distinguishes us is our partnership with DUO. This partnership enables us to deliver the most affordable and effective MFA solutions, ensuring that cost isn't a barrier to your security needs. Importantly, it allows us to offer an MFA service that not only enhances your security but also uniquely bridges the MFA feature to items that may not naturally support it, including tasks like logging into your PC.

Guarding Against Password Weakness: Cybercriminals frequently target small businesses due to their perceived vulnerability. Too many businesses use weak passwords which make them easy prey. MFA adds an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of unauthorized access even when passwords are compromised.

Remote Work Assurance: The rise of remote work has transformed how small businesses operate. While it provides flexibility, remote work also introduces new security challenges. MFA plays a pivotal role in securing remote access, ensuring that only authorized individuals can connect to your systems from anywhere.

Building Customer Trust: Trust is an asset in the world of small business. By implementing MFA, you demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding customer data. This not only strengthens your security posture but also enhances customer trust and loyalty.

Rapid Recovery from Breaches: While prevention is ideal, preparing for worst-case scenarios is essential. In case of a security breach, MFA limits damage by preventing unauthorized access. This means faster recovery, reduced financial impact, and minimized reputational damage.

Scalability and User-Friendliness: MFA solutions can scale as your business grows. They are designed to be user-friendly, ensuring even non-technical employees can use them seamlessly.

At LRS Small Business Tech Services, our experts are ready to help you implement MFA seamlessly, ensuring your business enjoys the benefits of enhanced security without the hassle. Don't underestimate the power of MFA in securing your small business—it's not just an option; it's a necessity in today's digital age.

Strengthen your business today with MFA, with the trusted support of LRS Small Business Tech Services and our partner DUO. Contact us to learn more about how we can fortify your cybersecurity and keep your digital assets safe.

Cybercriminals employ techniques like phishing, data breaches, and malware to steal credentials. They then sell this stolen information on the dark web, making it easily accessible to other malicious buyers.

Once hackers have compromised credentials, they can engage in identity theft, gain unauthorized access to your systems, and exploit vulnerabilities. This can lead to financial fraud, data breaches, and even reputation damage.

To protect your business, implement strong password policies, educate employees about cybersecurity best practices, keep software and systems updated, and consider investing in dark web monitoring services. These steps will help you reduce the risks of credential compromise.

Dark web monitoring is another crucial tool for businesses to implement so they can detect compromised credentials and protect their valuable information from cybercriminals. By staying proactive and implementing security measures, you can safeguard your business's reputation and maintain the trust of your customers in today's digital landscape.

Protect your small business from dark web threats today, and contact LRS Small Business Tech Services for reliable dark web monitoring! Safeguard your sensitive information and stay ahead of cybercriminals. Don't wait, contact us, and secure your business now!

They can turn to LRS Small Business Tech Services. We offer top-notch Office 365 backup services to ensure the safety and security of critical data. After all, we know that small businesses are aware that backing up your Office 365 is important, but often lack the time to address it.

Here are just four of the benefits of using Office 365 backup services:

1. Protect Against Data Loss: LRS Small Business Tech Services provides robust backup solutions for Office 365, safeguarding small businesses against data loss. With regular backups, businesses can restore accidentally deleted files, recover from user errors, and recover from user errors and malicious attacks.
2. Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with data protection regulations is essential for small businesses. LRS Small Business Tech Services understands the importance of regulatory compliance and provides Office 365 backup services that align with industry standards.
3. Increase Productivity and Efficiency: An automated Office 365 backup service helps streamline the backup process. Automated backups save time and resources and allow staff to focus on core business tasks.
4. Ensure Business Continuity: With our Office 365 backup services, small businesses can quickly restore critical data and minimize downtime to make sure their operations continue working smoothly.

Our backup solution also identifies and eliminates redundant data to optimize storage space.

By partnering with LRS, small businesses can enjoy the benefits of a secure and reliable Office 365 backup service, enabling them to focus on what matters most—their business success.

Recently, we had the opportunity to work with a business that was experiencing a significant issue with its cyber insurance policy renewal. This client’s insurer had updated its requirements regarding cyber security. The policy required multi-factor authentication (MFA) before the user could sign in. MFA is an authentication method in which a computer user is granted access only after successfully presenting two or more pieces of evidence (or factors) to an authentication mechanism. This solution needed to be in place on all 300 of their company user accounts within the next 30 days, or their cyber insurance policy would not be renewed.

After conducting a thorough assessment of their policy, LRS Small Business Tech Services suggested a specific service that could help the client resolve the issue: Cisco Duo. This two-factor authentication solution helps organizations boost security by verifying user identity, establishing device trust, and providing a secure connection to company networks and applications.

The results of the project were transformative for the client. Implementing Cisco Duo immediately resolved the issue, allowing the client to obtain secure connections to applications, improving the trustworthiness of tech devices, and allowing them to maintain their cyber security insurance policy.

Today, this client is thriving, thanks in part to the innovative solutions provided by LRS Small Business Tech Services. We are proud to have played a role in their success, and we look forward to continuing to support small businesses as they navigate the ever-changing landscape of technology.

At LRS Small Business Tech Services, we are committed to helping small businesses succeed by providing innovative IT solutions that help them stay competitive and grow their business. We’re working for small businesses 52 weeks a year, not just this special week.

If you're a small business looking to improve your IT infrastructure and stay ahead of the competition but don’t know where to start, contact us today! We can provide solutions that will help you worry less about the technology your company needs and focus more on providing the products and services your customers love.

Security is a top priority these days, whether it’s your home, car, business, or personal identity. That's because computer hacking is very common too. You’ve probably spent some time securing your online accounts.

As a home or business owner, you may have door locks and a security system, a watchdog, or motion cameras. These extra layers of protection give you extra security and peace of mind.

Similarly, you should have extra layers of computer security. Not just a password, but an extra step or two to keep things locked down. That’s called Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) verifies a user’s identity before giving the user access to private data. 

This can help prevent ransomware attacks, password theft, malware and more.

For businesses, these extra layers of security are essential to keeping your business accounts safe. We especially recommend small businesses should add MFA to their logins to protect from hackers holding their data ransom.  Various industries such as the financial and healthcare industries have specific and strict laws and regulations for cybersecurity. But every type of business can benefit from MFA.

MFA requires at least one step beyond a password, such as a text or an email verification code.

All these multi-factor options make your data even more secure and protective against phishing. The safer the better!

MFA for Business

Our Small Business Tech Services are here to help. We can review with you’re the pros and cons of each type of MFA and create a custom plan that works for your business needs and budget.

With Cisco Secure Access by Duo, it's easier than ever to integrate and use.

Email the "tech guys" at LRS Small Business Tech Services or call 217-862-9820 to protect your business with MFA.

For many clients, we manage their data backup systems and make sure that backups are performed regularly and the data can be recovered in case of a security breach. We also configure and install firewalls and anti-virus software to protect their systems from attack.

We also advise our clients on implementing strong password policies. The more complex you can make your password – at least 8 characters with a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters – the more secure you are. In addition, the more frequently you change your network password, the more secure you are.

But we understand that our clients are dealing with humans, and sometimes humans aren’t willing to do what’s best. One of our clients doesn’t require that users change passwords frequently because their users have too much trouble remembering their new passwords. So in that case, we recommend another layer of authentication besides a password.

After all, the focus has to be on security; don’t get too concerned with creating policy.

Our clients range from a three-person business to an organizations with approximately 800 workstations and everything in between. They all turn to us to monitor and maintain their networks, including their network security.

One of the security actions we urge is keeping up with updates and patches for operating systems and software. Keeping everything up to date can be crucial to keeping your network secure.

But there are special challenges.

We have some clients who need to have a PC running the Windows 7 operating system; one even has Windows XP. Why? Because those clients have special and expensive software running on those workstations, and upgrading the operating system would require the purchase of new, more expensive software.

Small businesses usually can’t afford those purchases.

The problem with both of those operating systems is that Microsoft no longer supports them. That means the company no longer releases updates and patches that can keep them secure from the latest cybersecurity threats.

Instead of taking a firm stance that the clients MUST update their operating systems and software, we looked for solutions that would keep their networks secure.

In both cases, our technicians have done everything possible to lock down both systems and maintain security. Because we manage both networks, we know where those workstations are and we’ve isolated them from the Internet.

We’re keeping those clients secure. That’s our cybersecurity mission all year long.