Learning Center: Videos
Our Learning Center Video Library is designed to provide answers to questions that we are most frequently asked. Since we have so many videos, we have separated them out into categories to help you navigate to the video that will best answer your questions. We also have a search feature on each page.
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How to Effectively Prompt AI: A Guide to Getting Better Results
Effectively prompting AI is crucial for getting the results you want, and it’s more than just typing in a simple question or request. To get tailored, accurate responses, it's important to craft your AI prompts with clarity and structure.
Should All Businesses Adopt Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
If you’re relying on just a username and password, your business is at risk. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a game-changer in cybersecurity, adding an extra layer of protection to keep unauthorized users out. In this video, we’ll explain what MFA is, and why it’s essential.
Is Buying the Cheapest IT Equipment a Smart Choice for Your Business?
The temptation to cut costs by purchasing low-priced IT products is common, especially for businesses trying to stick to a budget. But while saving money upfront might seem like a win, the truth is that opting for the cheapest IT products can end up costing your business more in the long run.
What’s the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11? Should I upgrade?
Windows 11 launched in October 2021 with several exciting changes, including a modern, streamlined design and performance improvements. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, but after that, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or bug fixes.
What is Cyber Insurance and Do You Really Need It?
In today’s digital landscape, cyber threats are everywhere—from ransomware attacks to data breaches, and everything in between. Businesses of all sizes are under constant threat of these costly incidents, so how do you prepare for the worst? This is where cyber insurance comes into play.
Can I Use OST and PST Files in the New Outlook?
Are you wondering if you can continue using OST and PST files in the new Microsoft Outlook? Historically, these file types were used by Microsoft Outlook to store data locally (PST files) or synchronize with the cloud (OST files). However, with the transition to Outlook 365, Microsoft has moved away from these older formats.
Simplex-IT’s 2024 Year in Review: Milestones, Growth & Fun!
2024 has been an incredible year for Simplex-IT, filled with achievements, milestones, and memories worth celebrating. We’re proud of the hard work, dedication, and support from our fantastic team, clients, and partners that made this year unforgettable. Here’s to an even bigger and better 2025! Join us as we recap the highlights of our year.
Why Isn't Bob in All of Our Videos Anymore?
Wondering why Bob isn't hogging the spotlight in Simplex-IT's videos anymore? Well, here's the scoop: Bob was the face of our videos for a while, but the truth is, Simplex-IT isn’t "The Bob Show"—and trust us, nobody wants that. We’ve got a whole team of brilliant people and now they’re stepping up to share their expertise on camera.
What is Social Engineering?
Social engineering is a type of cyberattack that relies on psychological manipulation rather than advanced hacking tools. Hackers use these tactics to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information. This video explains how social engineering works, common tactics used by attackers, and why business owners should care.
Microsoft’s New Outlook Update: Mandatory in 2025 & How to Switch Back
Is Microsoft forcing you to switch to the new Outlook? Yes, starting January 2025, the classic version of Outlook is getting a makeover—whether you like it or not. Here's what you need to know, including tips to navigate the transition smoothly, and if there are features you're missing or you just like the old version, how you can go back and forth to your heart's content.
What is IIOT? (Industrial Internet of Things)
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to the use of smart sensors, devices, and systems in industrial environments to collect and analyze data in real-time. Unlike the consumer-focused IoT (Internet of Things), IIoT is designed specifically to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity in sectors like manufacturing, energy, and transportation.
Should Your Business Outsource IT Management? Key Benefits and Risks
Is outsourcing IT management a smart move or a risky decision for your business? The answer depends on your specific needs and circumstances. While outsourcing can provide major advantages such as cost savings, access to specialized expertise, and the ability to focus on your core operations, it’s not without potential drawbacks.
Windows End of Life 2025: What Your Business Needs to Know Now
Time is running out! If you’re still using Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2008 R2, or Windows SBS 2011, this is your wake-up call. After March 31 2025, these operating systems will no longer receive critical security updates, leaving them vulnerable to cyber threats and exposing your business to potential risks.
What Are Business Critical Devices?
Business critical devices are the essential IT hardware that keeps your business running smoothly. Whether you're a business owner or IT professional, understanding these devices can help you mitigate risks, avoid costly downtime, and ensure your operations stay up and running.
Is Cloud Data Backed Up? | Understanding Cloud Data Protection
In this video, we explore the difference between cloud redundancy and traditional backups. Cloud providers like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon use redundancy to store your data across multiple servers and locations, protecting it from hardware failures and technical issues. But redundancy alone doesn’t equate to a full backup.
The History of the Internet: Key Moments That Shaped the Digital World
Ever wondered how the internet evolved into what it is today? From its early days as a military experiment to becoming an integral part of our daily lives, the internet has come a long way! In this video, we take you on a fascinating journey through the history of the internet, covering key milestones.
What is a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) and How Does it Work? | HDD vs SSD Explained
Curious about what a hard disk drive (HDD) is and how it works? In this video, we break down the basics of HDDs—an essential storage device for computers and electronics. Learn how HDDs store and retrieve data using spinning platters and magnetic heads, and discover the advantages of using HDDs for large-scale data storage.
What is a Solid-State Drive (SSD)?
A solid-state drive (SSD) is a data storage device known for its speed, reliability, and efficiency. Unlike HDDs that use spinning disks, SSDs rely on flash memory chips to store data. This key difference results in faster performance and enhanced durability.
Cloud Storage vs. Local Storage: What’s the Difference?
In today's digital age, choosing between cloud storage and local storage is crucial for managing and securing your data. With the ever-evolving cyberthreat landscape, understanding the key differences between these storage methods can help you make informed decisions.
What is a Foundational IT Assessment? | Secure & Optimize Your Business Technology
A Foundational IT Assessment is a critical step to ensure your business’s technology is secure, optimized, and prepared for the future. This non-invasive assessment covers four essential areas and around 50 detailed reports, with clear, actionable insights on how to improve your IT from both a business and security perspective.
How to Use Microsoft Copilot to Make Smarter Business Decisions
Feeling overwhelmed by a mountain of data and unsure where to start? You're not alone. This common issue, known as decision paralysis, can affect even the most seasoned professionals. Fortunately, Microsoft Copilot is here to help! What is Microsoft Copilot? Microsoft Copilot, integrated into Microsoft 365, acts as a virtual data expert
What is the Difference Between Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)?
In today’s remote work world, accessing company data securely is more important than ever. But what’s the best way to do that—especially when you’re moving away from traditional office setups? Enter Microsoft’s Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Windows 365. Both offer cloud-based workstations, but how do they differ?
What is SMS? Explained | Short Message Service & Its Uses
SMS is a text messaging service that allows the exchange of short messages—up to 160 characters—between mobile devices using cellular networks. Unlike messaging apps, SMS doesn’t require internet access; it only needs a cellular signal. This makes SMS incredibly useful in areas with poor or no internet coverage
What Are The Different Types of MFA?
In today's digital landscape, securing sensitive information is more crucial than ever. You've likely heard the term "Multifactor Authentication" (MFA) multiple times, but what exactly does it mean, and why is it so important? In this video, we break down the different types of MFA—knowledge, possession, inherence, and location.
What is Extensible Markup Language (XML)?
XML, or Extensible Markup Language, is a flexible and structured language designed for storing and transporting data. Unlike HTML, which focuses on displaying data, XML is all about the data itself. It uses tags to define different parts of the data, and the best part? You can define your own tags, making XML incredibly extensible.
How Does Windows Patching Work?
If you've been an IT client of ours for a while, you've probably asked yourself, "how does our windows patching work? There have been some questions about Windows Patching, especially about that little popup that shows up on your screen. Here’s the deal.
AI Showcase Recap: Real-World Success Stories with Simplex-IT
Missed our AI Showcase? Catch up on the key moments from the event! Attendees gained valuable insights into how AI can be leveraged to solve real business challenges, enhance decision-making, and unlock new opportunities.
Is Your Business Losing Money Because Employees Can't Use Tech?
Are shiny new tech tools draining your business profits instead of boosting them? Investing in advanced technology promises increased efficiency and a competitive edge, but without proper employee training and change management, it can lead to costly mistakes and decreased productivity.
Is Simplex-IT the Right IT Partner for Your Business?
Simplex-IT specializes in delivering tailored IT solutions to businesses, with a strong focus on Managed Services and Co-Managed IT. Our Managed Services are ideal for organizations without an internal IT department and for those with an internal IT team, our Co-Managed IT services provides a flexible partnership.
What is Business Email Compromise (BEC)?
In this video, we explore Business Email Compromise (BEC), a modern-day digital con game posing a significant risk to organizations of all sizes. Learn how cybercriminals gain access to corporate email accounts and use them to conduct unauthorized transactions or extract sensitive information.
What is High Availability?
In today's digital world, smooth IT operations are crucial for businesses, but interruptions can pose challenges. High Availability addresses this by ensuring IT systems operate continuously and reliably, even during failures or heavy usage.
How to Leverage Copilot for your Business
Explore how Microsoft is transforming small and medium-sized business productivity with Copilot for Microsoft 365! Initially exclusive to larger enterprises, Copilot is now available to businesses of all sizes using Microsoft 365 Business Standard or Business Premium.
What are Microsoft Copilot's New AI Innovations?
Discover the latest AI innovations in Microsoft Copilot and how they're revolutionizing productivity in Microsoft 365. From Word to Excel, PowerPoint to Teams, Copilot integrates smart features that enhance collaboration and efficiency. Learn how Copilot accelerates document creation
Arcade 2024 Recap
Every year, Simplex-IT hosts an epic anniversary celebration at Quarter Up Arcade Bar, and this year was no different. We had a fantastic time with drink tickets, delicious appetizers, and a great mix of clients, new faces, and old friends. A huge shoutout to the amazing Quarter Up staff for making this event memorable!
Microsoft Outage Linked to CrowdStrike Update: Global Impact Explained
Discover the details behind the recent Microsoft outage linked to a CrowdStrike update. Bob Coppedge, CEO of Simplex-IT, breaks down the global impact, affecting airlines, businesses, and emergency services. Learn what this outage means for your organization and the steps you need to take to stay protected.
What is the Cost Comparison Between Hiring Internal IT Vs Outsourcing IT?
When evaluating the cost comparison between hiring internal IT staff versus outsourcing IT services to a managed service provider (MSP), several factors come into play. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations- Salaries and Benefits, Training costs, Office Space and Equipment and more.
What is Internet of Things (IoT)?
Imagine a business ecosystem where devices, machines, and systems interact seamlessly to perform various tasks. By connecting these devices to the internet, they can communicate, collect data, and make autonomous decisions. This interconnected network is what we call the Internet of Things (IoT). How Does IoT Work?
What is a Secure Email Gateway?
A Secure Email Gateway is a specialized software solution designed to monitor, filter, and protect email traffic entering and leaving an organization's ecosystem. It serves as a virtual checkpoint, sorting through every email to identify and neutralize potential threats before they reach their intended recipients.
What Is Microsoft Security Copilot?
Microsoft Security Copilot is a generative AI-powered security solution. It provides tailored insights that empower your team to defend your network. It also works with other Microsoft security products. Microsoft Security Copilot helps security teams respond to cyber threats, process signals, and assess risk exposure.
How Do I Export Device Configuration & Information files in Auvik?
In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through the process of exporting device configuration and information files in Auvik. This video is part of a series created by Simplex-IT for our clients to better use the tools included in their service agreements.
What is the Difference Between WPA, WPA2, and WPA3?
In the ever-evolving world of technology, securing our wireless networks is crucial to protecting our data and privacy. If you've ever wondered about those cryptic acronyms like WPA, WPA2, and WPA3, this video is here to help you understand the basics of wireless security.
How Can I Stay Updated on my Service Ticket?
You just submitted a service ticket and don’t know what’s next. Here’s what you can expect: Throughout the life of your ticket, you’ll receive emails when the ticket is updated. Sometimes these updates are automatically generated, and other times they are messages from real life technicians.
How Do I Complete The Required Cybersecurity Training Through Phin?
In this brief video, we'll introduce you to Phin emails and guide you through the essential steps for taking the required cybersecurity training courses. Learn how to navigate your Phin emails, understand their importance in cybersecurity, and complete your training effectively.
What is a Browser Cache?
Think of the browser cache as a temporary memory storage system. When you visit a website for the first time, your browser downloads all the necessary files needed to display the webpage properly. These files can include HTML documents, images, CSS stylesheets, JavaScript files, and more.
How Do I Use The Phin Admin Portal?
Welcome to our Phin Admin Introduction tutorial! In this brief video, we'll guide you through the Phin Admin portal, the hub for managing your cybersecurity training and simulated phishing attacks.
How Do I Assign Courses in Bigger Brains?
In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of assigning courses in Bigger Brains. Whether you're an admin or a new user, this video will provide all the insights you need to effectively assign courses to your learners.
How Do I Create Learning Paths in Bigger Brains?
Welcome to our step-by-step tutorial on creating learning paths in Bigger Brains! 🎓 In this video, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up customized learning paths to enhance your training programs.
What is a Smart City?
A smart city is a city that uses technology and data to improve the lives of its residents and make urban living more efficient, sustainable, and enjoyable. But what makes the city "smart?" and while technology improvements offer many benefits, what are the potential issues if safety measures aren't in place?
Are QR Codes Safe? Tips for Using Them Securely
QR codes are everywhere nowadays, right? You see them on menus, posters, flyers—pretty much everywhere. They're super handy too! Just whip out your phone, snap a pic, and bam! You're directed to a link, a discount, or even a video. But hold up, there's a sneaky side to these little squares.
Level up Your Team’s Cybersecurity Knowledge (and Test ‘em)
Cybersecurity Training. Simulated Phishing. It's included with your Model '23 and '24 agreement. Learn how to track your employees and see if they're clicking where they shouldn't. This isn't just another training tool. It's a dynamic solution designed to engage and empower your team members with concise, entertaining videos packed with actionable insights.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malware that hackers use to encrypt your files or lock you out of your own computer or device. Once your files are encrypted or your device is locked, the cybercriminals demand a ransom payment from you, usually in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, in exchange for the key or code to unlock your files or device.
What is Innovation Debt?
Innovation debt, also known as technical debt, is a term used to describe the costs that companies and organizations incur when they delay investing in new technologies or ideas that can help them remain competitive.
How Do You Submit a Service Ticket?
Submitting a service ticket is an important part of working with your IT provider, but it shouldn’t be complicated! Here at Simplex-IT we have an easy process for you! So how do you submit a service ticket? There are three options.
What is the difference between 3G, 4G, 5G?
What is the difference between 3G, 4G, 5G? Let's break down the differences between 3G, 4G, and 5G in a simple way, without getting too technical. 3G was the third generation of mobile networks, providing faster data transfer speeds compared to its predecessor, 2G.
Elevate Your Team's Skills with Bigger Brains
Bob explains the power of Bigger Brains' extensive library of over 200 eLearning courses, focusing on essential business productivity tools such as Microsoft 365, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and is tailored for professionals at all levels. Take you and your team’s skills to the next level
What is SPOF or Single Point of Failure?
A Single Point of Failure is a potential risk caused by a flaw in the design, implementation, or configuration of a system. It’s the one fault that can shut down an entire system. This could be in your cybersecurity, networking, and similar aspects.
What To Do With Your Eclipse Glasses After The Eclipse?
Wondering what to do with your eclipse glasses now that the eclipse is over?
Check out the website: astronomerswithoutborders.org
What is Operating System?
So you have a computer, and you want to do various tasks like writing documents, browsing the internet, or playing games. To make these tasks possible, your computer needs something to manage and coordinate all the different parts inside it. This is where the operating system (OS) comes in.
Recap of Cybersecurity Event - Thank You for Joining!
Missed out on the incredible evening at Missing Falls Brewery? Don't worry! We've got you covered with an exclusive recap of the event that brought together cybersecurity experts, beer enthusiasts, and eclipse enthusiasts! A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us for this incredible event!
What is Firmware?
Ever received a "Firmware update available" notification and wondered what you're actually updating? In this video, we break down the concept of firmware, the unsung hero embedded in our devices. Firmware is a specialized type of software embedded in hardware devices, dictating how they function.
What is Network Monitoring?
Network monitoring is the process of observing and analyzing the traffic and behavior of computer networks to ensure they are performing optimally and securely. They make sure everything is in order and there are no suspicious activities or potential threats.
New AI Service at Simplex-IT
Announcing Simplex-IT’s new AI service. AI has been all the buzz lately so we figured we would jump on the bandwagon and add on a new service for all of our clients. Don’t worry if you’re not already a client, for today only you can add this once in a lifetime service on to any agreement at no additional cost, just use the code APRIL FOOLS.
What is DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM)?
DKIM, DomainKeys Identified Mail, is used to authenticate an email. It uses a digital signature to let the email recipient know the message and content of the email was authorized by the domain owner. How does DKIM work? Actually it's fairly complicated in terms of generating public and private keys in order to verify the content of your email.
Managing Your Passwords the Safe way with Keeper
In this webinar, we will show you the basics of Keeper, a security vault that allows you to securely access and manage your passwords across devices. Kurt and Bob will tell you how to use this tool to increase security on your accounts without having to memorize dozens of complicated passwords. Keeper is included for your management team in our new Model Year ’24 agreement!
Securing Your Tomorrow: An Intro To Our Advanced MDR Solution Webinar
Sophos MDR expert, Christopher Glick, gives an eye-opening session on Managed Detection and Response (MDR). Picture this: a fully managed 24/7 service delivered by top-notch experts who constantly detect and respond to cyberattacks targeting every facet of your digital infrastructure.
What is Sender Policy Framework or SPF?
Sender Policy Framework (SPF) is an email authentication protocol designed to prevent email spoofing and spam. It restricts who can use an organization's domain as the sender of the email. In most phishing attacks, threat actors usually spoof the sender's email address to look official. SPF prevents that from being received.
Happy Pi Day 🥧
Today is one of our favorite holidays – it's Pi Day! For those of you who don't know, March 14th is Pi Day and celebrates the famous never-ending number. And since we're a bunch of IT nerds, we take this day very seriously. Every year on Pi Day, we take the time to thank our clients and some other local businesses by delivering a pie to their offices.
What is DMARC?
DMARC, Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance, is an email security protocol that verifies email senders by building on the DNS services and the SPF, and DKIM protocols. It was created to block the threat of email spoofing, domain spoofing, email phishing, business email compromise, and other email-based attacks.
What is DMARC the Simplified Version?
Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance. It’s actually a 4 letter acronym that really takes advantage of a 3 letter and a 4 letter acronym, SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail). So together we have an 11 letter acronym. And if you want emails from your company to be safely delivered, better pay attention.
What is RAM?
RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a dynamic player in the world of computer memory. Unlike storage devices, RAM is volatile and acts as the computer's short-term memory, storing actively used and processed data. Imagine your computer's RAM as a desk – the larger it is, the more tasks and processes it can handle simultaneously.
What is an Insider Threat?
An insider threat refers to the risk or potential harm posed to an organization's data, systems, or security by individuals who have authorized access to the organization's resources. These individuals could be current/ former employees, contractors, or business partners…
What is the Difference Between a CIO & a vCIO?
A CIO (Chief Information Officer) is a high-level executive responsible for overseeing a company's information technology (IT) strategy and operations. On the other hand, a vCIO (virtual Chief Information Officer) is a consultant or an outsourced service provider who provides similar services as a CIO, but on a part-time or project basis.
Play VideoWhat is the Difference Between Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Mixed Reality?
In recent years, technology has rapidly changed the way we interact with the digital world. There are two terms that have been used over the past few years that may sound familiar. VR, Virtual Reality, and AR, or Augmented Reality. One you probably haven’t heard of as much is MR, or Mixed Reality.
What is a Cookie?
What is a cookie? Besides being a wonderful little dessert, a cookie is also a tech term. Imagine you're at a party, and the host gives you a sticker with your name on it. This sticker helps the host remember your name throughout the party, so they can greet you by name and offer you things you might like.
What is a BCDR device?
A BCDR device stands for Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery device. It's a specialized tool that helps businesses protect their data and IT infrastructure in case of unexpected events like natural disasters, power outages, cyber attacks, and hardware failures.
CMMC Proposed Rules
CMMC Proposed Rule Published with Bob Coppedge, CEO @simplex-it and Tim Golden CEO @compliancescorecard . What's Impacted? What to do? Need to Know More?
What is a Server?
A server, in the IT world, is a specialized, powerful computer that serves a specific purpose. A server is a super-smart, super-organized computer that does important jobs for other devices, like your regular home computer or phone. It's not meant for browsing the internet, playing games, or watching videos.
What do the Abbreviations EDR, MDR, MTR, and XDR Mean?
When talking about cybersecurity solutions, there’s a ton of different acronyms and abbreviations. You’ve probably heard about EDR, MDR, MTR, and XDR. But what do all of these mean? Let’s dive in.
What is a Router?
Think of your home or office as a city, and the internet as a vast network of roads connecting different cities. Now, think of a router as the traffic cop for your city. A router is a device that helps your computer or other devices connect to the internet. Here's how it works!
What is Bring Your Own Device or BYOD?
“Bring Your Own Device” - or BYOD – is a policy where employees use their personal devices (phones, laptops, tablets, etc.) for work, rather than company-provided devices. It has become more popular recently for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the desire for reduction in device maintenance for companies – and the associated cost.
Simplex-IT Holiday Party
Cheers to unforgettable moments and festive celebrations! Wishing you all a joyous holiday season filled with warmth and happiness from all of us at Simplex-IT!
What is a TSP?
TSP stands for Technology Success Partner. Some will argue that this is necessary. That a TSP encompasses support for all of your IT. Including your Cloud, security, and…umm…IT. I think the concept is that an MSP has a more sophisticated view of IT than an MSP. Somehow. By some arbitrary measure. An All-in-one IT solution.
What If I'm Not Tech-Savvy but I Need IT Services?
Working with an IT Managed Service Provider, MSP, can sound like a daunting task if you don't have any prior knowledge about IT. Instead of trying to go in blind, here are some tips to help you get started.
Who Are Some Other IT Outsourcing Companies in Northeast Ohio?
At Simplex-IT, we have the privilege of meeting with numerous businesses in Northeast Ohio each year to discuss their IT outsourcing needs. With our extensive experience and expertise in the IT industry, as well as our willingness to share our honest thoughts and feelings….
How Do I Get Started with Simplex-IT?
Here at Simplex-IT, we understand looking for a new IT provider isn't fun. Pushy salespeople. Condescending IT jerks. We take a consultative approach, because we’re genuinely interested in supporting the success of your business through IT.
Microsoft Teams Exploratory
Microsoft Teams Exploratory is essentially a 12 month free license for your organization to use Teams. 12 months later Microsoft is going to tell you how it's expiring and you should do something about it. What they don't do is they don't bother to take a look and see whether or not the organization is already using Teams.
What's the Difference Between an MSP and an MSSP?
Managed service providers (MSPs) and managed security services providers (MSSPs) are two terms that are often used interchangeably in the IT industry, but they are not the same thing. While there may be some overlap in the services they provide, there are significant differences between the two.
How Can I Tell If An Email Is A Scam?
So, you just got an email. We get so many every day, but how can we be sure they’re legitimate? Let’s talk about how to identify a malicious email. The first thing that you need to know is that malicious actors often rely on urgency. No matter what the situation is take your time…
What is a Tabletop Exercise?
A tabletop exercise is an opportunity for your organization to practice what happens in the event of an incident. The most common tabletop exercises are incident response and disaster recovery. This is where people within your organization can work in a simulated environment to resolve a problem using the process and procedures that you should have in place.
What is a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)?
In today's digital age, data security has become a top priority for organizations across industries. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks, it's critical for businesses to have a dedicated professional responsible for their overall information security. This is where the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) comes in.
What Is a Business Impact Analysis?
Business impact analysis (BIA) is an essential component of a company's risk management process. It involves assessing and analyzing potential risks that could disrupt the organization's operations and result in financial or reputational losses.
What Is Windows End of Life?
Windows end of life is a critical aspect that every individual and organization should be aware of to ensure the safety and security of their systems and sensitive data. In simple terms, Windows end of life refers to the point when Microsoft stops supporting a version of Windows.
Why Do I Need to Update my Technology?
We’ve all been there, going about our day and then we receive the notification ‘An update is available for your software, install now?’ This can be annoying, but it’s actually a critical item to maintain the security of your applications.
What Are Good Password Habits?
In today’s connected world we often have dozens of online accounts – whether it be for banking, shopping, work, or entertainment. But it often seems like every time we turn around another service was compromised or there’s an attempt to hack into accounts. So what can you do to keep your accounts safe and secure?
What Is Endpoint Detection and Response?
At its core, EDR is an evolution of antivirus software. Whereas traditional antivirus tools rely on signature-based scanning to detect known malicious files, EDR takes a more comprehensive approach.
Why Might an MSP's Pricing Change Year to Year?
It’s easy to just say “inflation” when someone asks why there’s a price increase for what seems to be the same service from one year to the next. And boy, there's truth there. But it can be more complicated than that.
What Technology Policies Should I Have For My Organization?
Short answer, it depends. Some common policies that are important for all companies to have are: - An acceptable use policy that defines what employees are allowed to do and not to do in the organization – especially around how they use technology.
How do MSP’s Charge for their Services?
When you’re shopping for IT services, It’s important to understand the different pricing models that MSPs and IT providers use. Not only do you want your provider to be transparent in their pricing and their model in general, but you need to know when you’re comparing providers as well.
Can I Eliminate Risk?
Not really. There's always going to be some inherent risk in everything we do. But there are different responses that you can take to reduce that risk. For instance, you can mitigate the risk by putting appropriate controls and safeguards in place to decrease the impact of that risk.
What Happens When I Submit a Support Ticket?
You can submit a support ticket in a number of different ways, give a call, send an email, use our portal. However you decide to submit it, we handle them all with the same process. As soon as our service desk receives your ticket, it’s assigned a tracking number and triaged for impact and severity.
How do we Create Our Videos?
Have you ever wondered how we make our videos? Well Hayley is here to explain just how we do it and even share some tips on how you can get started making videos for your business.
What Is Security Awareness Training?
Security awareness training is a critical component of any organization's security strategy. It involves training employees on common security risks and how to recognize and avoid them. This includes identifying phishing emails, scam calls, and text messages, as well as learning how to follow electronic funds transfer and more.
What is Business Intelligence?
BI stands for “Business Intelligence”. Like all acronyms in IT, the definition varies. But I like this definition: BI is a collection of software that allows organizations to analyze existing data and receive meaningful results. Think for a minute about your organization. How it collects data as part of its business.
Simplex-IT 2023 Annual Celebration Recap
On July 19th, 2023, we hosted our 16th annual anniversary party with an astonishing turnout of around 70 people. Thank you to everyone who made it out to celebrate 16 years of Simplex-IT! If you couldn’t make it this year, check out next year, that'll be the 17th annual because that's how things work around here.
How Can IT Create Value For Your Organization?
This question is tougher than it sounds. The simple answer is “try running your organization without IT”. But that’s lazy. Here are several types of improvements that IT can bring to most organizations. Of course, your mileage may vary.
How Can I Prevent Getting Ripped Off by an MSP?
As technology continues to advance, businesses of all sizes rely on their IT to support their success. With this growing reliance on technology comes the need for expert IT support, leading many businesses to turn to IT Managed Service Providers (MSPs). However, not all MSPs are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can be a costly mistake.
Will Simplex-IT Make My Organization CMMC Compliant?
CMMC stands for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. CMMC is a program that the Department of Defense is implementing to ensure the confidentiality of sensitive information.
What Questions Should I Ask An IT Provider Before Signing Up?
If you're a business owner looking to partner with an IT provider, there are a few important questions you need to ask before signing up. In this video, we'll explore five crucial questions that will help you find the right IT partner.
What If We're Hacked?
Ok, first of all, got a cyber response plan? Use it. If you don't? Then if you have cyber insurance, contact your insurance people. If you're not sure, contact your IT support folks. But don't start "fixing the problem. You actually could make it worse.
How Do I Select a Reputable IT Provider?
Are you a business owner or manager looking to select a reputable IT provider but not sure where to start? In this video, we will discuss some key factors you should consider when selecting a reputable IT provider.
How Frequently Should I Back Up My Data?
Backing up data is a critical process for any business to ensure the continuity of its operations in the event of a disaster. The frequency of backups, however, depends on several factors that are unique to each organization.
What's the alternative to a Managed Service Provider?
While MSPs are excellent for ongoing IT support and management, they may not always be the best fit for your organization. We discuss various alternatives such as Staff Augmentation/Temp Agencies, Project-Based Services, Cloud Service Providers, Freelance IT Consultants, and IT Outsourcing/Break-Fix Companies.
MSI Firmware Risk
Last month, the hardware company MSI was compromised by a malicious entity. These bad guys were able to steal source code, development code, and private keys. The big concern comes from the theft of those private keys. What do private keys do?
Does My Old Exchange Still Work?
Does your organization have an unsupported version of Exchange (2013 or older), or you’re not keeping up with patching? If so, you might be looking at some problems delivering emails to MS 365 in the near future.
How Does Malware Get Into My Company?
There are a couple of different ways. The most common is via the web. It can be from a malicious ad that you click on, a redirect that takes you to somewhere you didn’t expect to be, or even just from clicking on the wrong link in your search results.
How Do Hackers Use AI?
Hackers are using AI the same way businesses are starting to use AI. They're looking at those repeatable tasks that that are being done and seeing if there's more effective ways to do it. But we're also seeing it lowering that barrier to entry.
IT Self-Assessment Workshop Recap
Thank you to everyone who attended our recent IT Self-Assessment Workshop. Your presence and participation made it a great success! We hope it provided you with new insights and ideas for improving your organization's IT capabilities.
How Can I Use AI In Manufacturing?
These are just a few examples of how AI can be used in manufacturing. By leveraging the power of AI, manufacturers can gain insights into their operations that might otherwise go unnoticed, and make more informed decisions to improve their processes and products.
What is DNS?
DNS, or “Domain Naming Services or System or Server”, is why stuff works on the internet. When you go to our website, “Simplex-IT.com”, how does your browser know what server actually hosts that web site? DNS..
How Much Do IT Services Cost?
To tackle this topic, we're going to break the managed service providers (MSP for short) into three tiers. On the low end are MSP's that almost exclusively compete on price. How can they be so inexpensive? Simple. They don't include a lot of services that either protect you or increase your productivity.