Endpoint detection and response (EDR) and managed threat response (MTR) are crucial to cybersecurity. Here’s what you need to know.
The end of Windows 7 is quickly approaching. Don’t wait to upgrade to Windows 10 otherwise you may compromise everything that you worked for.
Circle January 14th, 2020 on your calendars now, because that will officially be the end of Windows 7 as we know it. Now that this operating system is on life support, it’s important for businesses to move on. Fortunately, Microsoft introduced a new solution in 2018 to make this easier for everyone. But while more and more businesses are converting to the Windows 10 model, we’ve broken down everything you need to do in the meantime.
The Ultimate Guide to Windows 7 End of Life
Before Windows 7 officially becomes a past time, there are a few important things that you should know. This is what you need to keep in mind when preparing for Windows 7 end of life:
Vulnerabilities at Risk
When it comes to network security, taking a proactive approach is always your best option. If you choose not to move on from Windows 7, then be prepared to face the consequences. Sure, you could pay extra for extended support, but there’s no escaping the inevitable. The fact is that Windows 7 is guaranteed to become obsolete, so why waste your money to keep this operating system running for a few extra months? It won’t matter once it reaches end-of-life status anyways. Once the support date passes, the floodgates to your network will be lifted, allowing for a variety of hazards to cripple your most important data.
These are some of the most alarming issues to be concerned with:
- Malware Viruses
- Adware Scams
- Ransomware Invasions
- Zero-Day Attacks
- Crypto-Jacking
- Computer Worms
- Trojan Horses
- Phishing Attacks
- IoT Attacks
- Malicious Bots
What You Should Expect
With extinction in site, Windows 7 systems are only inviting more security hazards. And most of these threats are just getting more malicious as time goes on. Since the threat landscape is expanding, we may start to see more companies fail to meet their business objectives. What’s most concerning is that some of these network hazards are strong enough to put businesses completely out of operation.
To further avoid these issues, we can expect to see more companies adopt Microsoft’s latest OS platform. With a Windows 10 enterprise system, you’ll be able to take advantage of more managed security support. This solution will help save businesses time and money that would be otherwise spent tending to disruptions. By updating your infrastructure with this technology, your business gains an edge, where your staff can perform more efficiently and turn a profit much faster.
Steps to Prepare
Windows 7 isn’t completely obsolete yet, but you should still have an effective defense strategy to keep your infrastructure ahead of the curve. To do that, you’ll need to follow these six critical steps:
- Audit your IT system: Examine your infrastructure and make note of any alarming concerns. Keep a record of any hardware or software that needs to be updated or replaced with something better.
- Update or extend: If you’re really not ready to let go of your legacy system, then signing up for extended support is always an option. This is a limited solution though, so you may want to commit to the full makeover. With this said, it’s wise to adopt the latest version of Windows 10.
- Establish a game plan: Once you decide what to do with your IT, you’ll need to prioritize your data. Collaborate with an experienced IT specialist and develop a migration timeline so you get access to your most important documents in the most efficient operating system.
- Add more security: You can never be too careful when it comes to protecting your data. Allowing for managed security can help prevent disaster from striking your network. Windows 10 is updated with a stronger layer of protection, so it is more immune to cybersecurity issues roaming around the web.
- Educate the staff: Provide training sessions to show your staff how to properly use your operating system. Make sure that the instructions are clear and filled with best practice advice.
- Create a backup strategy: When it comes to IT management, two of the most crucial components are disaster recovery and data backup. Establishing a proactive backup plan gives your network more cushion, as it ensures that you always have a firm grip on your most important information.
Call CTMS to Update Your Operating System
Moving from Windows 7 doesn’t have to be difficult. The CTMS team can help make the migration as seamless as possible for your business. And since you have less than a year to make the switch, now is the perfect time to makeover your infrastructure with this fresh and innovative source of technology. Whether you are ready to bring Windows 10 into your home or office, or you just have concerns about Windows 7 end of life, CTMS will help you find peace of mind through it all. Give us a call to schedule a free IT consultation with a Windows 10 pro!
When it comes to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, the experts at CTMS deliver sophisticated solutions that streamlines communication and boost productivity in the workplace.
Traditional phone systems no longer have a place in the world of business. When it comes to business telecommunications, VoIP technology is the staple for offices, large and small. Since these intuitive phone systems are heavily reliant on the power of an internet connection, there is no need to put up with anymore messy hardwiring. But these multi-line solutions are good for much more than just placing and receiving telephone calls. Today’s surplus of VoIP solutions brings a wave of innovation and efficiency to virtually any type of work environment.
A Sophisticated Collection of VoIP Solutions
When it comes to VoIP technology, there is no one-size-fits-all option. There are plenty of unique solutions dedicated for specific business purposes and choosing that right solution is no easy task. Fortunately, you can enhance your business with any of these world-class solutions:
Integrated Access
This unique VoIP service is the closest thing you’ll get to a traditional phone line. An integrated access device (IAD) automatically transmit phone signals through a wide area of networks. By taking this approach, you’ll be able to integrate your VoIP software with any working legacy phone systems that you have. This helps preserve your old equipment while eliminating the need to change your phone number in the process.
SIP Trunks
Session Initial Protocol (SIP) is a flexible VoIP solution that transmits voice and video data to multiple users. A SIP trunk is popular VoIP software for businesses due to its compatibility with most cloud-based phone systems. If you decide to take advantage of a SIP trunk, you eliminate the need to purchase a physical phone line. Users will only be responsible for paying for used minutes, so this can help businesses save a substantial amount of money in the long run. Finally, SIP trunks are scalable solutions, which makes them the ideal small business phone systems.
PBX Systems
One of the most common forms of VoIP technology is PBX or private branch exchange. To put it simply, a PBX is like having your own private telephone network. PBX technology gives administrators the ability to manage calls both internally and externally. Think of a PBX like a specialized phone route for companies. This unique solution can be managed on-premise, through the cloud, or even in a hybrid outlet that combines the two. When it comes to business VoIP, there are two primary PBX solutions that you can choose from.
- Managed IP: This is a unified communication solution that’s managed by a third-party. Though the phone service is outsourced, the hardware is housed on-site. Managed IP PBX solutions generate charges based on how many phone lines are in your particular network. Your telecom provider will take care of all management responsibilities including configurations, upgrades, and software migrations.
- Hosted IP: With hosted PBX, all responsibilities lie solely with your telecom provider. This includes hardware deployments, software decisions, maintenance, security treatments, and so much more. Hosted IP solutions are popular solutions for small and medium-sized businesses as it saves business owners a significant amount of time and money. Since you don’t have to worry about purchasing equipment or installing hardware, you’ll be free to focus on more critical priorities. Additionally, users will also be able to utilize many unique functions like call queueing, call to message conversions, and auto attendant support.
Let CTMS Make the Decision Easy
The experts at Computer Technology Management Services work tirelessly to support businesses with technology that fuels growth. We’ll be there every step of the way to set your business up for success. If you’re ready to take advantage of an affordable VoIP phone system makes workplace communication easier, then contact us today to schedule your free consultation with one of our certified technicians.
