Windows 10 has served us well. But its time is running out. Microsoft plans to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025 which means Windows 10 devices will no longer receive security updates, patches, or support.
Because of this, it’s very important to upgrade your OS or replace your PC before October of next year. This change isn’t just about getting new features. It’s about ensuring your PC stays secure, fast, and capable.
Why You Need to Upgrade Now:
No more updates mean no more security patches. Year after year, we learn that the vast majority of successful cyber-attacks have exploited unpatched computers and/or unpatched applications. What is even more interesting is that most of the patches for these compromised systems had been available to install for months, if not years prior to the cyber-attack.
Keeping your devices on Windows 10 could leave your systems vulnerable to security risks such as viruses or breaches, compromising your businesses data and ruining your reputation. Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures you will receive the latest security updates as they’re released.
What’s New with Windows 11?
Feature #1: New Taskbar
Previous Windows versions feature an iconic taskbar, but it can sometimes get clunky. Windows 11 provides a streamlined solution.
The new taskbar is perfect for expediting work, as it can contain a list of recent cloud and local files. You can also pin various apps to improve access and utilize a search bar that allows for convenient web browsing.
Feature #2: Windows Grouping and Snapping
The enhanced Snap Group and Snap Layout features allow you to resize and manage windows more easily. You also get to keep essential apps grouped to maintain high productivity.
Using the feature is relatively straightforward: Just hover the mouse over the maximize button on the desired app to reveal your layout options. You can choose between several arrangements, such as four-app grids and side-by-side layouts.
And if your team needs to perform basic window management, they can still grab and pull windows to the edge of their screen.
Feature #3: Improve Accessibility Options
Windows 11 follows in the footsteps of many smartphones to simplify setting changes and make them easily accessible. Pulling up your control panel now only requires one tap or click in the taskbar corner, replicating Apple’s Control Centre.
Furthermore, Windows 11 apps feature aesthetic, curved corners, and your Settings incorporate more options you can tweak. For instance, blind or vision impaired users can take advantage of cutting-edge audio cues. There are also desktop themes to help reduce eye strain, which is essential if you work long hours.
On top of that, the new operating system has revamped voice typing. You can activate this with a simple keyboard shortcut. This feature supports most major languages, including English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, and Portuguese.
Feature #4: Better App Store
Many apps can enhance workplace productivity, but you’ll first need to find them on your PC’s app store. Fortunately, Windows 11 came up with an organized and coherent platform to make the search easier.
Besides universal apps, you can check out the applications compatible with your devices. The platform can also handle programs from third-party stores and manage app installation on the internet.
Which Features Were Left Behind?
Overall, Windows 11 should work great for your business but bear in mind that Microsoft left out some features that were a staple in previous versions:
Excluded Feature #1: Taskbar Customization
Windows 10 users can move their taskbar from the horizontal position to the left, right, or upper part of their screen. In contrast, the Windows 11 taskbar is fixed at the bottom of the display, and you can’t customize the dimensions.
Another significant change is that you can no longer move the Time and Date on your taskbar. Windows 10 didn’t have this problem since you could toggle off the Clock feature in your Settings.
Excluded Feature #2: Drag-and-Drop Features
Windows 10 and some earlier versions allowed you to drag several items to change their position. For example, you could drag a Word document onto your Word icon on the taskbar to open it.
This function is disabled in Windows 11. There’s no way to drag and drop or save any program or file onto your taskbar.
Excluded Feature #3: Cortana
Cortana is a voice assistant counterpart of Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. Many people are used to it and may be disappointed to hear that it’s not a part of the Windows 11 system setup. You can’t even locate it in your start menu.
The good news is that the Cortana application can still be found – it’s just hidden away. You can enable it by visiting Settings and navigating to Apps & Features.
Windows 11 is designed to be faster and more efficient. It optimizes your hardware, providing better performance.
Need Assistance Upgrading?
Databranch recommends updating your devices to the latest version of Windows or replacing your hardware before October of 2025. Our engineers are more than happy to assist your team when it comes to these changes. Fill out the form below and one of our staff members will reach out.
You can also contact us today at 716-373-4467 option 6, or [email protected] if you would like our assistance with this transition.
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Whether you’re a small business or a multinational corporation, your success hinges on the integrity and availability of critical data. Every transaction, customer interaction and strategic decision relies on this precious asset.
As your dependence on data grows, so do the risks. Cyberthreats and data breaches aren’t just potential disruptions when you possess valuable and sensitive data; they’re existential threats that can undermine your business continuity.
Key Considerations for Data Security
Fortunately, ensuring data security is achievable with the right strategies. Here are some steps you should consider taking:
Data Backups:
Regularly back up your data to secure off-site locations. Cloud storage services by reliable providers are a good choice. Consider using external hard drives or network-attached storage (NAS) devices. These backups ensure that even if your primary systems are compromised, you can swiftly recover essential information.
Databranch offers our BCDR solution from Datto, the leader in Total Data Protection. Not only will the Datto backup all your data to the device itself, but it will also backup everything to 2 separate offsite cloud storage locations.
So, in the event that the local device is destroyed, you can still access your information even from a remote location.
With Datto you will receive daily backup verifications and screen shots of your virtual servers, giving you peace of mind and ensure that your backup data is working and accessible to you when you need it.
Encryption:
Encryption is your digital armor. It protects sensitive data during transmission (when it’s being sent) and at rest (when it’s stored). Implement strong encryption algorithms like Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to render data unreadable to unauthorized individuals. Remember that encryption scrambles data, making it inaccessible to anyone without the decryption key.
Access Control:
Implement strict access controls to limit who can view or modify sensitive information. Role-based access control (RBAC) can effectively assign permissions based on job functions.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security. It requires additional verification steps (such as one-time codes sent to mobile devices) to ensure that only authorized personnel can access critical data.
Remote Work Security:
As scattered work environments become more commonplace, secure remote access is vital. Here’s how you can implement it:
- Virtual private networks (VPNs): Use VPNs to create a secure connection between remote devices and your internal network. This shields data from prying eyes.
- Secure remote desktop protocols: If employees access company systems remotely, ensure they use secure protocols like RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) over encrypted channels.
- Strong password policies: Enforce robust password policies. Encourage passphrase-based authentication for added strength.
Incident Response Plan:
Develop a detailed incident response plan. Consider the following:
- Roles and responsibilities: Clearly define who does what during a data breach or cyberattack.
- Communication protocols: Establish channels to notify stakeholders, including customers, employees and regulatory bodies.
- Recovery procedures: Outline steps to recover affected systems and data promptly.
Continuous Monitoring:
Implement continuous monitoring of your IT systems. Tools like Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) track and analyze security-related data. Proactive threat detection allows swift responses to potential breaches.
Partnering with Databranch means your business will receive our 24 x 7 proactive monitoring and alerting service which allows you to take this off your plate and focus on your business needs.
Employee Training:
Regularly train employees on data security best practices, such as:
- Phishing awareness: Teach them to recognize phishing attempts, such as fraudulent emails or messages that trick users into revealing sensitive information.
- Understanding of social engineering: Educate employees about social engineering tactics used by cybercriminals.
- Device security: Remind them to secure their devices (laptops, smartphones, tablets) with strong passwords and regular updates.
Partner for Success
Worried about where to start?
Our expert team is here to help. Databranch can assess your current data security setup, identify areas for improvement and develop a tailored plan to protect your data and strengthen your business continuity.
Contact us today at 716-373-4467 option 6, [email protected], or complete the form below to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards securing your business’s future.
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Imagine being the owner of the most popular coffee joint on the corner. Your loyal customers line up outside each morning, eager to grab their caffeine fix. But, one day, as your staff hustles to keep up with the orders, a sudden storm knocks out the power, leaving the cafe in the dark. Or worse, a cyberattack targets your billing system, leaving a long line of frustrated customers.
Unexpected chaos can strike any business at any time. One moment, you’re basking in the glory of running a successful establishment; the next, you’re thrown against a wall, staring at a crisis that could disrupt your entire business. Don’t let this be your story.
In this blog, we’ll show you the key steps to create a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) that works for you and ensures your business stays up and running, even in the face of disaster.
Key Steps to Successful Business Continuity Planning
Here is how you can stay resilient in the face of any challenge:
Find What’s Important for Your Business and Prioritize It
Identify what’s necessary for your business. It’s crucial how you prioritize your business-critical resources. Once you’ve figured that out, try to understand how sudden disruptions can affect these functions.
For example, if you run a coffee shop, brewing coffee and serving customers would be some of the essential functions of your business. You’d need to understand how disruptions can impact your business. Similarly, you must also ensure your kitchen runs efficiently while your coffee supply remains steady.
Develop a Comprehensive Plan
Provide your team with clear, step-by-step instructions on the actions to take during a disruption. One goal is to minimize downtime, so assigning team members tasks to help manage disruptions efficiently is critical. With an effective incident response plan in place, you can handle any incident with confidence.
For example, say you own a bakery, and your oven fails. You should have a plan that helps your team manage orders and communicate the delay to your customers. You should allocate specific roles to members to handle the repair work or the communication.
Leverage the Latest Tools to Protect Business Data
Some tools and solutions can take data backups automatically. The data is then saved in the cloud and can be retrieved when you need it. Similarly, you can utilize failover systems to switch to backup systems in a disaster.
Databranch offers our BCDR solution from Datto, the leader in Total Data Protection. Not only will the Datto backup all your data to the device itself, but it will also backup everything to 2 separate offsite cloud storage locations.
So, in the event that the local device is destroyed, you can still access your information even from a remote location.
With Datto you will receive daily backup verifications and screen shots of your virtual servers, giving you peace of mind and ensure that your backup data is working and accessible to you when you need it.
For example, if you run a gym, you can regularly back up and save your membership records on the cloud. The copies of all critical information can be accessed anytime and retrieved in case of a disruption. Additionally, you could keep an extra Point of Sale (POS) device in case your other payment options fail.
Train Your Staff and Test for Preparedness
Regularly train your staff to improve team preparedness by simulating mock scenarios. This will help you test both your business continuity plan and your team’s efficiency. You can update and enhance your BCP per your business needs based on the training and testing.
Databranch offers our Breach Prevention Platform and Security Awareness Training with simulated phishing tests that engages your team and strengthens your organization’s defenses against evolving cyberthreats.
For example, restaurant staff should have ample instruction on how to handle kitchen fires. Similarly, the waitstaff must be prepared to handle backup billing machines and manage customer orders.
Involve Key Stakeholders
Consider the opinions and feedback from your managers and key staff members. For the success of your BCP, it’s crucial to keep everyone in the loop as you update and make changes.
For example, your cafe staff can share valuable information that could be important while building your BCP. It’s vital to keep them updated on changes to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Continuous Monitoring and Improvement
Technical problems can come up at any time. Make it a standard practice to regularly look for potential system issues early. After a disruption, consider gathering information from your staff and customers to improve your continuity plan.
Partnering with Databranch means your business will receive our 24 x 7 proactive monitoring and alerting service which allows you to take this off your plate and focus on your business needs.
For example, coffee and customer billing machines are the business-critical systems for a cafe. It’s crucial for you to check these types of equipment regularly for any issues. Use any disruption as an opportunity to improve. Take feedback from customers and your employees.
Simplify Continuity Planning
It can be overwhelming to implement business continuity planning, especially while managing your business independently. That’s where an experienced IT service provider, such as Databranch, can step in. From helping you identify critical business functions to implementing failover systems and conducting regular tests, we can guide you through every step of the way.
Our experts will ensure that your BCP is effective and tailored to your unique business needs. Contact us today at 716-373-4467 option 6 or at [email protected] and let’s make continuity planning stress-free for you.
You can also download our checklist today to get started.
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Annual Channel Futures MSP 501 Identifies Best of the Best in the Managed Services Industry
Databranch has been named as one of the world’s top-performing managed service providers in the prestigious 2024 Channel Futures MSP 501 rankings for the 3rd year in a row. The Channel Futures MSP 501 list, a technology industry benchmark, ranks companies based on their growth, profitability and innovation.
For the past 17 years, managed service providers around the globe have submitted applications for inclusion on this prestigious and definitive listing. It is a milestone achievement for any managed services organization to be included on the list. The Channel Futures MSP 501 survey uses a quantitative methodology to rank companies based on their annual revenue, profitability measured by EBITDA, and recurring revenue. The methodology has been developed by a Who’s-Who in the managed services industry.
MSPs that qualify for the list must also pass a rigorous review conducted by the Channel Futures research team and editors. Channel Futures ranks applicants using a unique methodology that weighs financial performance according to long-term health and viability, commitment to recurring revenue and operational efficiency.
Channel Futures is pleased to name Databranch to the 2024 MSP 501.
This year’s list is one of the most competitive in the survey’s history. Winners will be recognized on the Channel Futures website and honored during a special ceremony at MSP Summit, Sept 16-19, 2024 in Atlanta, GA.
The MSP 501 represents the best in the technology services industry delivering outstanding vendor and platform neutral advice and value to small, midsized and enterprise customers. This year, the MSP 501 generated aggregate revenue of nearly $25 billion with average growth or recurring revenue of 19%. These are truly the best of the best. Many of their services and technology offerings focus on customer needs in the areas of AI, cloud, security, collaboration, networking, help desk and remote monitoring and management.
The Channel Futures MSP 501 is responsible for keeping their global customers safe, connected and efficient.
“The 2024 Channel Futures MSP 501 winners survived a challenging market and emerged as the highest performing and most innovative IT providers in the industry today,” said Dave Raffo, MSP editor and MSP 501 project manager. “The most impressive thing about the MSP 501 winners is they deliver for their customers every day. These are the most innovative, driven, and successful MSPs in a fiercely competitive industry.
“For a managed service provider to attain a spot on the Channel Futures MSP 501 everything must be operating at peak performance. This list represents the most productive, profitable, fastest-growing, organizations in the technology industry focused on driving their customers to new heights.” said Bob DeMarzo, VP Content, Informa Channels.
“These are the best of the best in the managed services industry as defined by Channel Futures’ extensive research. The MSP 501 companies are the most sought after by peers who want to understand today’s best practices and by technology suppliers who want to partner with these organizations,” DeMarzo stated. “At their core, these are vendor and platform neutral partners focused on doing what is right for their customers.”
The Channel Futures media organization, owned and operated by Informa, is the only channel-centric events, media and research company that can provide such insight into the managed services market.
The data collected by the annual MSP 501 helps every company on the list and every provider with a managed services practice, benchmark their performance and uncover new ways to grow.
Background
The 2024 MSP 501 list is based on confidential data collected and analyzed by the Channel Futures research and editorial teams. Data was collected online from February to May, 2024. The MSP 501 list recognizes top managed service providers based on metrics including recurring revenue, profit margin and other factors.
About Channel Futures
Channel Futures is a media and events destination for the information technology and communications industry. We provide information, perspective, and connection for the entire channel ecosystem, including solution providers (SPs), managed service providers (MSPs), managed security service providers (MSSPs), cloud service providers (CSPs), value-added resellers (VARs) and distributors, technology solutions brokerages, subagent and agents, as well as leading technology vendor partners and communication providers.
Channel Futures is where the world meets the channel; we are leading Channel Partners forward. Our properties include awards programs such as the Channel Futures MSP 501, a list of the most influential and fastest-growing providers of managed services in the technology industry; Channel Partners events, which delivers unparalleled in-person events including Channel Partners Conference & Expo and MSP Summit. More information is available at channelfutures.com.
Channel Futures is part of Informa Tech, a leading provider of market insight and market access to the global business technology community. Through in-depth expertise and an engaged audience community, Informa Tech helps business professionals make better technology decisions and marketers reach the most powerful tech buyers and influencers in the world. Across its portfolio of over 100+ trusted brands, Informa Tech has over 1000 industry experts, including over 400 research analysts and consultants in global research group Omdia, and a monthly audience reach of over 125 million. Informa Tech is a division of FTSE 100 company Informa plc.
About Databranch
Databranch is an IT consulting and outsourcing provider serving local, national and international businesses in Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania since 1985. We help our clients use information technology to cut costs, increase efficiencies and enhance customer service across 5 main areas:
- Managed Technical Services
- Networking
- Security
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
- and Hosted VoIP
The Databranch staff is made up of highly skilled, experienced, and certified professionals. Our clients look to us to provide technology solutions that work. We offer consulting services that provide organizations with the best possible solutions for the most affordable price that are executed with a personal touch. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.
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We live in a world where possibilities are endless. From automated cars ferrying passengers to AI systems carrying out surgeries, tech innovations are quickly taking over our lives. The world of business is no different. Machine learning, AI, robotics and automation tools promise an unparalleled level of business efficiency.
Many businesses are rushing to embrace these innovations because they fear being left behind. However, the critical question is: Do you fully understand the technology, including its potential negative consequences?
All evolving technologies come with underlying risks. In this blog, we’ll discuss the dangers of rapid tech acceleration. We’ll also show you how to develop a strategic approach to ensure your technology investments push your business forward while minimizing the associated risks.
Potential Risks of Tech Acceleration
Here are some of the potential risks associated with rapid tech acceleration:
Security vulnerabilities: Advanced technologies are still nascent and often come with several undetected security flaws. Hackers can exploit these weaknesses to steal your data or launch a cyberattack.
Pro tip: Make security assessments a standard practice before implementing a new IT solution.
Operational disruptions: Hastily implementing new technology can affect your day-to-day operations. Issues like system malfunction, data loss and employees struggling to adapt to new solutions can adversely impact your productivity and efficiency.
Pro tip: It would be prudent to implement tech upgrades in phases. Testing it first within a small team will help you identify and fix issues without disrupting daily operations. Also, have a strong Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery plan will help ensure you data remains protected if something were to happen.
Skill gaps: Using a new IT tool requires new skills. But if your team isn’t well trained, they won’t be able to leverage the latest technology effectively. Untrained teams are bound to make more mistakes, which could reduce overall productivity.
Pro tip: Investing in employee training modules will ensure they have the knowledge and skills to leverage the new IT tool effectively.
Vendor lock-in: The tech industry is constantly innovating. Committing to a vendor who doesn’t keep up with the changing times could prevent your business from achieving growth and success.
Pro tip: Databranch can help you choose scalable solutions that seamlessly integrate with your current infrastructure.
Ethical dilemmas: Evolving technologies such as AI or robotics can give your business a competitive edge, but do you understand the ethical risks surrounding these innovations? Ignoring the ethical use of AI can have a far-reaching impact on data privacy and business transparency.
Pro tip: Develop guidelines for the ethical use of technologies. An internal ethical committee can help promote a culture of responsible technology use.
Regulatory challenges: It’s critical to ensure your business isn’t breaking any laws while implementing a new IT solution. With new technologies, it can get tricky as there might not be a proper regulation in place, but you still could unknowingly end up attracting fines or penalties.
Pro tip: Legal experts can help you better understand your responsibilities surrounding the new technology. Additionally, you can seek the help of Databranch, who will always work hard to point you in the right direction.
Strategic misalignment: It’s easy to fall for the latest tech that’s creating buzz. But if your new IT solution doesn’t align with your goals, you would be wasting your time and money on something that holds your business back instead of propelling it forward.
Pro tip: Choose a solution that empowers your team and creates efficiency. Have a well-defined goal and clear success metrics. Also, regularly monitor and evaluate to see if the new IT solution delivers the desired results. Make further adjustments as necessary.
Unleash your Growth Potential
Technology can help you take your business to new heights. However, not all IT solutions are created equal and can expose your business to security or financial risks. On the other hand, a trusted IT service provider, such as Databranch, can help you navigate the complexities effortlessly.
Contact us today at 716-373-4467 option 6, or at [email protected] and learn how we can guide you through the new tech implementation while minimizing disruptions and maximizing results.
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Are you feeling like you’re falling behind in today’s digital race? You’re not alone. The cutthroat business world no longer tolerates “good enough” or subpar technology.
Therefore, it’s high time to turn technology into your growth engine, but hasty tech adoption won’t cut it. This is where smart tech acceleration comes in.
What is Smart Tech Acceleration?
Smart tech acceleration isn’t just updating your tech at a breakneck pace, but transforming it into a powerful ally for your business ambitions. This approach isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about adopting a visionary stance to ensure your tech journey aligns perfectly with your goals.
Say goodbye to outdated tech. With smart tech acceleration, guide your business towards a dynamic and resilient future.
Top Business Benefits of Smart Tech Acceleration
Smart tech acceleration offers numerous benefits that drive business growth. Here’s a closer look:
Adaptability and Resilience:
Stay ahead of the game by utilizing technology that adjusts to your evolving business needs. This empowers you to swiftly respond to market changes and stay one step ahead of the competition.
Think of it this way: when the business landscape shifts due to economic changes, consumer trends or unforeseen challenges, your operation will not only survive but thrive.
Efficient Operations:
Streamlined technology helps you optimize your business processes, slash costs and supercharge productivity. Automation and workflows will free up valuable resources for strategic ventures, essentially allowing you to do more with less.
Here at Databranch, our automated managed service platforms proactively monitor and support your network and technology infrastructure, keeping your network functioning seamlessly.
Imagine having the ability to allocate your efforts and finances to innovation and growth rather than being bogged down by repetitive tasks. That’s the power of smart tech acceleration at your fingertips.
Competitive Advantage:
Integrating cutting-edge solutions will set your business apart, attracting customers seeking innovative offerings. It’s not just about being different; it’s about being better and faster.
By staying ahead of technology trends, you essentially future-proof your business, ensuring that new and existing customers see you as a trailblazer in your industry.
Databranch has recently announced our new AI Cybersecurity training for all of our Breach Secure Now members! Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be a transformative force when it comes to streamlining your processes and enhancing your decision making.
Not a BSN member? Reach out today to discuss how our training program can both maximize employee efficiency and mitigate risk.
Enhanced Customer Experience:
Delight your customers with personalized services that boost satisfaction and loyalty. Smart tech acceleration allows you to leverage data and analytics for targeted marketing and improved customer interactions.
Imagine creating a customer journey so seamless and tailored that each client feels like your services were crafted just for them. That’s the ultimate goal and a surefire way to build lasting relationships.
Innovation:
Drive new revenue streams with state-of-the-art technology. Embracing innovation opens the door to developing fresh products and services, expanding your business and boosting profits.
Remember, innovation isn’t just about having the latest tech; it’s about creatively integrating it into your offerings to excite and serve your market better. It’s about leading the charge in solving problems and fulfilling needs in ways no one else has thought of.
Partner for Success
Are you ready to supercharge your business with smart tech acceleration? Our team of experts is standing by to help you unleash the full potential of tech acceleration.
Databranch can assess your current technology setup, pinpoint areas for improvement and carve out a tailored roadmap for integrating innovative solutions that fuel your business growth.
Don’t hesitate — kickstart your business transformation with smart tech acceleration. Reach out to us today at 716-373-4467 option 6 or at [email protected].
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Imagine a workplace where every employee is vigilant against cyberthreats, a place where security isn’t just a protocol but a mindset. In the era of hybrid work, achieving this vision is not just ideal — it’s a necessity.
While implementing security controls and tools is crucial, the true strength lies in empowering your workforce to prioritize security. Without their buy-in, even the most advanced defenses can be rendered ineffective.
Building a security-first culture in a hybrid work environment is a complex but achievable task. It requires a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that not only involves but also empowers your workforce. Let’s explore how to create such a strategy.
Key Components of a Good Cybersecurity Strategy
Here are the critical components that can take your cybersecurity strategy to the next level:
Perimeter-Less Technology
In a hybrid work model, employees work from various locations and collaborate online. This means upgrading your security systems to match the demands of this environment type.
Invest in cloud-based SaaS applications that are accessible from anywhere. Ensure your applications support Zero-Trust architecture, a security concept centered on the belief that organizations should not automatically trust anything inside or outside their perimeters. Instead, they must verify anything and everything trying to connect to their systems before granting access.
Documented Policies and Procedures
Clearly document your security policies and procedures to ensure enforcement. Without documentation, staff may not understand the purpose or steps involved, leading to a lack of buy-in.
Identify critical IT policies and procedures, document them, and share them with the relevant teams and staff. Keep the files up-to-date and accessible. Review policies periodically and make changes as needed.
Our Incident Response Planning blog will walk you through the common mistakes, myths and misconceptions that can stop you from building a strong response plan. We’ll also share simple solutions that will help you safely navigate cyber challenges.
Security Awareness Training Programs
Make your employees the first line of defense against cyberattacks. Set up interactive training programs to defend against phishing, ransomware, brute-force password attacks and social engineering.
Create training videos and a comprehensive repository dedicated to security protocols and SOPs. Reinforce learning with routine tests and simulations.
Communication and Support Channels
Define communication and support channels to handle threats effectively. Ensure every staff member knows how to raise an alarm, whom to contact and what to do after reporting it.
Outline approved tools for communication and collaboration, discouraging personal apps for official use.
Friction-Free Systems and Strategies
When devising new security strategies or evaluating systems, prioritize user experience and efficiency. Ensure that security measures and policies don’t feel like extra work or employees may abandon security best practices. Align security systems and strategies with workflows for a seamless experience.
Next Steps
Building a security-first culture is challenging, especially in a hybrid work environment. To succeed, you need skilled staff, 24/7 support and specialized tools.
But you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Databranch can guide you through implementing and managing the necessary IT/cybersecurity and data security controls. Don’t wait for a breach to happen — proactively secure your business.
Fill out the form below to set up a no-obligation consultation and take the first step towards a secure future.
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Technology plays a critical role in driving business success in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. However, managing IT infrastructure and systems can be a significant challenge for many organizations.
This is where an IT service provider comes in. But remember that not all IT service providers are created equal.
While a good IT service provider might ensure that your systems are running efficiently, a great IT service provider can elevate your business to new heights.
Top Business Benefits of Partnering with a Great IT Service Provider
Partnering with a great IT service provider such as Databranch can bring numerous benefits to your business, including:
Strategic Alignment
Great IT service providers not only possess a deep understanding of current technologies but also have the foresight to anticipate future trends. They work closely with your business to ensure that every technological solution and service they provide aligns perfectly with your long-term business objectives.
This strategic alignment means that technology becomes a driver of competitive advantage rather than just a support function.
Improved Efficiency
Your business needs an IT service provider that can significantly streamline your operations by optimizing your existing technology infrastructure. This is achieved through the automation of routine tasks, the refinement of business workflows and the integration of various departments to ensure they work cohesively.
Here at Databranch, our automated managed service platforms proactively monitor and support your network and technology infrastructure, keeping your network functioning seamlessly.
Informed Decision-Making
Leveraging the power of cutting-edge technology, a great IT service provider can provide your business with critical insights into your operations and potential vulnerabilities. It’s estimated that about 61% of security vulnerabilities in corporate networks are over 5 years old.
This is because assessing and managing these network weaknesses isn’t always a priority for organizations. However, a great IT provider can assist with your vulnerability management so you know what remediation efforts are needed.
Fostered Innovation
In today’s fast-paced business environment, staying ahead of technological trends is crucial.
Great IT service providers are at the forefront of these trends. They can ensure that your business not only keeps up but also leads in adopting innovative solutions that meet ever-changing market demands. This commitment to innovation can open new opportunities and revenue streams, keeping your business relevant and competitive.
Scalability and Flexibility
Business needs are always evolving, and scalability is key to accommodating growth or contraction.
Great IT service providers offer scalable solutions that can be adjusted according to your business’s current needs. This ensures that your technology infrastructure can easily expand or downsize as required without compromising performance or security.
Enhanced Security and Risk Management
In an age where cyberthreats are increasingly sophisticated, having robust security measures in place is non-negotiable.
Great IT service providers specialize in identifying potential vulnerabilities within your IT infrastructure and implementing advanced security protocols to protect your business from cyberthreats. This proactive approach to risk management is crucial for maintaining your customers’ trust and the integrity of your business.
Databranch believes that implementing a well-thought-out cyber risk management strategy can significantly reduce overall risks and strengthen your cyber defenses.
Continuous System Improvements
Technology is continually evolving, and staying up to date is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and security.
Great IT service providers are committed to improving your IT infrastructure on an ongoing basis. This ensures that your business benefits from the latest technology and industry best practices. This continuous improvement cycle ensures your systems remain cutting-edge, efficient and secure.
Budget Optimization
One of the most significant advantages of partnering with an IT service provider is the potential for optimized technology spending.
Through their expertise, they can identify the most cost-effective solutions for your business, eliminating wasteful expenditures on unnecessary or inefficient technology. This strategic approach to technology investment not only saves money but also ensures that every dollar spent contributes to the achievement of your business objectives.
Partner for Success
Ready to transform your technology management and take your business to the next level? Download our eBook today to discover how Databranch could help you achieve seamless operations and drive business success!
Don’t hesitate. Contact us now at 716-373-4467 option 6, or email us at [email protected].
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Today’s businesses depend heavily on technology for success and growth. However, navigating complex tech issues and ensuring all your systems stay up-to-date can be overwhelming, especially if you have to manage IT on your own.
That’s why you need a strategic ally — such as Databranch — who supports you through thick and thin. In this blog, we’ll show you how an exceptional IT service provider works hard to ensure you achieve your business goals.
Benefits of Having a Great IT Service Provider
Here is how an exceptional IT service provider sets you up for success:
Acts as your Cybersecurity Superhero
Hackers constantly look for ways to exploit any vulnerability they can find in your businesses technology. But what if your IT partner is a superhero ready to go the extra mile? An exceptional service provider is always alert and takes proactive steps to secure your business from the ever-evolving threat of cyberattacks.
Navigate the Compliance Maze with Confidence
It can be easy to get lost in the maze of industry and government regulations. A great IT partner knows the rules inside and out and uses their knowledge and experience to keep you from being on the wrong side of the law.
Works as your IT Guru
Keeping up with the latest trends and innovations can be tedious given how quickly technology develops and transforms. However, a great partner works as your personal IT guru, with access to all the latest tech solutions that could give you a competitive edge.
Your IT Partner Offers Reliable Support
Tech troubles can strike at any time. That is why an exceptional IT service provider offers reliable support, so you can focus on running your business without worrying about IT problems.
As a Managed Services client, Databranch provides your company with the security of knowing that your network is being monitored and maintained on a 24/7 basis.
Unleash Your Business’s Full Potential
Technology should empower your business, not hold it back. A great partner optimizes your IT to deliver maximum efficiency and gives back your valuable time to focus on growing your business.
Level up Your Business
Ready to take your business to new heights? Partner with a reliable IT service provider like Databranch. We can help you secure your data, effortlessly navigate complex industry regulations and make the most out of your tech solutions.
Reach out today at 716-373-4467 option 6, or [email protected] for a free consultation and discover how we can transform your business tech into a powerful asset for growth and innovation.
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Managing a business on your own is challenging enough without worrying about cyberattacks. However, there is cause for alarm as hackers are using artificial intelligence (AI) to launch sophisticated cyberattacks to steal your data and disrupt business operations.
The good news is there are steps you can take to protect your business. This blog will explain how AI is being used in cybercrime and how you can safeguard your business.
How Hackers Use AI
Here are some of the ways cybercriminals are exploiting AI:
Deepfakes:
Hackers use AI to create highly realistic fake videos or audio recordings to impersonate someone you know, like your boss or a trusted friend. These deepfakes can be used to trick you into sending money or sharing sensitive information.
How to spot it: Closely look for details like unnatural facial movements or sloppy voice synchronization.
AI-Powered Password Cracking:
With the help of AI, cybercriminals can effortlessly crack common and easy passwords. Hackers with access to advanced computation offered by AI can automate the breaching process, so they can try millions of combinations to guess your password.
How to fight back: Always use unique passwords. Consider reaching out to Databranch to start the process of using a password manager.
AI-Assisted Hacking:
Hackers no longer have to spend hours looking for vulnerabilities. Instead, with the help of AI, they can create automated programs that not only identify weaknesses in your system but also create new types of malware.
How to stay ahead: Keep your security systems and software updated. Also, a mandate should be set up to scan for vulnerabilities routinely.
Supply Chain Attacks:
Threat actors use AI to insert malicious code into legitimate vendor products, which eventually will compromise your system as well. In a Business Email Compromise (BEC) instance, a hacker can also insert malicious content into reply chain emails coming from vendors vendors and suppliers
How to protect yourself: Only download software from trusted sources. Always be vigilant with updates, patches, and any email links.
Boost Your Defenses
AI-powered cybercrime is a growing threat. That’s why having Databranch by your side can be the ultimate weapon in your arsenal. Partner with us to leverage advanced technology to fortify your defenses. Download our checklist today to get started.
Reach out to us today at 716-373-4467 option 6, or [email protected] for a free consultation and learn how our team can secure your business against evolving cyber risks.
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