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When Microsoft stops supporting Windows

Posted on Wednesday November 14, 2018 | windows 10, windows, updates, security, patches, microsoft, end of support, compatibility

Microsoft only supports each version of Windows for a certain period and the end of its support for a software product can be a significant challenge for businesses. Currently, Windows 7 is on "extended support" until January 14, 2020. What does it mean when Microsoft terminates support of your Windows version? Let's have a closer look.

Why is Antivirus Software Still a Thing?

Posted on Wednesday November 14, 2018 | security, software

Antivirus has been around for more than 20 years. But do you still need it to protect yourself today? From a report: In general, you probably do. But there are caveats. If you are worried about your iPhone, there's actually no real antivirus software for it, and iOS is engineered to make it extremely difficult for hackers to attack users, especially at scale. In the case of Apple's computers, which run MacOS, there are fewer antiviruses, but given that the threat of malware on Mac is increasing ever so slightly, it can't hurt to run an AV on it. If you have an Android phone, on the other hand, an antivirus does not hurt -- especially because there have been several cases of malicious apps available on the Google Play Store. So, on Android, an antivirus will help you, according to Martijn Grooten, the editor of trade magazine Virus Bulletin. When it comes to computers running Windows, Grooten still thinks you should use an AV. "What antivirus is especially good at is making decisions for you," Grooten told Motherboard, arguing that if you open attachments, click on links, and perhaps you're not too technically savvy, it's good to have an antivirus that can prevent the mistakes you may make in those situations. For Grooten and Simon Edwards, the founder of SE Labs, a company that tests and ranks antivirus software, despite the fact that Windows' own antivirus -- called Defender -- is a good alternative, it's still worth getting a third-party one. "Even if [Defender] wasn't the best and it isn't the best, it's is still a lot better than having nothing," Edwards told Motherboard. Yet, "we do see a benefit in having paid for AV product."

The lowdown on cloud security

Posted on Tuesday November 13, 2018 | servers, security, it provider, encrypt, cloud computing, business

If you're thinking of transitioning your business to the cloud, consider the security of the platform. While providers would like us to believe that the friendly, fluffy cloud image used to market the service means it is automatically secure, the reality is far different. Just ask one of the nearly seven million Dropbox users who had their accounts hacked. This is not meant to scare you, but to make you aware that cloud security needs to be taken seriously especially if you're a business owner. To help you make a smooth and safe transition, we've put together a list of precautionary measures you can take to ensure cloud security.

3 ways to browse the net safely at work

Posted on Wednesday November 07, 2018 | security, malware, data protection, browser tracking, browser extensions, adware, ad blockers

Amidst the current climate of malware, hacks, and phishing scams, the internet really isn't safe for any company that doesn't take precautions. Without safeguards, browsers that you or your employees use are vulnerable to cyber attacks that may cripple productivity and profit. There are wise steps that every company should take to browse the net safely.

The benefits of technology business reviews

Posted on Tuesday November 06, 2018 | technology business review, strategy, solution, security, profit, productivity, it, consulting

Small- and medium-sized businesses don't have the time to maintain IT infrastructure, let alone assess whether it's still driving value for the company. However, if you want to ensure everything runs smoothly, it's important to be proactive and conduct technology business reviews when you can.

Secure your Mac computer in 6 easy ways

Posted on Thursday October 25, 2018 | tricks, tips, technology, smb, security, protection, mac, it, device, apple

If you're a Mac user, data privacy and security should be your #1 priority. Without the right security measures, you're inviting cybercriminals to steal your critical data. Are you willing to take the risk? Secure your computer and fortify your defenses with these six tips.