Tag: Managed IT Support Toronto

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What Is Microsoft Copilot and How To Use It

What Is Microsoft Copilot and How To Use It
What Is Microsoft Copilot and How To Use It

To ease your life, Microsoft has released a series of AI companions, and everyone is wondering, what is Microsoft copilot and how to use it?

How does Microsoft Copilot work?

Generally speaking, Microsoft Copilot is the tech giant’s artificial intelligence (AI) companions. Several Copilots have been released by Microsoft that are capable of performing a variety of tasks.

In addition, Bing Chat now uses Copilot, which feels a lot like ChatGPT.

It holds the same meaning in terms of what was previously known as Bing Chat, an AI chatbot that can carry out a wide range of tasks, including coding, writing, generating images, and answering general questions.

The other Copilots span Microsoft’s applications and experiences, including Microsoft 365. Across all Microsoft applications, these Copilots provide AI assistance in virtually every aspect of the workflow.

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Has Microsoft Copilot been released yet?

It has technically been out since February since Bing Chat was released under a new name, Microsoft Copilot. Since Microsoft Ignite in November, it had been available publicly under the new name.

There are different release dates for each Copilot. In a nutshell:

  • As part of a Windows 11 update, Copilot was made available on September 26.
  • Enterprise customers began receiving Copilot for Microsoft 365 on November 1; non-enterprise customers will follow later.
  • The first quarter of 2024 will be the launch date for Copilot for Sales.
  • The general availability of Copilot for Service is expected to begin in early 2024.
  • Microsoft expects to begin providing Copilot in Viva to customers later in 2023.
  • In 2021, Github Copilot was released for the first time.

How does Copilot for Microsoft 365 work?

Copilot for Microsoft 365 is an AI assistant that integrates with Microsoft’s Teams, Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint productivity suite.

You’ll also be able to clean up your messy office with Microsoft Teams AI-powered makeover.

As an example, Copilot for Microsoft 365 lets you optimize your workflow by integrating the suite of Microsoft 365 applications, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams, with Copilot. With Word, you can create text and tables, summarize, and draft emails, and use Excel to generate Python visualizations.

How does Copilot work in Windows?

Using Copilot in Windows, you can get assistance with your computer’s settings and generative assistance, as well as help with similar tasks. With a simple conversational prompt, Copilot in Windows turns on your computer’s dark room, organizes your windows, writes an essay, helps you shop, and more.

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How does Microsoft Security Copilot work?

Using AI and cybersecurity, Microsoft’s Security Copilot offers users more advanced protection against attacks.

A new AI-driven security feature from Microsoft boosts cybersecurity

In addition to detecting patterns of illicit behavior, Microsoft Security Copilot increases the speed and accuracy of real-time responses with automated response mechanisms, which helps identify cyberattacks.

How does Microsoft Copilot for Sales and Service work?

The company recently introduced Copilot for Service and Copilot for Sales as part of its Copilot ecosystem at Microsoft Ignite. Enterprises can optimize their business operations with these two Copilots.

Additionally, Microsoft launches two new Copilots that add AI-based guidance for sales and service.

The Microsoft Copilot for Service platform can be integrated with CRM applications to provide customers with “AI-guided answers” and “resources.”

The Microsoft Copilot for Sales application is an evolution of the Sales Copilot application, which aims to increase productivity and personalize customer interactions.

How does Microsoft 365 Chat work?

As part of Microsoft 365 Copliot, Microsoft 365 Chat is available. In addition to its chat interface, it is connected to your data across various Microsoft work applications, which allows it to assist you with tasks as well as answer questions.

With Microsoft 365 Chat, you can ask it to “summarize unread messages”, and it will look through all of your 365 applications for you.

As well as catching you up on meetings, finding documents, and answering questions based on contents of documents, meetings, chats, and more, it can also find your meeting notes.

365 iT SOLUTIONS offers dependable IT support services to businesses in Toronto, making them a valuable resource for your IT needs.

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

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IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

The Best Way to Get IT Support in Toronto

The best way to get IT support in Toronto is to work with the best MSP in the industry.

Businesses in Toronto rely heavily on efficient and reliable IT systems. With technology playing a crucial role in daily operations, having a dependable IT support provider becomes paramount. This blog post serves as a valuable resource for businesses and individuals seeking IT support in Toronto. It covers essential information about IT support services and providers in the area, including 365 iT SOLUTIONS, to help you make informed decisions about your IT needs.

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  1. The Importance of IT Support in Toronto

In the competitive business landscape of Toronto, having reliable IT support is vital. A dedicated IT support team ensures seamless operations, data security, and minimizes downtime. They help businesses stay competitive, adapt to technological advancements, and overcome IT challenges.

  1. Types of IT Support Services in Toronto

IT support services in Toronto encompass various offerings tailored to meet diverse business needs. Some common types of IT support services include:

  1. Help Desk Support: Reliable IT support providers, like 365 iT SOLUTIONS, offer prompt assistance to resolve technical issues, answer queries, and provide guidance to users, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
  2. Network Monitoring and Maintenance: Providers in Toronto offer proactive monitoring and maintenance of networks to identify and resolve potential issues before they cause significant disruptions.
  3. Data Backup and Recovery: IT support providers offer robust data backup and recovery solutions to safeguard critical information and restore it in case of unexpected events, ensuring business continuity.
  4. Cybersecurity Services: Protecting against cyber threats is crucial. IT support providers in Toronto, including 365 iT SOLUTIONS, offer services like vulnerability assessments, firewall management, antivirus solutions, and employee training to enhance data security.

Choosing the Right IT Support Provider in Toronto

When selecting an IT support provider in Toronto, consider the following factors:

  1. Experience and Expertise: Look for providers with extensive experience and expertise in delivering reliable IT services. Consider their knowledge of your industry and their ability to handle your specific requirements.
  2. Reputation and Client Testimonials: Research the reputation of the IT support provider, including client testimonials and reviews. This provides insights into their reliability, customer satisfaction levels, and service quality.
  3. Response Time and Availability: Quick response times are crucial when technical issues arise. Choose an IT support provider that offers 24/7 support and guarantees prompt response and resolution times.
  4. Scalability and Flexibility: As your business grows, your IT needs may evolve. Ensure the provider can scale their services to accommodate your changing requirements seamlessly.
  5. Reliable IT Support in Toronto

365 iT SOLUTIONS is a trusted IT support provider in Toronto, known for its reliable services and customer-centric approach. Their team of experienced professionals offers a wide range of IT support services, including help desk support, network monitoring, data backup and recovery, and cybersecurity solutions. With a focus on customer satisfaction and efficient problem resolution, 365 iT SOLUTIONS is dedicated to meeting the IT needs of businesses in Toronto.

Finding reliable IT support in Toronto is crucial for businesses aiming to optimize their technology infrastructure, enhance productivity, and ensure data security. By understanding the importance of IT support, exploring different service offerings, and considering factors like experience, reputation, response time, and scalability, you can make informed decisions when choosing an IT support provider in Toronto.

365 iT SOLUTIONS offers dependable IT support services to businesses in Toronto, making them a valuable resource for your IT needs.

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

 

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IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

Finding the Right IT Company in Toronto

You know how important technology is for a successful business, and we’re here to help you find the right IT company in Toronto.

Business success today depends on a reliable and efficient IT infrastructure in today’s fast-paced digital world. It is essential to find the right IT company in Toronto to meet your technology needs, regardless of whether you are a startup or an established company.

It can be overwhelming to choose the right IT partner among the numerous options available. You can find the right IT company in Toronto that aligns with your business goals and requirements by reading this blog post.

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  1. Identify your IT requirements:

Understanding your organization’s IT requirements is crucial before you begin the search for an IT company. Determine what specific services you need based on your current IT infrastructure, pain points, and pain points. Knowing your needs will help you find an IT company in Toronto that specializes in your need, whether it is network management, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, software development, or IT support.

  1. Determine which IT companies are worth pursuing and shortlist them:

The next step is to research and shortlist potential IT companies in Toronto based on your IT requirements. Ask colleagues, peers in your industry, or other businesses in your network for recommendations. Moreover, online directories, review websites, and social media platforms can provide valuable insight into IT companies and their customers.

Ensure the company offers a range of services and has experience, expertise, and certifications. In order to best understand your industry-specific needs, look for companies that have experience working with businesses like yours.

  1. Look at their track record and expertise:

It’s important to evaluate the expertise and track record of the IT companies you’ve shortlisted. Assess their experience handling projects similar to yours by reviewing their websites, case studies, and client testimonials. You should look for long-term partnerships, successful outcomes, and customer satisfaction.

The quality of their team and their technical expertise should be considered. Are they equipped with certified professionals who possess the necessary skills? Is their knowledge of the latest technological advancements up-to-date? IT companies in Toronto with a reputation for delivering cutting-edge solutions invest in ongoing training and certification for their employees.

  1. Evaluate communication and support:

Working with an IT company requires effective communication and responsive support. Analyze the channels of communication, the response time, and the accessibility of the company. Is their customer service available 24/7? Does your account manager or point of contact have a dedicated role?

Keeping your IT systems running smoothly requires clear and timely communication. If you need IT support in Toronto, choose an IT company that values open communication.

  1. Think about future growth and scalability:

Consider the scalability and future growth plans of your organization when selecting an IT company. You should choose an IT partner that offers scalable solutions and can accommodate your evolving technology needs. You should discuss your growth projections with potential IT companies and inquire about their scalability and adaptability.

As a key driver of success in today’s digital landscape, consider their ability to integrate new technologies. By suggesting and implementing new technologies as they emerge, an IT company in Toronto keeps you ahead of the curve.

  1. Request proposals and arrange consultations:

Consult with the shortlisted IT companies after narrowing down your options. Ask questions, clarify concerns, and discuss your requirements in these meetings. During this process, you will be able to evaluate their professionalism, expertise, and compatibility with your company’s culture.

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Ask each IT company for detailed proposals that outline their proposed solutions, timelines, costs, and terms of service. When a proposal is well-designed, it will demonstrate that the company understands your needs and can deliver what you expect.

Choosing the right IT company in Toronto can have a significant impact on the success of your business.

Are you looking for comprehensive technology services in Toronto?

365 IT SOLUTIONS offers a wide range of IT services, including Managed IT Services, Cloud Services, Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR), Cyber Security Training, and Dark Web Monitoring. Our services include Managed Security Services, IT Support Services, IT Outsourcing Services, and Tech Support Services.

Finding the Right IT Company in Toronto does not need to be hard. Count on us for all your Toronto technology needs.

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

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IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

Boost Your Cybersecurity Protection

As hackers keep attacking organizations, it is important to boost your cybersecurity protection to keep your company safe and respected.

Due to the interconnection between businesses and technology, cybersecurity protection is of utmost importance.

Every business must prioritize cybersecurity protection due to the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. Organizations can safeguard their sensitive data, preserve their reputation, and ensure the continuity of their operations by strengthening their defenses. This blog will explore how businesses can achieve strong cybersecurity protection and explore effective strategies for doing so.

The following steps should be taken to protect sensitive data:

Threats to sensitive information abound in the digital landscape. Assets such as financial data, customer records, and proprietary business secrets deserve the utmost protection. To prevent unauthorized access and data breaches, every business should implement stringent security measures.

Businesses can protect themselves from cybercriminals by implementing strong encryption protocols, access controls, and regular security audits.

The importance of preserving your reputation:

One cyber incident can have severe consequences in an era where trust and reputation are essential for business success. The protection of personal and confidential information is a priority for customers, partners, and stakeholders. It can take years to rebuild a tarnished reputation after a breach.

Financial loss, legal consequences, and legal repercussions can result. Businesses gain the trust of their clients by investing in cybersecurity. Staying vigilant against emerging threats and implementing security awareness training programs can help maintain a positive image for your brand.

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Making sure business continuity is ensured:

Business operations can be disrupted by cyberattacks, resulting in significant financial losses and operational setbacks. Data loss, crippling systems, and costly downtime can all result from ransomware, distributed denial-of-service attacks, and other malicious activities. Businesses can minimize the risk of such disruptions by adopting proactive cybersecurity measures.

To implement a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, regular backups, disaster recovery plans, and robust incident response protocols must be in place. It is possible for businesses to quickly recover from potential incidents and resume operations without prolonged interruptions if they prepare for them in advance.

The following are effective strategies for cyber security:

To develop a robust cybersecurity posture, we must take a multifaceted approach.

Businesses should consider the following strategies:

  1. Identifying vulnerabilities and prioritizing mitigation efforts is easier when regular risk assessments are conducted.
  2. Raising employee awareness of cyber threats and educating them about cybersecurity best practices can reduce the risk of breaches caused by human error.
  3. Ensure the organization’s digital perimeter is protected by implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure network configurations.
  4. Data encryption: Encrypting sensitive data at rest and in transit is a significant step toward preventing cybercrime from accessing it.
  5. Patching and updating regularly is critical to mitigating vulnerabilities and protecting against known exploits.
  6. Develop a robust incident response plan: A robust incident response plan can minimize damage and recovery time from cyber incidents.

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Businesses cannot afford to ignore cybersecurity. As the threat landscape evolves, organizations need to take proactive measures to protect their sensitive data, preserve their reputation, and keep their operations running smoothly.

To build a strong defense against cyber threats, businesses must implement effective cybersecurity strategies. The key to successfully navigating the digital landscape is to embrace cybersecurity as a fundamental aspect of business operations.

Get to know 365 iT SOLUTIONS in Toronto and its comprehensive technology services.

Whether you are looking for Managed IT Services, Cloud Services, Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR), Cyber Security Training, or Dark Web Monitoring, we are here to help. We provide all the technology services you need, such as Managed Security Services, IT Support Services, IT Outsourcing Services, and Tech Support Services.

Boost Your Cybersecurity Protection. Get reliable and efficient IT solutions from 365 IT SOLUTIONS.

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

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IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

You Need an Effective Cybersecurity Strategy

Rapid advancement of technology is why you need an effective cybersecurity strategy to stay ahead of the curve.

Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly complex and frequent as a result of technological advancements, and their frequency is increasing exponentially. In 2022, there were a total of 493.33 million ransomware attacks around the world.

There is no doubt that cybersecurity has become an important strategy regardless of how large or small your organization is to prevent cybercriminals from gaining access to the data and systems of your organization. A comprehensive guide is provided in this blog to assist you in the development of an effective cybersecurity strategy in 2023.

It’s time to get started! Let’s get started!

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Deploy Password Management Solutions

Deploying a password management solution can have a significant impact on enhancing the security of your organization. When it comes to cyberattacks, it is crucial to protect yourself with a strong password. It is possible to implement these solutions in order to create strong passwords, secure password storage, audit password changes, encrypt passwords at rest and in transit, integrate multi-factor authentication, and automate password updates, which will reduce the risk of password breaches significantly.

Regular Data Backups

The importance of backups cannot be overstated when it comes to recovering quickly from cyber-attacks or system failures, such as malfunctioning hardware or software, accidental deletions, etc. By creating multiple backups (on-premises and in the cloud), you can minimize the risk of losing valuable data by reducing the risk of data loss.

Up-To-Date Systems and Apps

It is essential to keep your systems and applications up-to-date in order to protect your organization against vulnerabilities and exploits. Have your IT team update your systems and apps with the latest security patches and bug fixes so that they are always up to date.

Deploy Antivirus Protection

In order to protect your systems and data from potential cyber threats, antivirus software runs constantly in the background, protecting them from potential threats. Make sure to use a reputable antivirus provider to get robust antivirus protection for your business so that you can enhance your cybersecurity posture.

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Manage Access Control

By limiting access to sensitive data and systems, it is possible to reduce the spread of malware and unauthorized access to sensitive data. It can be ensured that the least amount of access is provided to employees by implementing the least-privilege access policy, based on which they are only allowed to access the information needed to do their jobs, and therefore you can ensure that the least amount of access is provided to them.

Employees Training

Employees can be trained on cybersecurity best practices so that the chances of human error related breaches can be minimized. A regular training session on cybersecurity can be an effective way for employees to prevent unintentional breaches from occurring.

Incident Response Planning

An incident response plan must be implemented by your organization in order to effectively and quickly respond to a cyberattack. Developing a security incident response plan based on the likelihood of a cyber security incident happening is one way to reduce the impact of a security incident.

By implementing the above cybersecurity strategies and relying more on the infrastructure of your organization, you can enhance your organization’s security posture and mitigate cyber threats by implementing the above cybersecurity strategies.

There is no doubt that cybersecurity should be a top priority for all organizations operating in the digital space due to the growing trend of cyberattacks and the emergence of new technologies in the digital space. Based on the information presented in this blog, it can be said that most cyberattacks can be effectively prevented by using the cybersecurity strategies discussed here.

There is, however, one thing that should be kept in mind at all times, which is that cybersecurity is not something that can be done once and for all. It is essential that the process is updated and assessed on a regular basis to ensure its effectiveness. By keeping your cybersecurity strategies adaptive to new developments, you can make your organization more resilient to cyber threats.

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The team at 365 iT SOLUTIONS understands how important cybersecurity is for organizations today, which is why we offer a wide range of services to help them develop and implement effective cybersecurity strategies. It is our team of expert security professionals that specialize in delivering customized solutions to meet the unique security needs of our customers, from risk assessment and security protocols to managed firewalls and cybersecurity training.

Rapid advancement of technology is why you need an effective cybersecurity strategy to stay ahead of the curve with your managed IT services provider.

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

 

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IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

The Best Managed IT Services for Your Business

Regardless of the size of your organization, it will be important for you to find the best managed IT services for your business.

MSPs are becoming increasingly popular as data and IT requirements grow. As a general rule, companies are required to maintain their systems and solve any problems that arise as soon as possible, as well as innovate in order to grow. As a result of these increased responsibilities, in-house IT teams are often overwhelmed with the work, which is why outsourcing your IT needs can streamline your business operations.

Managed IT service providers: what are they and what do they do?

By outsourcing some or all of your IT requirements to managed service providers, if you have one in-house, you will be able to streamline your work and lessen the strain on your in-house IT team. Monitoring, troubleshooting, and fixing IT issues are all part of what they do for you and your business. Further, it allows you to concentrate on the growth of your business instead of worrying about the day-to-day operations.

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What are the benefits of hiring an IT company?

By having a managed service provider monitor your network on a daily basis, you can avoid the need to hire IT services as soon as problems arise by preventing them from occurring in the first place. If you have their expertise, you will be able to make more informed tech decisions, since they may be able to offer better solutions than you. The key to taking advantage of this expertise, however, is partnering with a company that has the expertise you are looking for.

The market for managed service providers was estimated at $161.37 billion in 2021, and it is expected to surpass $300 billion by 2027, according to statistics compiled by Statista. Choosing the right provider is crucial if you hope to save your workforce valuable time and resources, as well as help your company to grow at the same time.

What is the best Managed Service Provider (MSP) for your company? Following these six tips can help you find the right managed IT service provider for your business.

  1. Ensure they have the necessary technical expertise

A managed IT services provider should be able to provide you with a solid technical background and a thorough understanding of the technologies and systems your organization uses in order to provide you with the best service possible. It is important for your company to choose a provider that is compatible with your organization’s systems, this will save you time and hassle in the long run, as different companies might use different technologies in order to accomplish their tasks.

  1. Check to see if they are certified in the field in which they work

It is highly recommended that you look for organizations such as CompTIA, Microsoft, or HP that hold certifications from organizations that are independent of the industry. It is important to keep your provider up-to-date on the latest IT systems in order to ensure that you get the best service possible. As well as demonstrating their commitment to continuing education, providers who hold these certifications can also demonstrate their expertise in the field.

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  1. Make sure you have an SOC 2 certification

The Systems and Organization Controls (SOC 2) are a set of standards used by service organizations, as a means of evaluating how well their security, availability, and confidentiality controls are functioning. SOC 2 certification is one of the ways in which data protection is demonstrated. Additionally, if your organization handles sensitive customer data or complies with a number of regulatory requirements, an SOC 2 certification can provide assurance that it is compliant with those requirements.

  1. Determine their level of experience

Ensure that the provider has worked with organizations very similar to yours in the past and has experience working with them in the future. As long as the provider is equipped with the required skills and knowledge, he or she will be able to meet the requirements of your company and meet your expectations. MSPs with more experience should be able to offer your company not only sound technology advice, but also innovative solutions that meet the needs of your business.

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  1. Prioritize customer service as a high priority

It is easy to determine the integrity of an MSP based on their customer service, which is one of the most important aspects of any successful business. When it comes to choosing a service provider, customer service is one of the most important factors to consider. Are their customer service representatives responsive to your needs? In order to deliver excellent customer service, you need to respond to your clients’ unique needs, while keeping in mind your company’s interests at all times.

  1. Verify their professional standards

Last but not least, it is essential that your organization adheres to regulatory requirements and follows industry best practices. In order to make sure your provider is professional, you should verify their credentials. Ask for examples of the work they have done at other companies if you are interested. In order to make sure they follow industry standards, you need to keep them up to date on industry standards.

As your organization grows and evolves, your IT needs will change as well. Outsourcing your business to a Managed Service Provider (MSP) is not only a great way to improve your operational efficiency, but it is also a great way to increase your revenue. Follow these tips to determine which Managed Service Provider is best suited to your organization by using these tips as a guide.

Regardless of the size of your organization, it will be important for you to find the best managed IT services for your business.

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

 

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IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

Skyrocketing Email Attacks Against Small Businesses

Cyber criminals are skyrocketing email attacks against small businesses with cybersecurity measures in place.

Your digital presence is important to you as a small business owner. Your website is up and running, you’re managing your social media account, sending email marketing messages, and your team is working with email every day. Business Email Compromise (BEC) attacks are on the rise now more than ever, making it more vulnerable to cyber threats.

Email account hacks and BEC attacks increased by 81% in 2022. According to the FBI‘s Internet Crime Complaint Center, businesses worldwide lost $1.8 billion to BEC attacks in 2022 alone.

The average small business closes within six months of being hacked.

The worst part is that 98% of employees do not report email threats. The reason is that they have no one to report the incident to, as we find as a Managed IT Security Provider in Toronto. Outsourced IT management services are still available to many small businesses without a dedicated IT staff member. The vulnerability of small businesses makes them easy targets for hackers. However, do not let that discourage you from taking proactive action; rather, it should motivate you. The reason is as follows.

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What Is A BEC Attack?

A BEC attack involves cybercriminals posing as business owners or trusted partners in emails, and persuading employees to perform actions that compromise the business – such as revealing sensitive information or transferring funds. Detecting legitimate emails from deceptive emails is challenging due to the sophistication and slickness of the criminals.

How To Identify A Compromised Email Attack?

  1. Criminals have evolved their methods of executing Business Email Compromise (BEC) scams, and the guidelines below are guidelines only, not a complete list of things to look out for.
  2. Don’t act quickly and surreptitiously when asked to make a financial transaction. It is especially important if the requests involve skirting normal processes or are coming from someone you don’t usually interact with.
  3. Fraudulent emails: Review all email addresses associated with requests for sensitive information or financial transactions. Email addresses are frequently modified by criminals. The manipulated address could be abc_123@365tisoultions.ca, for example, if the original address is abc-123@365itsolutions.ca. It is possible to check the full email address of the sender by hovering over the sender’s name.
  4. Requests for confidential data or logins: Be extremely cautious if you receive requests to click on a link to a login page, to update your financial account information (even if they appear to come from your bank), or to provide tax-related information.
  5. Discrepancies in payment requests: Be alert to unexpected requests for payment that depart from your trusted supplier’s usual schedule, procedure, or contact information.
  6. Innocent attachments and links: It’s recommended not to open attachments or links from unknown sources or if you didn’t ask for them or anticipate them.

Make your email more secure today by strengthening your security measures

The following steps will help you improve the security of your email. The advice you have heard before may not sound new to you, but if you haven’t acted on any of them yet, now is the time.

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Establish financial security measures

Ensure all financial transactions are two-step verified through a policy and process. Most BEC scams can be thwarted by this simple step. A financial payment request should always be verified by two or more people. Our Managed IT Services in Toronto clients all benefit from this type of policy.

Educate Your Team

By drafting better copy, ChatGPT and other AI language models are improving email attacks by eliminating spoofed emails’ telltale grammar and language issues.

Small businesses should train their employees on how to identify and avoid BEC scams and educate their employees about the risks.

  • Scammers use a variety of tactics to trick employees. Email account security should be included in training, including:
  • Any urgent request received should be viewed with suspicion.
  • Taking caution when dealing with spoofed email addresses, social engineering, and fake websites.
  • Making sure that any strange messages are checked regularly in the sent folder.
  • A password with at least 16 characters should be used for your email account.
  • Passwords should never be used for multiple accounts at the same time.
  • Keeping their email password secure.
  • If they suspect a phishing email, they should inform their IT contact.
  • Authenticate domains and emails
  • Email and domain security tools can be set up by your IT provider within an hour or so.
  • DMARC stands for Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance
  • SPF (Sender Policy Framework)
  • DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)
  • Protocols such as these help:
  • Make sure the email address of the sender is authentic.
  • Spoofing of emails can be reduced.
  • Prevent spam folders from being filled with your outgoing emails.
  • Email security with DKIM, DMARC, and SPF.
  • Make sure your email and anti-phishing software are up-to-date

Fraudulent emails and many BEC attacks can be identified and blocked by advanced email security solutions. They can alert users to potential threats, detect unusual patterns, and block malicious email addresses. Machine learning and AI are becoming increasingly effective, but attackers are also becoming more sophisticated.

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The provision of IT security cannot be set once and forgotten, but rather must be managed on a daily basis. Small businesses can benefit from outsourcing IT services.

Money can be lost forever in a matter of seconds when you make an honest mistake. Make sure your small business emails are protected.

Cyber criminals are skyrocketing email attacks against small businesses with cybersecurity measures in place however there are options to proactively help.

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

Categories
IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

How Much Do Managed IT Services Cost

Many businesses ask how much do managed IT services cost however there are many factors that affect price and service.

The cost of managed IT services is one of the most important considerations for companies when looking for long-term partners.

There are several factors that determine managed IT service costs, including the size of your company, the scope of services provided, and the complexity of your IT infrastructure. A flat fee may be charged by some managed IT service providers, while others charge based on the number of devices or users. A good value for the services provided is more important than the specific pricing model.

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Costs of Managed IT Services per month

Managed IT services typically cost small businesses $1,000 to $5,000 per month, while large businesses may pay $5,000 or more. It depends on your business’s specific needs and the services you receive from the provider as to how much these costs will be.

Your monthly costs and expectations will be significantly affected by different service inclusions.  To help you evaluate inclusions, we have created a list of essential IT services. Using this list, you can compare the costs of different managed IT services.

A wide range of support services

You should determine whether the help-desk support is unlimited or based on a set number of hours or tickets

The service desk is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: confirm its hours and cost for after-hours support

Support services that include onsite support should be clarified

Get an idea of how much it will cost a technician to travel to your location

Inquire if tier 3 teams are included in the support contract for advanced troubleshooting

Support and vendor collaboration: list the applications you use and ensure they are supported and collaborated with

Make sure the provider offers professional macOS support if you use Apple devices

The cost of ongoing satisfaction scoring and reporting should be discussed.

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Managed IT services

You may have to pay an additional fee to directly access and review your IT requests under incident management

Make sure that the managed IT provider charges for Remote Management & Monitoring (RMM)

Review how systems are monitored and how much it costs to respond to after-hours alerts

Understanding the costs of designing and implementing changes to servers and networks

Hosting and management of DNS: verify that the IT provider is prepared to accept the responsibility and complexity of DNS hosting and management

Discuss strategy with the service provider and discover whether your key IT initiatives will be tracked and scored

Consult with a vCIO about the costs and benefits of factional Chief Information Officer (vCIO) services

Disaster Recovery and Backup Services

Find out how much offsite backup services and storage cost each month and how much they vary

You can verify the costs of backing up your Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace data by visiting the Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace Backup page

Ask about monthly cloud backups if you have sensitive information on endpoints such as laptops

When recovering a file or folder from a backup, confirm whether you will be charged

During disaster recovery, discuss both fees for failover business continuity services as well as the labour cost of recovery.

How Much Do Managed IT Services Cost 3

Providers of cybersecurity services

Confirm whether firmware and driver updates are included and whether manual patches are charged

Virus protection and advanced endpoint protection: find out if they are expensive

Authentication with multiple factors: ask about software and support fees

Training in cybersecurity awareness: discuss the options and costs of managed cybersecurity training

Make sure your managed IT services include ongoing email phish testing

Discussion of firewalls-as-a-service and ongoing security service subscription fees

Providers of cloud services

If you use Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, confirm that your IT provider will manage your tenancy fully

Get in touch with your provider to find out if they charge extra fees to manage and support your public cloud services like Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Review fees, services, and capabilities of hosting services if you plan to use them

Get to know your IT partner’s proactively managed cloud resources and their variable costs

Managed IT services costs are variable

There are additional fees associated with managed IT services, such as one-time setup fees, project-based fees, and on-site support fees. To ensure you understand all the costs associated with managed IT service providers you are considering, review their pricing and service agreements carefully.

It is useful to ask an IT provider what percentage of their revenues come from managed recurring revenue (MRR) and what percentage come from products and professional services.  It is likely that your variable costs will exceed your monthly fees if less than half of their revenue is derived from MRR. A provider generating over 75% of its revenue from monthly contracts can provide a more inclusive engagement with fewer variable costs.

Consider the trade-off between higher monthly fees and greater cost certainty when choosing managed IT services, versus lower monthly fees that provide fewer services and come with greater fluctuations in expenses.

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The Cost of Managed IT Services

A business’s specific needs can determine the overall cost of managed IT services. Provide specific details about the services the IT provider provides to get an accurate estimate.  Compare pricing and service agreements from several providers.

The question is not how much do managed IT services cost? The question is what services, protection, and proactive management are you getting with your monthly managed IT services?

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

Categories
IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

Canadian Workers Are Losing Three Hours a Week Under Hybrid Environment

Canadian Workers Are Losing Three Hours a Week Under Hybrid Environment
Canadian Workers Are Losing Three Hours a Week Under Hybrid Environment

Covid presented companies with many challenges however Canadian workers are losing three hours a week under hybrid environment due to IT issues.

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Proper managed IT Services Can Increase Productivity

Those Canadian hybrid workers experiencing IT issues report losing an average of three hours per week to IT support. The lack of optimized hardware and software for hybrid work results in a massive loss of productivity, however employers can increase productivity by investing in appropriate IT.

Network connectivity and VPN connectivity were cited as key IT issues by most hybrid workers. In addition, IT technical support was lacking, sharing documents with team members was difficult, video calls were interrupted, and additional monitors were not available.

With the right hardware and software solutions in place, hybrid workers will be able to concentrate on their work rather than waste valuable time troubleshooting IT issues.

The implementation of tailored IT solutions by managed IT services providers in Toronto can bridge the gap between day-to-day operations and holistic IT infrastructure.

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Proactively Investing Can Benefit Hybrid Employees

It can be challenging to invest in the right IT for hybrid work when facing financial constraints, but not investing can exacerbate cybersecurity risks. In the event of a security incident, investing in technology without considering security can lead to greater financial and reputational consequences. In a hybrid work environment, employees are likely to face financial barriers, which is most prevalent with small businesses. Approximately one third of the respondents reported choosing and paying for their own IT equipment. Compared to this, one in ten employees at large companies must do the same.

Personal device usage and security posture are affected by a lack of IT investment. Most small business respondents stated that they accessed work-related files or performed work-related tasks on a personal device more than once a day.

Mobile devices, laptops, and tablets used by employees can negatively impact sensitive data security by increasing the attack surface on unsecured networks.  The right devices must be used to safeguard sensitive information for small businesses without dedicated in-house IT support.

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Increasing cybersecurity awareness and understanding of the risks when working in hybrid models impacts the ability of IT decision-makers to work from home.

Compared to only 3% of non-IT decision-makers, nearly one-in-five IT decision-makers reported concerns about data security and privacy when working from home.

Security concerns for IT decision-makers are echoed in a recent study of 553 IT security, risk, and compliance professionals by managed IT services providers. According to the study, two-in-five respondents who store their organization’s data in the cloud – a tool that is essential for hybrid work – reported a cloud security incident in the past year. Moreover, only one third of respondents reported that their organizations had a policy for monitoring and detecting threats within their data, assets, applications, and services.

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How to Fix Hybrid Work Environments

Hybrid environments are successful due to technology and the following factors.

Hybrid Work Communication

Communication challenges are evident when technology is used extensively. In March 2020, many of us transitioned to fully remote work, but the transition to hybrid work can also be rocky. I recently heard from an executive who revealed that when their employees returned to work, they realized their video conferencing system wasn’t fully compatible with hybrid working – if they remembered how to operate it at all. Hybrid work also presents other practical challenges. If some of the office members are remote, should everyone log in from separate computers? Are there more problems created by that than they are solved?

Apart from the technological difficulties, remote and hybrid teams can face additional communication challenges due to the fact that some people are more comfortable speaking over screens than others — and this is in addition to the power, status, and language differences that already hinder communication in the workplace.

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Hybrid Work Coordination

Coordination is an important component of collaborative work, but working in hybrid teams presents significantly greater coordination challenges than working face-to-face. When people work together in person and remotely, researchers have noted the risk of “fault lines” emerging. Remote teammates are left out of small exchanges and minor decisions made by those who are working together in the office due to the extra effort it takes to coordinate. Getting accustomed to who’s included in conversations and who’s not over time can result in people being left out of bigger conversations and more significant decisions.

Hybrid Work Connection

Technology-based communication and logistical coordination are not the only challenges of connection. In addition, working remotely can undermine or even destroy social connections. Building and sustaining professional networks and mentoring relationships is particularly challenging for women and minorities, who have a harder time advancing in the workplace. In addition, researchers have found that our psychological well-being is enhanced by personal connections. A hybrid working environment may result in a “dominant class” of those who feel connected to the organization and strongly committed to it as well as an “underclass” of those who feel marginalized and disconnected not only from their work but also from their social lives which create meaning and bind employees together. A reduction in job satisfaction and commitment can result in less committed employees seeking other jobs.

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Hybrid Work Creativity

Hybrid work threatens two types of creativity. One obvious example is collective creativity: people can brainstorm with zoom, but they may not generate as many ideas as we can when we talk fluidly, have sidebars, or work intensively to solve a problem together. Programmed times and formats may not be as effective as spontaneous conversations, sidebars, and unexpected things can happen.

It is also possible to endanger individual creativity. The ability to generate novel ideas and insights can be enhanced by quiet time alone. Even so, it is not clear that employees who need to be constantly creative or innovative will find it beneficial to work alone over many days or weeks. The opposite may be true: there may be benefits to seeing random artifacts in a colleague’s cubicle and even going from home to work to change the scenery that can enhance creativity.

Hybrid Work Culture

With the pandemic dragging on and the prospect of everyone returning to work dimming, senior leaders are increasingly concerned about this challenge as well. Initially, companies were relieved to find that their remote workers were still productive and engaged.

These employees certainly knew how to work together effectively before the pandemic, plus they understood the company’s norms, values, and expectations, and had worked closely together before the pandemic. Whether they’re interns, entry-level hires, or seasoned executives, integrating these newcomers into the company’s culture has become an increasingly pressing challenge as existing employees leave, and new ones join.

A company’s culture can also assist in signaling its distinctiveness to potential new recruits, particularly in industries with a high level of competition for talent, such as tech, consulting, and banking. In the war for talent, how can companies differentiate themselves from each other if employees rarely or never come to work or spend time together?

Canadian Workers Are Losing Three Hours a Week Under Hybrid Environment 6

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!

Categories
IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

Why You Need a Managed Service Provider

Why You Need a Managed Service Provider
Why You Need a Managed Service Provider

All businesses need technology to be competitive and we will explain why you need a managed services provider to proactively stay secure.

You can be confident that the IT situation and technology of your MSP will support your business goals by utilizing their experience, capital resources and human capital. Almost all companies face the decision of whether to hire a managed IT service provider or to have an internal IT department.

In order to serve their clients efficiently, innovatively, and effectively, companies must ensure that they do not overextend themselves financially.

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Benefits of Managed Service Providers

Your business can benefit from their advantages and support your goals if you understand why. A service provider should be able to help you save money and leverage its expertise and experience in topics such as cloud computing, network infrastructure, and support services. Managed IT services are essential for several reasons.

  1. Managed IT Services Saves Time

By using a managed service provider, you can focus on running your business and achieving your daily goals. With a managed IT provider, you don’t have to worry about the IT department, so you can focus on strategy and business goals instead of fighting fires and managing it. Managing your IT helps your business stay on top of technological developments and ensures you are meeting your technological needs.

  1. Managed IT Services Reduces Costs

There are significant costs associated with maintaining a full-time tech team or an entire internal IT department. IT staff members must be paid, receive benefits, be trained, have time off, and be covered, not to mention be hired due to staff turnover. With the help of an IT service provider, you can reduce and control costs while leveraging the provider’s expertise. In contrast to personnel maintenance, managed service providers provide consistent service without adding to the costs.

You can also avoid high capital expenditures with a managed service provider and have predictable operational expenses each month. In order to create this predictable monthly budget, IT service providers negotiate the rates with clients and discuss any additional costs prior to implementation. It is therefore easy to track and understand IT costs because they are stable entities. A managed service provider like 365 IT SOLUTIONS charges fixed monthly fees that include all costs associated with managing and optimizing your business.

  1. Managed IT Services Simplify Your Productivity

IT environments are optimized for productivity and efficiency with MSPs focused on ensuring business processes and stability. Client data is a top priority when working with MSPs and is safeguarded to ensure that you can easily recover data in the event of a network outage. Additionally, MSPs offer on-call support 24/7 so you and your employees can resolve issues as quickly as possible. MSPs prioritize solving technical problems before they arise to streamline productivity.

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  1. Managed IT Services Provider Reliability

The help desk model creates a backlog of issues without individualized support, creating a magnet for inefficiency. Managed IT services benefit you in two ways, depending on the provider: technicians are available on call 24/7 and know your business well enough to fully comprehend the impact and capacity of IT.

  1. Managed IT Services Provide Security 

It is vital for businesses to safeguard their data, since it has become a critical asset. Your IT environment becomes more secure when you use an MSP. The latest IT security technology can be installed and maintained by managed service providers.

  1. Managed IT Services Offers the Latest Technology

As a leader in technology in the marketplace, an IT establishment guarantees technology innovation. Having technicians constantly stay up to date on technology ensures that their clients benefit from the latest technologies.

Why You Need a Managed Service Provider 6

  1. Managed IT Services Understands your IT Environment

Making sure your company’s hardware and software are optimal is essential. A decrease in productivity and an increase in security vulnerabilities are the results of outdated technology. Your IT experience will continue to improve over the years if you document your network infrastructure.

  1. Managed IT Services Brings Experts to the Table

You will have experts managing your IT environment with an MSP. To optimize IT infrastructure and applications in today’s digitized business environment, highly skilled and specialized experts are required. Training in-house staff would otherwise be an expensive endeavor for MSPs.

SLAs (Service Level Agreements) are then used to hold these experts accountable. Defining and enforcing SLAs ensures accountability for quality service. In the case of a violation of this level of technological experience, it is clear that a contractual obligation has been breached, leading to appropriate action.

  1. Managed IT Services Reduces Risk and Increased ROE 

The MSP provides your company with the expertise of a team of IT professionals with specific qualifications, industry level training, and up-to-date certifications. Moreover, multiple technical experts with superior experience and expertise are available to you for implementing industry best practices.

In addition to providing early notification of government regulatory compliance, managed service providers are at the forefront of technology policy.

Why You Need a Managed Service Provider 3

  1. Managed IT Services Offers Customizable IT Solutions

Your business can be evaluated objectively by managed IT providers. How do you plan to achieve your business goals? What role should technology play in your business? Over a fixed period, which solutions provide the greatest productivity at a minimum cost? Using a managed service provider shouldn’t be about fixing a printer or rebooting a computer ad-hoc or as part of a break-fix approach. Using IT strategically to achieve business goals and improve productivity should be the goal of the relationship.

  1. Managed IT Services Establish Relationships with Vendors

Relationships between MSPs and hardware and software vendors benefit your business. By using procurement, you can purchase in bulk and lease hardware and software, saving time and effort on sourcing the right suppliers and vendors. The IT service provider’s relationship with the manufacturer ensures you’re receiving the best value the market has to offer because the company leverages the manufacturer’s buying power. In order to obtain cutting-edge technology, it is crucial to leverage established vendor relationships.

  1. Managed IT Services can Scale Operations

In order to serve customers’ needs, IT organizations develop IT services based on their knowledge of technology. MSPs assist their clients in moving from on-premises physical servers to cloud computing environments they feel comfortable with. The addition of two-factor authentication and dashboard monitoring is an example of IT services managed services that businesses may not have access to on a small scale.

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Does Your Business Need Managed Services?

A managed IT service provider or an internal IT department is an important decision to make based on the benefits of managed IT services. With cybersecurity attacks increasing, technology becoming more complex, and companies constantly going digital, businesses must look at the technology landscape to ensure a reliable technology partner. Make sure your technology relationship is focused on your business goals and your technological needs.

Why You Need a Managed Service Provider? To be proactive and competitive in todays market.

Our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment can put your IT to the test against other Toronto managed IT services providers.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  offers Toronto award-winning services including:

We Make IT Simple!