Monthly Archives: September 2019

Disaster Recovery Preparation

Data Backup, , ,
Businessman shows concept hologram Recovery on his hand. Disaster recovery preparation concept

The key to disaster recovery is preparation for when it does occur.

Computer users come in many flavors, shapes, and backgrounds. Some merely use computers for simple tasks such as checking E-mail, news, weather, and various other data statistic feeds — these are all simple tasks that don’t require thought about computer maintenance or file/data backup. Other users have a more data-sensitive approach where storing files and various other types of data in a computer are a major factor in their day-to-day computer usage — this means that computer maintenance and data preservation take on a whole different sense of priority. Business owners and managers, for example, would not be able to continue operations after an event that causes data loss unless sound data-backup policies are in place — business continuity and uninterrupted profit should be the priority of businesses, therefore the following preparations and protocol should be part of a business’ IT policy.

Self-Service

There are options for self-servicing, although it’s recommended to obtain professional consulting when setting up any of the following options. There are options within computer operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, Apple Macintosh, and various other operating systems that provide for either manual or scheduled backups of computer files and data. Sometimes third-party programs are preferable if the native programs within the operating system do not fit the needs of the computer user. Whatever the case, granular control of the backup programs can be achieved through various settings. For example, a date and time can be set to run the backup program. Selection of specific folders, directories, and files can be set for backup. Retention settings can be set that determines how long certain files are kept in storage — this helps to manage storage space. Encryption options are also available for backed up files so that they cannot be read by unauthorized individuals. All of these settings can be set to run automatically — on a schedule — or they can be set and run manually.

Other kinds of self-service might include relatively easy methods such as “copying and pasting.”  This is a manual type of backup where the user will use the computer keyboard or mouse to copy specific files and/or folders over to an external drive such as a flash drive or external hard drive connected via USB ports. Archiving, retention, and encryption of the files lie in the discretion of the user.

Cloud storage is another form of self-service whereby computer users with an internet connection may subscribe to an internet backup service. Automatic or manual backup using these services are optional. Users may configure the service the same way as in computer operating systems expect that storage is on the internet provided by the backup services. Typically, internet backup service providers will allocate a small amount of free storage space to allow testing their platform. If the computer user likes the service and requires additional storage space, it can be purchased.

Outsourcing

As mentioned previously, self-servicing, especially within environments where data preservation is critical, should be done under the advisement of professionals who understand the twists and turns of backing up computer data. However, self-servicing can be extremely burdensome to companies because of the fact that running businesses is stressful enough without having to deal with the technical side of the computer equipment being used. The priority of a business is ideally production — whereby time is not wasted troubleshooting and dealing with the caveats that can come with backing up computer files and data. IT professionals know exactly how to set up and maintain computer backup programs and services, and properly store the data where it cannot be lost, damaged, or stolen. It’s generally recommended for businesses with a high emphasis on production to obtain the consistent services of professionals who thoroughly understand computer backup systems.

SystemsNet specializes in a wide variety of computer technologies and with many years of experience. Please contact us.

Improve Your Hotel Operations With VoIP

VOIP, , , , ,
Hotel guest and receptionist using VoIP

Improve your phone system for communicating with customers and prospects

If you are operating a hotel, you have already discovered that there are various costs that you have to be responsible for. With the demand of customers increasing on a daily basis, we expect that this trend will continue. Today, it can be very difficult to get away with operating a hotel that is not equipped with the right technology and capabilities that will improve a customer’s stay. You will need to learn how you can keep up with all the latest and greatest trends in the hospitality industry, as well as all of the expected benefits. If you are not able to keep up with the trends and expectations, you will find yourself on the outside looking in when it comes to expectations.

There are several things you will be able to do through the use of technology that will keep your guests happy, in addition to lowering the overall costs of your hotel operations. If you do not mind putting in a little extra work or pay more attention to all of the tasks that you will be responsible for, there should be no reason why you should fall behind when it comes to competition.

There are various things you can do to use technology to cut your costs while still impressing all of your guests, including the following:

VoIP(Voice over Internet Protocol)

One of the most important aspects of your hotel system is its phone system. If your guests ever have any problems communicating with their loved ones, clients, employees, or anyone else, they will be more likely to stay at another hotel the next time they are in the area. If that guest shares his or her experience with someone else or on a review website, your hotel’s reputation can be damaged. Voice over Internet Protocol(VoIP) is an incredible alternative that will provide a lower cost to your hotel, in addition to greater flexibility and an overall improvement in the service. Your employees and your guests will find great pleasure in the improvements in communication.

A communication system is a key part of all of the daily operations that will take place in your hotel, regardless of how big or small the hotel may be. This is why it is important to have the right VoIP phone system. When you make the right choice, you will be able to provide your guests and your employees with the comprehensive communication system you need for now and in the future.

What Can VoIP Bring To Your Hotel?

Many businesses may not realize why so many businesses are using VoIP to fulfill their communication needs. While businesses can appreciate the benefits and the ability to save money, using VoIP is also about clarity and control. Many people do not care how a system actually functions, many of them only care that it is simple to use and it works like it is supposed to. VoIP brings clarity and simplicity to all of its users while making the overall experience better.

Your users will not have to worry about using a complex system that will frustrate them every time they try to use it. Your VoIP’s hotel system can run in the cloud, users can bring their own devices, and they will be able to use functions they are familiar with. Technology also creates an improved and increased level of control for your hotel. You will no longer have to worry about training your users on the VoIP system because they will be familiar with the functions. VoIP will also come with a variety of options that will allow your employees to have more control when it comes to addressing questions guests may have and providing better service.

We are not surprised that hotels and other businesses are using VoIP systems to improve their business. Contact us today for more information on VoIP phone systems and how they can be an asset to your business.

10 IoT Implementation and Management Tips for Businesses – Part 2

Manage Service, ,
Manager Technician Industrial Engineer working and control robotics with monitoring system software and icon industry network connection on tablet. IoT Implementation and Management Tips for Businesses, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Automation robot arm machine in smart factory on blue digital background

IoT Implementation and Management Tips for Businesses

Welcome back to the second half of our article about integrating new IoT technology into your business network. Last time, we covered the basics of IoT in the office including how to choose your hub and set up your first routines. Today, we’re here to discuss how to secure your IoT so your business network is safe while these devices communicate constantly with the internet. Join us as we pick up where we left off.

Secure IoT Setup

Your next concern, after deciding the hub and devices you want to start with, is to make sure your IoT network is secure. IoT devices are notorious targets for hacking. Some older models are very poorly designed for defense and even modern business IoT devices with good security are still under-secured by the companies that implement them. Here’s how to properly secure your IoT:

5. Create a Separate Wifi Network for IoT Devices

First, create a completely separate wifi network for all IoT devices. Not a spin-off or a subnetwork, but completely security-separate. This way, if even one IoT device is hacked, it cannot possibly provide the hacker with access to your internal business network. A separate wifi network is your first and last line of defense. Hackers (and their malware) will not be able to reach your employee workstations, your servers, or customer data because they will find nothing but other IoT devices if the IoT network is hacked.

6. Rock-Solid Firewalls and Virus Detection Software

Along the same lines, equip that separate network with the strongest firewalls and virus detection software available to you. Be sure to take the time and customize the settings on the firewall to be sure that only IoT activity is allowed through. This is another line of defense that will keep your IoT devices safe from opportunistic hackers. If it’s too difficult to access your network, hackers will generally seek greener pastures.

7. Change Default Login Credentials for Each Device

Finally, be sure to change the admin login credentials for every single IoT device you integrate. Many devices don’t make this easy or offer to help you change these credentials, so many IoT devices are still accessible through their factory-set credentials. Hackers then learn what the default credentials are which can grant them direct access to any IoT device that has not been secured.

 

Improving IoT Performance

With everything else secured, you may want to put some thought into improving the performance of your IoT Devices.

8. Check Wifi Strength in Device Locations

One of the problems businesses have had in the past with IoT is weak wifi signal. IoT devices like lightbulbs and security cameras are sometimes placed high up and away from where employees use the wifi on a regular basis. Your wifi signal may have trouble reaching the locations where you want to put them.

One way to help your office is to check the signal strength of each location before you place the device. Signal boosters and repeaters may extend the wifi range so that you can have more far-flung IoT devices.

9. Prioritize Security and Streaming Bandwidth Use

IoT functions are sometimes demanding in wifi bandwidth, but some functions are more important than others. Work with your network admin to prioritize the security, communication, and streaming bandwidth use while de-prioritizing less important functions and features that can wait their turn for bandwidth.

10. Integrate Mobile Control

Voice control is the primary focus of IoT smart devices, but mobile control should not be underestimated. The ability to control your business IoT devices through manager and employee mobile devices is incredibly powerful. Devices can be controlled or communicated with by someone out of the office, by any employee inside the office, or with greater precision using the right mobile app. Consider mobile control integration potential for your business when optimizing your company IoT.

IoT is the future of business technology, but integrating it with your business naturally requires some amount of effort and care. With the help of skilled IT professionals, you can quickly have your business IoT plan in place, secure, and ready to use. Contact us today to find out more about the best implementation strategies for IoT in your business.

10 IoT Implementation and Management Tips for Businesses – Part 1

Manage Service, ,
Business woman hand using smartphone with IoT implementaion via multi-channel communication network on mobile application

Implementing IoT in the Office does it have a place in the office?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a trendy term for an incredibly useful new type of device: Smart devices. Devices that respond to Wi-Fi commands through web portals and mobile device. And they have an undeniable place in the modern office. The uses for IoT range from turning off an entire floor of lights with a word to remotely managing building security. With specialized business IoT devices, your office can likely do even more than the basic applications that have been imagined. Particularly if IoT is combined with “Smart Home” voice hub technology.

This article will outline the top tips for implementing and managing a network of IoT devices in your business.

 

Implementing IoT in the Office

Bringing IoT into the office starts with your choice of IoT technology.

1. Choose Your Hub

The first step is to choose the smart hub you want to use. While you can manage your IoT devices through individual portals and apps, the most complete and useful experience comes from something only offered by a hub that can use ‘skills’ to manipulate all of your IoT devices on command without worrying about which brand made them or which app controls them.

Alexa is winning the race for Smart Home hubs, and more devices respond to Alexa than other hubs. However, Microsoft is quickly dominating the market for a business IoT hub through Azure. The important thing is that you choose a hub that works with the devices you want to use and interacts in a way that works for your business.

Whatever hub you choose, you’ll need to place a hub speaker anywhere you want commands to be heard.

2. Start with Smart Lights

If your business is new to IoT, the best place to start is smart lights. It is cool to turn one light on and off with a voice command, without walking to the switch. It’s an efficiency miracle to turn on or off an entire floor of lights without running from switch to switch. Smart lights can improve your energy efficiency and save loads of time for anyone who opens or closes each day. Not to mention the ability to control brightness and the occasional use of party colors.

3. Create Helpful Routines Anyone Can Use

An IoT routine is a group of device commands enacted by a single trigger. For example, you can set every single light on a routine and turn them off by saying “Turn Off All Lights” or you can separate the routines floor by floor with commands like “Turn On Finance Lights”. Of course, routines can do much more than that. You could, for example, set up a routine called “Good Morning Office” that turns on the lights, starts the smart coffee pot brewing, warms up the printer, and unlocks the smart lock on the front door as well.

Be sure to create a few routines that everyone in the office can use on command, like lights or coffee pot controls, to make your office more responsive and intuitive overall.

4. Specialty Routines for Business Purposes

You will also likely want a few specialty routines known only to the teams meant to use them. IoT security, for example, does not need publicly available routines but the security team may be able to do some interesting and useful tasks with voice-command cameras and other IoT Security devices.

Of course, installing IoT in your office is only the first half of the process. As any IT security professional can tell you, the cost for all that accessibility is an increased cybersecurity risk. Fortunately, IoT can easily be secured by following the right separation and recovery steps which we’ll be covering in the second half of this article. Join us next time for part two where we’ll talk about how to ensure your new IoT gadgets are not a security risk for your internal business network. Contact us today to find out more about adding IoT functionality to your business!