Stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of technology with insights, updates, and practical advice from our expert team. Our IT Blog is your go-to resource for exploring the latest trends in cybersecurity, cloud computing, infrastructure, compliance, and digital transformation. Whether you’re a business leader looking to align technology with strategic goals or an IT professional seeking fresh perspectives, we’re here to help you make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and unlock the full potential of your IT investments.
Coffee beans cross oceans before they reach your cup. Company data travels an even longer route – only faster, and with much more riding on every hop. Criminals have worked this out. The UK Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025 finds that 43 per cent of British organisations suffered at least one cyber incident last year,…
Intellectual property (IP) represents some of the most valuable assets a business owns. Whether it’s trade secrets, patented technology, copyrighted content, or proprietary data, IP often defines a company’s competitive edge. Hackers know this, and that’s why they target it. Unlike credit card numbers or passwords, which are relatively easy to change after a breach,…
Let’s be honest – cyber threats aren’t slowing down anytime soon. Whether it’s a ransomware attack or a data breach, businesses of all sizes are vulnerable, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. That’s where cybersecurity insurance comes in, offering a financial safety net when things go sideways. But here’s the thing: having a policy doesn’t…
As we approach 2025, new digital tools and challenges are emerging that will affect how businesses across the UK and worldwide will work. This guide looks at what’s coming. We’ll cover the changing face of cybersecurity, the ongoing struggle to find technology and IT staff, and how remote work continues to reshape business operations. We’ll…
Many business owners think they’re flying under the radar when it comes to cyber threats. Unfortunately, that’s far from the truth. Cybercriminals target businesses of every shape and size, though it’s fair to say that small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) have been feeling the brunt of the impact lately. It’s a matter of the consequences.…
Gone are the days when everyone commuted to an office from 9 to 5. Now, remote and hybrid work models are becoming the norm for many businesses. This brings exciting opportunities, but it’s not without its challenges. The question is, how can you and your team thrive in this new paradigm? Let’s dive in and…
Insider threats have become increasingly common in recent years, and they pose a big concern for businesses of all types and sizes. That’s because these attacks usually go undetected until it’s too late, compromising the security of sensitive information. Recent statistics indicate a significant uptick in the frequency of these attacks, as 74% of businesses…
Phishing remains one of the most common and evolving cyber threats, targeting both individuals and organisations. According to a recent government cyber security breaches survey, 56% of businesses and 62% of charities that experienced breaches or attacks in the past 12 months identified phishing specifically. The survey also revealed an increase in the prevalence of…
Businesses are turning to outsourcing as a strategic solution to plug gaps in their processes and operations. IT support, in particular, is the most commonly outsourced business activity, with over 35% of businesses tapping into external IT expertise. By partnering with specialised IT service providers, savvy businesses streamline operations to maximise efficiency, cut costs, and…
As of 2023/2024, remote work remains highly popular. Approximately 14% of full-time employees are fully remote, 57% work full-time in the office, and 29% work in hybrid modes. A huge 98% of employees prefer remote work at least part of the time. Amid his remote work revolution, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) find themselves grappling…
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of our time’s most transformative and disruptive technologies. Systems like ChatGPT, DALL-E, Midjourney, and others can produce highly realistic text, images, code, and other content often indistinguishable from what a human would create. These tools have also democratized hacking and cybercrime tactics such as phishing and present…
Staff training is the first line of defence against most forms of cyber attacks. A recent study by the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) revealed that human error accounted for a staggering 90% of data breaches in 2019. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for organisations to prioritise cybersecurity training for their staff, regardless…
Cloud disaster recovery has become essential for businesses looking to protect their operations. It involves replicating key IT systems and data to a cloud-based infrastructure that can be failed over in the event of disruption. Cloud disaster recovery dramatically improves a business’s resilience. If servers go down due to hardware issues, natural disasters, cyber-attacks, or…
As we enter 2024, the cybersecurity landscape will evolve to present new challenges and opportunities. From the rise of AI phishing attacks to the increasing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals, this article explores ten key areas for businesses to be aware of this year. Let’s dive in. 1. AI and Machine Learning In 2023, Kaspersky…
The global AI industry has grown enormously throughout 2023 and is set to continue at a relentless pace in 2024. As nations worldwide scramble for a slice of this multi-trillion-dollar industry, the government has been keen to depict the UK as a hub of innovation and growth. The UK AI market, now valued at over…
In today’s digital-centric world, ransomware threats have become more prevalent and sophisticated, posing significant risks to businesses and individuals alike. Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid. There are an estimated 2,000 cyber attacks daily, of which 43% of targets…
If you are unaware of a threat, how can you remove it? Traditional cyber security systems and antivirus software are not always able to identify the evasive strategies that threat actors are increasingly putting into their malware. Evasive malware presents a modified and potentially more dangerous type of threat to your computer systems. Your computers…
Are you familiar with SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates and the potential harm that can be caused to your company’s website if you don’t have one? While exploring the internet, have you seen the padlock next to an HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) link? Or even worse, an HTTP with the words “Not secure” next…
Recruitment was halted as a result of the Covid epidemic, which led several sectors to suffer or possibly shut down for several months. Since the globe has once again become more open for business operations, the employment situation has changed dramatically, with more opportunities than applicants. This, together with the fact that workers are increasingly…
When someone receives an email from a well-known brand, it inspires feelings of trust and positivity in that person. For this reason, con artists will use well-known brands when launching phishing attacks via email. If the email appears to have been sent from a reputable and well-known brand, the recipients are more likely to respond…
So, what precisely is meant by the term “shadow IT”? You are likely familiar with the expression, but you might not fully understand what it refers to in practice. Where did the phrase “shadow IT” initially originate? What is meant by the phrase “Shadow IT”? The term “shadow IT” originates from the concept of any…
When you think about data breaches or cyber assaults, your mind may automatically go to the major scandals that have affected some of the largest corporations in the world. Problems with cyber security that affect smaller organisations are something you hear about much less frequently. But do not be fooled; just because they are not…
According to some estimates, the average cost of downtime for multinational corporations is around $351,000 (or £300,000) per hour. That is an incredible sum of $5,850 (or 5,000 pounds) each minute! Given that the computation takes into account, among other things, the loss of income, this statement is especially relevant to large companies and factories.…
In the search for safe internet operations, cryptocurrency adds a new degree of complication. Complex computations requiring a lot of processing power are used to construct these new digital currencies. Cryptocurrency miners have devised new methods of gaining free access to that processing power, and maybe that includes using your company’s website. Because there are…
An IT support system can refer to a variety of things. It not only controls a company’s IT infrastructure, but it also serves as the first point of contact for urgent issues and technical guidance. With the average worldwide cost of server downtime currently approaching $400,000, (£320,740) it’s no wonder that firms are spending about…
Because smartphones are updated so regularly, it’s easy to end up with a drawer full of obsolete versions that are no longer useful. Most upgrades are motivated by a desire to have the most recent version rather than any real must-have’ new feature, and many of the abandoned Smartphones are still completely functional. So, what…
Many aspects of life have changed dramatically in the last two years. While some may be transient, others will have a long-term impact on how we live and work in the next decades. While the steadiness of a 9-5 office job with completely protected IT systems may no longer be as feasible as it once…
Slack remains a popular service for work-related discussions and file sharing. It’s an excellent tool for distant teams to communicate and keep in contact. However, it is not the only choice, as Microsoft Teams witnessed a boost in popularity during the Covid epidemic. So, if you’re thinking of switching from Slack to Teams, you’re not…
System upgrades are an essential element of every successful organisation, and they serve two purposes: they maintain your systems security and efficiency. With up-to-date systems, you may conduct business as normal while still using all of your important business applications without interruption. You will need to execute system updates for both your operating system and…
If you run or work for a smaller business, you’re probably always looking for methods to increase productivity and make team communication easier for you, your employees, and your business partners. Using Microsoft Office 365’s collaboration tools is one of the simplest ways to collaborate with your colleagues. This system has the most up-to-date teamwork…
You’ve probably heard of IT outsourcing, but what exactly does it entail? What are all the drawbacks and advantages? Outsourcing has the ability to help you achieve far more than you ever imagined, but it all relies on who you choose to partner with. A significant chunk of every business’s operations is now accomplished by…
Cyber-attacks in the UK continue to surge and a recent report on cybersecurity breaches in 2020 show that around 46% of businesses reported suffering from digital security breaches within the 12 month period. Cybercrime was already a growing threat but the global pandemic over the past two years has resulted in greater use and reliance…
Want a stack of new Windows 11 tips and tricks? We have compiled a list of our top shortcuts and hacks to enhance the way you use your PC with Windows 11. Microsoft’s new OS has been rolling out since October 2021 with users being notified to update from Windows 10 to Windows 11. If…
Cyber attacks against all kinds of businesses and other organisations are increasing in volume. The same is true for the charity sector. Charities of all sizes are seeing more cyber attacks against them and those charities with high incomes are even more of a target for criminals. A report conducted this year (2021) by the…
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, known as PCI DSS, is an important security standard to control personal data and to limit fraud with bank and credit card payments. PCI DSS originated via a joint effort by leading payment brands in the United States including Mastercard, Visa and American Express. collaboration between the major…
Trend reports have been predicting more hybrid working between home and the office for several years, and it turns out they were right – the whole process just got rapidly accelerated by the advent of a global pandemic. The trends have still been proven correct however, even now with the pandemic easing thanks to vaccines,…
Every piece of equipment you use in your business has a shelf life. The same is true for IT equipment, hardware and software. As the end of life of your IT equipment approaches you need to decide how to upgrade to new systems and how to dispose of the old tools. Planning for the transition…
The danger of insider attacks are often overlooked or not given the same level of attention as outside attacks in cybersecurity prevention planning. As insiders already have access to the network and can bypass firewalls, they have an easier task in gaining sensitive information. These threats don’t need to hack through the firewalls first defence…
More internet users are understanding the importance of data privacy and are beginning to look for alternatives to Google and some social media sites like Facebook that make profits on user data. Alongside this swell in consumer awareness, regulators are becoming stricter on data privacy rules and they will become more rigorous during 2021 and…
The new Windows 365 product is set to revolutionise the way we work, following the hybrid work trend. More and more employees are opting for a mix of in-office and at-home work flexibility, and Windows is helping to make this a reality. This is excellent news for businesses operating with Windows 365, as their employees…
Are you ready for the big analogue network switch-off? Say goodbye to your usual phone and fax systems, and hello to a digital business landscape. BT is switching from old copper phone lines or analogue (PSTN and ISDN) to digital by December 2025. The change in this century’s technology means they will be switching off…
Many companies around the globe had to have their employees work from home due to the pandemic. According to the Office of National Statistics, 46.6% of people worked from home in the UK in April 2020. Now in the UK for July, Boris Johnson has stated the Covid-19 restrictions will ease almost completely. Businesses will…
WhatsApp’s users need to be aware of the emerging 2021 hijack scam. Scammers have begun posing as friends to gain valuable data and take over your WhatsApp. This article will take you through the WhatsApp hijack scam, tips to protect your WhatsApp, and other scams to be aware of. What Is The WhatsApp Hijack Scam?…
The first Thursday of May every year is World Password Day, the next one being May 5th 2022. Initially invented by Intel back in 2013, it serves as a reminder to keep our digital ecosystems safe and protect against potential threats. Here is everything you need to know about password protection and all things cybersecurity.…
Finding a balance between work, kids, friends, laundry, solitude, what Netflix film to watch, and the rest – can seem like a challenge of epic proportions. But, finding that work-life balance from home can be as simple as these five steps. Compartmentalise Your Space The space is limited for many of us, but that doesn’t…
Business users need to use the internet when they are on the go. One of the major benefits of portable hotspots and dongles is that they allow individuals to access the internet wherever they are. Why a business user might want to use a mobile wi-fi hotspot? A mobile wi-fi hotspot is a useful tool…
Schools have particular Wi-Fi needs; this is due to both the school’s curriculum and the operational needs of a school system. These school Wi-Fi connectivity requirements are unique to schools as education is entirely different from a business’s technical requirements. Ensuring that the Wi-Fi is stable and secure is critical in a school environment. A…
On the 6th of October 2020, Google replaced G-Suite with Google Workspace, a SaaS (Software as a Service) product. Features include Google cloud-based productivity and collaboration tools: Gmail, Calendar, Google Docs, Sheets, and more. The mass shift to remote working we saw in 2020 made it necessary to streamline and save time for employees and…
How to Better Control Data and Manage Employees Working From Home The pandemic has seen a surge in WFH employees. It seems more people are working from home every day and as many businesses realise those cost savings, they are neglecting to see the potential security flaws in their IT systems. The problem occurs when…
The faster that technology changes the faster users and businesses have to update their cyber security. This key issue has been further impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic where remote working has become standard for employees in many organisations with integration and flexibility hot topics for home-based workers alongside cyber safety. Remote working sees the dawn…
Training and development add value to existing staff members as well as updating skills and competencies and ensuring a positive culture of self-worth and value. Relevant and quality training initiatives are one of the factors that can boost staff retention and promote a happier workplace. However, they can be costly. If you are an SME…
When most people were confined to offices or designated workplaces, the concept of data security was often linked to a physical location and was easier to understand. Nowadays, everyone is on the move and many people are also working from home more and more due to Coronavirus. Most people have several devices which they use…
It doesn’t matter how disciplined you are, it is inevitable that at some point you have done some internet browsing or shopping on a work laptop or maybe even managed some of your private banking transactions or social media feeds. Most people keep a personal folder even if it just relates to details of their…
Windows 10 is an operating system that just keeps evolving. With new features released in Microsoft’s biannual updates, there are bound to be some that have passed you by. Here are ten tips and tricks to improve your Windows 10 user experience. If these basic features don’t enhance your workflow enough, you can always outsource…
Remote working is rising in popularity. With that comes complexity in communication: not enough communication and your team’s productivity will drop, but not managing your communication channels effectively can be an IT headache waiting to happen. As the lines between our work lives and personal lives blur, that can come with the side effect of…
Extended periods of downtime are simply not an option for many businesses performing crucial business for their customers. But unforeseen incidents such as power outages, natural disaster and human error can strike at any time and take valuable services offline. This is why having a business continuity and disaster recovery plan in place is so…
Communication is the backbone of business. The quality of communication between customers, colleagues, suppliers and stakeholders directly impacts business success. Effective communication is essential. But even with so many communication channels available to businesses, one that cannot be overlooked is the telephone. When someone has a problem, they want to talk to someone, and fast.…
We get it, the period of the 2000s seems like yesterday. However, just like time, innovative technology moves at a fast pace. Do you remember the times when Tinder, Uber and Instagram weren’t around? Yeah, it’s kind of blurred for us too. Let us refresh your memory, in those days it wasn’t the norm for…
Do you ever wish you could survive without it and didn’t need to sleep? If you’re like us, most likely at times you may have found there are not enough hours in the day! This couldn’t be more true in the workplace with endless email threads and streams, slowing down your progress. The endless todo…
Technology at work is indispensable. We can’t imagine the workplace without it! As beneficial as it is, employees can take it for granted, and the fine line between using technology for work purposes and for personal use is completely blurred. It’s so easy for employees to do unintentional damage if left unchecked. This doesn’t mean…
If you thought blockchain was only for buying and selling cryptocurrencies, you are mistaken. You might be surprised to learn that a small business can really benefit from blockchain. Businesses that are using blockchain are enjoying several really important features that blockchain offers. We look at how blockchain works, and how it can give your…
Mobile phones have come a long way in a short space of time. The introduction of the Motorola DynaTAC 8000X in the US in 1983 brought portable phones to those who could afford one for the first time. Weighing in at 1.1kg and not dissimilar in size and shape to a literal brick, these phones…
Let’s set the scene. It’s 2007, you’re riding a bus to work and you realise you’ve left the USB stick with all of your work on it at home. You’re frustrated that this keeps on happening. What do you do? Well, if your name is Drew Houston, you sit down and code the world’s first…
Cybersecurity is big business. Every year there are unprecedented levels of cyberattacks targeting large and small companies alike. If you’re a small business, you might not think you’d be high on the list for targeting. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Wherever there is software and hardware, there is always a risk that someone can…
With the spread of COVID-19 across the globe, our personal and work lives have been turned upside down. For those of us not working to keep the country moving on the front lines, offices have made way for spare bedrooms and kitchen tables. Now, as lockdown measures begin to ease, new challenges emerge. How will…
When did you last invest in new technology? When it comes to upgrading, there tends to be two camps of people: those always on the lookout for the newest tech to innovate with, and those who take the saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” as gospel. However, at some point in the future,…
Cyber attacks regularly hit the headlines, but the stories that make the news tend to concern huge global corporations, with vast resources at their disposal. As a result, some small business owners have felt a false sense of security when it comes to the threat of cyber attacks. Unfortunately, the risk that such attacks pose…
If you haven’t yet downloaded the latest Windows 10 Update, Version 10 2004, now is your chance. It will only take you a few minutes, and in the meantime, here is a brief summary of everything you need to know about it, including how to download it. The latest Microsoft Windows 10 update includes several…
Feel like you spend too much of your time at work in meetings that should’ve been an email or replying to emails that should’ve been a meeting? Now there’s a way to know for sure using Microsoft Myanalytics. What is Microsoft Myanaltyics? Using data insights can give you a clear idea of how you spend…
Something small and assuming like a USB stick can be worth its weight in gold. Flash drives are perfect for portable storage, and with some able to carry over 256GB of data, they can hold almost everything you need. They normally weigh about 10-12 grams making them both wonderfully easy to carry and incredibly…
Phishing scams are becoming more sophisticated than ever before, from social media platforms to financial services companies. The Phishers’ Favourites Report of Q4 for 2019, US e-mail security specialists, Vade Secure, highlighted the 25 most impersonated brands in phishing attacks around the world – and you might be surprised to learn that are some…
It can be or so easy to get lost in all of the jargon, and you might be surprised at what your company is and isn’t covered for. Here are some points that should be covered by your IT support company, if you are not, then it’s something that is worth addressing quickly. Monitoring…
The role of an IT manager is not always an enviable one. It is a demanding, and often thankless job. Many new IT managers struggle in the first few weeks as they grapple with numerous IT problems and challenges. Here are 11 ways that can help an IT manager settle into their new job: …
When you’re dealing with email for your business, there are 3 main types of accounts you can choose from. These are: Microsoft Exchange (or other cloud based email services) IMAP POP Each one is slightly different so let’s look at how each one works and the pros and cons of each email system. This article…
A two monitor set up is not uncommon in many business settings. It’s particularly common in industries like web design, CAD, or multimedia production. Are two monitors better than one? What are the pros and cons? We’ll look at all the factors such as costs, health benefits, productivity, and more. The benefits of dual monitors…
Is there anything quite as maddening as a computer that is running slowly. It can be incredibly frustrating when your PC is creaking through even the most simple of tasks. Over time you tend to build-up virtual detritus that can slow your PC, and impact its performance in general. But all is not lost, here…
Whether you are starting a new business, relocating or maybe even upgrading an old network, it’s important to get the correct network cabling. The wrong choice can prove to be very costly while reducing efficiency and productivity. Even if your company is using WIFI, the system still needs to be wired in much the same…
Instances of CEO fraud have seen a dramatic increase in recent decades. This technique of embezzlement, which has targeted SMEs for years now, costs UK businesses in the region £121 billion each year. It is an increasing problem, but with the right kind of training, and knowledge of which red flags to look for, there…
Establishing a secure internet environment for your business can involve a lot of interlacing tools and software, and it does require a solid understanding of how cyber security works. There are many different types of threats, so your business needs to have a diversified strategy in order to protect against as many of them…
The financial industry is driven by technology. In fact, today it is completely reliant on it. If a financial organisation doesn’t have the proper and most up-to-date technology to support their service, clients will leave without question to find a better service elsewhere. And as quickly as technology changes, organisations need to be constantly aware…
With the choice of multiple different devices coming into play, the question has been raised of whether desktop computers are the ideal solution for carrying out work in businesses. By the nature of a desktop, you are forced to work within a specific room and you can’t take it away with you for a meeting…
According to recent research from Hiscox, 55 per cent of UK firms reported a cyber-attack so far this year, which is an increase from 40 per cent in 2018. Despite the fact that the number of cyber-attack victims is increasing, close to three-quarters of the firms surveyed by Hiscox admitted being under-prepared for a cyber-attack.…
In the current corporate climate, an increasing number of businesses are data driven, and all are experiencing a shift to greater reliance on technology and data, with digital communications and cloud services enabling a paperless office, as well as vast improvements in efficiency and productivity. In 2017, data surpassed oil as the world’s most valuable…
It’s no secret that owners of small businesses wear several hats at once. There are a lot of responsibilities, and they all take time out of the day. Managing the daily operations of a business while also trying to deliver a service or product (and do it well) is a constant balancing act, and IT…
There comes a time in the life cycle of every small or upcoming business where the adhoc file management systems that they had used previously have outworn their capacity. This can lead to errors that create frustration and problems for the business. It would be easy to turn to third party external platforms but then…
You may have heard of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by now, but with all of its complexity, are you familiar with the details that could land you in hot water and costly fines for non-compliance? Here’s a chance to brush up on those specifics so you can be confident that you’re doing…
Technology continues to evolve, affecting every facet of our lives, but it is especially interesting to see how it has changed the way we do business. Before the advent of the internet, people would look at you as if you were crazy if you told them you were ‘working from home’. Now that we have…
Do you run Windows on your business computers and devices? Many small and medium businesses do, and it is no real surprise. Microsoft has been dominant in the corporate space for years, thanks to its unmatched Microsoft Office productivity suite and Server products that make it easy for businesses of any size to operate more…
How do you take care of your data? Data loss can come in many forms, so it’s vital that your business is prepared to protect it by taking a multi-faceted approach. Data backup is the best strategy you have to recover from accidental or malicious data loss. The digital business environment is often a fragile…
Microsoft Small Business Server has formed the backbone of many small business computing needs. The reliable workhorse has provided many small businesses with the technical infrastructure they need to manage email, internet access and secure data storage. Microsoft has announced that the platform, along with staples like Windows 7 OS will reach its end of…
Have you ever felt frustrated because your work computer was taking too long to boot up in the morning? It’s a common problem and it’s costing British businesses a lot of money and time in lost productivity. The slow process of starting up a computer in the morning is often just the tip of the…
The internet has woven its way into our lives as adults, but today’s children are digital natives – they were born into a hyper-connected world. Schools must provide connected environments to prepare children for the digital workplace. The latest technology allows for new teaching methods and innovative platforms like digital whiteboards and personalised learning apps…
Malicious software has persistently caused havoc in the UK in recent years and shows no sign of slowing. It’s not just businesses that are affected – in 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack hit National Health Service systems. It led to delays in medical procedures and an inability to accept new patients at some facilities, including…
The Internet of Things is continuing to make its presence felt in all areas of our lives. As consumers we may use smart speakers and assistants. At work sensors are collating data faster than we can analyse it. The government is keeping a wary eye on developments and trying to plan for new cyber security…
As the race for digitally secure workplaces develops, business owners and IT departments are beginning to wonder if they have the necessary hardware to back up the complex software that guards the gates. The hardware necessary to power a secure internet is critical, but there are concerns that it’s playing catch up as the development…
The Internet of Things (IoT) is going from strength to strength, with global spending on the industry set to reach over US$1 trillion by 2021. Consumer electronics get a lot of airtime when it comes to IoT but this broad and diversified grouping forms only the fourth largest segment of the market. Manufacturing, transportation and…
Voice technology is becoming central to our lives personally, and increasingly in business, too. There is so much potential for your business when you consider the various use cases that developers have been showcasing or look at what’s already happening in homes and businesses around the world. Have considered ways you could use voice tech…
The cloud is where most of us are basing our digital business operations, and with good reason. It’s often cheaper and far less time intensive than maintaining your own in-house servers. Depending on where you host your data you may have access to 24/7 support, which is a must in the online trading environment. Cloud…
How are your inter-department relationships? We’ve written before about the valuable role staff can play in protecting businesses from cyber security threats. Unfortunately, new research is indicating that there are common communication barriers between IT departments and non-IT staff. Staff are reporting hesitation to contact IT for tech support and often prefer to do their…
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) has completely changed the way we conduct our business. Before cloud computing was an option, providing digital infrastructure required significant investments in hardware, space, utilities and time. IaaS now provides a way of accessing the benefits of online storage and analytics without the hefty costs of maintenance. When you start…
Have you got a brilliant idea for an app or a new online service? You’re probably wondering what to do next. How can you turn your idea into a successful tech company? It might seem obvious that you’ll need to develop your product first, but have you thought about what to do next? What’s the…
Part of what makes working in IT so challenging and exciting is the pace of the industry. There are always new ways of unlocking potential and creating new environments. This drive and ability to innovate is available to anyone, of course, and so it becomes a double-edged sword. As technology became a part of every…
Cyber security will always be a primary concern for businesses that operate in the online environment. It’s imperative that staff are aware of the dangers of security breaches. This guide will outline the best ways to get your team on board with secure online behaviour, and what to do if faced with a possible breach…
There’s much more to a business relationship than figures alone. Your experience with service providers is defined by their price and their services, but perhaps more impactful is the personal experience that you have with individual staff. After all, a business can’t exist without every day interactions. Your IT consultancy is no exception. When it…
Businesses are made up of individual people. When there’s a problem with the tech, a person is going to send an email or make a phone call to get it fixed. It sounds obvious but it’s the essential key to remember when providing outstanding IT support. Providing tech support is often focused on the work…
The Internet of Things (IoT) has been making itself felt in many different spaces over the last few years. The consumer space is becoming more and more familiar with machines that appear to think for themselves. The rise of automated assistants like Cortana, Alexa and Siri are finding their way into homes across the world.…
It’s no secret that online sales are continuing to increase year on year in the UK. In 2016 online sales totalled €153 billion and no level of economic uncertainty seems to seriously impact the rise of the sector. This level of spending presents a tempting target for cyber criminals. If you conduct any of…
Your business deserves to be protected against intrusions by hackers. Ransomware is a particularly malicious form of hacking, whereby a file is downloaded onto a company computer, which in turn denies all access to the data therein. Hackers hold the data to ransom, offering only to unlock it once a sum of money is paid.…
Data theft is on the rise. You should make every effort to protect yourself from known threats but also acknowledge that even the most dedicated IT teams cannot stop every threat. Even government departments struggle to keep their data confidential. It’s unlikely that your company has similar levels of staff, technology or funding to NASA…
Artificial intelligence is already playing an important role in businesses large and small. It is everywhere, often unnoticed by its users. It’s likely that you interacted with AI as you found this article (if you found it through a search, then you harnessed the power of intelligent search algorithms). AI is often pigeon-holed as either…
Risk management is a highly underrated part of project management. IT projects in particular can be quite risk-prone, but there can be hesitation to take protective action against them in a deliberate way. A risk is any uncertainty around an event that could influence your project in a positive or negative way. Of course, positive…
The Christmas holiday and retail sales period that follows is often credited with providing retailers with a disproportionate amount of the year’s profits. As consumers continue to shift toward spending in the online environment, businesses are doing their best to capture a slice of the digital pie. Relatively new retail trends such as the Black…
The cloud is here to stay. The internet-based data sharing, communication and storage solutions have woven themselves into our everyday life. After all, you’re using the cloud every time you check an email or social media on your mobile device. Want to harness the power of secure remote access for your business? This article pulls…
Penetration testing is a valuable tool in your company’s cyber security toolbox. It involves inviting a trusted party to test your security protocols. As penetration testing is carried out, any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in the cyber security framework are exposed and highlighted. These controlled breaches allow for patching to occur under measured conditions,…
Hiring a new team member can be a nerve-wracking experience. There can be a lot of pressure to find the right candidate. How do you determine which applicant will be the right fit for your company, with the right combination of technical and interpersonal skills? If you’re looking to hire a new technical employee, there’s…
Hackers use various methods to access sensitive information. Malware, ransomware, and viruses are some of the more well-known tools and strategies. Increasingly, companies are deploying sophisticated software that protects against these types of attacks. Unfortunately for businesses, there is one cyber-security weakness that no amount of programming can account for: human staff. Employees can be…
Cyber-security, like all areas of IT, is evolving. There are plenty of changing demands in a very dynamic environment. There’s no doubt that the core notions of cyber-security haven’t changed – there is an ongoing commitment to stability, usability, cost-effectiveness and control – but the changing landscape is demanding attention. Let’s start with…
Choosing the right type of internet connection for your business takes careful consideration. Both wireless and Ethernet options have their benefits and drawbacks. What is less commonly known is that the two technologies have different levels of cyber-security. Both styles of internet connection can offer stable and secure transmission, but there is additional information you’ll…
In the past, it was only feasible for large multinational corporations to outsource their IT needs to specialist companies. Now, managed IT services are affordable for small to medium businesses to access. The benefits of partnering with IT experts are numerous. You remain in control of your data and your business needs, while getting support…
As businesses become more aware of the threat of cyber-attacks, technical defences are becoming stronger. It’s far more difficult to hack into corporate networks than it used to be. Because of this, hackers are creating new methods of accessing secure data. These efforts are being directed at the new weakest link in corporate cyber security:…
More and more, businesses are outsourcing their data hosting and processing to the cloud. This often proves to be the most secure and economic choice, particularly for smaller businesses that don’t need instantaneous data analysis. In recent years, fog computing has begun to offer a middle ground solution. Nodes are located closer to the edge…
There’s no hiding from the truth – we are often in front of a screen from the moment we wake up to the moment we go to sleep. Constantly checking our personal devices for updates can drive us to distraction. At work, we find a desktop work station waiting for us with so much to…
Mobile devices like smartphones and tablets have become ubiquitous in both the personal and professional spheres. Often there is overlap between the two – checking the work email from home on the weekend is not uncommon these days. In 2016, mobile browsing overtook desktop internet use for the first time. If anything, it’s an…
IT consultants can be deployed to carry out a diverse range of tasks for clients. Generally speaking, IT consultants help businesses to use technology to make processes more efficient or more secure. The tasks can be very diverse, from fixing current issues to creating brand new custom infrastructure. Good IT consultants are flexible and are…
Information Technology (IT) Consulting is a varied field. Generally speaking, it focuses on connecting people with technical skills to businesses that need that knowledge. Technology consultants work with businesses to create new solutions and solve problems. It is a very diverse field, as consultants can specialise in a multitude of areas. You may call on…
Introduction Bluetooth technology has been around since 2000. It’s become a seamless way for professionals to connect devices and it can be deployed for a variety of uses – from diverting voice calls through car speakers, to providing the freedom of wireless mice, headphones and more. The question now however, is how safe is Bluetooth…
If you are looking to establish a computer network for your small business, there’s a few things you’ll need to consider. Setting up small business computer networks can be a lot different to standard home-based or domestic networks. Business networks typically have a greater degree of complexity and security issues to think about. Ultimately the…
ITIL change management can help you achieve carefully managed change in your IT environment. It provides a framework through which processes that govern how changes to applications, hardware, software, networks, environments and documentation should be carried out, can be defined and applied to your own business. The role of ITIL change management is to manage…
No matter what business you are in, you need a telephone system. Your customers and your vendors need to reach you, and your workforce needs a platform from which to communicate. The problem is that your legacy PBX has been rendered virtually obsolete, partially by nature of its expense, but also in consideration of that…
In 2017, IT security is a big concern – not just for enterprise, but for SMBs as well. Cyber threats are ever-evolving, and new risks, scams and insidious schemes are being revealed every single day. As the threats become more sophisticated, so do the solutions. The trouble is, if IT security is not your area…
If your Windows system is running slow or acting strangely, it may be difficult to pinpoint exactly what is causing it. It could be that you have picked up some malware or a virus, or it could be that some of your systems files are corrupted and so are unable to perform as they should.…
So you have made the choice to go with buying a new business laptop and not a desktop PC. An astounding array of competent and convenient laptops for small business use vied for attention during 2016. This article will put forward 5 brand suggestions for contender to the top spot but first it’s important to…
The digital age has brought technology that enables us to leave the confines of the office building and work remotely from “home” or where ever we choose to locate our work space. Perhaps a beach in Bali, a tree house in Thailand or our own backyard becomes our working environment? Many organizations have become remote-friendly…
No matter what type of business you do, email is an integral part of your communications strategy. Vendors, suppliers, customers and employees all use your business email to stay in touch, deliver important information and nurture your sales efforts. In fact, on any given day, your employees may spend more time corresponding via email than…
No matter how secure your organization is, getting an IT security assessment from a third party can provide insight into possible weak spots in your system, alert you to risks and provide recommendations for improvements. While your organization likely takes IT security very seriously, you might not have an in-house security team. Even if you…
Without a doubt, most of us have come up against a problem or two that indicated the need for an expert. When we’re dealing with the IT infrastructure for our business, however, this becomes an even more delicate issue, as often that is not part of our core competency. While technology has the potential to…
Ransomware is costing commercial business billions of pounds worldwide every year. In the United States alone, from those that report paying the ransoms, totals are expected to hit £763,000,000 (US$1.06 billion) this year. Those that seek out other solutions to get their information back still have the cost of their data being inaccessible for days;…
Regardless of your business’s sector or niche, IT hardware will likely form the backbone of your operation. It is through the use of various hardware solutions that you and your staff go about your daily work and keep the business both running and growing. What hardware you invest in, therefore, and what choices you make…
Data centres, servers and the associated network cables are integral parts of any office’s IT network. Their quality and effectiveness determine the speed at which critical data can be transferred between connected devices, and any issues with them can have a profound effect on a business’s overall efficiency and productivity. It is crucial, therefore, that…
Staying ahead of the curve when it comes to your company’s IT solutions is a great way for any business to achieve an edge over their competitors. All firms in all sectors rely heavily on IT in their day to day operations but many don’t have the time or the expertise to properly optimise their…
No business can succeed today without email. It is simply an integral part of the day-to-day activities of all companies in every sector. Whether it is used to contact contractors and suppliers or as a channel of communication for customer service, email is invaluable to all businesses. Traditionally, there has been just one dominant email…
Being able to connect with customers and clients efficiently, quickly and easily is something which can benefit all small businesses. In the same vein, providing a rapid and reliable response to those customers when they need to reach you, is also critical. It is that, therefore, which makes office phone systems so vital to a…
Not matter what their particular sector, once a small business reaches a certain size it simply cannot do without a network server. In many ways, a small business server is the nerve centre of the organisation and that means that choosing the right one for you is absolutely crucial. Whether you are looking to invest…
It is an old adage that moving house is the most stressful thing that life can throw at an individual but that’s only the case because most people never have to undertake an IT office move. Relocating an entire office after all combines all of the usual stresses and issues of a house move and…
It is an unfortunate but inescapable fact of modern day business, that there are a huge variety of different cyber-security threats that you must be both aware of and protected against. One such threat that is almost ubiquitous and which you must know how to combat are so-called email ‘phishing’ scams. ‘Phishing’ is the practice…
Cyber security is in every way possible a hot button issue. Stories of cyber-attacks, data theft and other incursions have hardly been out of the news in the early part of 2016. Here at Mustard IT we are dedicated to helping companies to get the most out of their IT systems and as such to…
This week marked the ten year anniversary of when Jack Dorsey tweeted ‘Just setting up my twttr’ to launch the micro-blogging service that in the ensuing decade has become a near-ubiquitous part of modern life. Since that very first tweet, the service has grown to average around 305 million monthly active users and to be…
In the summer of 2015 there was a huge amount of fanfare surrounding the high profile launch of Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system. Technology geeks, general consumers and business owners alike were fascinated by just what the new OS had to offer and how the launch was going to go. Once the hullaballoo ended however,…
Cloud computing is becoming an ever more ubiquitous part of business life. Many firms have moved some or all of their IT infrastructure to the cloud, whilst even more still use at least one if not a number of cloud based services like Dropbox or Gmail. Whichever of those categories your company falls within therefore,…
‘Cloud Computing’ has recently become a ubiquitous term that if you are in any way involved in the business world, you will undoubtedly have come across. It is almost as certain too, that you will have considered whether it is something that your own business could benefit from adopting. You are not alone in that…
Are you a small business owner or decision maker who has only just bought a tablet? Are you only now considering looking into the possibilities of cloud computing? Have you even only just switched from a flip phone to a smart phone? If you’ve answered yes to one or even all of those questions, you…
Running a small business is not easy and the decision makers of any small or medium sized enterprise generally have a thousand and one different things that demand their attention at any one time. That means that with limited time, resources and assistance, some things inevitably fall through the cracks, and unfortunately those things are…
Technological innovation and development moves on at a pace that is often difficult to even fathom, let alone effectively keep up with. Further evidence of that – if needed – comes with the fact that whilst Britain is barely getting to grips with 4G technology, giant strides seem to being taken toward the development and…
Bosses in the UK and across Europe have this week been urged by a vast array of different organisations and bodies to not indulge in invasive surveillance by routinely and blithely reading employee’s private messages. One of the most passionate and notable such urgings came from Simon Walker, the director of the Institute of Directors,…
Microsoft have this week taken a big step towards phasing out their Internet Explorer (IE) web browser by encouraring users to switch to either its most recent IE 11 version or to the brand new Edge browser, and pulling the plug on support for versions 8, 9 and 10 of IE. In a move which…
The Consumer Electronics Show 2016 has been in full swing in Las Vegas during the past week and there have been a vast array of different innovations, devices and future projects announced and premiered to whet the appetite of tech fans. One of arguably the most exciting and immediately relevant demonstrations this week, was that…
OneDrive for Business is a great way to store documents in the cloud. By syncing files to your local computer, you’re free to operate in the office or on the move – accessing your work from any of your favourite devices, including Windows Phone, Surface RT, Windows 8, and iPhone or iPad. But, if you’re…
Every week, Mustard IT delivers new cloud solutions for London businesses and it’s not hard to see why this new technology is capturing the imagination of businesses of all sizes. Microsoft Azure is one product that has been gaining popularity in recent months because it offers all the flexibility and functionality that companies need in…
What if antivirus software fails to detect the problem? Earlier this year, Internet security firm Symantec confessed that its antivirus products detect malicious code less than half of the time. So does this mean that Norton and the other good guys are actually losing the battle against those who would wreak havoc on our systems?…
Who will own your problem when the big boys get it wrong? Business owners don’t just want their IT support company to intervene when there is a problem. They need someone to help manage their networks, plan budgets, contribute to IT strategies and then take ownership of the problem if things go wrong. A recent…
With the never-ending stream of IT security advice on offer these days, users may become confused by the technical explanations they hear. From bots to botnets and Trojans to worms, the range of terminology can be rather daunting, which is why Prosyn has produced the following beginner’s guide to IT security vocab. Trojans Trojans is…
New products and services from Microsoft, such as Office 365, OneDrive and Server Essentials, will continue to drive this growth. Many other vendors are following suit with the likes of Sage and Adobe offering cloud-based versions of their application software. Companies seem to be growing more comfortable with the security aspects of cloud computing. They…
The cloud is already a big deal in business. And it’s only set to grow bigger and bigger. With only 2% of UK businesses not using cloud services in some way back in 2018, it’s predicted that the recent shift towards remote working on a global scale has accelerated digital transformation for those previously unwilling…
Security remains the number one priority for IT users and high profile breaches, such as those encountered by Facebook and Apple, continue to dent user confidence. Increasingly, there is a feeling that the traditional user name and password may have had its day. We now have so many of these logins, they are getting harder…
Data is used every time we send or receive information via our mobile phones and for many of us that occupies a large part of the day. But do we know how much we are using and what it is costing us? We use smartphones constantly these days to keep a check on email, access…
By now, you will know that Microsoft withdrew support for Windows XP on April 8th and the software giant is as aware as we are of the column inches that have been dedicate to this subject in recent times. That’s why Microsoft is keen to start moving the debate on with some forward-looking advice to…
It’s strange how you can wait ages for one office IT relocation project to come along and then 5 suddenly arrive at once. Since Christmas, the phone has not stopped ringing here at Mustard with requests for help in moving office IT systems. We’ve been speaking to a variety of organisations wishing to relocate to…
