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cloud security
Cloud Managed IT Services

What Small Businesses Should Know About Cloud Security

Did you know that the first cloud data technology dates back to the 1960s? This technology has come a long way since then. It’s an effective way for small businesses to gain a leg-up over their competition. If you’ve started using cloud technology, now is the time to consider security (if you haven’t already) seriously.

If you are still wondering if Cloud Services are worth getting, keep reading to learn about cloud security and why it’s the best investment you can make for your small business.

It’ll Protect You From Hackers

Can you believe that a cyberattack occurs once every 39 seconds? The sheer number of attacks each year means that your chances of becoming a victim are high. This is especially true when considering how big and small businesses are targeted without discrimination.

Without cybersecurity measures for your cloud data, you might as well roll out the red carpet for hackers to steal your sensitive data. Not only will security breaches cost your small business a significant amount of money, but they could even lead to legal trouble. By avoiding the severe damages and the time-wasting associated with cyberattacks, your investment in cloud security will pay for itself over time.

You should also consider encryption for your cloud data storage, as it ensures higher security and privacy to your files. Encryption will allow only your employees and other trusted parties to access the files safely and securely.

It’ll Save Your Important Employee and Customer Data

While the cloud is a great way to share files seamlessly with coworkers across the office and beyond, there’s always the chance that something could go wrong. If you experience issues with your cloud provider or if users accidentally delete key files, it pays to back your data up. 

There’s even a possibility of hackers accessing your data and attempting to hold it hostage. Secure cloud services can proactively prepare your organization for these attacks. If you lose some or all of your data, you can always rest easy knowing there’s a backup to which you’ll have access.

It’s Scalable

The last thing you’d want is to expand your business to the point at which your IT solutions are no longer effective or efficient for your needs. Instead of being held back by that, you can continue to scale at an impressive pace when you get your cloud security from the right provider.

Until you reach your ambitious goals, you shouldn’t have to pay for more security than you need at any time. This is another reason to find a provider that can work with you and offer a tailor-made plan for your specific needs (and your growing needs).

The bigger your company gets, the more support it’ll need. You could sabotage your progress if you try to cut corners and stick with your current plan despite significant or rapid growth.

The best companies also offer a range of other technological solutions, such as managed IT services, build-outs, access controls, device management, and much more.

Don’t Forget About Regular Security Patches

Even the best cloud services need improvements now and then. This is why you should get secure cloud IT services from a provider who stays on top of the latest updates. Without promptly creating and applying security patches, cracks will start forming around your cloud security. In this situation, it’ll only be a matter of time before a cybercriminal finds a way to access your sensitive information. 

As you shop around for cloud security providers, ask them about security assessments and patches. They should give you a general idea of what they’ve implemented recently and how often they come across new ones.

Always Know Who Accesses Your Network

Instead of hoping that your cloud security is working, a worthwhile provider will implement proactive solutions and give you access to software to track who accesses your cloud and when. 

If you see something fishy, you can act fast instead of discovering it after the damage is already done. You can also identify the source of any illegitimate actions with detailed logs.

In addition, each employee needs to activate multi-factor authentication. This dramatically decreases the likelihood of a hacker exploiting your users’ passwords to access your data. Multi-factor authentication requires the user to provide a secondary confirmation of passwords, ideally with a rolling code on an authenticator app that changes every 30 seconds. The user will be allowed access only by verifying each login.

Are You Ready to Invest in Cloud Security?

Now that you’ve learned about cloud security, you can make the investment and rest easy knowing that your small business has the protection it needs. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when breaches are expensive and can lead to legal issues.

We can provide you with various technological solutions, including cybersecurity, managed IT, network server management, employing onboarding, and so much more. From law and accounting firms to real estate and insurance, we’re proud to help organizations in various industries. Contact us to learn more about what we can offer you.

customer data
Cybersecurity

How to Prevent a Customer Data Breach

In 2022, the average cost of a data breach was $4.4 million. Not only will a data breach hurt your business financially, but it can also damage your reputation and relationships with customers.

If you process and/or retain any sensitive customer data in your business, you need to take serious steps to protect it. Putting the proper security measures in place now can save you from major headaches later on.

Here are the steps that you can take to prevent a customer data breach.

Train Your Employees

The first step to protecting customer data and avoiding cyber threats is to ensure your employees are educated on security awareness.

You need to be sure that your employees are aware of threats that could cause problems in your organization. Then, ensure that they practice safety and security best practices when using email, working over public Wi-Fi, and managing sensitive data. 

Create Strong Passwords

As part of setting security standards for your employees, it’s essential that they use strong passwords. According to the SEC, “it has been estimated that half of the small businesses that suffer a cyberattack go out of business within six months as a result.”

Your employees should set lengthy passwords and use various characters so that outside parties can’t guess them. It’s also a good idea to enforce two-factor or multi-factor authentication for business accounts and to require that passwords be updated on a regular basis.

Secure password managers like 1Password make this easy. They allow you to store rolling multi-factor authentication, monitor your organization’s security score, and generate strong passwords for your users.

Set Security Guidelines

In order for employees to improve security in your business, you need to make sure they have guidelines to follow.

Make sure that you create a document that sets security standards and best practices for your organization. It’s also vital that you set standards for third-party vendors and partners as well. 

In addition, make sure you have a plan for what to do if data loss or a cyber attack occurs. Developing a data breach response plan can help your business know exactly what steps to take after an incident.

Audit Your Data

If you want to protect your customer’s data effectively, then you need to understand precisely where it is stored and how someone could access it. Be sure to spend time determining where your sensitive information is located. Consider all access points to this data so that you can keep it protected.

Take a data inventory and then review it again regularly. Ensure that you understand where your data is so that you can take measures to protect it from intruders.

Update Business Software

A key step to protecting your business technology and preventing data breaches is regularly updating all software on your devices.

Be sure that all security software that you use is always kept up to date. Also, ensure that all systems and other software you use are kept current.

Software updates help to fix security vulnerabilities that could leave your business at risk. Skipping any of them or waiting too long to make updates isn’t recommended.

Backup Important Data

If a data breach occurs, you’ll have to deal with the consequences of your customers’ data being in the wrong hands. However, you can prevent losing customer data completely by making regular data backups. 

If your systems get compromised or if data loss occurs, you can restore data from the backup so that your business can still access it. 

Keep Your Network Protected

If you want to protect customer data, you need to prevent access to your network. You should use network security features such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and access control to prevent data access by anybody outside of your organization.

Using endpoint security controls and malware detection software can also be helpful and can allow you to prevent threats and improve small business security.

Don’t Forget Physical Security

Although it’s important to secure your network and prevent data breaches from remote hackers, it’s also essential to keep your data physically secure. 

Make sure that on-premises hardware and data centers aren’t accessible by people who shouldn’t have access. Also, ensure that your employees are responsible and safe with any of their devices with sensitive data on them.

Similarly, ensure that you control and monitor access to data stored on the cloud.

Make sure to secure physical records and files so that only employees can access them,too.

Keep Devices Secure

If you have employees who work for your business remotely, you need to make sure that they’re safely using all company devices.

Make sure that employees are careful if they use public Wi-Fi and ensure that they encrypt their connections with a tool such as a VPN. Also, ensure they don’t let anybody else access them. 

Your employees shouldn’t leave devices unattended in a public setting and should take measures to avoid letting them get stolen. This way, nobody will gain access to them who shouldn’t.

You can also consider mobile device management as a tool to secure your devices even if stolen.

Get Expert Help

If you want to protect your customer data, you need to be sure you have access to knowledgeable IT professionals. They should know how to handle network security effectively. 

It can be challenging to hire the right people for your team and pay each individual full-time salaries. In some cases, it might be a good idea to hire a managed IT provider who can provide security services to your business instead.

Hiring managed IT solutions will allow you access to the best experts and ensure your business data is secure.

Taking Steps to Protect Customer Data

If you want to protect sensitive customer data in your business, you should take security seriously. Be sure to invest in your digital security to protect your business from threats.

Do you need managed IT and security support services in Los Angeles? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

it services for law firms
Managed IT Services

10 IT Services for Law Firms

Modern IT solutions are designed to increase productivity while also saving you money!

Technology has evolved at an unprecedented rate. Modern IT solutions leverage the latest technology to revolutionize industries around the world. Managed IT services take this even further by creating an effortless way to stay updated with the newest tech.

There are a few incredible IT services for law firms. These services help make your life easier while also leveraging the latest technology for your practice. The latest technology allows your firm to operate as efficiently and productively as possible.

Interested in learning more about the best IT services for law firms? Read on for a quick look at the best managed IT solutions and how they can help you.

1. Application Integration

There are thousands of applications and platforms on the market today. However, the best applications to use are the ones that work seamlessly with your workflow. IT professionals can help you select various options while installing and integrating your platforms and applications.

2. Employee Onboarding

As mentioned before, technology evolves at an incredible rate. This means that your employees will also need to be onboarded to take advantage of the latest developments. Having professionals step in to onboard your staff can save time while allowing you to take full advantage of the upgraded tech.

When you hire new employees to the firm, onboarding is also essential. Having professionals walk new employees through the IT system can save you time and streamline the entire process.

3. Network Server Management

When you have a private network, you want to make sure that it’s secure and reliable. Keeping your law firm running efficiently with little to no downtime is essential. Network server management can help solve issues as soon as they arise, allowing you to reduce downtime.

4. IT Infrastructure Installation

If you don’t have a private server and want one, you can get a custom network designed and installed in no time. With tons of experience in the space, you can sit back and let the professionals step in and set everything up for you.

5. Device Management

Modern law firms don’t just have computers, but also tablets, smartphones, and laptops that all need to connect to the local network. Device management can help procure, set up, and secure these devices, so they’re always running. This includes software updates, firmware updates, and even device repairs and replacements.

6. Data Management

When running a law firm, you deal with hundreds of thousands of files. This can be anything from discovery to subpoenas, but you need a reliable, secure way of filing them. When your firm is involved in litigations for clients, it’s important to have reliable access to your data and even more critical to have backups of that data. This is why data management solutions are so important.

These solutions include setting up a private network, data management applications, or even cloud storage solutions for your law firm. IT professionals can also help you migrate and organize your data, making the transition seamless.

7. Data Security

Lawyers have an obligation to maintain confidentiality. Legal documents and client data should always remain private. This is why investing in data security measures is essential to prevent leaks and hacks. If you have a remote server, managed network server solutions will help ensure that your data is always secure.

If you’ve chosen a cloud storage solution, there are other data security measures you can take when you access your data. This includes anti-virus software and general network security.

8. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is critical in the modern economy. As mentioned above, even if you trust a cloud storage platform, having cybersecurity for your private network is still vital. This will prevent people from accessing your devices through your local network.

9. IT Support

The last thing any business needs is for the computer to crash. Whether you’re working during the day or in the middle of the night, having 24/7 IT support is essential. With the latest technology, you can get support remotely to resolve your issue efficiently.

This service goes above and beyond what a dedicated employee can do. This is because a dedicated IT support employee would be there during the day but not at 3 AM when you’re working overtime on a case. In this way, managed IT support is the more reliable choice.

10. IT Procurement

When you expand your law firm, you will also need to acquire more office tech. This process may include hiring new lawyers, associates, and legal assistants. All of these new staff members will need computers, laptops, tablets, or other devices so that they can connect to the system.

IT procurement takes the stress of finding and buying new equipment off your shoulders. As professionals in the space, we can help procure the best products at the best possible rates. This saves you both time and money.

Managed IT Services for Law Firms

When it comes to IT services for law firms, there are many options to choose from. Most law firms have some kind of private network designed to capture and store client data. By outsourcing your IT services, you can ensure that your entire system is always online without having to pay for a full-time employee.

In the modern era, having the latest technology is essential. If you want to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to browse our website. Contact us today for any questions you may have, and one of our friendly staff will happily assist.

it solutions for small business
Managed IT Services

The Different Types of IT Solutions for Small Business

There’s a reason why the market for IT professionals is expected to increase by 15% over the next decade. In the past, only large corporations really required IT services. These days, even small businesses can benefit from an investment in IT. While there are a lot of different IT solutions out there, it can be challenging to navigate all of the available options.

So how do you know which IT solutions you need for your small business? Simple: by reading this guide. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the common IT solutions that small businesses tend to invest in. That way, you can decide for yourself which ones are right for you.

Cybersecurity Solutions

Did you know that roughly $4.2 billion are lost annually by businesses due to cybercrime? And that’s just the amount that gets reported to the FBI! These days, the effects of cybercrime aren’t limited to lost money and stalled operations.

If personal information about your staff or customers gets leaked, it can cause the public to lose faith in your business. Because of this, it’s a good idea to invest in IT cybersecurity solutions. This is especially true if your small business handles potentially sensitive information. A comprehensive cybersecurity solution will protect the software, hardware, and data you use daily.

Security software and backup plans are an excellent place to start. However, the ideal cybersecurity solution will also include comprehensive strategies for minimizing employee risk, like multi-factor authentication and stronger passwords.

IT Support Solutions

If any aspect of your business relies on technology, you can encounter problems. Maybe you need extra assistance with a new device or new software. Or, you could face a more comprehensive system or network problem that needs fixing immediately. Regardless of the severity of the problem, IT support for small businesses can help you and your employees get back to work as soon as possible.

Proper IT support solutions will maximize your company’s productivity because they reduce the downtime spent waiting for the problem to get fixed. And don’t think that you need an onsite IT team for support.

These days, many IT Support companies offer a help desk service where they can interact directly with your technology from a remote setting. Ideally, these types of small business IT solutions will be available at the drop of a hat when you need them.

Device Management Solutions

In the past, IT professionals tended only to deal with one primary device: the computer. Nowadays, that’s simply no longer the case.

Because of the Internet of Things (IoT), companies must also worry about equipment like mobile phones, storage devices, servers, and workstations. The influx of devices makes it hard to stay on top of all the devices used for your business. This can create serious security concerns down the line. Device management solutions ensure that all the devices used in your business align with your current security strategy. That means that only people with the proper devices (and permissions) can access certain information. It also helps ensure that all the devices are used as intended. Service providers will make sure devices stay up-to-date and running efficiently.

Onboarding Solutions

Bringing on new employees can often be challenging. You have to be mindful of taxes, salary, and training, but you need to consider a million other tiny details, too.

Things like adding new devices to your network, creating new email addresses, and training them to use your apps are just some of the things you need to worry about.

The good news is that some IT companies can automate this entire onboarding process. What’s more, they can also help with the offloading process when an employee needs to leave.

Cloud Storage Solutions

Hardware data can quickly get expensive. And, as a small business, you likely don’t need the benefits of storing your data in-house.

The good news is that cloud technology solutions allow you to store just as much data at a much more affordable price. What’s more, in the event of a power outage or similar problem, you will still have access to any data that’s being stored in the cloud. The same can’t be said about hardware storage. 

The only downside to cloud storage is the need for more robust security. But if you have a sound cybersecurity strategy, this shouldn’t be a problem. Cloud storage relies on a reliable network. So make sure your IT provider can give you the network solutions you need.

Why Managed IT Solutions Are Better for Small Businesses

A dedicated, onsite IT team can seem like an attractive option, but it raises some problems for the average small business. 

For one thing, it’s expensive. It requires having a lot of employees on salary, with additional benefits. 

It’s also difficult to train the employees you have if IT is not your forte, especially when navigating an ever-changing digital environment.

So, what’s the best solution for small businesses? Managed IT Solutions allow you to save money while boosting your overall operational effectiveness. Partnering with a Managed IT Service provider allows you to only invest in the IT solutions and services you require.

Avoid paying for IT services that you rarely use. With Managed IT, you can also access expert help with any IT problem you encounter. It’s a great way to maximize a potentially small IT budget.

Need IT Solutions for Small Business? Contact We Solve Problems IT

We hope this guide helped you learn about some of the different types of IT solutions for small business owners. The most important thing when searching for solutions is to find an IT company you can trust. Here at We Solve Problems IT, we help you decide which aspect of your IT needs requires prioritizing. What’s more, there are no hidden fees or tricks you need to worry about. So, if you’re ready for the small business IT solutions that you deserve, contact us today.

cybersecurity incident response plan
Cybersecurity

Why Your Business Needs a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan

More than 600,000 new businesses are formed in the United States each year. Unfortunately, not all startups can sustain themselves in the first few years of business. You can take many steps to future-proof your business, and one of those steps should be your technological security.

One of your most important responsibilities as a business owner is implementing a cybersecurity incident response (IR) plan. Having an IR will go a long way in minimizing the risk of cybersecurity threats.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about developing a cybersecurity plan and the benefits that it provides.

What Is a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan?

As the name suggests, a cybersecurity incident response plan is a blueprint of actions and processes that an organization should take in the event of a data security breach.

It should outline the steps it can take to prevent, detect, assess, respond to, and recover from an attack. It should be fully comprehensive and cover every relevant detail.

What Are the Benefits of Having One?

Establishing a cybersecurity incident response plan can provide numerous benefits to businesses. Understanding these will help you determine your best course of action.

Listed below are some of the most notable.

Reduced Financial Losses

Your organization can reduce the potential financial losses associated with cyberattacks.

In some cases, a single incident can cause significant financial damage. Creating a plan is something you simply cannot overlook.

Increased Employee Awareness

Implementing a cybersecurity plan encourages employees to take steps to protect their data and stay vigilant against possible threats.

This can help prevent costly attacks in the future. It will also help your employees take action when necessary.

Improved Compliance

If your business is subject to industry-specific regulations, having a plan can help you meet those standards and comply with relevant laws.

Compliance issues have many consequences, such as damage to your brand reputation or ability to work in specific fields. You may also experience fees and other financial penalties.

Enhanced Credibility

Organizations with strong cyber security plans are viewed more favorably by customers, partners, and other stakeholders.

This can help enhance the credibility of your business. It also makes your business more attractive to investors or potential buyers.

Common Cybersecurity Threats to Businesses

Unfortunately, there is no shortage of cybercriminals out there who are looking to take advantage of businesses. So, it’s imperative that you remain aware of the most common threats you will encounter. Let’s dive in.

Malware

Malware is malicious software that can infect a computer and cause significant damage. It is often used to gain access to private data or commit other types of cybercrime.

Malware comes in many forms, but its primary goal is always to disrupt your workflow or procure sensitive data.

Phishing Attacks

Phishing attempts are a form of social engineering attack that sends false messages from what appears to be a reliable source.

A phishing email might contain links to harmful websites, malware-laden attachments, or malicious code. It’s common for untrained or non-technical employees to open phishing emails and expose the entire company. To avoid this, it’s crucial to educate your team on how to recognize them.

DDoS Attacks

Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks are a type of cyberattack that aims to overwhelm a website or system with requests in order to render it unusable. Even a short period of downtime can cost thousands of dollars. Small businesses might even find it impossible to recover.

Ransomware

Ransomware is malicious software that attempts to lock down a computer or device until the user pays a ransom. The hacker demands that the victim send a certain amount of money in cryptocurrency, or they will permanently delete their data or leave it encrypted. 

Unfortunately, hackers don’t always hold up their end of the bargain if they receive the ransom. They often disappear without a trace afterward. The FBI even discourages victims from paying the ransom. Doing so will only serve to facilitate other attacks in the future.

In worst-case scenarios, the hacker could leak sensitive information or even sell it to industry competitors.

How Do I Get Started?

Only some businesses have the resources to develop a comprehensive plan independently. For this reason, it’s crucial to work with a professional. 

Start by identifying potential service providers with experience in cybersecurity and incident response planning. Review their services and ask questions about their process before signing an agreement. Additionally, make sure you involve key stakeholders from within your organization. This will help you identify gaps in your plan and ensure that everyone is on board with the plan and its objectives.

Another crucial aspect to consider is how comfortable you are communicating with the service provider. One of the essential roles of a cybersecurity incident response plan is to ensure effective communication throughout any incident. If you’re not confident in your relationship with the service provider, chances are it won’t be successful. When evaluating potential providers, ask how they would handle different scenarios and what type of reporting they offer. This will help you understand how they communicate and what that could mean for your business.

If you already have a plan in place, it’s important to review it periodically and update it when necessary. Even if you think your plan is sufficient, cybercriminals are constantly developing new tactics to attack businesses. Your plan must be adaptable, so it’s important to remain on top of the latest threats.

Creating a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan Doesn’t Have to Be Difficult

Although it might initially seem complicated, creating a cybersecurity incident response plan is much easier than it looks. If you keep the above information in mind, you’ll surely meet your needs.

If you are looking for more information about us and the cybersecurity services we offer, contact us today to see how we can help.

employee onboarding
Policy & Compliance

How to Create a Welcoming Employee Onboarding Experience

Nearly 50% of businesses fail within the first five years in the United States. However, there are measures you can implement to help avoid this.

One of the most important attributes of a successful business is having a solid employee onboarding strategy. This will go a long way in making new hires feel welcome and comfortable. However, only some understand how to optimize the employee onboarding experience. Let’s take a closer look at everything you should keep in mind.

Be as Inclusive as Possible

One of the biggest mistakes that employers make is needing to be more inclusive in their onboarding strategies.
This impacts the environment for new employees and can quickly lead to low engagement levels and even higher turnover rates. To ensure that you’re creating an inclusive atmosphere, create clear expectations about behavior and language in the office, and ensure that everyone has access to the same resources and information.

Provide Effective Training

Most employers provide initial training for new hires, but it’s important to ensure that the training you’re providing is practical and engaging. This means taking the time to create a comprehensive onboarding program with clear objectives and measurable outcomes. It also means using various learning methods, such as interactive presentations, hands-on activities, and video tutorials, to ensure everyone understands the material.

Make Sure Your Onboarding Process Is Smooth

All new hires want is clarity and certainty around their role or tasks. Make sure you thoroughly explain each step of the onboarding process and answer any questions new hires may have. This will make them feel more comfortable in their role and help prevent any potential confusion down the line.

Make Sure There’s an Onboarding Timeline

Having a detailed onboarding timeline can help ensure that all tasks are completed on time and that everyone is up to speed on what they need to know. This should include a timeline of the overall onboarding process, as well as individual timelines for each stage. This will give employees an idea of what to expect and enable them to plan accordingly.

Provide Feedback

It’s essential that you provide new hires with regular feedback, both positive and constructive. This will help them progress in their role and give them the opportunity to learn from mistakes they may make. Generally, harsh criticism is not well-received. Aim to provide constructive feedback that will help get new hires back on the right track.

Personalize Their Experience

One of the best ways to ensure that new hires have a positive onboarding experience is to customize it to their individual roles.

This could mean providing personalized training materials or offering additional resources based on their interests and goals. Taking the time to get to know each employee and personalize their onboarding experience will go a long way in helping them feel more connected to your organization.

This can also increase the chance that they will enjoy working at your company. When employees are happy, they are more productive and more likely to stay where they are currently employed.

Ask for Feedback

Your new hires will be the best source of feedback regarding your onboarding process. Ask for their opinions and suggestions on how to improve it, and make sure you consider their advice. This will help enhance the experience for future hires and show them that their feedback is valued and appreciated. It’s also one of the most efficient ways to tweak your hiring process.

This will help you create a better experience for new employees in the future.

Use the Right Software

Interestingly, many entrepreneurs need to pay more attention to the importance of having the right software in place for hiring new employees, managing current employees, and offboarding employees. Taking the time to explore onboarding software is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your onboarding process runs smoothly and efficiently.

Various tools out there can automate specific tasks, such as sending welcome emails, tracking progress, and providing feedback. The right application can streamline your onboarding process. By extension, this will also free up time for other responsibilities. So, the right software will help make your company more efficient overall.

How Do I Find the Software That’s Right For Me?

It’s crucial to check the reputation of the software you plan on using. A quick Google search can tell you everything you need to know. Take a moment to look at what past customers have to say. Pay attention to key information, like how easy it is to integrate with your existing tools, and the software’s cybersecurity reputation.

You should also find a provider who offers ongoing support. If you encounter issues, having the right expertise to solve them is always a good idea. This can cut down on costly time and resources. 

Finally, make sure that the software you choose is right for you. Is it able to meet all of your needs? This is the only way that you can get the results you desire.

If you need a more in-depth analysis of software options for your business, we recommend contacting a Managed IT Service Provider like We Solve Problems. They are a one-stop shop that can aid in consulting, integrating, and maintaining your onboarding software.

You Shouldn’t Overlook Employee Onboarding

Proper employee onboarding comes with plenty of benefits that you shouldn’t neglect. Consider the above info to make the best decision for you and your team. If you want more information about how We Solve Problems can help, reach out to us today.

Managed IT Services
Managed IT Services

How Managed IT Services Can Save You Money

In the US alone, businesses lose hundreds of millions of dollars annually from IT-related issues. From network outages to data breaches and other issues, companies are vulnerable. They are not exempt from costly downtime that can affect their operations and bottom line.

Businesses of all sizes are turning to managed IT services as a way to reduce costs and improve efficiency. By outsourcing your IT needs, you can save money on hardware, software, and staffing costs.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the financial benefits of managed IT services. We will also show you how they can help your business save money every month!

Read on to discover how managed IT services can help you save money and make your business more efficient.

Managed IT Services: What Do They Entail?

Managed IT services encompass a broad range of tasks, including software installation. There’s also data backup and recovery, security management, system maintenance, and more.

When you outsource these tasks to an IT service provider, they can provide your business with customized solutions. These will meet your specific needs without requiring significant upfront investments in staff.

Furthermore, the provider will manage your IT needs for a fixed fee. This can be much more cost-effective than hiring and training in-house staff.

How Do Managed IT Services Work?

Managed IT services enable businesses to outsource their IT requirements to a provider who can handle the task on an ongoing basis.

The provider will take care of all the technical aspects, such as software installation, data backup, and recovery. In the meantime, you focus on your core business functions.

The managed service provider will customize their solutions according to your specific needs. They will provide 24/7 support and monitoring so that any issues can be quickly identified and resolved.

This ensures that your technology runs smoothly. It does so without needing you to dedicate resources or personnel to manage it yourself.

How to Find the Right IT Service Provider?

Finding the right IT service provider is essential to maximize the financial benefits of managed IT services. Look for a provider that has experience in your industry and can offer customized solutions that are tailored to your specific needs.

Also, look for providers who can provide 24/7 support and monitoring so that any potential issues can be quickly identified and resolved.

Finally, make sure to compare different providers in terms of cost, fees, and other factors before you make a decision.

In addition, you can also ask for references from past clients to make sure that the provider is experienced and reliable.

Financial Benefits of Managed IT Services

There are numerous financial benefits to be gained from managed IT services:

1. Lower Infrastructure Costs

By relying on an external service provider, you can reduce the amount of hardware and equipment your business requires. This reduces upfront investment costs as well as ongoing maintenance expenses.

2. Reduced Operational Costs

By outsourcing your IT tasks to a third-party provider, you can eliminate the need for in-house personnel dedicated to managing those processes.

Thus, resulting in significant cost savings over time.

3. Increased Efficiency

Managed IT services can help increase your business’s efficiency by automating tasks and streamlining processes.

This helps you to get more work done in less time, which leads to increased productivity and cost savings.

4. Improved Security

Managed IT services also offer enhanced security measures that can protect your data from malicious attacks and cyber threats.

Thus, reducing the risk of costly data breaches or system disruptions.

How to Prepare Your Staff for Managed IT Services?

To get the most out of managed IT services, it is important that your staff is prepared for the transition.

Start by providing training on the new systems and processes your team will be using. Make sure to explain any changes in responsibilities or workflow so that everyone understands their role in the new system. Managed IT can assist with this process.

Additionally, consider creating a support network with contact information for internal and external personnel who can answer questions and provide assistance.

Mistakes to Avoid When Working With An IT Service Provider

When working with an IT service provider, it is essential to be aware of a few pitfalls that can derail the success of your managed IT services.

First, avoid signing long-term contracts without understanding the terms and conditions. Make sure you know what kind of support is included in the agreement, as well as any restrictions on usage or other stipulations.

Secondly, do not underestimate the importance of ongoing communication with your provider. Keep them informed about any changes to your business or technology needs so they can provide timely assistance.

Thirdly, be sure to allocate resources to manage the transitions and maintain long-term relationships. An IT service provider is only as good as the team that works with you. Make sure you have a dedicated contact who can regularly check in and provide feedback.

Finally, do not forget to review your IT service provider periodically to make sure they are still meeting your needs. Keeping an open dialogue with them is key to ensuring that you get the best value for money.

Managed IT services can save you a lot of money in the long run if you choose the right provider and prepare your staff accordingly.

IT Done Right

Managed IT services are an excellent way for businesses of all sizes to save money. This is done while ensuring their operations run smoothly and securely.

By outsourcing these tasks to a reliable service provider, you can take advantage of lower infrastructure costs. You can achieve reduced operational expenses, improved efficiency, and better security. All resulting in significant savings each month.

Get in touch now to get started with managed IT services.

Invest in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity

5 Reasons Why Every Business Should Invest in Cybersecurity in 2023

Across the world, 30,000 websites are hacked every single day. A majority of companies experience at least one type of cyber attack, which can result in problems with customer loyalty, lost money, and the loss of important and private information.

One way companies can protect their business is by investing in cybersecurity and finding a managed IT services provider in Los Angeles. They can help you improve the security of your business. Do you want to learn more about why cybersecurity is an important part of maintaining your business?

Keep reading this guide for the top five reasons why every business should invest in cybersecurity in 2023.

1. Increased Frequency of Cybercrimes

One of the main reasons why e-commerce companies need to improve their online security is that cybercrimes are becoming increasingly frequent. As was mentioned before, thousands of businesses are the victims of cybercrimes each day.

Not only is the volume of cybercrimes increasing each day, but so are the types of cybercrimes. Hackers are using increasingly complex and sophisticated tactics to target businesses, which makes it difficult to prevent cyber attacks.

Some of the most common cyber threats include phishing, malware, ransomware, data breaches, and more.

Investing in cybersecurity can provide you with the right security measures to prevent each of these threats and protect your business. You can also implement company awareness trainings to improve your cybersecurity. This way, you and your employees will learn to recognize common cyber threats so you can avoid being a victim.

2. Save Time and Money

When you experience a cybersecurity attack, it can cause serious damage to your business. Improving your cybersecurity can save you time and money.

For example, experiencing a data breach can cause business disruptions. Hackers can easily gain access to important company files, confidential documents, and other fundamental information that your business needs to function.

This will often result in downtime for your business and makes it difficult to get things up and running again. When your business is not operational, this can also lead to a loss of revenue.

Business delays aren’t the only costs you will incur: other damages will compound the cost. The average data breach for businesses with less than 500 employees was nearly $3 million. While paying to improve your cybersecurity may seem like an unnecessary cost, it can be seen as an investment.

It can lower your risk for cyber attacks and can save you time and money in the long run!

3. Improve Customer Trust and Loyalty

Improving your cybersecurity is not only necessary to protect your data, but it is essential if you want to have customers who trust your business. If you have a data breach and your customer’s sensitive data is lost, they will lose their trust in your business and will be less likely to work with you in the future.

Even if you follow the right steps to improve your cybersecurity network after these types of data breaches, your customers may not ever trust you again.

As a business owner, you can improve your customer loyalty and trust by showing them the cybersecurity measures you take to keep their data safe. It will provide your customers and investors with peace of mind, knowing that their data is protected.

It is much easier to maintain your customer’s trust than it is to win it back after a cyber attack. Hiring a managed IT service can help you avoid these threats in the first place.

4. Prevent Data Loss

Investing in managed IT services for small businesses can also help you prevent data loss for your business. As was mentioned before, many of the common cybersecurity threats (like ransomware) can compromise your data and may result in your business losing important files and data.

IT solutions for small businesses can help you prevent this data loss and will keep your important files protected.

For example, your IT service provider can teach you and your employees how to protect your data. They can help you recognize common cybersecurity threats and teach you ways you can avoid unnecessary loss.

Make sure your employees know the best cybersecurity practices, so you can keep your important files and documents safe.

5. Meet Compliance Regulations

Finally, improving your cybersecurity for your business will ensure that you meet compliance regulations. There are many different standards that you need to follow to keep your data safe. These regulations will depend on the industry you work in.

For example, healthcare businesses need to follow HIPAA regulations. These regulations are used to safeguard patients and protect their health information. Failing to comply with industry-specific standards like  HIPAA can result in criminal penalties, lawsuits, and more.

Paying for managed IT services in Los Angeles will ensure that you are always up to date on the current regulations and requirements in your industry. If you are looking for a managed service provider in Los Angeles, We Solve Problems can help.

Invest in Cybersecurity for Businesses Today

As a business owner, finding ways to improve your online security is necessary to guarantee the privacy of your data. When you invest in cybersecurity for your business, you will experience each of these benefits and more.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of cybersecurity for your business privacy and security, We Solve Problems can help! We provide remote managed IT services in Los Angeles and can help you improve your cybersecurity.

Contact us today to learn more about our services!

Managed IT Services
Managed IT Services

5 Things You Should Know About Managed IT Services

If you’re going to properly manage your growing business, you have to pay attention to your technology.

94% of small businesses report that technology helps with day-to-day efficiency. No matter what sector you operate in, you’re going to be dealing with computers and data. Having IT professionals backing you up is the best way to navigate these things.

Many large companies opt for in-house IT departments, but that’s not necessarily the most sensible move for all small businesses. Managed IT services are often the more frugal and effective option for businesses that don’t need or can’t budget for full-time IT.

In this post, we’re going to tell you some of the things you should know about managed services before hiring one. Keep reading and you’ll see that effective IT management can be outsourced.

1. Managed IT Services Saves You Time

One of the biggest perks of hiring managed IT services is that it saves your business time, thus boosting efficiency and productivity. Because you can customize your services, you can either have someone on-site most of the time or reach out to customer support when you need their help.

However you structure your IT services, you’ll experience less downtime when technology problems arise. When employees don’t have to troubleshoot their own IT issues, they can stay productive at work, which boosts morale and keeps the company running efficiently.

Another way that managed IT can save you time is through automation. An IT expert can perform an audit on your current tech situation and figure out how to make your workflow more effective. Automating tasks that are normally done manually can save your employees’ hours per month.

2. Managed Services Keeps Your Technology and Network Safe

Did you know that there’s a cyber attack every 39 seconds in America? If you’re not protecting yourself with strong cybersecurity measures, you’re at risk of losing data and having your system hacked. This can cost a business thousands in lost customers and downtime.

Without a knowledgeable IT professional helping you set up your security, you’re always going to be left vulnerable. You need to think about everything from application security to information security, disaster recovery planning, and everything in between.

If it sounds like a lot, that’s because it is. Managed IT services will look at your current setup, quickly find your vulnerabilities, and take the steps to rectify them.

Beyond automating your security measures, a good IT company will give you 24/7 security monitoring. As soon as a cyber attack is committed, they’ll be able to catch it because they’re always looking.

Education is at the heart of cybersecurity. Most security breaches occur due to human error, which often comes down to neglect. Your managed IT services can educate your employees on how to navigate your system and network in a secure way.

3. IT Management Saves You Money

Many growing small businesses hit a point where their technological needs outgrow what they have. This leads some to consider hiring one or more full-time IT professionals to work on-site, but this isn’t always the most frugal move. The average IT person makes around $90,000 in America.

When you really look at your IT needs, do they necessitate a new department or another full-time staff member? Most of the time, managed services can handle everything that an IT department would otherwise do, and you’ll only pay for what you need.

Included in the cost of managed services are all of the equipment and software to revolutionize your business. If you hired a full-time staff member, you’d still have to purchase all of the necessary equipment for them to do the job.

All of this, combined with the boost in productivity and reduced downtime, is going to save you a lot of money in the end.

4. IT Support Services Keep You Relevant

Staying relevant in a competitive marketplace is never easy. If you don’t have the latest technology working for you, your competitors are always going to get a leg up.

The technological landscape is constantly evolving. It’s easy to fall behind if you don’t have your ear to the ground. As a business owner, however, you don’t really have the time to keep an eye on the latest and greatest technology.

Fortunately, this is an important aspect of what an IT provider brings to the table. These dedicated and passionate professionals will keep you in the know about what new software and tech might help your business grow. They’ll also have the knowledge to implement these things.

Managed IT services will ensure that you’re always on the cutting edge. No more outdated technology, no more wondering why your competitors are so far ahead, and no more fixing tech that doesn’t work.

5. IT Can Be Customized

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to IT. When you hire an excellent managed IT company, they’re going to work collaboratively with you to give you tech and software that fits your needs.

Each business we work with can choose which of our services they need. A free consultation with one of our professionals will give us a better idea of the challenges you’ve been facing. From there, we’ll help you determine what you need to improve and how to do it.

Our customized infrastructure management takes all of your objectives and requirements into consideration. As your company develops, so will your technological needs, so we help create solutions that help satisfy your needs and accomplish your objectives.

Get the Best Managed IT Services in Los Angeles

Now that you’ve got a better understanding of what managed IT services really bring to the table, it’s time to tell you about the most reliable managed services in LA. We Solve Problems allows you to outsource IT to knowledgeable professionals that have your growth in mind.

To learn more about our services, from cybersecurity to server support, contact us today, and we’ll give you a free consultation and quote for your IT needs.

cybersecurity risks for small businesses should be addressed
Cybersecurity

6 Cybersecurity Risks for Small Companies

All small businesses are going to face some cybersecurity risks. Hackers often target small companies due to a lack of cybersecurity protocols, which can be impacted by budgetary restraints. This increased threat profile is one of the main reasons small businesses need to be prepared. In addition, it is crucial to understand why the company is vulnerable if there is a security breach.

If you run a small business, creating plans and increasing security is vital to help decrease the chance of security breaches. However, the first step to making these plans is knowing what cybersecurity risks currently threaten your small business.

Top Cybersecurity Risks

Risks vary from company to company, and specific industries may need more robust cybersecurity. Have you taken a record of your company’s vulnerabilities? Below are some of the top cybersecurity risks that may threaten your business.

Malicious Software

Otherwise known as “malware,” this type of cyber attack can allow certain unauthorized actions. There are several ways in which hackers can deploy these cyber attacks. Some of the most common forms are viruses, worms, and trojan horses.

  • A virus is a code deployed to attack specific programs, files, or operating systems.
  • A worm is a malware that directly infects a system and programs.
  • A trojan horse is a scam in which malware is hidden through an application or certain downloads.

Viruses

Also known as malware, viruses can directly harm your system’s hardware. In addition, certain computer viruses can damage programs or even go as far as deleting or stealing data. While there are several ways to get a computer virus, some of the most common methods include downloading a harmful application or visiting an infected site.

If you have downloaded a virus, you may notice data is missing or your computer is not running as fast as usual. You will also find an increase in pop-up windows, breached accounts, and slowed network speed.

Ransomware

This cybersecurity threat can be dangerous, especially for a small business. Typically, it is when a hacker holds a company’s information for ransom. This information can include bank numbers, credit card information, files, or other data for small businesses. 

Usually, these ransomware security threats do not last long. Once the ransom is paid, the threats disappear permanently. Generally, ransomware can spread through emails, networks, and targets. Small businesses may have a smaller budget for security, and they can become the target of hackers. In these situations, hackers tend to gather information easily from these entities.

Phishing

Phishing is a cybersecurity attack in which a hacker or cybercriminal attempts to steal personal information. This information can include bank information, social security numbers, passwords, and more. Oftentimes, these security threats come through emails or text messages.

Small business employees can be caught up in phishing cyber threats after clicking on certain pop-ups or emails on their work computers because they look benign and could pass as normal company communication. While it may seem legitimate at the time, it often leads to cybersecurity breaches which increase the security risks.

Password Hacking

One of the main reasons many workplaces require you to change your password every couple of months is password hacking. This is one of the main ways that information gets leaked. 

For companies with many employees, it is important to require complex passwords to limit the chance of accounts getting breached. Simple and easily guessable passwords are one easy way for hackers to get information.

Social Engineering

This is a technique that hackers commonly use. It is when they trick people into giving up sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and social security numbers by emulating a trusted source from your company or personal life. 

Avoiding Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity threats evolve frequently and can be challenging to deal with. However, there are ways to be proactive and avoid these threats before they even threaten the system. Here are some methods you can utilize to prevent cybersecurity breaches from occurring.

  • Employee training: Offering employee training on how to deal with cybersecurity issues can be key. Training to avoid phishing emails and malware can help employees better understand security risks.
  • IT Teams: Even as a small business, you can set up a small IT team with the expertise to help you fight off specific cybersecurity attacks. With just a couple of people working towards security and protection, you can help protect data and prevent breaches.
  • Outsource Your IT Team: If your company does not have expertise in cybersecurity, consider outsourcing your security to a third-party company, like We Solve Problems.
  • Security Measures: Other security measures, such as certain software protection programs, can help detect threats before they occur. 

Overall, prevention is better than dealing with the aftermath of a cybersecurity breach. Taking preliminary measures to ensure hardware and software safety will help avoid issues that can arise. If you are not a cybersecurity expert, be sure to hire the right professionals to assist your company. Working with a managed IT provider, such as We Solve Problems, can save you time and headaches. Implement a cybersecurity plan today. Contact We Solve Problems here.