When we think 5G, we think of our iPhones. We’re just praying that we see it, so small, in the top right-hand corner of our cell. Because we can’t stream videos or load our feeds with LTE, right? And please, no green texts.
But similar to IoT, or the Internet of Things, many people don’t understand the way 5G allows our world to operate beyond our iPhones.
Every time you hear an ambulance blaze by, breathe a sigh of relief as your plane lands safely, or watch a smart car park itself–you’re watching 5G in action.
Let’s explore the massive reach of 5G technology.
What is 5G?
5G is the 5th generation mobile network. 1-4G have been around for years with the first being developed in the 1980s. 5G wireless technology delivers more reliability, massive network capacity, increased availability, and better user experience.
The new technology connects new industries to the world like never before.
Let’s talk about how.
Mission-critical communication
Mission-critical communications rely on a network and its infrastructure systems to make the world a better and safer place.
5G guarantees critical infrastructure is extremely reliable and available. Think airport control towers, 9-1-1 call centers, and hospitals that perform life-saving medical treatments.
Business transformation through massive IoT
Internet of Things is a network of connected devices and the technology that facilitates communication between the devices themselves and the cloud.
5G allows IoT to seamlessly connect, transforming the way businesses operate and work throughout the cloud. Not only does it improve processes and productivity, but provides low-cost connectivity solutions. A win-win.
Industrial automation
5G has also allowed companies to innovate the way they create products and provide services.
Smart factories, with the use of 5G and IoT, are now able to streamline their processes. Instead of humans performing monotonous, dangerous tasks, production lines are automated and controlled remotely. No need for workers or operators. This saves businesses money, protects employees, and allows for real-time monitoring and diagnostics.
Self-driving cars and transportation systems are also impacted by the use of 5G. The fast speeds and low latency 5G allows for enhanced delivery of data from sensors to operation and then back to the driver, improving performance and safety.
Technology dominates our world and it is only going to continue improving, innovating, and allowing us to experience life in different ways.
Blue Layer offers 11 services to streamline your business and its processes in a way that will propel you into success. Using the technology above, we can bring you the innovative change and advancement discussed above. Let’s get started today.
Although the internet continues to get technologically safer, cyber criminals continue to get smarter.
That’s why it’s important to take the necessary, yet simple steps, to protect yourself when using the internet.
Whether it’s for personal or professional use, it’s incredibly important to practice proper security when spending time on the web.
Start practicing these easy-to-use tips and feel safer in your daily digital life.
Be careful what you share on social media
Although social media apps and sites such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter all have privacy protections in place, there is always a level of accessibility when it comes to sharing on the internet.
Always double check photos you upload to ensure personal information isn’t visible in the fore or background. Never answer questions asked by strangers or acquaintances, even if they seem harmless. And always ensure to practice proper password protocols. Including numbers and symbols will make it harder for hackers to crack the code.
Be careful what you click
An easy way to protect yourself online is to never trust a link you don’t recognize.
Phishing attempts can be made through links in emails to retrieve financial or personal information. Once you click the link, you’ll be asked to verify your information and that’s when it’s stolen.
Cyber criminals use links as a quick and sneaky way to introduce viruses and malware to your devices. Once the link is opened, your assets are attacked.
Remember, banks or financial institutions will never ask you to provide personal or financial information via email.
Before clicking on links, hover your cursor over the link to view the destination or URL. If it isn’t one you recognize, stay away.
Use a virtual private network
A virtual private network, or VPN, allows privacy and anonymity when surfing the web by creating a private network from a public internet connection. VPNs also hide your IP address, so whatever you do online is untraceable.
Using a VPN instead of a public network at a place like a library or coffee shop is important when hoping to protect yourself online. A VPN makes it significantly more difficult for criminals to access your privacy and information.
When talking about VPN options, there are free apps available for use; however, paying for a service will provide you with maximum security.
Install quality antivirus software
Finally, it’s always a smart and proactive idea to install antivirus software on all of your devices.
The software can keep hackers from taking control of your computer, accessing your information, and even tracking your location.
Antivirus programs run in the background, so you won’t even know it’s there while it’s protecting you and your device. The only maintenance the software requires is occasional updates released by the manufacturer, so it can continue running properly and successfully.
As technology continues to advance, we have to keep up. The more time we spend on the internet, the more vulnerable we are.
Using the internet safely and securely protects you in your everyday life. Take the necessary steps to ensure you surf safely.
Stay up-to-date on the latest technology news, advancements, and trends with Blue Layer.
Did you know that 90% of successful data breaches begin with phishing scams? Since the term as we know it was first used in the late 1990s, phishing has evolved into cyber criminals’ most tried and true methods of stealing sensitive information or data from unsuspecting users and their businesses. They are costly, they are constantly evolving into new shapes, and they aren’t going anywhere. Some of the most recent and most prevalent attempts at phishing that we’ve seen have included:
Email phishing: Phishing emails are the most common form of attack and one of the oldest in the book. Most attempts use a trustworthy email address and format that the recipient will recognize. The emails contain clickable links that contain a malicious link, document, or image that’s used to obtain personal information or download malicious code.
Spear phishing: Spear phishing is a more targeted attack that gathers public information used to target entire businesses or departments.
CEO Fraud: Also known as “whaling,” this scam targets high-level executives of organizations, as opposed to those that they serve.
Business Email Compromise (BEC): This method is similar to whaling, but instead of attacking high-level executives, it impersonates them.
HTTPS phishing: These attacks are URL-based and an attempt to trick users into clicking what appears to be a safe link. In the past, HTTPS protocol required certain certificates that protected against these kinds of attacks. However, hackers are now able to obtain and apply those certificates to their scam sites for free.
While they may appear different at face value, most phishing schemes essentially work the same way and have the same goal: stealing information from your business.
So, if they’ve been around for years and we know so much about them, then why are the latest phishing attacks still posing threats to businesses?
Some businesses fail to emphasize the importance of cybersecurity etiquette.
It’s easy to throw around words like “cybersecurity” or “phishing” or “cybercriminals,” but what do they actually mean for a business and its information? They can’t be that dangerous, right?
Wrong.
When employees are constantly bombarded with overstimulation of messages on a daily basis, it becomes all too easy for them to become detached from the grim reality that these types of threats pose. It’s also easy to let your guard down when work gets busy and you’re operating on autopilot. “Out of sight, out of mind” just doesn’t cut it when it comes to the latest phishing scams, and employees must be on guard at all times. How? With cybersecurity awareness training.
Some businesses fail to properly train employees on cybersecurity awareness.
Suppose an employee doesn’t know how to identify and avoid phishing scams. How can they be expected to stand on the front lines between their business and cybercriminals who are constantly changing and evolving the way they attack? Cybersecurity awareness training puts everyone on the same page and teaches them how to identify and avoid malicious content, even when it is indiscernible from the rest of the messages flooding their inboxes.
Some businesses fail to make cybersecurity awareness a natural part of their employees’ workday rhythms.
Cybersecurity awareness is the only way to combat the latest phishing attacks, and refining it should become as natural as opening your email in the morning. The same way hackers are constantly updating their methods, we have to continually update our knowledge. Becoming stagnant can mean leaving your business vulnerable.
Phishing attacks may be evolving and becoming more sophisticated, but that doesn’t mean your business has to fall for them. Contact Blue Layer today to learn how our cybersecurity awareness training can transform your employees into impenetrable human firewalls!
As we move closer to 2023, there are several key trends in the world of IT that businesses should be aware of. These trends are likely to have a significant impact on the way that companies operate, and understanding them is crucial for staying ahead of the competition.
Everything AI
One of the biggest IT trends to expect in 2023 is the continued rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. These technologies are already being used in a wide range of applications, from customer service to cybersecurity. In the coming years, we can expect to see even more widespread adoption of AI and machine learning, as businesses look for ways to improve efficiency and gain a competitive edge. The technology is now being used to create synthetic content. AI is producing images, sounds, or information that has never existed before. Through this, algorithms can be used to create virtual art, human language communications, or even write this very blog.
Cloud Computing
Another trend to watch out for is the increasing importance of cloud computing. As more and more businesses move their operations to the cloud, the demand for cloud-based services is only going to continue to grow. This will require companies to invest in the necessary infrastructure and expertise to make the most of the cloud.
IoT Intelligence
Additionally, 2023 is likely to see the continued rise of the Internet of Things (IoT). As more and more devices become connected, we can expect to see an explosion of data being generated and shared. This will present both challenges and opportunities for businesses, as they look for ways to make sense of this vast amount of information and use it to their advantage.
Enhanced Security
Finally, security is going to be a top priority for businesses in 2023. With the number of cyber threats on the rise, companies will need to invest in robust security measures to protect their sensitive data and systems. This will involve not only implementing the latest technologies, but also providing training for employees to help them stay vigilant against cyber attacks.
Overall, 2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the world of IT, with many new trends and developments on the horizon. By staying aware of these trends and making the necessary investments, businesses can position themselves for success in the coming years.
As IT professionals, we keep a close eye on current technology trends, so we can make the right moves for our own business, as well as our clients’. Stay up to date and in the know with Blue Layer. Visit our website for bi-weekly articles or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
During this season of giving, something to think about is whether your organization has gifted itself the right IT solutions and has the right relationship with their managed service provider (MSP). At Blue Layer, we strive to provide the greatest gifts of all: strong customer service, lasting cyber security, and efficient IT solutions.
A MSP provides services, such as network, application, infrastructure and security through support and active monitoring.
From saving time and money to being able to trust the decisions you’re making for your business, hiring an MSP is invaluable to an organization.
We’re sharing our reasons why you should put an MSP at the top of your Christmas list and start the New Year feeling more confident in your business than ever before.
Save your team’s time
Hiring an MSP gives your team their time back. When you enlist experts to handle IT issues that arise, it frees up that time for your employees to devote their full focus to their dedicated roles, furthering the success of your business.
A managed service provider can also ensure that your organization is taking proactive measures to prevent disaster. Disasters come in many shapes and forms, from natural physical damage to your network equipment to cyberattacks. We want your business to run without interruptions no matter what gets thrown your way.
Vigilant Security Awareness
Proactive monitoring is another service that can protect your business from unexpected cybersecurity issues. With around-the-clock support from an MSP, threats to your data and applications can be handled as they arise.
Instead of finding viruses or cyber-attacks when it’s too late, IT experts are available as soon as you need them.
It’s become obvious in recent years that cyber attackers are getting smarter, but so are we. Cyber-attacks are also becoming more frequent and more dangerous to an organization’s systems. Creating an effective cybersecurity system and maintaining it is near impossible without the help of experts; however, it’s critical to the success and safety of businesses and their assets.
Feel confident that your business is properly protected by hiring a team of IT professionals.
Infrastructure that supports success
Great MSPs will ensure you have access to the latest technology through their services. You can feel secure that your data is safe in their hands and protected from the constant threats living in the cyber world. They can also advise you on what services or hardware is worth investing in and what’s not, so you know you’re making the best decisions for your business.
Hiring a managed service provider can also guarantee the space you need when your business starts seeing growth and the need to expand. It allows you to scale skills and resources that are necessary to continue seeing success.
Choosing to partner with a MSP can save you money in several ways, starting with no need to recruit and train staff in order to build an entire in-house team.
You’re also able to stick to a budget because you’re not having to worry about unexpected costs. Your contract with your managed service provider will outline what services you pay for and the services you receive, so you can trust you’re being taken care of at a set price.
Blue Layer is proud to have been named one of America’s “Top 501 Managed Service Providers” for six years running. We are detailed and intentional when building IT technology plans for our partners because we know not every business is the same.
We’re ready to propel your business forward as your new managed service provider.
Technology upholds the functions, processes, and security of businesses. That’s why it’s critical to ensure your technology is running smoothly going into the new year.
As we all prepare for the new year, we have a critical list that every successful business should check twice before taking on the challenges and new growth they expect in 2023.
Update your systems
Go into the new year with the best versions of software and hardware possible.
From productivity software to firewalls, when systems are maintained properly, it enables them to run more efficiently and securely.
Take inventory
Taking inventory of your company’s products, computers, and software will ensure you’re organized going into the new year.
By taking inventory, you’ll know what needs to be fixed, replaced, or upgraded. You can also prepare for any inventory or infrastructure that may need to be purchased as your business grows over the next year.
Backup critical storage and data
Your business’s storage and data are critical assets to the company and something you can’t afford to lose. Backing up and securing that information is essential to every business.
Run security tests
This vital step should always be performed last on your new year checklist.
Once you’ve completed all the necessary updates and backups, you want to ensure they were completed successfully. By running security tests on your systems, you can find gaps or flaws in your cybersecurity and then take steps to get them fixed as soon as possible.
Once you’ve run proper tests and are issue free, you’re ready and prepared for 2023!
We understand this list can seem overwhelming when you’re trying to handle all the other responsibilities that come along with running a business. Luckily, you can leave it to the IT experts.
When you hire a managed service provider, the tasks on this list will be managed for you. From creating a business technology plan specific to your business, to maintaining the infrastructure – your IT will be managed by capable, educated professionals.
Partner with Blue Layer and discover what an MSP can do for your business.
Keeping up with technology trends and advancements can feel like a task you never get to check off. Because new innovations are being unveiled every day, it can be overwhelming.
As information technology experts, we can tell you which trends you want to pay attention to and invest in, and which ones you can pass on.
One advancement that has changed the business world forever, and is here to stay, is the “cloud.”
The cloud is an on-demand availability of computer system resources, especially data storage and computing power, that doesn’t require around-the-clock, in-person monitoring. Large clouds are often distributed over multiple locations, each location being a data center.
Most conglomerates and industry-leading companies have transitioned to this way of operating because of its long list of pros for not only the company’s leadership, but its employees as well.
Here’s why your business should live in the cloud.
Reduced Costs
It costs money to purchase equipment and establish data centers. Once they’re up and running, you then have to pay technicians to manage the upkeep.
When your business’s data lives in the cloud, you only pay for the cloud services and features such as number of users and space available.
Flexibility
Operating your business through the cloud allows you and your employees to complete their work from any location. Team members can work from an office or from home.
This also cuts down on costs because with remote workers, you can cut down on the number of workspaces or the size of your office.
Scalability
If or when your business experiences unexpected growth, without cloud capabilities, you have the challenge of securing additional servers and storage.
When you’re operating on the cloud, it’s as easy as upgrading your plan to receive more available space. This saves not only money, but time. Instead of spending weeks purchasing and establishing additional physical data space, spend only a few minutes upgrading your cloud infrastructure.
Security & Updates
A major reason to move to cloud computing is the heightened security it offers. In almost all cases, the horrendous cyber attacks we all fear happen to local data centers–and when that happens, information and data is lost forever.
With the cloud, your company’s greatest assets can exist in multiple locations–meaning you always have a backup.
The cloud also provides minute-to-minute updating. This means you will always have the latest versions of the software, as well as the most updated security and protection.
Disaster Recovery
Security and flexibility play into disaster recovery.
When we say “disaster,” it could mean a few things. Most people assume cyber attacks and yes, we mean those. This could also mean a natural disaster.
What happens when a fire or flash flood destroys your physical data center?
These are fears that can be dispelled when moving your business to the cloud. When your data is stored virtually and in multiple locations, you never have to worry that it will be lost forever.
Blue Layer is a managed service provider offering 11 business technology services and solutions. We specialize in helping businesses take the next step with their technology by managing, implementing, and maintaining large and special projects.
With Blue Layer Business Services, we can create and implement a strategy and plan to transition your business to the cloud. It will be convenient, seamless, and effective. To learn more, contact a Blue Layer advisor about our Business Services and right-sized IT plans.
Let’s get started.
The world we live in is full of changes and constant advancements. If we have learned one thing from the Covid-19 pandemic, we know it ushered in a new era of remote work on a global scale.
The reality is that remote IT support is stepping up to center stage. Can remote IT support be more efficient than on-site support? We at Blue Layer know it can be. The first step is recognizing the difference between On Site vs. Remote.
On-site support provides the physical presence of your IT department. There is a limited (oftentimes just one) frame of reference, usually one or two people spread-out company wide, oftentimes with restricted availability. Difficulties abound trying to get their attention and time scheduled.
Remote support provides the availability and knowledgebase of dozens. The depth of that knowledge spreads out to cover all your IT wants and needs. With remote teams, your organization has access to a more diverse frame of reference. Regardless if the need is networking, servers, security, phone systems or desktop help, technicians who specialize and cater to your business’ needs are standing by to share their knowledge. 99% of computer support can be provided remotely, and in the event of hardware failure, repairs or replacement can be expedited.
Availability
With remote support, you will be connected to a technician the moment your issues arise. Remote support offers availability no matter where you are and for emergencies at all hours.
Support Teams
Remote support allows us to assign as many team members as necessary to resolve your issues. We believe in teamwork and brain power – 30 nerds are better than 1!
The times of waiting days for a technician to show up are over. Whether it takes one technician or three to get your systems back up and running, we’re ready to deploy a team of capable and knowledgeable technicians that will problem solve and implement solutions.
Advanced monitoring capabilities
The job of our support staff isn’t over once they resolve your help ticket.
Remote capabilities allow our team to perform advanced monitoring for your systems. This allows our team to ensure the repairs they made were successful, watch to see if issues arise again, and even prevent them from recurring.
Blue Layer strives to be a full-scale business partner and that includes continued support. The services we provide allow us to elevate, protect, and monitor your business, propelling your levels of success. Partner with Blue Layer today.
These terms can appear very “techy,” but you’d be surprised at how they’re being used all around you, and the world, at this very moment. Enterprise mobility (EM) and IoT have created an entirely new way to store and share data–also allowing for the new, extremely popular way of working: remotely.
We’re here to explain how it all works, why you should care, and what possibilities it can create for your business.
Enterprise Mobility
What is it?
Enterprise mobility, also known as business mobility, is technology, policies, and processes that allow businesses to offer remote working options while still giving employees access to data and cloud technology.
Enterprise mobility is constantly evolving and changing as the world of technology does. This allows for the process and products to improve, while still maintaining effective security of assets.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of enterprise mobility are more relevant now than ever. Before experiencing a pandemic, remote and remote hybrid options seemed few and far between. Now it’s becoming the new status quo.
EM allows for the flexibility of remote work and doing so securely. The efficiency, paired with the flexibility, creates a list of pros. Employees are given a choice, which can improve job satisfaction and increase productivity. Also on that list, many businesses have reported decreased spending when implementing an enterprise mobility plan.
Internet of Things (IoT)
What is it?
Internet of Things is a network of connected devices and the technology that facilitates communication between the devices themselves and the cloud.
You’re probably much more aware of these systems than you think. Examples of IoT devices include smart cars that monitor driving behavior or vehicle health and smart homes with devices like smart thermostats or alarm systems.
When this technology is scaled to a larger size, these systems can monitor, maintain, and connect a company’s entire network.
What are the benefits?
Along with supporting an entire network, IoT can also increase security.
Continuous monitoring of the digital and physical infrastructure can optimize performance and efficiency, as well as reduce safety risks.
Why You Need It
IoT supports enterprise mobility. The first step is to build an IoT infrastructure that will allow and support your EM goals. Once the foundation has been laid, you can begin to create the policies and processes we mentioned when discussing a successful enterprise mobility plan and propel your business into the 21st century.
Blue Layer is right-sized IT. We provide customizable and affordable technology solutions. That doesn’t stop at enterprise mobility and IoT. We work together with your business to create a strategy specific to your business’s requirements and goals.
Once that strategy has been executed, we monitor and maintain your systems to ensure success, efficiency, and security.
Contact a Blue Layer advisor today about our enterprise mobility and IoT services to take your business to the next level.
Security doesn’t have to begin and end at your network systems. Data and information are not your only critical assets. As a managed service provider, Blue Layer has the ability to not only protect your business in the cyber world, but in the real world as well.
From preventing threats and responding to attacks, to securing your offices and the people inside them, learn how Blue Layer can build a full-scale security plan to protect your business at every level.
Cybersecurity
When most people think of the security a technology company can provide, they think cybersecurity. So we’ll start there.
The way Blue Layer approaches security threats is to prevent them from ever occurring. With a curated set of software and monitoring services, your systems will remain protected as you work. Your network will be monitored in real time, so issues can be addressed as they arise.
Detection + Prevention
As technology evolves and advances, so do hackers. It is more important than ever to have a security solution that does more than just block malware. Through partnerships with industry leaders and advanced technology, we provide security before, during, and after attacks.
Education
Your team can be one of your best lines of defense. Blue Layer provides resources to help you identify dangerous web content, emails, and other security risks. Don’t let human error threaten your business.
Heightened security
Combined with other Blue Layer services, our advanced password protection methods, such as two-factor authentication, immediate text-based password reset, and monthly vulnerability scanning provide the highest level of protection for your assets.
Disaster Recovery
In case the unexpected happens, it is crucial to have a plan of attack after an attack. It could be weeks before your business is back up and running without a disaster recovery plan. Through preparation and testing, you can be ready in case of data loss, corruption, or theft.
At Blue Layer, we use replication services as a large part of disaster recovery plans. Replication will help you meet compliance requirements, while saving time and money on data restoration. This can be done through installing a dedicated appliance or implementing new systems on existing equipment.
Data synchronization
By synching data throughout your business’s network, you can ensure uninterrupted access to critical data.
Continuous availability
High availability for your most widely used data decreases the need for a fail-over recovery environment and allows for continuous access to critical information.
Minimal downtime
Reduce downtime following an attack from weeks to hours with replication services.
Optimized resource utilization
Reduce your backup storage requirements with the ability to perform block-level, system-level and deduplication backups.
Cameras
Now to the “physical” part of security. Protecting your brick and mortar business and the people inside it.
Have eyes everywhere. Blue Layer cameras are simple to deploy, configure, and manage providing reliable security. The cameras record in high resolution, are built with an advanced mobile-grade processor, and come with a 3-year warranty.
Feel secure with a system that’s:
- Bandwidth conscious
- Never stops recording (even if network connection fails
- Stores all data to the cloud with 90 and 180 day options
Access Controls
Blue Layer access controls are a double threat. Physical and virtual options provide you with complete security. Physical controls protect assets on-site, while virtual controls protect access to computer systems.
Physical Access Control
Through access key cards, phone apps, or electronic door lock systems, you control access to buildings, rooms, and physical IT assets, such as data centers.
Virtual Access Control
Virtual access controls limit connections to data, computer networks, and system files through the use of antivirus software, firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-phishing applications.
No matter what level of security you’re looking for, and what assets you want to protect, Blue Layer is here to make it possible. Through a dedicated and intentional partnership, we’re ready to curate a plan for your security needs–saving you time and money when you protect your greatest assets. That’s right-sized IT.
What is an MSP?
You’re right, let’s start with the function of a Managed Service Provider. Managed services is the practice of outsourcing the responsibility and maintenance of a range of processes, functions, and operations and saving money while you do it.
Specializing in managed services, cloud solutions, security, networking and monitoring, Blue Layer offers its customers comprehensive technology solutions designed to fit their needs as a Right-Sized IT Provider and MSP. Here are the top three reasons your business needs an MSP.
Delegation
As a business owner, you’re busy. We get it. By hiring an MSP, you’re allowing space and time on your calendar to focus on what’s most important for your role. Blue Layer’s managed services provide consistent coverage and continued maintenance, so you never have to worry. Our Help Desk and technicians are available 24/7 for any of your technology needs. Our Network Operations Center features an in-house team of experts who can provide remote and on-site maintenance, repair and remote protection, and system monitoring.
Our Managed Services plan provides complete support for those aspects of technology most crucial to your business success. Let us manage your IT systems, so you can worry about the rest.
Leave IT to the Experts
As your business continues to grow, your IT needs will become more complex. For 20 years, Blue Layer has served as an industry-leading managed service provider. Our company continues to evolve and we make it a priority to propel ourselves and our clients forward with innovations in business technology, so our partnership brings success to your company.
As we work to provide the best practices and standards, Blue Layer has been recognized and received many accolades including membership in the Forbes Technology Council, America’s “Top 501 Managed Service Providers”, and named CRN’s Top MSP500 as a Pioneering 250 business. Blue Layer is also among the less than 2% of MSPs to obtain the prestigious MSPAlliance’s MSP Verify Program.
Leave your business technology needs to the experts.
Advanced Service Offerings
When creating a plan for your business’s IT infrastructure, it’s possible there are services you can benefit from, but didn’t even know you needed them. No two businesses are alike and at Blue Layer, we know that. That’s why we create personalized technology solutions that are the Right-Size for your business requirements. As a full-service MSP, we provide 11 unique services including:
This list of services does not include our dedication and commitment to excellent customer service and continued partnerships. That’s a service we provide to any business that contacts us in need of an MSP.
Choose the solution that works best for your business. With our focus on responsible and right-sized technology consulting, we know a partnership with Blue Layer is that solution.
In today’s day and age, businesses are reliant on technology. And when you rely on that investment, you also have to protect it. The endeavor can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve broken down the top five IT mistakes businesses should try to avoid – and how to do so.
Looking at IT as a cost, rather than an investment
Many times, business owners and executives will view IT as a one-off purchase they have to write a big check for. However, IT should be considered essential to success, much as operations or marketing are. If your business’s information and assets are not stored and protected properly, what will there be to operate or market?
Selecting the wrong digital security
Right-sized IT. This is why, at Blue Layer, we create IT systems specialized for each business we serve. It is crucial to the success of your business that your digital security is specifically built and maintained for your needs. IT solutions are not one-size-fits-all. Use an IT service provider that you can trust will curate solutions for your organization’s individual needs.
No data backup
Build the best. Prepare for the worst. It is always recommended that any business reinforce their IT infrastructure with data backup systems. This will protect your information and assets in case of disaster, accident, or malicious action taken toward your organization.
Not updating hardware
Just like with the rest of the world, IT solutions are constantly evolving and changing. So should yours. As hackers and internet criminals make advancements, so does the security that protects you from their attacks. That’s why, through managed services, Blue Layer is committed to routine maintenance of its IT systems. We keep up with threats, so you don’t have to.
Lack of trained professionals
Leave it to the experts. Many businesses don’t understand just how much data they have. More times than not, it is more than just one internal IT employee can handle. Outsource your IT services to a managed provider you trust.
Bottom line: building and maintaining an IT infrastructure is serious business. Blue Layer IT can ensure your company avoids these mistakes and more through years of experience, proven products, and excellent customer service. We’re your go-to technology partner.
At Blue Layer IT, we understand the needs of every business are very different. That’s why we offer a list of services that can fully equip any organization with the precise technology it needs. We are not a “one-size-fits-all” IT company. We are a Right-Sized consulting firm that works with you to brainstorm, develop, and execute the exact solutions your business demands.
With 20 years of experience and expertise, we pride ourselves on progressing with the ever-evolving world of business technology. We guarantee to customize your IT solutions with the latest, industry-leading products. Paired with our full-service consulting, rest assured that your business will receive best-in-class service and security.
As we work to build a partnership with you, we will leave no stone unturned to ensure we are curating an elite plan of attack to streamline your business’s productivity and protect its assets. To best serve your business’s goals, we offer:
- Managed Services
- Business Services
- Disaster Recovery
- Cybersecurity
- Unified Communications
- Regulatory Compliance
- Cameras
- Cabling
- Internet Services
- Access Controls
- Enterprise Mobility
- Ongoing Consulting
Being a business owner is challenging, not to mention time consuming. We get that. That’s why we want to build a relationship of trust, so you can know with absolute certainty your business technology needs are being met. With experience in IT management across all industries, you can focus on growing your business while we manage your IT budgets, meet security and compliance requirements, and protect you from cyber threats.
Partner with Blue Layer today and allow us to transform your business’s technology and security, helping it reach its highest potential.
Why a managed services provider? Blue Layer CSO Chris Powell said it best: “A quality MSP can provide significant enhancements to business efficiencies and security at a nominal cost.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves!
With a full suite of proven services (and vast industry experience to back them) under our belt, that type of quality is precisely what Blue Layer aims to provide for you, whether your IT team needs a little supplemental help or all hands on deck.
However, you might still be wondering just what type of “efficiencies” Chris is referring to. While our “Right-Sized IT” approach might mean different things for different clients striving for different technology goals, there are a few things you can always count on when enlisting the help of a managed services provider like Blue Layer.
1. First, you’ll experience less downtime.
A 24-hour help desk, fast-response network operations center, and rock-solid disaster recovery plans are central to great managed services.
Get the help you need when you need it. Enjoy remote and on-site maintenance, repair, remote protection, and system monitoring services. Get ahead of business-critical data loss with disaster recovery plans that are designed to make it feel like your business never skips a beat, even in the face of cybersecurity threats.
Downtime is the death of efficiency. Don’t give it a chance.
2. Your team will communicate and collaborate better.
Like in any great relationship, communication is key. A strong partnership with a managed services provider like Blue Layer is no different. Unified communications and cloud solutions are two cornerstones of a business breaking down efficiency barriers. What can you do when you’re communicating and collaborating better with a managed services provider on your IT team?
- Eliminate the frustration of lapses in communication with fully-integrated phone, video, meetings, and messaging solutions.
- Get more done from anywhere with cloud storage.
- Protect your work and your communications with enhanced email and document services like encryption, classification, and compliance.
Enhance efficiency and empower your team. It’s time to take the next step with your technology.
3. Most importantly, you will be set up for future success.
When you enlist the help of a managed services provider like Blue Layer, you won’t get solutions in return that are focused solely on today’s problems. You have every intention of growing your business far into the future, so why shouldn’t the technology you use enable that growth?
Blue Layer’s managed services act as a virtual CIO—offering technology consulting and proactive project planning that helps you future-proof your business so that you are always operating with the future and growth in mind. We identify upcoming needs, find solutions for current and future initiatives, and help guide the technology vision for your organization. No misdirection, no downtime, no IT solutions that you don’t need—only right-sized managed services.
If you’re new to (or still only vaguely familiar with) the Managed Service Provider (MSPs) world, it can be difficult to determine whether or not the information you’ve found online is the most accurate, up-to-date, or reliable. What do all the terms mean? How do you know that what you’re looking for is actually what you need? And if it’s ever-changing, how can your business hope to keep up? Some questions are easy to answer with just a peek behind the curtain, and that’s exactly what Blue Layer is here to do for you.
Who better to learn from than those who are on the front lines? In this Blue Layer employee spotlight, we’re speaking with Chris Powell, MSP veteran and Blue Layer CSO, about how he defines MSPs, why they’re vital to a business, and what he thinks business owners should know about them in 2022 and beyond.
BL: How would you describe an MSP to someone who has never heard that phrase? Why would you say that they are important assets to have?
CP: A MSP is a technology support company. MSPs provide a multitude of services including server and networking support, desktop and software support, telephone and communication platforms, mobility and remote connectivity, backup and disaster recovery services, cybersecurity defenses (software, hardware, testing, and training), email and web services support, and more.
A quality MSP has a full staff of various IT specialists and engineers to provide the full scope of IT support for an organization. MSPs are able to bring more services at a higher quality and at a cheaper price than most organizations can afford to hire directly.
BL: What would you say are the most commonly sought-after MSP services?
CP: Employee desktop support and troubleshooting, cybersecurity services, and remote and cloud capabilities.
BL: What does the typical day-to-day look like for a managed service provider?
CP: A high volume of quick response to immediate needs of clients (this is handled by our team of support technicians) as well as large-scope projects for networking, application, and infrastructure enhancements (this is handled by our engineering teams).
BL: What were your biggest takeaways regarding MSPs in 2021? What implications do you think those have on the future of MSPs throughout the rest of 2022 and beyond?
CP: MSPs needed to have the ability to respond quickly with proven solutions to assist businesses migrating from their brick-and-mortar establishments to conducting large portions of their work remotely.
Additionally, the continued increase of cyber attacks revealed the continued need to protect and educate business owners and employees on security and safety, and how they are a critical component of organizations’ security. MSPs are needed even more in 2022 as the demand for additional functionality increases, yet must be implemented with security as a foundation.
BL: What do you hope to accomplish in the rest of 2022? Are there any MSP awards or recognitions you hope to obtain for Blue Layer this year?
CP: For 2022, I would like to promote more of our Azure services to assist companies with efficiencies and security of their remote working needs and reduce the reliance of on-premise servers. Security and business efficiencies are my primary focus.
In regards to awards and recognitions, Blue Layer achieved Cloud Verify certification in 2021 and is completing its second year of certification. Less than 2% of MSPs achieve this level recognition and we are proud to maintain this level of excellence. Cloud Verify is an internationally recognized standard of processes, protocols, and security that is independently verified (much like an ISO or SOC certification) and is specific to the IT industry.
BL: Are there any tips that you’d like to offer as we head further into 2022? Any trends to be on the lookout for? Any exciting industry developments that might pertain to Blue Layer’s audience?
CP: It sounds simple, but everyone should have a password manager. Every website visited, both personal and professional, should have its own unique password. A quality password manager is the only way to achieve this. Think of it like your address book on your phone. Everyone has a unique phone number, yet you can access everyone you need without frustration. A good password manager works the same. It should be independent of your browser type or phone platform so you can move and change equipment and software without the worry of losing your information. This isn’t new, but it’s severely underutilized. Non-unique passwords are a critical vulnerability to both individuals and businesses.
Additionally, if you are not prepared and able to work remotely (including the ability to conduct business calls when away from the office), access corporate resources (such as files, servers, finance), or [access] CRM systems, it is important to begin implementing these capabilities to best prepare for personal, regional, or global issues that demand remote connectivity and capabilities.
BL: Any final thoughts?
CP: If your organization does not have an MSP supporting it or its internal IT department, a quality MSP can provide significant enhancements to business efficiencies and security at a nominal cost. An MSP does not have to replace an organization’s IT staff but can be supplemental to their team. With the additional engineering specialties of a MSP, every business would benefit from our additional resources.
Click here to get in touch with our team about making Blue Layer your Managed Service Provider.
We’ve talked at length about why your business needs a go-to partner for all things technology like an MSP, but what on earth do you do when it comes time to pick one? Your Google search and industry resource recommendations have both yielded tons of managed service providers that seem great, but with so many to choose from, how do you pick one that checks all the boxes?
With experienced leadership, industry recognition, and proven products and services on our side, Blue Layer makes the decision-making process a whole lot easier. Here’s why—out of all the managed service providers available to you—Blue Layer is the right MSP for your business.
1. Our Team is Experienced
Blue Layer was created after years of experience in the computer and networking industry. In those years, we learned how to best meet the unique needs of a variety of businesses across different industries. Over the years, we’ve remained competitive by making it a priority to propel both ourselves and our clients forward with innovations in technology.
For nearly 20 years, our mission has been simple: to provide “Right-Sized IT” services to businesses and companies across West Texas. Blue Layer was built on a foundation of superior customer service and fair pricing to provide customers with knowledgeable, experienced IT support. Our services continue to evolve as we strive to provide comprehensive technology solutions designed to fit any need.
2. Our Technology Solutions Follow a Tailored Approach
How do we meet the unique needs of a variety of businesses across different industries? By taking the time to understand each client so that we provide their business with a unique and strategic experience. We deliver custom solutions to companies in industries including banking, finance, legal, education, retail and hospitality, medical, oil and gas, and more.
Our solutions will never include “off-the-shelf” services that waste time or money. We use the term “Right-Sized IT” to explain the solutions we use to manage your technology and solve any IT problem confidently. From routine system maintenance and data backups to 24/7 disaster recovery and cybersecurity, Blue Layer has the experience and resources to protect your business and enable it to thrive.
3. We Are Industry-Recognized
Through this practice, we’ve received numerous awards, recognition, and loyal partnerships with our customers. Here is a short summary of those awards and the recognition we’ve received.
- MSPAlliance’s Cyber Verify Program-Rated
- Forbes Technology Council Member
- Channel Futures “Top 501 MSP Managed Service Providers,” 2014-2021
- Inc. 5000’s “Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America,” 2020 & 2021
And that’s not even all of them. Whatever the needs your business has, we’re confident that Blue Layer has a solution for you and the experience and recognition to back them. From managed services to 24/7 disaster recovery, we can handle the challenges that your business is facing.
Technology hasn’t just changed the way we do things in business. Technology has changed the way we think about business and how we make important decisions regarding business direction that will affect how it operates well into the future.
There’s no better indicator of this influence than looking at the role that enterprise mobility & IoT (internet of things) plays in organizations all over the world today, especially after 2020 and 2021. The circumstances of the last two years have taken reliance on mobile and remote tech solutions to a whole new level and have convinced leaders to not only consider adopting new mobile and IoT solutions but to also think about what it might take to make a total shift toward those solutions as a primary way of doing business.
So, why does your business need enterprise mobility & IoT support in 2022?
For one, it mobilizes your team.
Securely, at that. The idea of working from anywhere isn’t just a minor topic of discussion at the quarterly meeting anymore. Now, it’s something that even the big guys are considering for everyday day-to-day.
When enterprise mobility solutions and IoT support solutions (like industrial internet) combine forces, they give your team the flexibility and room to do their best work how they do it best. Not only can they mobilize, but they can feel motivated and inspired, too, opening the door wide open for new ways of collaborating, innovating, and attracting talent from around the globe.
You’re going to see a big increase in productivity. And we mean BIG.
Tech innovation is about removing limits, and nothing smashes barriers like the technology empowered by the IoT. In a seamlessly connected, IoT support-enabled world, teams can reduce the lag traditionally experienced with business communication and increase overall operational efficiency. With enterprise mobility & IoT support at the helm, you can take a historically in-house team and make them mobile work magicians. Then, when you give those magicians technology that empowers them, what you’re left with is easier collaboration, better processes, and ultimately, better products and results.
It’s a lot cheaper. We like it cheaper.
Untimely downtime for repairs? Time lost to troubleshooting? Incapable cybersecurity? What if we told you that you could sidestep it all?
IoT technology is smart. It enables you to do more, and to do more better. Predictive maintenance, automated safety compliance, and efficient cybersecurity monitoring are just a few ways that IoT technology enables your business to do more without having to spend valuable resources to do so. Instead of using valuable time and money to solve issues, let the IoT give you a heads up before they even have a chance to be an issue.
Finally, it’s safer!
We don’t need a lengthy, detailed report to tell us that people are finding new ways to connect every single day. But, as any regular Blue Layer blog reader knows, scammers are also aware of that trend and are standing on guard to take advantage of it.
So, instead of venturing into the world of enterprise mobility & IoT by yourself, lean on the pros that know what it takes to leverage them in a way that gets you more out of them—safely. Blue Layer ensures that you get what you’re looking for out of enterprise mobility & IoT support, but in a way that best benefits and protects your entire team.
Growth is our dominant theme in 2022—growth for ourselves, our vision, our ability to serve you, and your growth. If your business is rethinking the way it conducts business for the long haul, then you’re certainly not alone. It’s something that we’ve all been forced to consider over the last two years, especially as technology has taken a seat at the table that seems to inch closer and closer to the head with each passing year.Growth is nothing if not supported. Click here to contact Blue Layer for help making sure that you leverage enterprise mobility & IoT correctly and safely.
Are you new to the concept of managed IT services? Have you started looking for an MSP or MSSP but are unsure whether or not they offer the DRaaS, UCaaS, or IoT solutions you need?
If that sentence felt like a whirlwind to you, rest assured that you are not alone. Many business owners like yourself have found themselves on the front half of an uncertain journey like this one with no discernible map in sight.
Instead of going it alone, allow us to help you build a key that anyone in your organization can pick up, easily understand, and use to navigate their way through the managed IT services landscape. Save these terms, share them with your team, and keep them in your proverbial back pocket.
10 Managed IT Terms You Should Keep on Deck
Managed Services Provider (MSP) — An information technology company that provides comprehensive plans that offer consistent, reliable coverage for those aspects of technology that are most critical to your business’s success. These include, but are not limited to, emergency support, technology consulting, network monitoring, and more.
Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) — An organization that provides protection services for all of your virtual and physical assets and infrastructure. Services can include adaptive security hardware installation, risk assessment, cybersecurity awareness training, and more.
Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) — The process of protecting your data from unexpected loss with regularly scheduled backups, remote storage, and zero-downtime recovery plans.
Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) — An umbrella term referring to services designed to enhance your business processes and communications. An example of UCaaS would be the integration of phone, video, meetings, and messaging into one reliable, easy-to-use solution.
Cybersecurity Awareness Training — Comprehensive, up-to-date, hands-on training and resources that help you and your team identify dangerous web content, emails, and security risks. Cybersecurity awareness training keeps you informed of the latest cybersecurity threats so that you can protect your business and enable your employees to become human firewalls.
Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) — A new approach to network connectivity that lowers operational costs and improves resource usage for multi-site organizations.
Internet of Things (IoT) — A term that describes the network of interconnected, chip-enabled devices capable of connecting to one another to exchange information, reduce operational costs, and increase efficiency.
Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) — A type of software that enables MSPs and MSSPs to manage customer infrastructure without working on-site.
Regulatory Compliance — If your business is required to comply with certain government rules and regulations, regulatory compliance is the process by which an MSP like Blue Layer ensures that all angles are covered and that your business operates in a way that falls within the established lanes.
Blue Layer — An MSP Cyber Verify program-certified and industry-recognized leader in “right-sized” managed IT services that specializes in managed services, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, and other mission-critical aspects of the managed IT landscape.
That’s far from everything, but these terms are a great place to start. Now that you feel more confident heading into the cyber-unknown, get in touch with Blue Layer today for help integrating what you think is best for your business and its managed IT needs.
2021 was yet another busy year for the cybersecurity industry and the world in general. The pandemic has continued to run rampant on organizations across the globe with the emergence of the omicron variant; phishing has risen quarter over quarter, targeting most organizations in some capacity; and cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated and vigilant with each passing trend.
Looking back and learning from the past is the best way to determine what we can expect for cybersecurity in the future. Here are some of the most important takeaways from this past year to make you aware of what you can expect for your cybersecurity in 2022. We’ve also included some helpful tips for the best way to move forward in the new year with confidence.
1. Phishing is on the rise.
And it’s not a trend that’s expected to subside any time soon. In July of 2021 alone, the Anti-Phishing Work Group reported that over 260,000 unique phishing attacks were attempted. In that same report, it was found that the number of brands attacked peaked at 715 in September. We must continue adapting since scammers will continue finding ways around the defenses we build. It’s important to remember that phishing and other types of similar attacks require an ongoing fight.
2. Over 90% of attacks involve some form of social engineering.
The most popular way that scammers obtain the information they’re looking for is by taking advantage of emotions that make us human, with sympathy and fear being two of the most commonly seen.
With most cyberattacks featuring some form of social engineering, the messages they include are getting increasingly convincing, both in their wording and in their presentation. Always be on your guard and always be wary of suspicious-looking and/or suspicious-sounding emails.
3. Scammers are still taking advantage of the pandemic.
As new COVID-19 variants continue to emerge, it’s safe to assume that scammers are still working on ways to manipulate the fears surrounding them. Phishing emails preying on vaccine hysteria, WFH teams, and the large sums of money moved around during mergers and acquisitions are just a few examples we’ve discussed of how scammers are getting what they want out of the pandemic.
4. Cybercrimes are becoming more and more sophisticated and in tune with current popular topics.
This is a trend that has persisted year after year. 2021 was no different, and neither should 2022. Adapting to hot trends and becoming more technologically proficient are just two examples of how the people behind these malicious attacks are working hard to stay ahead of the curve.
Tips For Handling Cybersecurity in 2022 With Confidence
1. Deploy stronger cybersecurity technology.
Are your software and hardware defenses up to date and equipped with what’s needed to defend your information? Consider adding Extended Detection and Response capabilities to better protect your business.
2. Brush up on your training.
By the time you read this, it’s likely that things have changed once again, even if only marginally. Onboarding training modules aren’t enough—real deal cybersecurity in 2022 requires regular, industry-leading training from an MSP that knows the risks.
3. Stay in the know.
The internet is a fantastic place for all things cybersecurity, including tips, trends, industry news, and more. Blue Layer and KnowBe4 are great places to start if you haven’t subscribed yet.
4. Work with an award-winning managed services provider.
Saying that we deploy right-sized solutions doesn’t imply a one-size-fits-all blanket service. Instead of pulling a cybersecurity solution off of a shelf, we consider your unique technology challenges, dig deep into their source, and take the time necessary to identify which of our service lines best addresses them.Tackling cybersecurity in 2022 is going to take an approach that can keep up with how often it changes and solutions that are scalable. Click here for help protecting your business against cybercrime this upcoming new year and beyond.
“Most businesses love to see charts moving up and to the right when the topic is number of customers, revenue, or profit. But when it comes to phishing attacks, seeing a hockey stick on a chart is VERY bad news,” said KnowBe4 in their most recent report on phishing in Q3 of 2021.
According to the data that they’ve found, the frequency and success of phishing attacks have risen in “nearly every way possible,” signaling a persistent trend to which both 2020 and 2021 were no stranger. So, as we move closer to the new year, we can’t help but ask the question, “Why should 2022 be any different?”
That worry is exactly what we’re addressing today. How? By recapping the best ways that Blue Layer can help your business and your employees prepare for the worst while hoping for the best in the face of phishing and other threats in 2022.
Cybersecurity
The most efficient way to handle threats to your cybersecurity? Prevent them from ever occurring in the first place. Blue Layer specializes in providing our clients with a curated suite of software and monitoring tools that protect your system from ransomware, malware, spyware, and different forms of phishing. These tools include
- Real-time extended detection and response to these threats
- Heightened security measures like two-factor authentication and monthly vulnerability scanning and remediation
- “Smart” firewalls with cloud-based threat updates and patching
Cybersecurity Awareness Training
Above industry-standard education is far more than your run-of-the-mill training modules. Cybersecurity awareness training from Blue Layer is there to stand up against cybercrime actors when the technology meant to thwart them simply isn’t enough.
You hired your team in the first place for their intuition and knack for giving your business their very best. So, when it comes to equipping them to fortify your most sensitive information, why give them anything less than the very best weapons? We keep people trained on the latest cybersecurity threats and how to use that knowledge to protect your business and enable your employees to become living, breathing cybersecurity virtuosos.
Assuming that your business is protected without including awareness training in its formula is like saying a puzzle is complete when half of the pieces are still in the box. Blue Layer completes your cybersecurity puzzle with affordable, customizable solutions that fit perfectly.
Disaster Recovery
Remember to hope for the best, but always prepare for the worst when it comes to cybersecurity. It’s not impossible for scammers to make their way past defenses, even with industry-leading technology and training on your side. But with a proper plan for bouncing back in place, panic isn’t necessary if things go south on you.
Disaster recovery plans save headaches, time, money, effort, worry, stress, loss, and anything else that you could imagine accompanying the hassle of getting back up and running following a compromise.
Regulatory Compliance
Now that you feel confident taking on cybercriminals in 2022, are you ready to answer to the laws and regulations that apply to your business? Cybersecurity isn’t the only thing that Blue Layer specializes in. We can also make sure that your compliance ducks are in a row, which we’re sure you’re aware can be easier said than done.
We too must adhere to numerous compliance requirements. And since we support businesses that maintain protected health information, we also must maintain HIPAA compliance, among others. We have taken this firsthand experience and expanded our technology service offering to include HIPAA and PCI DSS compliance for our clients.
No More Surprises in 2022
Unwelcome ones, anyway. Over the last two years, we’ve all learned that life is unpredictable, if nothing else. And if that unpredictable difficulty has taught us anything else, it’s that doing whatever’s in your power to plan ahead can save you an unlimited amount of stress in the future.
At Blue Layer, we want you to feel as supported and prepared as possible to charge headfirst into the new year with confidence and assurance that you have the industry’s best partner at your side.
Click here for help protecting your business against threats new and old in 2022.
Big business. Small business. New business. Old business. Today’s business landscape is as diverse as it’s ever been. So you can be sure that the enterprise technology solutions required to meet all of their needs are diverse, too. And while our services may vary greatly, they all share one common goal: to ensure that businesses like yours operate efficiently and securely with right-sized IT products and services.
Enterprise mobility & internet of things (IoT) solutions are no different. The newest addition to our service line, enterprise mobility & IoT, meets the growing demand for reliable mobile communications with solutions that can meet the challenges involved with deployment, management, security, scalability, and adaptability on an enterprise level.
They’re 100% scalable for a growing organization.
They’re 100% logistically sound and headache-free.
They’re 100% free of connectivity and security issues that plague so many teams with downtime and lost revenue.
When you partner with Blue Layer to transform the way that your business communicates with the rest of the world, you get a full suite of world-class services that include:
Grow, expand, and communicate with the rest of the world with technology and products that seamlessly communicate with each other and support your goals, not impede them.
This year’s theme for Cybersecurity Awareness Month focuses on how to #BeCyberSmart. It’s a month that’s all about promoting a safer and more vigorous cybersecurity culture through awareness, education, and most importantly, best practices that you can put into place today. More simply put, it’s all about practicing safety. And you know that’s what we’re all about, too. Because while technology is a sophisticated defense mechanism, it alone is not sufficient.
Do we expect everyone to become an expert overnight? Of course not.
But do we think that everyone has their own part to do day-in and day-out? Absolutely.
Define and communicate #BeCyberSmart best practices.
Having clearly written, easy-to-understand guidelines for using technology safely isn’t negotiable—it’s paramount.
Establish a culture of careful cyber behavior.
Once you have best practices in place, consider them an extension of the very pillars that define your organization, its brand, and the people that make it what it is. When caution becomes as integrated into your company culture as your values, cybersecurity awareness will become as second nature as checking your email.
Practice what you preach and lead by example.
Cybercriminals can target any employee at any level of a business, from entry-level to c-suite executive. That means that your cybersecurity protocols aren’t just for your employees—they’re for you, too! No one (no matter how sophisticated your technology might be) is invulnerable. And remember: cybersecurity awareness is an ongoing effort, not a one-time exercise.
Don’t have best practices in place? Now’s the time to #BeCyberSmart.
What better time to invest in your employees’ safety than Cybersecurity Awareness Month? Cybersecurity Awareness Training encompasses all that this month-long celebration is about: cybersecurity know-how, conscious awareness of and attention to mission-critical details, familiarity with current trends and threats, and of course, the most practical ways to implement all of it.
So, how do you enable your employees to #BeCyberSmart? It takes more than technology. It takes education of the highest degree, constant vigilance, and industry-recognized support and experience.
It’s October, which means that (in addition to that cooler fall breeze) it’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month was created in October 2004 by the National Cyber Security Alliance and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as a “collaborative effort between government and industry to ensure every American has the resources they need to stay safer and more secure online.” [National Security Alliance]
In its 17 years as an annual celebration for all things cybersecurity, this initiative has done just as cybersecurity awareness itself has: evolved. What started as a friendly “update your antivirus software” reminder has grown into a month-long call-to-action for every business to re-evaluate its cybersecurity protocols.
Cybersecurity awareness is our bread and butter. And with a 2021 theme like “#BeCyberSmart,” you can count on us to help you stay on top of the latest tips and trends:
The cold hard truth? Anyone can be phished. And unfortunately for those of us on the front lines of cybersecurity, it’s more likely that more people will be targeted in the coming years than not. However, what you do in advance can determine whether or not you make it out of the crosshairs with your defenses intact.
The best possible thing to do right out of the gate is to train ALL team members to lead by example. How? By practicing organization security every time they interact with technology, which they can only accomplish with Cybersecurity Awareness Training from Blue Layer. And, what better time to get started than during Cybersecurity Awareness Month? It’s what this time of year is all about, and we’re proud to be one of the industry’s leading examples of training done right.
Did you know that the average organization devotes over 20% of its IT budget solely to cybersecurity? That’s following a significant uptick in sophisticated and costly cyberattacks over the course of what has been a very busy year for cybercriminals, making a solid cybersecurity strategy just as (if not more) necessary than it was even a week or a month ago.
Of the organizations reported to have been affected in that data, 44% of them stated that they would be allocating a good portion of that IT budget to one area of cybersecurity that’s as imperative as the rest: cybersecurity awareness training. Here’s why.
Human error is usually one of the biggest gaps in cybersecurity best practices.
We’re all human, and we all make mistakes, so it’s unfair to expect every single user to flawlessly tip-toe their way through something as complex and as sophisticated as the cybercrime landscape. Cybersecurity awareness training is designed to educate you and your employees about dangerous web content, emails, and security risks and how to dodge making easy-to-avoid mistakes that could compromise your business’s safety.
Cyberattacks can cost you—big time.
Most cyberattacks aim to steal personal information and/or private company data, which are very high prices to pay for gaps in your cybersecurity infrastructure. However, in the case of modern ransomware, the cost of compromise is very, very literal. Investing in proven training now can save your company from having to spend big and lose efficiency to downtime later on.
Cybercrime is constantly evolving. So should you.
Unfortunately, what works today might not have worked yesterday and might not work tomorrow. The nature of cybercrime is an ever-changing one, and the best cybersecurity awareness training is one that accounts for that. Blue Layer training utilizes real examples and real scenarios to help your employees recognize and avoid malicious content, thus becoming an impenetrable human firewall.
At a certain point, a business or private practice grows to a point where a heightened reliance on technology is inevitable. Demands evolve, teams expand, and the need for technology that can keep up becomes more and more apparent. But, if you’re like many small business and private practice owners that have been where you are, you might be asking yourself a series of questions:
- What exactly do I need to be looking for?
- What will help facilitate this growth seamlessly and continue to do so in the future?
- What can an IT service provider accomplish for my team?
The answer to these questions often lies in one solution: Managed IT Service Providers or “MSPs” for short. When so much importance rides on the decision on how to most effectively leverage technology for the success of your business or practice, why should you put your faith in an MSP?
First, let’s dive deeper into how exactly an MSP functions.
What’s a managed IT service provider?
Simply put, a managed IT service provider like Blue Layer acts as your business’s or practice’s go-to partner for all things technology. From cloud services and tech consulting to around-the-clock cybersecurity for your entire infrastructure, an MSP provides 24/7 coverage for those aspects of technology most crucial to your success.
Why do you need one?
As a company or practice grows, so too does its dependence on technology. The more tech that your business encounters, the more difficult it will become to manage it all. However, that dependence should positively enable growth — not present another roadblock to which your team must devote more (already depleting) time. Ensuring that positivity and handling that management is precisely why you need an MSP.
What can an MSP manage for you?
- Tech Consulting & Virtual CIO
- Ensure that your business is future-proof by identifying your needs, guiding the technology vision for your organization, and finding solutions for current and future initiatives.
- Managed Security
- Risk assessment, intrusion detection & prevention, security awareness training, adaptive security hardware, and more help protect your business from internal and external threats. Leverage licensed protection for your most valuable assets, both virtual and physical.
- Disaster Recovery
- “Better safe than sorry” has never been more true than it is with disaster recovery. Rest assured that your data is protected with regularly scheduled backups, offsite storage, and zero downtime recovery options in the event of data loss.
- Network Operations Center
- Enjoy remote and on-site maintenance, repair, and system monitoring.
- 24/7 Help Desk
- Around-the-clock support is an MSP’s bread and butter, at least for an award-winning MSP like Blue Layer. Enjoy professional support with immediate response times from a team of technology experts.
Where should I turn for an MSP?
Enlisting the services of a managed IT service provider is one thing; having an industry-leading, award-winning MSP on your side whose bar is set as high as, or higher than your own is something entirely different. Blue Layer is among the less than 2% of MSPs that have completed MSPAlliance’s MSP Verify Program (MSPV) certification process, and our ability to provide our clients with services that meet rigorous industry standards has never been stronger.
If this year has taught us anything, it’s that everything can change on a dime. Technology and cybersecurity are no exception. Technology is constantly evolving in one way or another. In a world where “adapt and survive” is becoming more of a norm, your business must have the wherewithal to keep up.
So, if you’re asking yourself, “How can I make sure that my business doesn’t fall to the wayside of a trend that is expected to continue well into 2021?” then you’ve come to the right place. Here are some ways that your business can prepare for the future of technology in the coming new year.
Cybersecurity Awareness Training
Inevitably, with a new year, come new phishing and ransomware trends that businesses will need to avoid. If you’ve ever wondered how to give your employees the tools they need to expertly identify and prevent these types of threats, cybersecurity awareness training is the answer. It’s the single best way to keep your entire team educated and alert with the knowledge they need about the current and emerging cybersecurity landscape.
Train your team, listen to your team, and work together with them to make cybersecurity awareness a natural part of your culture. Setting up a cybersecurity awareness training with Blue Layer is a great place to start.
Ensure Strong Cybersecurity Initiatives
Your people are protected, but what about your hardware? Strong lines of defense against powerful, ill-intentioned forces require proper security measures that defend your data from the likes of malware, spyware, ransomware, phishing, and more. The threat landscape is evolving. Does your business have tools in place that are ready to defend it? If not, Managed Services from Blue Layer can help.
Protect Your Remote Employees
If current trends persist, one thing we expect to see in 2021 is a continued reliance on remote work. COVID-19 has made it open season for cybercriminals, so keeping your employees as protected as they are when they’re in the office is an important prep step. And, be sure you’re using a reliable and secure virtual meeting and Unified Communications software, like RingCentral. Empower your staff to conduct business calls and meet when they are away from the office in the same manner as when they are at their desk.
Have a Plan for Disaster Mitigation
At Blue Layer, we never like to imply that disaster will strike, but we always advocate for being prepared for the worst. If you don’t have a disaster recovery plan yet, you need one to protect your business. What better time to revisit your data loss disaster recovery plans than the beginning of a new year?
Make IT Partners That Can Help You Navigate the Future of Technology
Never before has there been a more experienced and trustworthy team that you can call your IT partners until now. Blue Layer combines a deep understanding of innovative IT solutions, up-to-date familiarity with the future of technology, and recognition of current trends to craft a personalized suite of IT solutions that fit your business’s one-of-a-kind situation and needs.
Do you have questions or concerns about the future and your business’s ability to keep up? Want to make sure that your entire team has what it takes to stay safe from maliciousness in 2021 while collaborating like never before? Click here, and let’s get started.
Disaster Recovery Plans and Why Your Business Needs One
It’s fair to say that no business ever wants a disaster to occur or their information to be compromised. However, the last thing you should do is act as if you are completely immune to the possibility.
Accidents are not certain, but should your business find itself in the middle of one, it’s imperative that you have a plan to get yourself out. Why? Disasters (whether they’re natural or man-made) can strike at any time, and when it comes to the safety of your information, a proactive mindset is always better than a reactive one.
What’s at stake when you’re not proactive about disaster recovery plans? Why else should your business prioritize creating one or updating what’s currently in place?
Disaster can strike without warning at any time.
From inclement weather all the way to malicious man-made ransomware, cybersecurity disasters take many shapes and can occur with little to no notice. Disaster recovery plans have your back covered, making it impossible for even the most serious or most clever attacks to sneak up on you when you least expect it.
Compromised data can interrupt your business’s ability to operate.
How long it takes for your business to bounce back depends entirely on how prepared you are to mitigate disasters. With an intelligent disaster recovery plan, that could potentially end up being no time at all.
Disaster recovery plans cover all the bases and leave no holes in your cybersecurity defenses.
Well-planned disaster recovery initiatives ensure that all servers, computers, mobile devices, and third-party cloud solutions are backed up and secured. When all gaps are filled, only then can you be sure that you will maintain uninterrupted access to mission-critical data when disaster strikes.
A plan devised by Blue Layer will maximize the utilization of your disaster recovery resources.
We understand how important it is to make the most out of the resources that are available to you and your business. Therefore, Blue Layer remains at the forefront of disaster recovery advancements so that we may develop disaster recovery plans that reduce your backup storage requirements while maintaining your access to block-level, system-level, and duplication backups. Ransomware attacks occur every 14 seconds and are expected to increase even further to every 11 seconds in the new year. A feature like Object Locking with immutability (which makes data backups immutable for a specified period of time) is just one example of how our team continues to raise the bar for our clients, protecting them from an evolving risk and conserving their resources in the process.
Having a plan beforehand beats mitigating problems after the fact.
Again, proactivity > reactivity. Always. Getting your business back on track without a plan in place to do so wastes time, costs money, and puts your data directly in harm’s way. A disaster recovery plan is another critical piece of your business’s complete cybersecurity puzzle — a piece that we can make sure fits perfectly within yours.
The Latest Phishing Attacks & How Businesses Fall for Them
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and we’re taking a closer look at the latest phishing attacks and what leads businesses to fall for them.
Did you know that 90% of successful data breaches begin with phishing scams? Since the term as we know it was first used in the late 1990s, phishing has evolved into cybercriminals’ most tried and true methods of stealing sensitive information or data from unsuspecting users and their businesses. They are costly, they are constantly evolving into new shapes, and they aren’t going anywhere. Some of the most recent and most prevalent attempts at phishing that we’ve seen have included:
- Brand Exploitation Phishing: In this scam, phishers posed as trusted brands to scam users into giving them an open gateway through which they can penetrate sensitive information and install malware on their devices. In recent attacks surrounding panic created by the COVID-19 pandemic, scammers posed as the Center for Disease Control and the World Health Organization.
- Healthcare Phishing: Phishers posed as trusted healthcare organizations and targeted healthcare provider credentials through fake surveys and seminars.
- CEO Fraud Phishing: This is similar to brand exploitation phishing, but this scam targets high-level executives of organizations, as opposed to those that they serve. One attack earlier this year was due to a compromised cloud-based business email.
While they may appear different at face value, most phishing schemes essentially work the same way and have the same goal: stealing information from your business.
So, if they’ve been around for years, we know so much about them, and there is so much available information surrounding cybersecurity, then why are the latest phishing attacks still posing concerning threats to businesses?
Some businesses fail to emphasize the importance of cybersecurity etiquette.
It’s easy to throw words like “cybersecurity” or “phishing” or “cybercriminals” around all day, but what do they actually mean for a business and its information? They can’t be that dangerous, right?
Wrong.
When employees are constantly bombarded with overstimulation of messages on a daily basis, it becomes all too easy for them to become detached from the grim reality that these types of threats pose. “Out of sight, out of mind” just doesn’t cut it when it comes to the latest phishing scams, and employees must be on guard at all times. How? With cybersecurity awareness training.
Some businesses fail to properly train employees on cybersecurity awareness.
Suppose an employee doesn’t know how to identify and avoid phishing scams. How can they be expected to stand on the front lines between their business and cybercriminals who are constantly changing the way they are trying to steal from it? Cybersecurity awareness training puts everyone on the same page and teaches them how to identify and avoid malicious content, even when it is indiscernible from the rest of the messages flooding their inboxes.
Some businesses fail to make cybersecurity awareness a natural part of their employees’ workday rhythms.
Cybersecurity awareness training isn’t something we can just shove into our minds’ metaphorical “junk” drawers once it’s complete. Cybersecurity awareness is the only way to combat the latest phishing attacks, and refining it should become as natural as opening your email in the morning.
Phishing attacks may be evolving and becoming more sophisticated, but that doesn’t mean your business has to fall for them. Contact Blue Layer today to learn how our cybersecurity awareness training can transform your employees into impenetrable human firewalls!
How to Protect Your Business From Ransomware
In the spirit of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we’re taking some time to remind you about one of the most malicious of all cyberattacks: ransomware.
Since its creation in 1989, ransomware has quickly evolved into one of the most dangerous cybersecurity threats to unsuspecting businesses, individuals, and their private information. In its over 30 years of development, it “has gone nuclear,” causing 41% of all cyber insurance claims in H1 2020 and contributing to projected damage costs of over $20 billion by next year. It’s sophisticated, it’s constantly evolving to counteract preventative measures put in place, and it’s not going anywhere. Here are a few ways to protect your business and its sensitive information from ever-changing ransomware threats.
Back Up Your Data
Without a data loss prevention plan in place, a business is never really impervious to attack. Ensure that your data is protected with regularly scheduled backups, offsite storage, and a plan to recover what could be lost.
Create and Protect Strong Passwords
Never underestimate the power of strong passwords. Powerful password protection can mean the difference between keeping your data out of the hands of cybercriminals and subjecting your business to downtime, data loss, possible intellectual property theft, and more. If passwords aren’t your strong suit, allow us to suggest a solution.
Educate Your Employees on Ransomware
Typically, an employee’s inability to effectively identify or navigate cybersecurity threats is what leads to information being taken hostage. With cybersecurity awareness training, employees can become more aware of malicious content, transform themselves into human firewalls, and confidently defend the front lines between your information and those that would seek to steal and compromise it.
As ransomware continues to evolve to overcome protection plans put in place, it’s becoming more imperative that you and your entire team know how to stay ahead of it. That’s precisely what cybersecurity awareness training with Blue Layer will teach you.
Click here to learn how our team can help protect yours from ransomware today.
Why LastPass is the Best Option for Password Management
A vital, often overlooked, layer of the “cybersecurity onion” is strong password protection. Think of passwords like saved numbers in your phone — as each one is unique to their respective person, as should each password be to their separate app, website, etc. The strongest passwords contain a combination of unmemorable and unreplicable letters, numbers, and special characters.
So, what happens when those passwords become so many and so complicated that even you have a hard time keeping track of what’s what?
LastPass Password Management
Blue Layer is an enterprise partner with LastPass, the premier leader in password management that offers personal and business applications for creating, storing, and managing your passwords.
The LastPass business platform provides a management portal for IT teams and designated admins to securely share and disseminate the company’s access credentials to staff during their employment, as well as after to immediately disable a user’s account to protect company data. Other features include:
- Single Sign-On: Utilize a built-in portal with over 1,200 pre-integrated applications.
- Multi-Factor Authentication: Add another layer of security that is compatible with two-factor authentication.
- Password Management: Utilize a complete password manager for capturing, storing, filling, and generating passwords with a robust admin dashboard and a vault for every user.
- Tool Vault: Every employee has their own secure vault for access to all of their work tools.
- Notes & Documents: Organize database logins, SSH keys, software licenses, and other critical business information.
- Work & Personal Applications: Employees can have a vault for personal and work, and auto-sort credentials to the right place.
- Encrypted Password Sharing: Help employees share passwords the secure way, and remove access when projects are done.
- Security: Encryption happens exclusively at the device level, so only the user can unlock access to their data.
- Reporting: Generate advanced reports for new users, user activity, policy setting changes, access requests, security reports, and shared folder reports.
We recommend that all customers, both large and small, adopt LastPass to eliminate bad password habits by creating secure and unique logins for every account to improve online security. LastPass offers Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, FireFox, and Apple Safari integration through a browser extension to help users generate secure logins and passwords. Lastpass also has a free mobile application for logging in and connecting safely on the go. Do you feel like your business’s password management processes are outdated, inefficient, or both? Professional and personalized help with adopting LastPass is only a click away. Talk to our team today!
Why You Should Back Up Your Office 365 Data
The ease, accessibility, and convenience of productivity apps like Office 365 just make sense in today’s workforce. With the ability to draft documents, save them to the cloud, and access the same information anywhere, businesses can collaborate and accomplish work under even the most volatile circumstances.
However, innovation does not equate with imperviousness. Many believe that saving Office 365 data to the cloud is the same thing as automatically backing up and adding another layer of security to their information.
It’s not.
Why Back Up Office 365 Data?
Office 365 is an incredibly intuitive tool, but unfortunately, it does not guarantee that data will never be lost or that lost data can be recovered. Losing data means losing time, losing revenue, and potentially harming otherwise healthy customer relationships. Here are some potential shortcomings that could lead to Office 365 data compromise.
Accidental Deletion
Mistakes happen and are to be expected from time to time. And even those that are the best at regularly saving their progress can slip up and accidentally delete or accidentally overwrite data. OneDrive is a great way to automatically save the most up-to-date version of any given file, but that doesn’t mean it’s a perfect backup, as the deletion of an active file can automatically erase all versions of that file across devices.
File restoration from the Recycle Bin can sometimes be a good failsafe, but only if noticed in a timely manner, as these restorable files are only available temporarily. And if those files found in the Recycle Bin are deleted, they are rendered permanently unretrievable.
Malicious Deletion
On the other hand, some deletion isn’t necessarily accidental. Malicious deletion of Office 365 data can be caused by disgruntled employees, parting administrators, or outside threats. The results can be just as bad (if not, worse), thus providing another reason that the “better-safe-than-sorry” approach is essential here.
Malware
Sophisticated security software ensures that your cloud data is kept as safe as possible, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t subject to malware if employees are not adequately trained on avoiding it. If OneDrive is turned on when malware is downloaded, that infection can spread to shared files, putting your entire cloud database at risk of being lost and/or unrecoverable.
Making a Plan
Like almost all cybersecurity initiatives, protecting your Office 365 data begins with education and training. Together with your team, create and enforce specific safety guidelines on the proper usage of the internet and productivity applications like these. With a prepared team and antivirus software on your side, only then can you rest assured that your data is protected from compromise — both accidental and intentional. Native Office 365 features are good, but third party intervention is the safest way to ensure proper backup. Blue Layer can analyze your business’s current cybersecurity situation, identify gaps, and work with you and your team to develop a plan to close them. Contact us today to get started.
Blue Layer Service Spotlight: Smart Cameras
As a tool that has been protecting people and property for decades, security cameras are traditionally an integral piece of a successful business puzzle. And now, after years of progress and development, Blue Layer is bringing magic to the enterprise video security world with families of smart camera solutions for every application type.
Our products include a range of models for multipurpose deployments, but all of them share five distinct characteristics.
Cutting Edge Architecture
Layer cameras utilize advanced, mobile-grade processors, high-grade solid-state storage, and intelligent software that enable them to remove the need for a network video recorder (NVR) and the complexity that comes with it. This means that, even without a network connection, you can expect constant, reliable recording in up to 1080p high definition resolution.
Bandwidth Consciousness
Because of our smart cameras’ solid-state storage-based architecture, they can use WAN bandwidth only when needed. Less than 50kbps of metadata streams to the cloud per camera when footage is not being viewed, eliminating excessive WAN usage. This ensures that critical network activities are allowed the appropriate bandwidth when it’s most important.
Cloud Archive Capabilities
On top of their solid-state storage, Blue Layer smart cameras can also come equipped with backup cloud archive functionality. Their centralized cloud management dashboard provides secure monitoring and management of all of your cameras from anywhere in the world. The best part? No extra software is required.
Simplicity
What you want is what you get, and everything necessary comes in the box — no extra hardware, software, or analytics packages required.
Security
Cameras automatically allocate signed SSL certificates, and all management and video data is always encrypted by default. All hardware also comes with a three-year warranty!
So, if your business needs new security solutions that combine simplicity with cutting-edge capabilities, click here for help finding the products that are right for what you require!
What is Quality of Experience (QoE) and How Can Blue Layer Improve Yours?
At Blue Layer, our goal is to be your partner in technology service. And as your partner, it’s our job to provide the knowledge and know-how necessary to ensure that your quality of experience (QoE) is as good as it can possibly be.
What your QoE means for you
As we’re sure you’ll agree, technology can sometimes be more frustrating than it is helpful. Technology is supposed to help us, not hinder us — right? We certainly think so. That’s why we’ve made the experience that you have with our technology our highest priority.
Take a cloud service like Office 365, for example. It’s a great application for email and collaboration, but when an employee is having trouble staying connected, it can bring your productivity to a screeching halt. That’s where we come in. Blue Layer can implement software and other services to help diagnose issues related to the performance of a cloud application and how it impacts employees at the business. That includes remote workers!
How we measure your quality of experience
Our team utilizes an intuitive software that enables us to measure the performance analytics of the applications that your business is using. With access to these analytics, we can make informed decisions that will impact the performance of all of your most-used cloud apps, including Office 365, Zoom, Dropbox, and the like. If your preferred applications are not performing to your standards, we help you do something about it!
Why your QoE is important to us
The purpose of your technology is to help you, not hinder you. This is especially true in a business setting, where the applications that we employ are meant to help us maximize our efficiency and ability to do good work. If one piece of that puzzle doesn’t fit, it can bring the whole operation to a standstill, making for a pretty lackluster experience.
By monitoring your quality of experience across all applications, we are not only able to make them work more efficiently for you, but we’re also able to make improvements upon them that will eliminate future issues from arising and make every user’s experience even better than the last. That includes new employees and expanded remote teams. Is your company eager for a partner in technology that is continually focused on your QoE with the products that they provide? Click here, and let’s talk about what that might look like for you and your team.
Blue Layer Service Spotlight: Business Services
The way that businesses conduct work and handle information is different from one organization to the next so why should we assume that IT services that work perfectly for one will be the same for the other?
At Blue Layer, it’s up to us to provide you with the business services that will help you take the next step and raise the bar on your technology solutions. Here’s what this might look like.
Server Installation and Set-Up
Hardware can be a hassle. Instead of going solo, trust our technicians to handle it for you. We are certified to administer the setup and maintenance of your most valuable and essential pieces of equipment. Features of our server installation and set-up services include:
- Consulting
- Installation & Configuration
- Proactive Planning & Best Practices
- Virtualization
- Cost-Conscious Equipment and Optimation
Networking/SD-WAN
SD-WAN (software-defined WAN) is a fresh approach to network connectivity that minimizes network operational costs and improves resource utilization for multi-location businesses. Blue Layer can help you implement and monitor these networks, improving your wide area and local area network efficiency. These services include:
- Adaptive Security Hardware
- Two-Factor Authentication
- Intrusion Detection & Prevention
Unified Communications
Empower your business to communicate like never before by integrating phone, video, meetings, and messaging into one reliable, user-friendly solution. Unified communications allows multiple channels of business communication to work together under a controlled platform for increased efficiency. Features that fall under this category include:
- Seamless Connectivity for Multiple Locations
- Quick Set-Up
- BYOD Mobile App
- Call Recording
- Integrated Conference Calling
Click here to learn about the full scope of Blue Layer’s unified communications services.
Cloud Solutions
The cloud allows you new efficiencies, productivity, and connectivity throughout your entire organization. Features include cloud storage for your documents and enhanced email and document encryption, classification, and compliance.
Regulatory Compliance
Is your business responsible for protecting sensitive information such as personally identifiable information (PII), protected health information (PHI), or private financial details? Then there are regulations by which you must abide. Blue Layer’s compliance services ensure your company, processes, and staff are compliant with the multitude of government regulations, including PCI, HIPAA, and HITECH. Features include:
- Assessments
- Remediation
- Documentation
- Consultation
- Administrative, Operational and Technical Guidance
Click here for a full scope of the regulatory compliance solutions that business IT services include.
At the end of the day, businesses need a partner in IT that understands what their current technology situation looks like and what it will take to guide it to the next level. Never trust a business IT services provider that cannot deliver on the promises that they make. Instead, turn to Blue Layer. We ensure that our clients operate efficiently and securely while staying safe from imminent cybersecurity threats.
Click here to empower your business.
Blue Layer Service Spotlight: Cybersecurity Awareness Training
Strong cybersecurity is vital for virtually every type of business. Being proactive about defending your business and its information is much safer than reacting with a plan after an attack has already taken place. There are several components that make up an effective suite of cybersecurity services, but one of the most important, by far, is proper training for employees who handle that information.
Educate Your Team on Strong Cybersecurity
Typically, it’s a teammate’s inability to effectively identify or handle threats that lead to crucial data being compromised. Many system breaches can be avoided by educating your team, and we provide resources that do just that. Blue Layer’s cybersecurity awareness training helps employees identify and avoid the following threats.
Malware, Spyware, and Viruses
From adware (which can disrupt your operations) to spyware (which can transmit your confidential information to third parties), malware can take many different shapes, all of which proper training can help you and your employees identify.
Ransomware
With ransomware, hackers take your systems hostage and require you to pay a fee, making it difficult to access your data without paying a ransome or restoring from backups. As more businesses and even state organizations are learning, the effects can be costly!
Phishing, Vishing, and Smishing
Phishing scams involve hackers attempting to steal confidential information, including passwords and credit card numbers, by posing as trusted authorities. This is one of the most common threats businesses and employees experience in new forms every day. The latest phishing campaign exploited the Covid-19 crisis by preying on the unemployed through SMS texts impersonating a staffing firm.
The most efficient way to handle threats is to get ahead of them before they ever have a chance to occur. Blue Layer’s cybersecurity awareness training is just one of the many ways to protect your information and keep your systems running smoothly.
Additionally, our cybersecurity awareness courses are DIR-certified for municipalities looking to comply with Texas House Bill 3834, which requires all county officials and their staff to take a training course to prevent attacks by cybercriminals.
Breaking Down Texas House Bill 3834 and What it Means for Your City Government Employees
Part of Blue Layer’s mission is keeping you up to date on everything you need to know regarding cybersecurity and how to keep your business protected. Did you know that Texas House Bill (HB) 3834 requires city government officials and their staff to complete an ongoing cybersecurity training program? What does that mean for your municipality and employees? Let’s break it down.
What is Texas House Bill 3834?
Authored by Rep. Giovanni Capriglione (R-Southlake), HB 3834 requires that all Texas county officials and their staff complete a cybersecurity training program certified by the Department of Information Resources.
Why is this important?
Cyberattacks on local city governments have seen a stark uptick in the last year, mounting the response that we’re seeing now with House Bill 3834. The greatest vulnerability for a city’s private information is an employee’s inability to identify a potential threat, making proper cybersecurity awareness training absolutely essential.
What does that mean for your employees?
Under HB 3834, all state and local government employees and contractors with access to their respective government computer systems or databases must complete an annual cybersecurity training course certified by DIR, the first of which must be completed by June 14, 2020.
How can Blue Layer help?
Blue Layer offers a DIR-certified cybersecurity awareness training program that is designed to teach government employees how to identify dangerous web content, emails, and security risks. Many system breaches are caused by a person’s inability to effectively navigate dangerous content. Blue Layer’s training will give them the tools they need to become a human firewall, actively protecting your municipality’s most delicate data.
To protect your employees, and to comply with House Bill 3834, click here to contact our team to set up a cybersecurity awareness training program.
Blue Layer Service Spotlight: Cybersecurity
Today, we have the privilege of accessing business information like never before, thanks to online cloud computing technology. But, with such an ability to share information, also comes the responsibility to safeguard that information as best as possible. The truth is, no amount of data is entirely immune to compromise, and standard passwords just won’t cut it anymore. Thankfully, there is a solution.
Blue Layer specializes in providing comprehensive cybersecurity solutions designed to keep you ahead of threats that may arise, including:
- Malware, spyware, and viruses
- Ransomware
- Phishing, vishing, and smishing
What do these solutions look like? Let’s dive in.
Detection and Prevention
Threats to your information are constantly evolving. Therefore, it’s critical to opt for a cybersecurity option that does more than just block malware. With Blue Layer’s curated set of software and monitoring services, we keep your systems protected and running smoothly. We monitor your network in real-time, allowing us to deal with problems before they arise, while they are taking place, and after the fact.
Heightened Cybersecurity
As businesses grow, security protocols often lag behind. Blue Layer helps our clients develop the proper methods to ensure that they keep up. These include two-factor authentication, immediate text-based password resets, vulnerability scanning and remediation, and of course, security awareness training. Because remember — passwords simply aren’t enough!
Security Awareness Training
When it comes to protecting your information, it’s critical that your entire team is “all-hands-on-deck.” Many system breaches can be avoided by educating your employees about possible threats, what they may look like, and how they can become a better human firewall to help mitigate them. Additionally, Blue Layer can provide resources that help your team remain aware of the latest cybersecurity threats, as they are constantly evolving.
It’s time to stop exposing your business to avoidable risks. Click here to learn how Blue Layer can act as your first defense with innovative cybersecurity solutions.
Blue Layer Service Spotlight: Access Controls
Access controls are a fundamental piece of security that determines who can gain access to what, and even when access should be granted. Whether the “what” is technical or physical, access controls keep your privacy safe and out of the wrong hands.
What can Blue Layer do to help with access controls?
Blue Layer adds tighter security and added convenience for the user and administrator by creating a centralized, personalized hub for access control for your entire system. With Blue Layer’s cloud-based access control system, you have the ability to:
- Limit physical access to buildings, rooms, data centers, and more
- Set customizable permissions
- Automate lock and unlock schedules
- Set up an alert system for suspicious activity
- Manage users, activity and more at any time, anywhere
What else can Blue Layer do for my cybersecurity?
As vital as they are, access controls are just one piece of the larger cybersecurity puzzle — a puzzle that Blue Layer has solved for businesses time and time again. Our team can work with your organization to develop a comprehensive approach to your cybersecurity needs that may include:
- Heightening security by implementing safety protocols like multi-factor authentication
- Providing security awareness training
- Performing monthly vulnerability scanning and remediation
- Implement onsite monitoring for intrusion prevention and detection with a SIEM solution
- Extend corporate firewall protections and policy to remote users
- Assist with HIPAA and PCI compliance for those organizations subject to federal guidelines
Are you ready to implement an access control system in your business?
Coronavirus Concerns: Make Sure Your Business Is Remote Work Ready
As concerns surrounding coronavirus (COVID-19) rise, so too has a focus on the idea of remote work. In recent years, remote work has become more and more desirable for employers and employees everywhere. And now, due to current events, that desire is stronger than ever.
Whether or not a switch toward a remote model is something that your business has considered before, now is a great time to take some simple precautions in case brick and mortar becomes unviable or unsafe.
Here’s how Blue Layer can help.
Unified Communications
Communication is key in business. A unified communications platform from Blue Layer allows multiple channels of business communication to work together under a controlled platform for increased efficiency for all users, in-house or at-home. Consolidate your frequently-used communication systems like phones, video conferencing, messaging services, and more into one easy-to-use platform and application that will be ready to use no matter where you find yourself.
Cloud-Based Solutions
Transform your business into a model for remote-based success without a hitch in efficiency, productivity, or connectivity with Blue Layer’s Cloud Solutions. Whatever your needs demand, Blue Layer can help you optimize cloud-based solutions that are tailored to your team.
VPN for Remote Connectivity
Having access to corporate resources and files is critical when working away from the office. Equally important is being able to access those files securely, just as if you were in the office. This is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) plays a part. Having a VPN establishes a secure connection directly to your office, no matter if you are at home or on a public wifi network.
Two-Factor Authentication
Security is essential when working remotely. Authenticating to email, VPNs, and web portals that contain your corporate data should be secured with more than just a password. Two-factor authentication is a solution to protect your systems and your data by ensuring that the people connecting are indeed who they say they are. By requiring something they have, such as a cell phone, with something they know, such as their password, you can ensure your employees are the only ones accessing your sensitive information.
The benefits of remote work are nothing new for some businesses, but the emergence of coronavirus has created an opportune time for all companies to consider something new. All of these services work together to create a seamless transition into remote work, but they are just the beginning of how Blue Layer can help your business find the right-sized IT solutions.
Blue Layer Service Spotlight: Regulatory Compliance
When we say that Blue Layer provides innovative technology solutions, we mean all technology solutions. This, of course, includes helping you navigate the complex labyrinth of regulatory compliance.
As a transaction-based company whose clients include those tasked with protecting sensitive medical information, regulatory compliance is something with which we’re very familiar. Let’s take a closer look at what that means for you and your company in this Blue Layer Service Spotlight.
What, exactly, does “regulatory compliance” mean?
If your business is responsible for protecting sensitive information such as personally identifiable information (PII), protected health information (PHI), or private financial details, then there are stringent government-regulated guidelines between which you must fall. Our team can work with you to make sure that your compliance strategy is free of gaps or costly mistakes.
What type of regulatory compliance can Blue Layer help you with?
Blue Layer IT performs annual audits to pinpoint weak points in your current compliance strategy. Once we’ve found them, we will help you develop a plan to get back on track. What types of compliance does this service include?
HIPAA/HITECH
Blue Layer employs a team of industry experts to assist your business with HIPAA compliance procedures. Our solutions include risk assessment, remediation planning, incident management, employee training, and more.
PCI
If your business deals in debit or credit card transactions, then PCI compliance with DSS is required. Blue Layer IT will assist you with the implementation and remediation of security protocols to ensure that you are compliant with what is needed. Gaps in compliance are addressed by implementing access control measures, helping maintain a vulnerability management program, and creating an Information Security Policy (ISP), among other things that are dependent on your company and its current situation.
Why is regulatory compliance with Blue Layer important?
Complying with government regulations can feel like a maze riddled with traps and pitfalls, and it’s all too common to be unsure about the state or condition of your current compliance, which only adds to this anxiety. Blue Layer is trained to take the weight of worry off of your shoulders so you can focus on what really matters: your business. We can explore the compliance requirements for your team and the industry in which you work to determine the best possible plan. Oh, and did we mention that we are also certified to train employees on compliance best practices to ensure success in the future?
Click here to make sure that you are staying within the lines of regulatory compliance today.
Service Spotlight: Managed Services
Improve the efficiency of day-to-day operations with managed services from the IT experts at Blue Layer. If critical aspects of your business are dependant on your technology, you must be making every effort to stay up-to-date on all things technology, security, and more. Prepare your business to excel and deflect threats with managed services from Blue Layer.
Your Partner in Technology Service
Our goal is to be your trusted partner in IT. Our priority is supporting your business throughout all of your technology needs, big or small. Our talented team obtains the knowledge and skills needed to handle any service unique to your business. Through our managed services, we provide consistent coverage of the technology most crucial to the success of your business.
Skip the Crisis with These Features
At Blue Layer, we believe that the best approach to addressing threats to your business is to take preventative action before they ever have a chance to strike. We provide services with features, including 24/7 support, proactive planning, intrusion prevention, and more. Our customers can rest easy under the protection of these critical features and services:
Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP)
Our licensed team provides security both internally and externally to your operation. Take advantage of reliable and secure remote access, vulnerability identification and remediation, network protection, and multiple layers of defense to your organization. Protect your physical building and assets with security camera installation, video capture, and archiving.
Technology Consulting
Future-proof your business to identify upcoming needs to help guide the technology vision for your organization. Our experts will aid you in finding the best solutions for current and future initiatives.
Help Desk
Our technicians are available 24/7, reachable by phone, email, and even desktop icon to eliminate unacceptable downtime.
Disaster Recovery
Securely store and recover your data with regularly scheduled backups, offsite storage, and zero-downtime recovery options. We provide cloud services to unify your systems and secure critical data.
Network Operations Center
We offer fast response time to business-critical problems. Our in-house team of experts provides remote and on-site maintenance and repair and remote protection, and system monitoring.
Support Your Business with Blue Layer
When your business depends on the efficiency of your technology, you can’t afford to lower your standards in the support you deserve from your IT provider. When you partner with Blue Layer, you’re partnering with a highly recognized company that provides the “Right-Sized IT” services and solutions to meet the unique needs of every client. Contact us today to learn more about how we can simplify the needs of your IT so you can focus on propelling your business.
Is Blue Layer IT the Right Choice for Your Business?
A new year means new opportunities to grow your business and accomplish new goals. With the help of Blue Layer, we can help solve your business’s biggest technology challenges with expertly-crafted IT solutions and consulting.
The Right Team for You
Blue Layer was created after years of experience in the computer and networking industry, where we learned how to best meet the unique needs of a variety of different businesses. Over the years, we’ve remained competitive by making it a priority to propel both ourselves and our clients forward with innovations in technology. Through this practice, we’ve received numerous awards, recognition, and loyal partnerships with our customers.
For nearly 20 years, our mission has been to provide “Right-Sized IT” services to businesses and companies across West Texas. Blue Layer IT was built on a foundation of superior customer service and fair pricing to provide customers with knowledgeable, experienced IT support. Our services continue to evolve as we strive to provide comprehensive technology solutions designed to fit any need.
Right-Sized Solutions
We’re able to serve a wide variety of businesses by understanding each client to provide their business with a unique and strategic approach. Our solutions will never include services that will waste time or money on services that are not needed. We use the term “Right-Sized IT” to explain the solutions our experts use to manage your technology and solve any IT problem confidently. From routine system maintenance to 24/7 disaster recovery, Blue Layer has the experience and resources to protect your business and help it thrive.
Leveraging Technology Across All Industries
Curious if Blue Layer can support your unique needs? We have experience serving a wide variety of business and provide the services you need to succeed. We deliver custom solutions to companies in industries including banking, finance, legal, education, retail and hospitality, medical, oil and gas, and more.
Whatever the needs of your business may be, we’re confident that Blue Layer has a solution for you. From managed services to 24/7 disaster recovery, we can handle whatever gets thrown our way. Boost your business productivity and capabilities when you partner with Blue Layer.
Schedule Your Consultation with Blue Layer Today!
Tech Trends and Tips to Reach Your Business Goals for 2020
The new year is an excellent opportunity for businesses to start fresh and set strategic goals to prepare for success in the upcoming year. As you set your goals for 2020, learn more about the tech trends and tips we will be watching and how our services can support your efforts.
Automation
Implementing automation in business is a growing trend that increases capabilities through advanced technology. These technologies include cloud services, artificial intelligence, and other services typically done by humans. Technology and software companies are adopting automation as a critical practice to increase profitability and simplify business tasks.
Blue Layer provides services that increase efficiencies, productivity, and connectivity through integrated cloud services for business processes and demands. Services include comprehensive integrations to unify your communications, programs to manage content and simplify daily tasks, and protecting data that is critical to your business.
Security
With a new year comes new potential threats to your business. Protect your operation from internal and external threats with these services from Blue Layer:
Cybersecurity
The most efficient way to handle cybersecurity threats is to prevent them from ever occurring. With our curated set of software and monitoring services, we keep your systems protected and running smoothly while monitoring your network in real-time to deal with problems as they arise. We also provide employee training to educate your team to identify and prevent potential threats to your business.
Disaster Recovery
A critical part of your business’s continuity plan is what to do when vital data is compromised. Without a tested strategy for data recovery, it could be weeks before your business is up and running after data is lost, corrupted, or stolen.
Security Cameras
Impossibly simple to deploy, configure, and manage, our cameras provide reliable security and valuable business insights to organizations of any scale. Remote monitoring and management of your cameras are available with centralized cloud management.
Regulatory Compliance
Failure to maintain compliance with the numerous government agencies and laws can put your business in serious legal trouble. Our experienced team can assist your company in meeting PCI, HIPAA, and HITECH compliance.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to these services, keeping your systems up to date through routine updates and maintenance is imperative to upholding your business’s cyber and systems security. When your operating system loses support, it becomes vulnerable to attacks and unwanted downtime. Blue Layer can ensure a seamless transition when upgrading your system to a reliable and supported platform.
Customer Support
Providing a superior customer experience has a significant influence on business success. Growing trends include customer interaction on social media as well as intelligent self-service tools and AI chatbots to ensure rapid response times to customers.
Choose the Right-Sized IT Solutions
Partner with Blue Layer to reach your business goals in 2020. Learn more about our services and custom solutions for your company’s unique needs.
Service Spotlight: Unified Communications from Blue Layer
Unified communications allows multiple channels of business communication to work together under a controlled platform for increased efficiency.
Empower Your Business
Empower team members to communicate, collaborate, and connect efficiently with our complete business communications and collaboration solution. When information is flowing in and out of your business through various channels and platforms, unified communications can ensure your team members’ productivity isn’t interrupted.
Consolidate your frequently-used communication systems, including phones, fax, audio and video conferencing, messaging services, cloud services, and more into one platform and application. Additional benefits of unified communications include:
Powerful Scalability and Flexibility
Unified communications is flexible and completely scalable, with the ability to grow and adapt to meet your company’s evolving needs. With our agile cloud-based solution, you can ensure your organization scales with the latest industry trends.
World-class Security and Chat
Full-time security and fraud-prevention departments ensure the physical and environmental security of your service. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that our distributed network is fully redundant to deliver the service and quality you deserve.
Team Collaboration
Unite internal and external teams with real-time chat, voice, and video conferencing and keep projects on track by setting action items and timelines. Use online meetings to conduct video conferences utilizing advanced collaboration features, including screen sharing, web sharing, file annotation, and more. Chat software allows your employees to share conversations, files, tasks, and calendars.
Real-Time Analytics
Review analytics with the industry’s most sophisticated reporting capabilities so you can proactively monitor, analyze, and resolve issues before they have an opportunity to harm your operation.
Comprehensive Integrations
Built as an open platform from the ground up, we integrate your business communications capabilities with the applications and cloud services your organization uses every day. We deliver custom-built integrations and incorporate your existing processes into your business solutions.
Partnership with RingCentral
RingCentral is the leader in unified communications, providing businesses with cloud-based communications and solutions in and out of the workplace. Their mission to provide unparalleled functionality, reliability, and value in one easy-to-use solution has earned them recognition from sources including Forbes, Synergy Research Group, and PC Magazine as the top Voice over Internet Provider (VoIP) among other accolades.
Blue Layer’s partnership with RingCentral allows us to serve your businesses with custom solutions that result in more efficient use of your valuable time and money. Read more about our partnership here.
Visit our office or schedule a video conference for a demonstration of the features offered through a unified communications platform.
Contact our team to learn more about Unified Communications.
The Season of Giving: Holiday Shopping Guide for the Best Tech Gifts
The season of giving is upon us! We’ve created a shopping guide for the best tech gifts to help you as you create your shopping list this season. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift for the self-proclaimed tech wiz, college student, or a not-so-tech-savvy family member, there are plenty of options out there that can meet their needs and your budget.
Here are our suggestions for the top tech gifts to add to your list as you prepare for holiday shopping:
Bluetooth headphones
There’s a wide range of Bluetooth headphones on the market, offering various features and price points. A quality pair of headphones is an excellent holiday tech gift for someone who listens to music while working out, an audiobook/podcast lover, or an on-the-go college student. For someone who already has a pair of Bluetooth headphones, accessories like travel cases, charging cases, and Bluetooth transmitters make great, practical gifts as well.
Portable speakers
A wireless speaker is a must-have for those who enjoy hosting parties, spending time in the great outdoors, or just relaxing at home with a glass of wine. You’ll find several different options on the market to choose from that are sure to meet your preferred price range and performance capabilities. From durable, waterproof speakers to indoor speakers with all the bells and whistles, any music-lover is sure to appreciate this thoughtful gift!
Smartwatches
Smartwatches have been one of the most popular technology products on the market this year. With cool features to keep you connected and track physical activity, smartwatches have earned a spot on the top of several wishlists this season. Many companies have come out with different smartwatches that cater to their users’ unique needs and lifestyles. Stylish bands, cases, charging docks, and other accessories are great gift ideas for someone who already has a trusted smartwatch.
Gifts for the home
From security to convenience, the list of tech gifts for the house goes on and on! For home security, video doorbells are a great and sensible gift for college students or someone living alone. Another gift idea is to make technology upgrades on their basics around the house. Devices like electric toothbrushes, automatic espresso makers, and smart speakers could become the everyday luxury items they never knew they needed!
Photography
For photography lovers, a portable Bluetooth printer can be a game-changing gadget to support this hobby. These devices can connect to smartphones for instant printing. Regardless of your recipient’s skill level, they’re sure to love the convenience and fun of printing out their scenic shots or selfies.
Keep an eye out for the countless deals and savings the holidays bring as you start to look for various tech gear that may end up on your shopping list. Being the technology lovers that we are, our team at Blue Layer is confident that you can find a great tech gift for everyone on your list. We hope these suggestions have sparked some inspiration as you begin your holiday shopping this season.
Click here to learn more about Blue Layer’s Disaster Recovery service.
Why IT Solutions Aren’t “One-Size-Fits-All”
As a small business owner, you’ve learned that fixing a problem with a “one-size-fits-all” solution isn’t always a practical business approach. So why would you trust “one-size-fits-all” IT solutions? At Blue Layer, we believe that creating custom solutions for your unique needs is the only way to do business. With more than 17 years of experience supporting companies across all industries, we confidently solve your biggest IT problems with our Right-Sized IT Consulting.
Our knowledgeable team conducts technology consultations with your business to allow both parties to gain a better understanding of what is needed and what options are available. From our wide selection of services, we can modify, combine, and recommend the appropriate strategies to best serve your business goals. To improve the flow and productivity of your business, we offer:
Managed Services
Cloud Solutions
Disaster Recovery
Cybersecurity
Unified Communications
Regulatory Compliance
Smart Cameras
Internet Services
Ongoing Consulting
You’re faced with new challenges daily, but choosing the right IT provider shouldn’t be one of them. We’ve propelled our business and received recognition as an industry leader by our commitment to growth and superior customer service. We manage your IT budget, meet security and compliance requirements, and protect you from cyber threats so that you can focus on running your business.
Partner with Blue Layer to get started on meeting your technology and security goals. Browse our listed services and contact an IT expert today!
How Cyber Security Has Changed Over Time
As the technology industry continually changes and evolves, the capabilities of digital devices and cybersecurity grow as well. The technology we can now access at our fingertips would have looked like something from another planet just thirty years ago! Today, businesses are reliant on platforms in the cloud and many software services used in the workplace that didn’t even exist not too long ago. With these advancements come great opportunities; however, it also brings more advanced risks and cyber threats to your business.
The role of IT departments and their day-to-day tasks has changed as the magnitude of devices and technology used has expanded in the workplace. The complexity of cybersecurity has grown drastically to combat increased cyber threats to interconnected technologies; however, potential risks can still make their way through. These threats are not only harmful to your business, but to the customers who trust you to protect their private and financial information. Your credibility and overall success is dependent on your ability to remain secure.
Technology moves fast, and so should your security. Don’t wait until there’s a breach in your security to take preventative action; make a plan to stop the attacks before they happen. Your cybersecurity needs to protect your systems from existing threats, as well as identify and prevent potential risks that take on various disguises including those not yet identified.
Protecting your business with Blue Layer means your security becomes smarter and stronger. Our curated set of hardware, software and monitoring services keep your systems protected and running smoothly as we monitor your environment. Safeguard your business to stop crippling threats before they attack.
Are you ready to protect your business with Blue Layer? Learn more about our cybersecurity services and contact our team today.
Back to School: Top College Gear and Gadgets
Back to school means many things, especially for the incoming college student. Entering a new environment with different challenges and opportunities is a big adjustment and can often be intimidating. To feel prepared and ease this adjustment, students and their parents will usually start by making their dorm room feel more like home. While it’s essential to feel comfortable in your new place, don’t overlook the tech gear and gadgets you’ll also need for a smooth transition.
To help you get started and avoid overspending on unnecessary technology, we created a list of our top recommended college gear and gadgets for the incoming freshman.
1. Laptop or tablet
There are no questions that college is expensive, and that’s before adding in the required textbooks and back to school supplies! While a reliable laptop or tablet is a necessity for most college students these days, there are several affordable options on the market to consider that are both functional and offer the latest security features. To ensure the device you purchase is compatible with the programs, software, and projects used in your major, consider asking your college advisors what they recommend.
2. Noise-canceling headphones
A good pair of headphones is essential to cutting out distractions and staying focused in college. Whether you need music to study, jam out while working out, or need to block out your noisy roommate, noise-canceling headphones can help keep your productivity on track.
3. Printer
While most colleges have printers available to students on campus, having a printer in your dorm room can undoubtedly come in handy. Not having to stop by the library on your way to class or find out your printer card is out of funds again (that’s right, you have to pay per page) when you’re already running late can make having a printer of your own seem like a luxury. Plus, it’s easier than ever to find a small and affordable Bluetooth printer online.
4. Bluetooth keys finder
With an active college schedule, there are endless opportunities for your belongings to become lost or stolen. Attaching a Bluetooth tracking device to your keys, backpack, wallet, and other belongings can make a big difference the next time you’re unable to find something.
5. Chargers and battery packs
There’s nothing like that helpless feeling when the devices you’re using die on you. Keeping your phone, computer, and other devices charged is vital to being on time, staying productive, communicating with others, and keeping up with your responsibilities. Carrying an extra charger or battery pack can ensure you’re able to continue taking notes in class, submit that project on time, or even get a safe ride home on game day or a night out.
6. Flash drives, external hard drives and cloud services
Backing up your files on a flash drive, external hard drive or the cloud can avoid the risk of losing the final project you’ve worked on all semester if anything were to happen to your computer. Back up and move your valuable data securely and with ease.
As you begin preparing for back to school, we encourage you to do your research and figure out what it is you’ll need and find businesses that provide college students with a discount. Whether you are entering college as a freshman or just heading back, all of us here at Blue Layer wish you the best of luck as you pursue your education!
Compliance Services and How We Can Help
Navigating industry-specific compliance requirements can be both time-consuming and confusing for many small business owners. If your business is required to adhere to PCI or HIPAA compliance, then you already know the importance of protecting your clients’ and patients’ sensitive information. Failure to meet compliance requirements or safeguard health care records and financial information is a legal risk that your business can’t afford to take. But we can help!
If your business requires PCI, PCI DSS, HIPAA, or HITECH compliance, choose Blue Layer to make compliance simple and straightforward. Our technology professionals complete annual audits to monitor and identify risks or gaps in your technical, physical, and administrative processes. We can even help certify the training of your employees, provide business associate management, and incident counseling.
Our HIPAA compliance program features diligent record-keeping, annual training, and HIPAA/HITECH breach notification counseling. Our PCI compliance program is essential if your business conducts any credit or debit transactions — we offer services to assess gaps and implement the remediation of security protocols. Read more about our comprehensive solutions here.
When you partner with Blue Layer, we support you to achieve and maintain compliance while you focus on running your business. If you’re interested in getting started or more information, contact our compliance coaches today!
Windows 7 End of Life Phase: Prepare Your Business for a Smooth Transition
After Microsoft announced that support for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 is coming to an end January 2020, millions of users across the globe are faced with the decision to upgrade to a new operating system or be left vulnerable to security attacks with no technical support. If your business is still running on Windows 7, it’s time to start preparing for a smooth transition to keep your company secure and protected.
The term “end of life” is used by Microsoft to describe this phase Windows 7 is entering, meaning that this operating system will no longer receive technical support, software updates, or security updates. While users can continue to use Windows 7 after support has ended, Microsoft recommends you upgrade to Windows 10 to avoid security risks and viruses. Implementing an operating system that is up-to-date and fully supported will ensure that your business is taking action to protect important data and meet all compliance requirements.
Unsure of the best way to address this transition? Consult with your trusted IT partner, Blue Layer, to create a plan to equip, optimize, and support your technology infrastructure and improve your business’s efficiency. Whether you need assistance getting started on new devices or finding the right operating system for your business, Blue Layer will offer support designed to fit your unique needs.
Don’t let your technology get left behind. Contact us today to get started!
“Hot” Cybersecurity Tips to Protect Your Small Business This Summer
While customers are enjoying summer vacations and warmer weather, many businesses might find that their day-to-day responsibilities begin to slow down during the summer months. Rather than sit back and wait for vacation season to pass and business to pick back up, use this time as an opportunity for your small business to get ahead. Here are some cybersecurity tips to make the most of this downtime.
Revisit your business goals
Meeting with your team to discuss business goals can help you determine what security practices will need to be set to support these goals. If you are unsure where cybersecurity fits into your business goals, consider scheduling a consultation with Blue Layer to gain professional advice.
Educate employees on cybersecurity
Many system breaches can be avoided by educating your team. Training your employees to follow basic security practices and setting policies to make them aware of potential threats can prevent common attacks that are easily avoidable. Use this time to refresh your team on basic reminders like the importance of setting strong passwords, best practices for handling customer information, and employee access policies to prevent unauthorized access to secure data. Blue Layer’s Security Awareness Training is an ideal option for making sure your team is best prepared.
Get up to date
Ensuring that security software, web browsers, and supported operating systems are up to date is part of your business’s responsibility to defend data from potential threats. Update passwords and consider Two-Factor Authentication to ensure your wifi networks and accounts are secure. If your business has grown faster than your security protocols can keep up, then we recommend our Managed Services to assist in heightening your security.
Getting ahead on cybersecurity this summer will ensure your business can keep up when your customers come back refreshed and energized, ready to focus on their goals. To learn more about protecting your business with Blue Layer’s curated set of software and monitoring services, contact us today!
Blue Layer to Participate in vBrisket Panel with Datrium
Since 2014, what originally began as a joke between friends, vBrisket is now a community of BBQ loving, virtualization experts participating in social gatherings and other events throughout the year.
This year, Blue Layer has been invited to partake in a vBrisket event with Datrium. Blue Layer has been a Datrium partner since May 2016, Michael Strong and Jeromy Mallory, will participate in a panel regarding the positive impact that the Datrium storage solutions have had on their business and other client environments.
“We are excited to share how we incorporated open convergence into our environment through our partnership with Datrium, we look forward to visiting with other IT professionals in Amarillo.”
Michael Strong, COO stated.
This event will take place on March 1st, 2018 in Amarillo, TX at Tyler’s Barbeque. Tyler Frazer operator of Tyler’s Barbeque, ranked in the top 50 of Texas Monthly Top 50 Barbeque joints, will host vBrisket, Blue Layer, Datrium and other technology professionals for a tasting. Brisket, ribs and sausage are among the meats that those in attendance will get the chance to enjoy. Tyler will introduce the technology community to the smoking process and what it takes to make Tyler’s famous barbeque. Everyone at the event will also receive a Tyler’s gift card for dinner that evening or lunch at a later date.
If you are an IT professional and interested in attending this unique event with Blue Layer, Datrium, vBrisket, and enjoying Tyler’s Barbeque, click here to register. Register Here.
For more information on Blue Layer’s experience with Datrium, check out our resource page: Blue Layer Resource Page.