Author: dev_admin

Hey there, fellow Facebook users!

We’ve all had those moments when a Facebook Memory pops up, and we’re instantly transported back to a time we’d rather not revisit. Whether it’s an old friendship, a past relationship, or a specific date that brings back tough memories, Facebook Memories isn’t always a walk down a rosy memory lane. But don’t worry, Facebook has got you covered! You can actually customize what shows up in your Memories.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you filter out specific people or dates in your Facebook Memories:

Step 1: Open Facebook and Head to the Memories Section

1. Log in to Facebook: Open your Facebook app on your phone or go to the Facebook website on your computer.
2. Access Memories: On the left-hand side of your News Feed, you’ll see a menu. Click on the “Memories” option. If you’re on mobile, tap the three horizontal lines (Menu), scroll down, and tap on “Memories.”

Step 2: Customize Your Memories Settings

1. Go to Settings: In the Memories section, look for the “Preferences” or “Settings” option. It’s usually a small gear icon.
2. Edit Preferences: Click on “Edit Preferences.” This will open up customization options for your Memories.

Step 3: Filter Out Specific People

1. People: Click on the “People” option. Here, you can add the names of individuals whose appearances in your Memories you’d like to block.
2. Add Names: Start typing the names of the people you’d rather not see in your Memories. Select their profiles from the list that appears. Once added, Facebook will ensure that those individuals don’t show up in your future Memories.

Step 4: Exclude Specific Dates

1. Dates: Next, click on the “Dates” option. This allows you to block out specific days or even entire date ranges.
2. Add Date Range: Click on “Add New Date Range.” You can input the start and end dates that you’d prefer to avoid. This is super handy for those anniversaries or time frames you don’t want to be reminded of.
3. Save Changes: After entering the dates, make sure to save your changes.

Step 5: Review and Adjust (Optional)

1. Review Your Preferences: You can always go back and review your settings. If there are new people or dates you’d like to add, or if you want to remove some from the exclusion list, you can do so anytime.
2. Stay Updated: Facebook often updates its interface and features, so keep an eye out for any new options that might make your experience even more personalized.

And there you have it! With these simple steps, you can take control of your Facebook Memories and ensure they bring you joy instead of unwelcome reminders. So go ahead, tweak those settings, and enjoy a more positive trip down memory lane.

As a small business owner, you often juggle multiple responsibilities, from managing operations to ensuring customer satisfaction. Amidst this, managing IT infrastructure can be particularly challenging. This is where managed IT services can help as they offer a strategic advantage that can significantly boost your business productivity.

Read on to learn more about managed IT services and how they can improve your business.

Understanding Managed IT Services

Managed IT services involve outsourcing your IT needs to a third-party provider. This provider manages and monitors your IT infrastructure, ensuring that your systems run smoothly and efficiently. Services typically include network management, data backup and recovery, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and helpdesk support.

Adopting managed IT services gives you access to a team of IT professionals with specialized skills and experience. This reduces the burden on your internal staff and ensures your IT environment has optimal performance. Moreover, with a proactive approach to IT management, potential issues are identified and resolved before they can impact your operations.

Enhancing Network Management with Cisco Meraki

A thorough and reliable network is the backbone of any business operation. Cisco Meraki, a leader in cloud-managed IT, offers a comprehensive suite of networking solutions designed to simplify and optimize network management. With Cisco Meraki, you benefit from:

• Simplified Network Management: The Meraki dashboard provides a user-friendly interface for managing your entire network from a single platform. This centralized control makes it easier to monitor network performance, configure devices, and troubleshoot issues in real time.
• Scalability: As your business grows, your network needs will evolve. Cisco Meraki’s solutions are highly scalable, enabling you to add new devices and expand your network without significant disruptions or additional infrastructure costs.
• Enhanced Security: Security is a top priority for any business. Cisco Meraki offers strong security features, including advanced threat detection, automated firmware updates, and integrated security appliances.
• Remote Access and Mobility: With more businesses embracing remote work, providing secure access to your network is important. Cisco Meraki’s cloud-based solutions enable your employees to securely connect to the network from anywhere, ensuring uninterrupted productivity.

How Managed IT Services Help

Managed IT services help by providing expert management and monitoring of your IT infrastructure. This enhances security, allowing you to focus on your core business activities.

Boosting Productivity through Proactive IT Management

Instead of waiting for problems to arise, managed service providers (MSPs) continuously monitor your systems to detect and address potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach reduces the risk of data loss and ensures that your IT infrastructure remains reliable and efficient.

Reducing Downtime and Increasing Efficiency

Downtime can have a significant impact on your business’s productivity and bottom line. Every minute your systems are down translates to lost revenue, reduced employee productivity, and potential damage to your reputation. Managed IT services help minimize downtime through:

• 24/7 Monitoring and Support: With round-the-clock monitoring, MSPs can quickly identify and resolve issues, often before you even realize a problem. This ensures that your systems are always up and running, allowing you to focus on your business operations without interruptions.
• Regular Maintenance and Updates: Keep your IT infrastructure up to date for optimal performance and security. Managed IT services include regular maintenance, software updates, and patches to ensure your systems run smoothly and securely.
• Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: A robust disaster recovery plan, such as a cyberattack or natural calamity, is essential in a disaster. Managed IT services provide comprehensive backup and recovery solutions, ensuring your data is safe and your business can quickly resume operations.

Cost-Effective IT Management

Managing your IT infrastructure can be costly, especially for small businesses with limited budgets. Investing in hardware, software, and skilled IT personnel requires significant capital expenditures. Managed IT services offer a cost-effective alternative by providing access to the latest technology and expertise at a fraction of the cost. By partnering with an MSP, you can benefit from:

• Predictable Costs: Managed IT services are typically run on a subscription service, allowing you to budget for your IT needs with predictable monthly costs. This eliminates the need for large upfront investments and provides better financial control.
• Reduced Overhead: Outsourcing your IT management reduces the need for in-house IT staff, saving you on salaries, benefits, and training costs. Additionally, MSPs leverage economies of scale, passing on cost savings to you.
• Access to Expertise: Managed IT service providers employ skilled professionals with specialized knowledge and experience. This ensures that experts who stay updated with the latest industry trends and best practices manage your IT infrastructure.

Focusing on Core Business Activities

As a small business owner, you should spend your time and resources on activities that drive growth and profitability. Managing IT infrastructure can be time-consuming and distracting, taking you away from your core business functions. By leveraging managed IT services, you can:

• Delegate IT Responsibilities: With an MSP handling your IT needs, you can delegate day-to-day IT management tasks and focus on strategic initiatives that drive your business forward.
• Improve Employee Productivity: Employees can work more efficiently without disruptions when your IT systems run smoothly. This leads to higher productivity, better customer service, and increased employee satisfaction.
• Innovate and Grow: With the burden of IT management lifted, you can concentrate on innovation and business development. Whether launching new products, expanding into new markets, or improving customer experiences, managed IT services provide the support you need to achieve your goals.

Cisco Meraki’s Security Solutions

Cisco Meraki provides advanced security features that safeguard your network and data:

Next-Generation Firewalls

Meraki’s security appliances offer powerful firewalls that protect against external threats, including malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.

Intrusion Detection and Prevention

Meraki’s security solutions include intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) that monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and block potential threats.

Secure Wi-Fi

With Meraki’s secure Wi-Fi solutions, you can provide safe and reliable wireless access for employees and guests, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected.

Compliance

Managed IT services help you stay compliant with industry regulations, such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS, by implementing necessary security controls and providing regular audits and reports.

By outsourcing your IT needs to our experts at DEVsource Technology Solutions, you can focus on what you do best: growing your business. Contact us or book a web consultation today.

Organizations of all scales constantly encounter a changing landscape of digital threats. From phishing schemes to ransomware assaults, businesses are susceptible to these harmful attacks. That is why solid cybersecurity measures are necessary for managing businesses. DNS-layer protection is among the most important aspects of security, and Cisco Umbrella is one of the top solutions that offers comprehensive protection from cyber threats.

Read on to understand the power of Cisco Umbrella.

What Is a Cisco Umbrella?

Cisco Umbrella is a cloud-based DNS-layer security platform that safeguards users and devices connected to the Internet. Unlike conventional security systems dependent on perimeter-based defenses, Umbrella checks DNS requests and halts malicious traffic before reaching the network or endpoints. This proactive method of security guarantees that organizations are constantly shielded against emerging threats.

Key Features of Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Umbrella offers a range of features designed to enhance security for organizations. Here are the key features:

Secure DNS

The cloud-delivered service secures DNS requests by filtering them through Cisco’s global network of data centers. This allows Umbrella to detect and block malicious domains in real-time, thus preventing users from accessing harmful content.

Secure Web Gateway

This feature provides real-time content filtering and web traffic inspection, blocking harmful websites, enforcing acceptable use policies, and preventing data leaks.

Cloud-Delivered Firewall

Cisco Umbrella extends firewall protection to remote users and branch offices, maintaining consistent security policies across the organization.

Remote Browser Isolation (RBI)

Remote browser isolation allows users to safely access risky websites without compromising security. It isolates web traffic from the user device and potential threats, providing an extra layer of protection for the secure web gateway.

Benefits of Cisco Umbrella

With faster and easier deployment, Cisco Umbrella offers a range of benefits that can significantly enhance your cybersecurity posture.

Enhanced Security Posture

With its DNS-layer security, Cisco Umbrella provides a rapid and straightforward method to fortify defenses. It boosts visibility into potential threats, identifies compromised systems, and shields users on and off the network. Detecting threats across all ports and protocols prevents malicious entities from attacking your network.

Improved Performance

In addition to enhancing security, the cloud security platform optimizes DNS traffic routing to improve browsing and application performance. By reducing latency and improving response times, Umbrella ensures a seamless and uninterrupted user experience.

Simplified Management

As a cloud-delivered service, Umbrella offers easy deployment and centralized management, eliminating the need for complex hardware installations and manual updates. This saves time and resources and allows IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance tasks. It also eliminates the need for upfront hardware and software investments, potentially leading to cost savings for your organization.

Broadened Coverage

With Umbrella, organizations can extend security protection to users and devices on any network, regardless of location. Whether employees work from home, travel, or access the internet from a public network, Umbrella ensures consistent protection across all environments.

Comprehensive Web Traffic Analysis

The secure web gateway feature of Cisco Umbrella meticulously inspects and monitors web traffic, offering complete visibility into user activities. It gives administrators granular control over URLs and applications while providing robust protection against malware. Organizations can smoothly direct traffic to the cloud-based proxy by utilizing IPsec tunnels, PAC files, or proxy chaining. This allows them to enforce acceptable usage policies and effectively combat advanced threats.

Efficient Firewall Functionality

Cisco Umbrella’s firewall capability logs all network activities and effectively blocks unwanted traffic based on IP, port, and protocol rules. Setting up traffic forwarding is streamlined, requiring only the configuration of an IPsec tunnel from any network device. Furthermore, the automatic application of policies to newly established tunnels ensures effortless setup and consistent enforcement across the network.

Insightful Cloud Access Monitoring

Through its cloud access security broker (CASB), Cisco Umbrella illuminates shadow IT by identifying and reporting on cloud applications used within the organization. Administrators can assess the risks associated with them and take appropriate action, such as blocking or regulating their usage. This capability facilitates better management of cloud resources and reduces associated risks.

Real-time Threat Intelligence

With its distinctive online position, the cloud-delivered service provides exceptional visibility into malicious domains, IPs, and URLs. Umbrella Investigate delivers instant context on diverse threats like malware, phishing attacks, botnets, and trojans through a user-friendly console and API. This capability empowers organizations to conduct quicker incident investigations and respond promptly to emerging threats.

Seamless Integration With SD-WAN

Cisco Umbrella seamlessly integrates with Cisco SD-WAN, expanding robust cloud security throughout the network. This helps protect branch users, connected devices, and application usage during direct internet access, streamlining security management and strengthening overall network resilience.

How Cisco Umbrella Works

Cisco Umbrella operates on a simple yet powerful workflow:

• DNS Request Forwarding:/ When a user or device requests a DNS, Cisco Umbrella forwards this request to its DNS resolvers.
• Request Analysis: Cisco Umbrella analyzes the request against its threat intelligence database to identify potential risks.
• Decision Making: Based on the analysis, Cisco Umbrella decides whether to allow or block the request.
• Threat Prevention: If the request is deemed safe, it proceeds as usual. Cisco Umbrella blocks the connection if it is identified as a threat, preventing access to malicious sites.
• Direct IP Connection Management: For direct IP connections, Cisco Umbrella uses roaming clients to provide protection, ensuring threats are mitigated even without DNS.
• Continuous Monitoring: Cisco Umbrella continuously monitors and updates its threat intelligence to provide up-to-date protection.

Cisco Umbrella offers unparalleled security, performance, and ease of management for organizations seeking to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses. Using DNS-layer security and threat intelligence, Umbrella proactively protects against cyber threats. Whether securing remote workers, protecting branch offices, or enhancing cloud security, the platform offers a comprehensive solution that meets the evolving needs of today’s organizations.

DEVsource Technology Solutions offers expertise integrating Cisco Umbrella to protect your business assets. Schedule a web consultation now to tailor the solution to your specific requirements!

Co-managed IT services offer businesses a collaborative approach to IT management, combining in-house expertise with the support of third-party service providers. By integrating Cisco Meraki into these IT environments, businesses can enhance network visibility, improve security, and streamline operations.

Keep reading to learn more about using Cisco Meraki in co-managed IT services.

Understanding Co-Managed IT Services

Co-managed IT services involve a strategic collaboration between an organization’s internal IT team and a third-party provider. This model offers the best of both worlds: internal teams retain control over critical IT functions while external service providers bring expertise and resources. Here are a few benefits of using co-managed IT services:

Access to Specialized Support

Service providers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in various technologies, best practices, and industry standards. This expertise enhances the capabilities of the internal IT team. Co-managed IT services also enable organizations to stay current with the latest technologies and industry trends. External providers can help identify and integrate new solutions, keeping the business competitive and efficient.

Scalability

Co-managed IT services can easily adapt to the changing needs of a business. They can help you manage organizational growth, seasonal fluctuations, or changing market demands. By outsourcing routine tasks to an external provider, internal IT staff can also focus on strategic projects and core business objectives that drive growth and innovation.

Continuous Support and Monitoring

External providers offer round-the-clock support, promptly addressing issues. This proactive approach reduces downtime and enhances overall IT performance. Co-managed IT services often benefit from advanced security measures and compliance support. External providers can help implement up-to-date security protocols and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

Overview of Cisco Meraki

Cisco Meraki is a comprehensive cloud-managed IT platform renowned for its user-friendly interface and robust suite of products. This includes wireless access points, switches, security appliances, and cameras. The platform’s centralized management capabilities allow IT administrators to oversee and control the entire network through a single, web-based dashboard. This seamless approach simplifies network management, enhances visibility, and provides real-time monitoring and analytics, enabling organizations to optimize their IT operations. The features and capabilities of Cisco Meraki solutions include:

Cloud-Based Management

Cisco Meraki’s cloud-based management platform allows IT administrators to remotely access and manage all network devices through a centralized web-based dashboard. This feature provides greater flexibility, as administrators can make configuration changes, monitor network performance, and troubleshoot issues from anywhere at any time. The cloud management platform also ensures real-time data and seamless updates across the network.

Automatic Updates

Cisco Meraki devices benefit from automatic updates, receiving regular firmware and software patches directly from the cloud. This feature ensures that devices are always running the latest security measures and features, minimizing vulnerabilities and reducing the need for manual intervention. Automatic updates help maintain a secure and efficient network infrastructure.

Scalability: Cisco Meraki solutions offer exceptional scalability, enabling businesses to add or remove devices as their needs change. This flexibility is especially beneficial for growing organizations requiring rapid network infrastructure adjustments.

Comprehensive Security Features

Cisco Meraki provides advanced security measures such as threat detection, content filtering, and robust firewalls to protect the network from cyber threats. The platform also offers VPN options for secure remote access and customizable security settings tailored to the organization’s requirements. These features help businesses maintain a safe and compliant IT environment. Cisco Meraki also offers detailed analytics and reporting tools that provide insights into network performance, user behavior, and potential issues. These data-driven insights allow IT teams to make informed decisions and optimize network operations.

Using Cisco Meraki in Co-Managed IT Services

Integrating Cisco Meraki into co-managed IT services provides businesses with a seamless and efficient way to optimize their IT infrastructure and network management. The platform’s cloud-based management and centralized dashboard enable internal and external IT teams to work collaboratively, streamlining operations and improving overall network performance. The scalability and flexibility of Cisco Meraki solutions ensure smooth adaptation to changing business needs, allowing organizations to grow and evolve without disruption. Here’s how to use Cisco Meraki in co-managed IT services.

• Collaborative Network Management: Both internal and external IT teams can use Cisco Meraki’s centralized cloud-based dashboard to manage the network collectively. The platform enables seamless sharing of network insights, real-time monitoring, and troubleshooting between the two parties, ensuring a cohesive and efficient approach to network management.
• Role-Based Access Controls: Use Cisco Meraki’s role-based access control features to define clear roles and permissions for internal and external IT team members. This helps maintain a secure environment while allowing each team to focus on their respective areas of expertise, facilitating smooth collaboration.
• Streamlined Device and Application Management: Cisco Meraki’s comprehensive device and application management capabilities enable both teams to monitor and control devices and applications throughout the network. This includes managing configurations, monitoring usage, and applying security policies consistently across the network.
• Customizable Reporting and Analytics: Cisco Meraki’s advanced reporting and analytics tools enable users to create customized reports to share with internal and external teams. These reports provide valuable insights into network performance, security status, and usage trends, supporting data-driven decisions and strategic planning.
• Security Policy Management: Establish joint security policies and access controls using Cisco Meraki’s platform to protect the network and data. Both teams can collaborate to define and enforce consistent security measures across the network, ensuring a secure and compliant environment.
• Coordinated Software and Firmware Updates: Coordinating with external IT providers ensures that Cisco Meraki devices receive regular software and firmware updates. This collaboration helps maintain up-to-date security patches and features, improving network performance and security.
• Regular Review and Optimization: Schedule regular reviews of network performance and security measures using Cisco Meraki’s analytics and monitoring tools. Internal and external teams can collaborate to identify areas for improvement and optimize network configurations based on real-time data and trends.

Cyber threats pose a constant risk to businesses of all sizes. Data breaches and cyberattacks can devastate any business, causing financial losses, reputational damage, and disruptions to operations. The good news is that building a strong cybersecurity culture with Cisco Meraki is one of the most effective ways to mitigate these risks.

Read on to learn how Cisco Meraki solutions can empower your team and simplify your security efforts.

Key Steps to Build a Strong Cybersecurity Culture

Here are the steps to building a strong cybersecurity culture:

Establish Leadership Commitment

Building a successful cybersecurity culture starts at the top. Management must demonstrate a solid commitment to cybersecurity by allocating resources, promoting security awareness programs, and leading by example.

Develop a Comprehensive Security Policy

A well-defined security policy sets clear expectations for employee behavior regarding data handling, password management, internet usage, and reporting suspicious activity. Contact professionals to help create a customized security policy that aligns with your industry and business needs.

Cisco Meraki Solutions for Businesses

Cisco Meraki solutions benefit SMBs. Implementing the right technology solutions can significantly strengthen your security posture. Cisco Meraki offers a suite of cloud-managed security tools for businesses:

Cisco Meraki MX Security Appliances

These next-generation appliances offer comprehensive network security solutions suitable for businesses of all sizes. With features like intrusion detection and prevention, content filtering, and malware protection, they ensure robust defense against various cyber threats.

What sets Meraki MX apart is its cloud-based management platform, which simplifies deployment, configuration, and monitoring from a centralized interface. This streamlined approach and reliable performance make Cisco Meraki MX security appliances an excellent choice for organizations prioritizing scalable and efficient network protection.

Key Features of Meraki MX Security Appliances

Seamless Connectivity

Whether your users are stationed at a corporate office, working remotely, or accessing cloud resources, Meraki MX ensures seamless connectivity by bridging users to public and private cloud environments or the data center. With integrated wired and cellular WAN, switching, and Wi-Fi capabilities, it provides resilient SD-WAN connectivity, optimizing traffic across all available paths.

Superior Cybersecurity Protection

Security is at the forefront of Meraki MX’s design philosophy. Leveraging unmatched threat intelligence from Cisco Talos, it automatically blocks 98% of malware, outperforming industry averages. Its suite of security features includes enterprise firewalling, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), URL filtering, malware protection, and SD-WAN capabilities, providing a robust defense against evolving cyber threats.

Cisco Meraki MX Advanced Security Licenses

They enhance the capabilities of Meraki MX security appliances, providing an extra layer of protection against sophisticated threats. With the Advanced Security License, you can effectively safeguard networks and data assets from evolving cyber threats. Additionally, Meraki’s cloud-based management platform enables seamless deployment and management of these security features, ensuring that you can easily maintain a proactive security posture.

Cisco Meraki MV Cameras

These cameras represent a paradigm shift in video surveillance, offering a cloud-managed solution combining simplicity and powerful features. These cameras boast high-quality video capture, advanced analytics, and seamless integration with the Meraki dashboard. With their innovative design, MV cameras eliminate the need for complex on-premises infrastructure, making deployment and management straightforward.

Features like motion-based retention and smart alerts enhance security while minimizing storage costs. Whether deployed in retail, education, or enterprise environments, Cisco Meraki MV cameras provide reliable, scalable video surveillance solutions that adapt to evolving security needs.

Cisco Meraki Systems Manager

It is a comprehensive mobile device management (MDM) solution to streamline the management of mobile devices and endpoints across organizations. Systems Manager offers a cloud-based platform, enabling IT administrators to easily deploy, configure, monitor, and secure devices from a centralized dashboard.

With features such as device enrollment, application management, remote troubleshooting, and security policy enforcement, Systems Manager empowers businesses to efficiently manage their mobile device fleets, whether company-owned or employee-owned.

This solution supports various device types and operating systems, providing flexibility and scalability to adapt to the evolving needs of modern workplaces. Additionally, Systems Manager integrates seamlessly with other Cisco Meraki products, enabling you to create a unified network and endpoint management approach.

Putting Everything to Action

Here are a few actionable tips to put the theories into practice:

Conduct a Security Risk Assessment

Before implementing any security measures, it’s crucial to understand your existing vulnerabilities. Contact a professional to conduct a comprehensive security risk assessment to identify potential security gaps in your network, applications, and data storage practices. They can comprehensively evaluate network, data, physical and application security, and user behavior.

Develop a Security Incident Response Plan (SIRP)

A SIRP outlines the steps to take in case of a cyberattack. This includes identifying responsible individuals, procedures for isolating incidents, communication protocols, and data recovery steps. A clear plan ensures a swift and coordinated response to security incidents, minimizing damage and downtime. The critical components of SIRP include detection and analysis, containment, eradication, recovery, communication, and post-incident review.

Integrate Security into Onboarding and Training Programs

Make security awareness a core component of your employee onboarding process. Provide ongoing training throughout the year, using engaging and interactive methods like simulations, quizzes, and real-world case studies. The onboarding process, ongoing training, targeted training, and phishing tests are a few ways to integrate security into employee development programs.

By partnering with professionals like DEVsource Technology Solutions, who join hands with Cisco Meraki’s cloud-managed security solutions, you can establish a culture of security awareness, collaboration, and resilience within your organization. Book a web consultation today!

Modern digital environments are full of undiscovered cyber threats. These dangers, which range from sophisticated malware to smart phishing tactics, can result in severe effects such as data breaches, operational disruptions, and brand reputation loss. A powerful cloud-based firewall, such as the Cisco Meraki, can help improve your cyber security game.

Read on to understand the importance of Cisco Meraki firewalls in safeguarding businesses.

The Necessity of Strong Network Security

Increasing reliance on internet connectivity and cloud-based solutions has made network security a critical business requirement. A single breach can cause long-term damage, threatening a company’s financial stability and operational effectiveness. This highlights the significance of investing in cutting-edge security solutions that can counter various threats and protect digital assets.

The initial investment to purchase hardware and licenses may be a little high. However, it is an investment rather than an expense. You can save money over time as it helps allocate resources more efficiently.

Navigating a Secure Path with Cisco Meraki Firewalls

Cisco Meraki firewalls are cloud-managed next-generation firewalls that provide a robust and innovative approach to cybersecurity, with the ability to guard against a wide range of threats. Here are the essential elements that make Cisco Meraki firewalls an effective defensive system for businesses.

Centralized Command Center

Managing your entire firewall fleet becomes a seamless experience with Meraki firewalls. The intuitive dashboard allows you to configure, monitor, and update all your firewalls across multiple locations from a single control point. This centralized approach streamlines security management, eliminating the need for tedious manual tasks.

Automated Guardians

Meraki firewalls provide automatic threat detection and response systems that constantly work in the background to discover and mitigate potential attacks. This proactive approach to security reduces the chance of breaches by ensuring that threats are handled quickly and effectively.

Impenetrable Armor

Meraki firewalls are designed to provide advanced threat protection. Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS) and Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) function as digital protection by monitoring unwanted activity and preventing it from entering your network.

Granular Application Control

Meraki firewalls provide granular control over the applications running on your network. It can identify bandwidth-consuming applications, disable ineffective services, prioritize important business tools to maintain optimal network performance, and align your security posture with your business goals.

Proactive Approach

Cyber dangers continuously evolve, so staying ahead of the curve is critical. Meraki’s cloud-based security keeps your defenses current by automatically updating threat signatures and security definitions to protect against newly emerging attacks.

Seamless Scalability

Meraki provides a variety of firewall models designed for enterprises of all sizes and network complexities. Whether you’re a tiny startup or a huge company, Meraki’s scalable architecture ensures that your security infrastructure can adapt to the changing needs of your business.

Tangible Benefits

Investing in Cisco Meraki firewalls yields a myriad of tangible benefits for businesses.

• Enhanced Security: Safeguard your data, applications, and infrastructure against advanced cyber threats, reducing the likelihood of breaches.
• Cost Efficiency: Allocate resources more effectively towards essential business functions with simplified management and automation to lower operational costs.
• Improved Productivity: Empower your IT team to monitor network security remotely through an intuitive cloud-based dashboard, facilitating quick and effective responses to potential threats.

Using Cisco Meraki Firewalls for Safe Operations

Here are some important considerations to keep in mind before implementing Cisco Meraki firewalls.

Assess Your Security Needs

Conduct a comprehensive security audit to pinpoint vulnerabilities and prioritize what needs protection. This step involves assessing your network infrastructure, identifying potential threats, and understanding compliance requirements.

Choose the Right Model

Cisco Meraki offers a variety of firewall configurations, each with different capabilities suited for various network sizes and requirements. It’s essential to match the features and performance of these models with your specific needs. Consider factors like network size, bandwidth requirements, and scalability when selecting the suitable firewall model for your organization.

Plan Your Deployment

Choose between a centralized cloud-based approach or a distributed deployment that best suits your organization’s needs. Ensure you have the necessary connectivity and power. Proper planning ensures a smooth and efficient deployment process.

Check Compatibility

Ensure that the firewall supports the protocols and standards used in your network environment. Verify that it is compatible with your existing hardware, operating systems, applications, and network configurations.

Utilize VPN Connectivity

Configure VPN (Virtual Private Network) connectivity to establish secure remote access for remote workers, branch offices, or partners. VPN encryption protocols such as IPsec or SSL ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted over the VPN tunnels.

Get Expert Guidance

While Cisco Meraki firewalls are designed to be user-friendly, seeking expert guidance is always beneficial, especially during the initial setup and configuration stages. Take advantage of Cisco’s extensive documentation, online resources, and training programs to enhance your understanding of Meraki firewalls. Consider engaging with a certified Meraki partner for professional deployment, configuration, and ongoing support to ensure optimal performance and security.

Continuous Monitoring and Optimization

Security is an ongoing process, and it’s essential to continuously monitor and optimize your firewall settings to adapt to evolving threats. Regularly review security logs, analyze traffic patterns, and update policies to mitigate emerging risks. Leverage Meraki’s advanced analytics and reporting tools to proactively address potential security issues and optimize firewall performance over time.

Meraki provides robust protection, easy management, and adaptable features that prepare you for the constantly changing cyber landscape. This lets you concentrate on the most important business aspects of expanding your company and fostering innovation. DEVsource Technology Solutions offers efficient cybersecurity services tailored to safeguard your business assets. Book a web consultation today to discuss your unique needs!

One crucial aspect of businesses staying ahead and remaining competitive is having a robust and scalable network infrastructure. While traditional on-premises networking solutions are reliable, they can often be inflexible and expensive to manage. This might not be the ideal fit for businesses experiencing rapid expansion. That’s where Cisco Meraki, a leader in cloud-controlled networking solutions, shines.

Keep reading to learn how Meraki can empower your business to achieve sustainable growth.

An Introduction to Cisco Meraki

Cisco Meraki stands out as a pioneer in the realm of cloud-managed IT. Its innovative platform enables businesses to streamline network management, security, and accessibility. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, it caters to your needs with its user-friendly interface and seamless integration capabilities. Their comprehensive portfolio includes:

1. Wireless Access Points

This intuitive network connection solution simplifies the deployment, configuration, and management of access points. These are ideal for areas where physical cables are inconvenient. Features like Layer 7 Application QoS and Location Analytics provide unparalleled visibility and control over all access points. In addition, the centralized cloud dashboard allows intelligent analysis, trend visualization, and proactive issue mitigation. The wireless access points are also easily scalable with plug-and-play support.

2. Firewalls

Meraki MX series firewalls are one of the most powerful options. Businesses can deploy them across multiple sites. The unified threat management systems that leverage Cisco’s Talos systems offer advanced security threat protection. These firewalls also use sophisticated fingerprinting to analyze and categorize traffic according to access control policiesuary with the help of Layer 7 traffic classification. These firewalls are ideal for managing multiple hub locations and providing managed cloud security services from a single location.

3. MDM Systems

Meraki’s mobile device management (MDM) systems enable remote and on-the-go work, facilitate BYOD policies, and encourage flexible collaboration. It also ensures that your business doesn’t compromise on security, compliance protocols, or visibility of network activity.

Integrated within the MDM is Layer 7 fingerprinting, which automatically identifies and classifies client devices on the network. It enables automated rule enforcement, relieving the IT team of the burden of manual enforcement tasks. Meraki MDM also gives administrators unprecedented control by allowing remote monitoring support for mobile devices.

4. Routers

Cisco Meraki routers are pivotal in building a reliable and scalable network backbone. They come in various models to cater to diverse business needs, from small offices to multi-site enterprises. These routers boast high-performance WAN and LAN connectivity, ensuring smooth data flow across your network. Their site-to-site VPN capabilities enable secure communication between geographically dispersed locations. In addition, Meraki routers feature advanced routing protocols like OSPF and BGP. These ensure efficient network traffic routing and load balancing.

5. Smart Cameras

The comprehensive range of smart cameras Cisco Meraki offers is suitable for indoor and outdoor surveillance. They boast advanced features like computer vision and machine learning technologies, enabling excellent analytical insights. The cameras support functionalities like vehicle detection, people detection, and light level readings. The cameras also have industry-leading onboard processors and customizable video storage plans.

Cisco Meraki’s smart cameras provide secure monitoring from anywhere worldwide, offering granular control over surveillance footage.

6. Sensors

Meraki MT sensors extend your network’s reach beyond traditional IT devices. These versatile sensors monitor environmental conditions like temperature, humidity, and air quality, providing valuable data for optimizing building management and employee comfort. They also integrate seamlessly with other Meraki products for a holistic view of your network and physical environment.

The Meraki Advantage: Boosting Your Business Growth

Imagine a network that effortlessly adapts to your business needs, scales as you grow, and enhances productivity. That’s precisely what Cisco Meraki brings to the table. Here are some of the major advantages of using Meraki systems:

• Effortless Expansion: Add new devices, users, or entire locations with a few clicks through the centralized cloud dashboard. No more costly hardware upgrades or complex on-site configurations. Simply plug and play, and your network scales effortlessly as you grow. This modular model allows you to prevent overspending. Meraki also lets you seamlessly connect and manage remote branches or geographically dispersed teams.
• Simplified Management: Meraki’s intuitive web-based dashboard offers centralized control and configuration for your entire network. The complete ecosystem is accessible from any device with an internet connection. You can eliminate manual configuration and streamline deployments with Meraki’s zero-touch provisioning. For example, you can pre-configure devices before shipment and simply power them at their destination to join the network automatically.
• Automation Capabilities: Businesses can free up valuable time and IT resources with Meraki’s automation features. You can automate routine tasks like firmware updates, security policies, and network adjustments. This ensures consistent performance and security across your infrastructure.
• Built-in Security Features: Meraki goes beyond basic network protection. Every device has advanced security features like firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and threat protection. It also automatically delivers regular firmware and security updates, ensuring your network always benefits from the latest security patches. In addition, Meraki simplifies compliance with industry regulations like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and GDPR.
• Real-Time Visibility: Generate customized reports that provide actionable insights into various aspects of your network. You can use insights like application performance and device usage patterns to optimize resource allocation, improve user experience, and make data-driven decisions for your network strategy.
• Seamless Integration: Meraki offers a comprehensive suite of networking solutions, from wired and wireless access points to security appliances, SD-WAN, and cameras. These solutions seamlessly integrate, providing a unified user experience and consistent management across your entire infrastructure.

Why Hire a Managed Service Provider?

Building a future-proof Meraki-powered network is an investment for your business’s growth and success. However, integrating and managing these networks would require time, resources, and expertise. Partnering with a managed service provider like DEVsource Technology Solutions offers several advantages:

• Deep Expertise: We possess extensive knowledge of Meraki solutions and can design, implement, and manage your network effectively.
• 24/7 Support: Enjoy peace of mind with proactive monitoring, prompt issue resolution, and readily available expertise.
• Cost Optimization: Eliminate the need for in-house IT professionals and leverage our economies of scale for cost-effective solutions.
• Strategic Guidance: Receive expert advice on technology roadmap planning and long-term network strategy development.

Ready to future-proof your network with Cisco Meraki? DEVsource Technology Solutions provides various managed services to help you achieve your business goals. Book a web consultation today to discuss your unique needs!