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!

You’ve probably been considering how to harness the potential of AI to boost your company’s efficiency and productivity.

But there’s a small problem. A recent study revealed something fascinating but not entirely surprising: A trust gap when it comes to AI in the workplace.

While you see AI as a fantastic opportunity for business transformation, your employees might be skeptical and even worried about their job security.

Here’s a snapshot of the findings:

• 62% of C-suite executives welcome AI, but only 52% of employees share the same enthusiasm.
• 23% of employees doubt their company’s commitment to employee interests when implementing AI.
• However, 70% of business leaders believe that AI should include human review and intervention, showing they view AI as an assistant rather than a replacement.

Now that we understand the situation, how can you introduce AI gently and reassure your employees that their roles are safe?

Start by having open and honest conversations with your employees. Explain why you’re introducing AI and how it will benefit both the company and individual roles. Show them that AI is meant to be a helping hand, not a jobs terminator.

Invest in training that helps your people acquire the skills they need to work alongside AI. Make them feel empowered by showing that it can make their jobs more interesting and valuable.

Emphasize that your AI initiatives are designed to enhance human capabilities, not replace them. Let your team know that it will handle repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on more creative and strategic aspects of their work.

Develop clear guidelines for responsible AI use in your business. Highlight your commitment to ethical practices and ensure that employees are aware of these policies.

Involve your employees in the implementation process. Seek their input, listen to their concerns, and make them part of the solution. This shows that you value their contributions.

Encourage a culture of continuous learning. Let your employees know that they’ll have opportunities for ongoing education and development, ensuring they stay relevant and valuable in the AI-driven workplace.

Introducing AI into your workplace doesn’t have to be a cause for concern among your employees. AI is a tool for growth and innovation, not a threat to job security.

If we can help you introduce the right AI tools in the right way, get in touch.

You might think that cyber criminals are only interested in large companies or those with huge financial assets. After all, that’s where the big bucks are, right?

Think again.

Recent reports have shown that cyber criminals are casting their nets wide, targeting businesses of all sizes, from mom-and-pop stores to global enterprises. And they’re doing it with the help of something called “botnets.”

You may have heard about the rise of malicious botnets, and you’re probably wondering, “what on earth is a botnet, and why should I care?” Botnets are the secret weapons of cyber criminals. They’re armies of compromised devices, all under the control of a single, malicious puppeteer. These can be anything from your computer to your smart refrigerator. Yes, even your refrigerator can be turned into a cyber weapon.

A new report observed “massive spikes” in the activity of these botnets, with over a million devices involved in malicious activities at one point. To put it into perspective, that’s a hundred times the usual levels of botnet activity.

Usually, there are around 10,000 devices doing naughty stuff each day, with 20,000 being the highest number researchers had seen. But in December 2023, things got crazy. The number shot up to 35,144, and two weeks later, it rose even further to 43,194. That’s a lot of compromised devices.

And it didn’t stop there; the researchers saw the biggest spike yet, hitting a whopping 143,957 distinct devices being used at the same time. In fact, on January 5 and 6 there were spikes of more than a million devices!

Why are they doing this? These botnets are being used to scan the internet, searching for weaknesses in websites, servers, and even email systems.

Think of the internet as a fortress with many doors and windows. These cyber criminals are looking for unlocked doors and open windows to sneak in. They focus on specific “ports” that serve as entry points.

What can you do to protect yourself from these cyber threats?

It’s all about strengthening those doors and windows. Here are a few simple steps:

• Keep your software, operating systems, and applications up-to-date. Regular updates often fix vulnerabilities.

• Install a good firewall and reliable antivirus software to protect your devices.

• Educate your employees about cyber security best practices, such as avoiding suspicious links and emails.

• Enforce strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and devices.

• Regularly back up your data to prevent loss in case of a cyber attack.

• Keep an eye on your network for any unusual activity.

• Consider hiring a cyber security expert (that’s us) to assess and enhance your security measures.

If we can help you keep your business better protected, get in touch.

Microsoft’s at it again, presenting us with new features week after week. This time it’s all about making our online searches smarter and more efficient in the Edge browser. If you’ve been on the fence about switching to it, this might just be the push you need.

Edge has a cool new feature, as revealed by Mikhail Parakhin, CEO of Advertising and Web Services at Microsoft. Imagine this: you’re searching for something important for your business – maybe it’s market research or the latest trends in your industry. You type in your query, and you get results from not one but two search engines at the same time.

How does it work?

Let’s break it down. Say Bing is your default search engine. Now, when you hit the search icon, you won’t just see Bing’s results, you’ll also get a peek at what Google (or your alternative search engine of choice) has to offer. This dual view works both ways, ensuring you’re not missing out on any valuable information.

In business, information is gold. Having access to comprehensive search results means you’re more likely to find the most relevant, diverse, and valuable information. No more switching between browsers or tabs to compare search results – Edge now does that for you in a single view.

Some people have raised concerns about potential visual clutter from combining two engines’ results. It’s a valid point, and thankfully, Microsoft is listening. Parakhin hinted at the possibility of customizing your ‘backup’ search engine to streamline the experience. While the sidebar’s width is currently fixed, there’s an openness to explore deeper customization options soon.

This feature in Edge is quite a lure. It simplifies the task of searching, making research quicker and more effective. You get the best of both worlds without the hassle of juggling multiple windows.

And it’s more than just a convenience; it’s a step towards smarter, more efficient browsing, especially for us in the business community. It demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to improving user experience and staying competitive in the browser game.

For current Edge fans, this is an exciting upgrade. For everyone else, it’s a compelling reason to consider making the switch.

Need a hand finding time-saving tools for your business? Get in touch.

Microsoft is soon going to release its latest update for Windows 11, known as “Moment 5” or the “February 24 Moment.” This update is expected to start rolling out in the next few weeks and it comes with some noteworthy changes that you’ll want to keep an eye on.

But first, let’s address one thing: After this update, Microsoft is going back to its roots with annual updates for Windows 11.

What does that mean for you? Well, it means you can expect more stability and fewer major overhauls to your operating system. It’s time to bid farewell to those frequent “moment” updates and embrace a more predictable schedule.

Now, let’s dive into what Moment 5 has in store for us…

One of the standout features of this update is the enhancement of Windows 11’s built-in accessibility features. Microsoft is improving the user experience for those who rely on these.

Voice Access now supports multiple monitors and additional languages. It introduces “voice shortcuts” for custom voice-activated commands. Narrator gains the ability to preview new natural voices and works alongside voice access for various tasks.

One notable change is the ability to write directly into text boxes using a stylus across the operating system. This feature streamlines the use of digital pens, eliminating the need for a dedicated handwriting panel.

For the first time ever, Microsoft is making some in-box apps uninstallable. Apps like Edge, Camera, and Photos can be removed if you don’t intend to use them.

Microsoft is also making the Windows Search pane more flexible. This update allows third-party search providers like Google or Yahoo to create plugins for the Windows Search pane. So, if you prefer another search engine over Bing (and let’s face it, many of us do), you’ll have the option to switch.

The Nearby Share feature (it’s like Apple’s AirDrop) gets a boost with “friendly name” support. You can give your PC a more readable name, making file sharing more user-friendly. Additionally, Windows Spotlight, which displays Bing’s background of the day, will become the default wallpaper setting.

Copilot is getting better. It can now be “undocked,” making it more versatile and accessible. You’ll also find the Copilot interface in the Windows ALT+TAB menu for quick and easy access.

And Microsoft is making changes to the Widgets Board. You’ll be able to disable Microsoft News integration, allowing for a widget-only layout if you prefer not to have news headlines in your Widgets Board. Plus, third-party news services can build plugins to integrate with the Widgets Board, providing more options for users.

Notepad will include a character count feature and an “Edit with Notepad” shortcut in context menus for select file types.

In a nutshell, Moment 5 brings a host of improvements and enhancements to Windows 11, making it more accessible, user-friendly, and versatile.

For business owners, these updates can improve productivity and streamline workflows for you and your team. If you haven’t already made the move to Windows 11, now’s the time! We can help you with that – get in touch.

Microsoft has announced that starting on October 14, 2025, they will no longer provide free support and security updates for Windows 10.

While the idea of paying for updates might raise some eyebrows, let’s put this into perspective. By 2025, Windows 10 will be a decade old, and Microsoft is likely to have introduced Windows 12. And as we know, Windows 11 is available today.

Supporting multiple old operating systems can be quite a handful, even for a tech giant like Microsoft.

2025 may seem like a way off, but it’s a good idea to start weighing up your options now. Here they are:

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11

Microsoft’s preferred option is for you to switch to Windows 11. It’s got some fantastic features and free updates until its end of life.

Option 2: Stick with Windows 10 and pay

You can choose to stay with Windows 10, but you’ll need to pay for security updates (no new features, though). The exact cost isn’t known yet. It’ll likely be a subscription for monthly updates.

Option 3: Stick with Windows 10 and don’t update it

Sure, you can continue using Windows 10 without paying, but this isn’t advisable. Without updates, your business’s PCs will become vulnerable to threats and security issues. And without Microsoft’s support to fix problems, even tech experts like us have nowhere to go for help. Please don’t take this option!

You’ve got until October 2025 to decide, so there’s no rush. But if you want your business to thrive this year, we’d highly recommend upgrading to Windows 11 sooner than later. You’ll immediately benefit from some features that could improve your processes and make your team’s jobs easier. 

If you’re considering the move to Windows 11, or exploring other options, we’re here to help make the transition smooth and hassle-free. Get in touch.

Google has unleashed a powerful new tool to make your Gmail inbox a safer and spam-free haven, and it’s called RETVec.

But what exactly is RETVec?

Well, let’s break it down in simple terms. RETVec stands for Resilient and Efficient Text Vectorizer. Fancy. In plain English, it’s a tool that makes Gmail even better at spotting annoying spam emails that try to sneak into your inbox.

Did you know that the people behind spam emails can be very smart to try to avoid detection? Some use invisible characters, something called LEET substitution (like “3xpl4in3d” instead of “explained”), and intentional typos to get past our defenses. But RETVec is trained to be resilient against all these tricks.

Google explains it as mapping words or phrases to real numbers and then using these numbers for further analysis, predictions, and figuring out word similarities. In short, it’s like giving Gmail a supercharged spam radar.

How does this benefit you? Gmail’s spam detection rate shot up by an impressive 38% with RETVec on the scene. Plus, Gmail’s false positive rate dropped by nearly a fifth (that’s 19.4% fewer false alarms).

I know that some of you might be wondering if there’s a catch. Well, there’s a tiny caveat you should be aware of, especially if your business sends promotional emails.

With RETVec’s increased vigilance, some legitimate emails might get caught in the crossfire. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your email analytics to ensure your messages reach their intended recipients.

RETVec isn’t just about better security. It’s more efficient too. Google reports that the Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) usage of the model dropped by a whopping 83%. Smaller models mean reduced computational costs and faster delivery, which is a game-changer for large-scale applications and on-device models. So, it’s a win-win situation.

Spam is a go-to weapon for cyber criminals and now RETVec can help keep us better protected. It blocks malicious emails, keeping our data safe and our inboxes clutter-free.

If you don’t use Gmail, don’t feel too left out. It’s likely we’ll see other email providers including Microsoft bringing similar protection in the future.

In the meantime, if you’d like us to review your business’s email security, get in touch.

You know that feeling when you’ve spent way too much time in virtual meetings, and you’d trade your favorite coffee mug for some real face-to-face interaction? That’s called Zoom fatigue.

It turns out there’s scientific evidence to back up what we’ve all been feeling.

Recently, researchers from Austrian universities decided to take a closer look at the impact of video conferencing on our bodies and minds. They strapped participants with EEG and EKG monitors and went to town with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and similar platforms.

The results were eye-opening.

Brain signal frequency, as measured by EEG, showed a noticeable increase in higher-level frequencies associated with concentration, attention, and stress during online meetings compared to in-person encounters. So, it’s not just your imagination – those video calls are really making you work extra hard to stay focused.

Additionally, the study revealed changes in heart rate variability, indicating ongoing signs of fatigue throughout the course of an online meeting.

Before you swear off video meetings forever, it’s essential to consider the study’s context. The participants were university students, not corporate warriors, and the study was conducted on-campus, not from cozy home offices. So, there might be some variations based on age and environment.

However, the key takeaway is that communicating face-to-face versus through a screen can have a significant impact on the human body. So, even if you’re not a 24-year-old student on a college campus, video conferencing fatigue is a real thing.

What can businesses do if they want to keep the benefits of video conferencing without driving their employees up the virtual wall?

Consider using collaboration tools like Teams, Slack, or even good old-fashioned email to reduce the need for real-time video meetings. Give your team the flexibility to respond when it suits them best.

If possible, schedule in-person meetings when it’s safe and practical to do so. Nothing beats the personal touch of a face-to-face conversation, and it’s a refreshing break from the virtual world.

The simplest solution can often be the most effective. Have an open conversation with your employees about their preferences for communication. Some may thrive in video meetings, while others may prefer written updates or phone calls.

When you do schedule video meetings, keep them short and sweet. Avoid back-to-back calls and allow time for breaks between meetings to prevent burnout.

The message is clear: don’t throw out your webcam just yet. Instead, take a step back, assess your communication methods, and find the right mix that keeps your team engaged and energized.

Can we help you find the tech tools to keep your people productive and engaged? Get in touch.