You know that staying ahead of the technology curve is vital for all businesses in a highly competitive marketplace. One innovation launched earlier this year is Wi-Fi 7, the next generation of wireless connection.

But what exactly does it offer, and is it worth the investment for your business?

• Lightning-fast speeds: No more buffering and lagging. Wi-Fi 7 brings blazing-fast speeds to keep your business running smoothly.

• Rock-solid connections: Forget all about dropped calls or lost connections. Wi-Fi 7 ensures reliable performance, even in busy environments.

• Futureproofing: Wi-Fi 7 is built to handle the demands of tomorrow’s tech. It’s future-proofing your business’s internet.

Now, here’s the million-dollar question: Should you upgrade to Wi-Fi 7? Well, it depends. While Wi-Fi 7 offers some awesome benefits, it can be a bit pricey to upgrade.

The initial investment includes the expense of next-gen routers capable of supporting Wi-Fi 7, which can range from hundreds up to thousands. And there may also be ongoing operational costs, especially if you’re leasing routers from internet service providers.

If you’re not ready to dive into Wi-Fi 7 just yet, that’s ok. There are plenty of other ways to improve your business’s existing Wi-Fi. From optimizing your current setup to adding extenders or mesh networks, there are options to fit every budget.

We’re all about making sure you find the perfect tech solutions for your business to keep you and your team happy. If you’d like to go through your options, get in touch.

A new security report has revealed some alarming trends.

First off, cyber attacks are becoming faster than ever. Breakout times (that’s the time it takes for a criminal to move within your network after first getting in) have dropped significantly. We’re talking an average of just 62 minutes compared to 84 minutes last year.

This is not good news.

Not only are these attacks faster, but they’re also becoming more common. The report has identified a whopping 34 new cyber criminal groups, bringing the total to over 230 groups tracked by the company.

And guess what? These cyber criminals aren’t sitting around twiddling their thumbs. They’re getting smarter and more sophisticated. The report highlights a new record breakout time of just two minutes and seven seconds. That’s barely enough time to grab a coffee, let alone mount a defense.

But here’s the real kicker: The human factor is increasingly becoming the main entry point for these cyber attacks.

They will try to get your people to click a link in a phishing email, which will take them to a fake login page. Once your employee enters their real login details, they have inadvertently handed them over.

Or they pretend to be someone your team trusts. This is called social engineering.

So, what can you do to protect your business from these cyber threats?

• Educate your employees

Make sure your team is aware of the latest cyber threats and how to spot them. Regular training sessions can go a long way in preventing costly mistakes.

• Implement strong password policies

Encourage the use of complex random passwords generated and remembered by password managers. Use multi-factor authentication for an added layer of security (this is where you use a second device to confirm it’s really you logging in).

• Keep your systems updated

Make sure all software and systems are up to date with the latest security patches. Cyber criminals often exploit known vulnerabilities, so staying current is key.

• Invest in cyber security software

Consider investing in reputable cyber security software that can help detect and mitigate threats in real-time (we can help with this).

• Backup your data

Regularly backup your data and store it in a secure location. In the event of a cyber attack, having backups can help minimize downtime and data loss.

When it comes to cyber security, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If we can help you to stay better prepared, get in touch.

Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 update has dropped, and it’s got a small change that could make a big difference to you and your team.

Microsoft has given Copilot, its handy AI assistant, a new place on the taskbar. No more hunting around for the button. Now it sits on the far right of the taskbar, in what we tech folks call the ‘system tray area’.

If Copilot isn’t your thing, no worries. You can easily remove it from the taskbar altogether. But having an AI assistant at your fingertips can be a real boost for productivity, so we’d recommend you give it a chance before giving it the boot.

Before you rush to check if your Copilot button has relocated, let’s talk details.

First off, this update has been rolling out over the last few weeks.

It’s known as Patch KB5034765 (catchy name) and isn’t just about moving buttons around. It’s also packed with important security and bug fixes, including a crucial one for Explorer.exe. This was causing some PCs to freeze up when restarting with a game controller attached.

Probably not an issue in your business, but you never know…

There was also a problem with slow announcements from Narrator, the screen reading tool. That’s been fixed.

While this Windows 11 update may seem like small fry, it’s these little tweaks that can really streamline your workflow and stop your team from being interrupted by problems while they work.

Has your business switched over to Windows 11 yet? Our team can look at your setup and advise whether you’d benefit from upgrading, or you should stay on Windows 10.

Get in touch and ask us for a tech audit.

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!

If there’s one thing that’s 100% certain when it comes to protecting your business data, it’s that you need to be aware of phishing emails.

First things first, what exactly is a phishing email? Picture it as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, posing as a legitimate communication to deceive unsuspecting recipients. These emails often contain malicious links, attachments, or requests for sensitive data, all disguised as a business or person you already know and trust.

And you know what they say: Knowledge is power. One of the best ways to stay safe is to stay informed. We can do that by looking at the most common phishing emails of last year.

There are three main categories of phishing themes: Major, moderate, and minor.

Major themes

The biggest category is finance-related phishing emails, making up a huge 54% of attacks. These emails often contain pretend invoices or payment requests, aiming to lure recipients into giving away financial information.

Following closely are notification phishing emails, making up 35% of attacks. These emails prey on urgency, claiming your password is about to expire or you must take some urgent action.

Moderate themes

Document and voicemail scams take center stage here, accounting for 38% and 25% of attacks respectively. These tactics involve deceptive files or messages designed to trick you into compromising your security.

Minor themes

While less common, minor phishing themes still pose a risk to people who don’t know what to look out for. These include emails related to benefits, taxes, job applications, and property.

Why should you be concerned about phishing emails? Falling victim to these scams can have serious consequences, including financial loss, data breaches, and damage to your company’s reputation. It’s essential to educate your employees about the dangers of phishing and put in place robust cyber security measures to protect your business.

Awareness and vigilance are your best defenses against phishing attacks. By staying informed, training your employees, and using strong security protocols, you can safeguard your company’s valuable assets from cyber threats. We help businesses like yours stay safe. If you’re not 100% sure you’re fully protected… let’s talk.

You rely on your team to be efficient and productive. But slow and sluggish computers can make it difficult for them to do their work – and could affect you personally too. Which impacts your business’s overall performance.

Before you jump to the (expensive) conclusion that you need to replace your PCs, there are several ways you can increase computer performance on Windows 10 and 11.

Here are just a few…

Restart your computer

Yes, it might be our favorite advice as IT support professionals, but a basic shutdown and restart can work wonders. Restarting your computer clears background processes, applications, and memory data. This often resolves common performance issues, especially if your computer has been running for a while.

Manage startup apps

Many apps register themselves to start automatically with Windows 11, and this can slow down your computer’s startup process. To regain some speed, consider disabling unnecessary startup apps:

• Open Settings
• Click on Apps
• Select the Startup page
• Sort apps by their “Startup impact”
• Turn off the toggle switch for any unnecessary apps
• Restart your computer

This will prevent these apps from launching automatically during startup and save valuable system resources.

Disable restartable apps

Windows 11 has a feature that saves and restarts certain applications when you reboot your computer. While it can be convenient, it may not be ideal for performance. To turn off this feature:

• Open Settings
• Click on Accounts
• Go to the Sign-in options page
• Turn off the “Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign back in” toggle switch

Disabling this feature can help improve your computer’s speed, especially if you have many applications that you don’t use regularly.

Uninstall unnecessary apps

Unused or unnecessary apps can clutter your system and slow it down. To remove them:

• Open Settings
• Click on Apps
• Select the Installed apps page
• Choose the app you want to uninstall and click the Uninstall option
• Follow the on-screen directions if necessary

By removing apps you don’t need, you’ll free up space and resources for better performance.

Always be cautious about what software you install on your computer. Poorly designed or outdated applications can have a negative impact on performance. Stick to reputable apps (preferably those available in the Microsoft Store) because they have thorough reviews for both security and performance.

Before installing any software, do some online research to check for user experiences and potential issues. Trustworthy sources and well-known companies are your best bet.

Take the time to optimize your existing Windows computers before you consider upgrading your devices. Of course, rather than doing all of this yourself, why not get our team to do it for you. They can check every aspect of your computers and network to look for other hidden problems. Get in touch.

Picture this: Your business gets hit by a ransomware attack, and your valuable data is locked away by cyber criminals demanding a huge ransom fee.

You can’t afford to pay it. But there’s a twist – just like those “buy now, pay later” schemes, some ransomware gangs are offering victims payment extension options.

Recent research reveals that ransomware groups are getting creative with their extortion strategies. One group is even offering victims various choices when it comes to their ransom demands. These “choices” include:

Paying to delay the publication of their stolen data, with a standard fee of $10,000… or paying to have their stolen data deleted before it’s made public.

The exact amounts charged are often negotiated with victims, adding a chilling dimension to the whole ordeal.

To increase the pressure on victims, these ransomware groups have added some terrifying features to their web sites. These include countdown timers displaying how much time businesses have before their data is released, view counters, and even tags revealing the victim’s identity and description.

It’s all designed to make victims feel cornered and more likely to give in to the demands.

You might be tempted to pay that ransom to protect your business data. Not so fast. Paying is always a bad idea and here’s why…

Paying doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get your data back or that the cyber criminals won’t demand more money later.

By paying, you’re essentially funding criminal activities, encouraging them to continue their attacks on others.

Paying a ransom might even get you into legal trouble, as some governments have made it illegal to pay cyber criminals.

So, what can you do to safeguard your business from falling victim to ransomware?

• Ensure you have regular, secure backups of your data. This way, you won’t be at the mercy of cyber criminals.

• Educate your staff about the risks of ransomware and train them to recognize phishing emails and suspicious links.

• Invest in robust cyber security software and keep it up to date.

• Keep your systems and software updated with the latest security patches.

• Segment your network to limit the spread of ransomware if one device gets infected.

• Develop a clear incident response plan, so you know exactly what to do if you’re ever hit by a ransomware attack.

Paying cyber criminals rarely makes things better, and we’re seeing businesses that do pay become targets time and time again. Instead, invest in the proactive measures above to help you stay secure. And if we can help you with that, get in touch.

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!