Cybersecurity Risk Assessment
Questions: Have you seen the news about the dramatic rise in Cyber Crime but not sure how it applies to your business? Are you confused about where to even start? Would you like to focus your time and budget on only the most important cyber risks for your organization? Answer: A cyber risk assessment is […]
Can you say “Marked Safe from Ransomware” today?
The End of Office 2010 is upon us!
Microsoft Office 2010 will no longer be supported by Microsoft as of 10/13/2020. Background Microsoft released Microsoft Office 2010 April 15, 2010. As of October, 13 2020 Microsoft will no longer support it. . Why does it matter? This means no security updates or patches. Compatibility with Office 365 is not guaranteed this means […]
Cyber Crime is on the Rise in the Work From Home Era
Unfortunately, some IT service providers focus more of their energy on making money than meeting their clients’ needs.
How to Effectively Work from Home
Just because you have to keep a close eye on your budget, however, doesn’t mean that you can’t get advice from an experienced CIO.
Preparing to Work from Home
Just because you have to keep a close eye on your budget, however, doesn’t mean that you can’t get advice from an experienced CIO.
How to find the right remote access solutions for your business
Finding the right remote access solutions for your small business can seem like a daunting task. With so much information available and seemingly endless options, it can be difficult to determine what’s going to be the right solution for your business. Related: 3 Reasons why the cloud is critical to your small business What works […]
The End of Exchange Server 2010 is upon us!
Exchange Server 2010 will no longer be supported as of 1/14/2020. Background Microsoft released Exchange Server in the winter 2009. With less than 4% of Exchange Servers still running it, if you are – the world has been passing you by. As of January 14, 2020 Microsoft will no longer support this server Why does […]
The End of Windows Server 2008 and 2008R2 is upon us!
Windows Server 2008 and 2008R2 will no longer be supported as of 1/14/2020. Background Microsoft released Windows Server 2008 in Winter 2008 and 2008R2 in the fall 2009. It is still popular with an estimated 8% of Windows servers still running it. As of January 14, 2020 Microsoft will no longer support this operating system. […]
The End of Windows 7 is upon us!
Windows 7 will no longer be supported by Microsoft for free as of 1/14/2020. Background Microsoft released Windows 7 in the summer for 2009. It is extremely popular with 27% of desktops still running it as of March 2019. Starting in March of 2017 certain computers running Windows 7 stopped receiving security patches (those using […]
Security Assessment
Question: How does a hacker look at your network? Answer: Like a gold mine. As time goes on, Cyber Security risks change. No change means your network is weaker than it was yesterday. Just like humans need yearly check-ups, networks also benefit from assessments to make sure things are operating as they should. Your network […]
Risk Assessment
Question: Would you like to focus your time and budget on only the most important risks? Answer: Of course you do – a risk assessment is how. As businesses grow and change, so do their networks. Just like humans need yearly check-ups, networks also benefit from assessments to make sure things are operating as they […]
Network Assessment: Know what hides in your network
As businesses grow and change, so do their networks. Just like humans need yearly check-ups, networks also benefit from assessments to make sure things are operating as they should. Your network is the heart of your organization. Don’t let unexpected issues bring your business to a halt. Our free network assessment can help catch potential […]
4 Reasons Disaster Recovery is Essential For Your Business
Technologically speaking, your business should be prepared for just about anything. That means getting ready for both the highs (like explosive company growth) and the lows (large-scale cyberattacks). That’s why you put plans in place to handle traffic surges on your network. It’s also why you need a great disaster recovery plan. Without a plan […]
4 questions to ask about your cloud storage security
It seems like every other day you hear about another data breach. Most notable is the recent attack on Facebook, although there have been many more just as alarming. With cloud storage growing in popularity it begs the question: how secure is my data and what steps are being taken to protect it? To ensure […]
How to find the right cloud solutions for your business
Finding the right cloud solutions for your small business can seem like a daunting task. With so much information available and seemingly endless options, it can be difficult to determine what’s going to be the right solution for your business. Related: 3 Reasons why the cloud is critical to your small business What works best […]
Data Encryption 101: A Helpful Guide
By the time you finish reading this article, you should get the basics of data encryption and how you can use it to protect your business and clients.
Creating the Perfect Password
Creating the Perfect Password The quest to create a perfect password to secure your data has been something that has challenged users for decades. You need something good enough to keep the Hackers out, but yet simple enough to be something you can remember. This contradiction often has people throwing their hands up in the […]
What Is Penetration Testing, and What Should You Do About It?
Penetration testing is one of the most effective ways to probe your network for weaknesses. But is it a good fit for your IT organization? Find out here.
The 3 Biggest IT Budgeting Mistakes to Avoid
Many companies are making the same IT budgeting mistakes. To help you avoid some of those same mistakes, here’s what we recommend.
How (and Why) to Audit Your IT Budget
At least once a year, though, you should audit your IT budget to make sure it matches your current and future needs. Here are the details on how and why.
Important Questions to Ask a Potential MSP Partner
Partnering with a reliable managed service provider (known as an MSP) can help your business become more efficient, secure and innovative.
How to Spot a Bad IT Service Provider
Unfortunately, some IT service providers focus more of their energy on making money than meeting their clients’ needs.
4 Signs You Need a Change From Your Usual “IT Guy”
If you still use a part-time IT guy, then you should look for these 4 signs that you need a change.
How to Choose Compatible IT Devices and Software
Ask these questions so you can determine what products will move your company forward towards success.
3 Surprising SMB IT Statistics You Probably Didn’t Know
Even if your business already invests in SMB IT, you may find the following statistics surprising.
Are Managed IT Services Right for Your Business?
Now for the big question: Are managed IT services right for your business? We’re here to help you decide.
The Basics of IT Infrastructure for SMBs
Establishing an IT infrastructure will make your business more efficient, secure and innovative.
Why Switch From Break-Fix to Managed IT Services?
Finding a suitable, cost-efficient solution for your organization’s IT needs can be challenging.
4 Business Benefits to Outsourcing Your IT Support
Ever consider outsourcing your IT? Here are 4 reasons to hand over IT to an MSP.
The Benefit Breakdown of Using a Managed Service Provider
MSPs are infrastructure computer experts, data protection specialists and network administrators all rolled into one.
Moving Your Company’s Technology With Office Relocation Services
Moving to a new office can be one of the largest stressors in the working environment. Yet, it can also be a sign of progress, especially if your team is growing and you need to upgrade to a larger space to operate your business. Regardless of your industry, if you’ve got technology equipment, such as computers, […]
Protect Yourself and Your Customers with an SSL Certificate
Your website may be putting your company at risk and making it harder for people to find you. Websites that are not secured with an SSL certificate are vulnerable to hackers and put your data at risk. The good news is that getting protected is easy and we can help. Call us, 847-348-3900, to find […]
5 Ways Network Management Services Can Save You Money
A properly managed computer network can support the daily operations of your business. In addition, when regular network audits are in place, you can make sure that each network component is operating correctly and that new opportunities and threats are identified. When all of these elements work harmoniously, at optimal efficiencies, you can focus on […]
How IT Support Can Help Avoid Common Technology Mistakes
Technology has made opening and running a business much easier. However, problems arise when poor technology decisions are made or existing technology equipment is not properly supported. That’s why IT support is such an important part of keeping your business running smoothly. If you’re looking for Chicago IT Support, PCS International can help you avoid many common technology […]
Top 6 Computer Maintenance and Repair Tips
It’s easy to forget, but it’s important to remember that electronics require ongoing maintenance. Without regular maintenance efforts your businesses’ computer equipment won’t last as long and will require replacement rather than repair. To ensure that your computers function properly and allow for optimal productivity, make sure to follow these computer maintenance and repair tips.
Ransomware – Definition, Threats and Prevention
What exactly is Ransomware? Ransomware is a complex piece of software which has the ability to block the victim’s access of his files and documents until the victim pays a ransom amount to the hacker. There are two types of ransomware currently in circulation:
How to Choose a Reliable Managed Services Provider
A Chicago IT services provider can help you manage everything from your computers and printers to the security of your data. With the evolving nature of the information technology industry and the inherent vulnerabilities tied to shared data and integrated networks, it is important to partner with an IT services company with a proven track record. […]
Top 5 Myths about Macs
I have been working in the computer repair and IT support industry for almost 30 years. I have used virtually every platform out there, including Mac, at work and at home. I love all technology and I love that it continues to change. However, regarding Macs there are some “falsehoods” which continue to be perpetuated which I […]
A Beginner’s Guide to Taking Care of Your Computer
Owning a computer can be a complicated task for those that are not tech-savvy. Here are some quick and easy tips to help you conduct proper computer maintenance and repair.
10 Signs You Should Invest In Secure Offsite Data Storage
Data backups have been around almost as long as data storage. The idea of a backup is simple. Have another copy of your information in case it becomes corrupt. If your data wasn’t valuable, you wouldn’t have it. So how do you protect it and how do you restore something should you need it?
Cybersecurity: Is your school protected?
In our technologically-focused world, children and teenagers represent a considerable number of tech users, compared to other age-groups. Their ability to quickly understand and learn how to utilize tech, means that they have a notable impact on the information technology infrastructure.
Windows 10 Live Event
Presenting the newest operating system from Microsoft — Windows 10. What’s new in Windows 10 and how to select the Windows 10 version that works for you. Windows 10 is not just for desktop. Discussion on how Windows 10 spans desktops, laptops, tablets and even the new Windows 10 phones. Windows 10 interface will be demonstrated […]
Which Backup Solution Is Right For You?
Data backups have been around almost as long as data storage. The idea of a backup is simply to have another copy of your information in case the original data becomes corrupt or is destroyed. If your data wasn’t valuable, you wouldn’t have it. So how do you protect it and how do you restore something […]
Stopping SPAM Email
SPAM is a generic term for Unsolicited Commercial Email (UCE). SPAM messages arrive in many forms including unsolicited pharmaceutical sales, mortgage offers, and credit card theft. These unwanted messages are disruptive to your business and waste your employee’s time. So how can we eliminate (or at least reduce) SPAM? That requires a two pronged approach:
Moving your Office Technology
Whenever you move office spaces there are hundreds of things to consider. Once the new location is decided you still have to make sure that the business technology you have today will continue to operate after the move. We’ve seen many businesses suffer days or weeks worth of lost productivity due to improper planning and implementation […]
Computer Security 101
People who ignore computer security are also the ones who get infected with viruses, spyware, Trojans, and so on. If you have any questions about how to deploy any of these measures, please contact us at 847 348 3900 or sales@pcsintl.com and we will be glad to help!
Facebook Viruses
Dealing with Facebook Viruses PCS International specializes in helping small and medium businesses with all their technology needs. We’ve provided this article as a service to the general public in order to “help you help yourself” on matters that may not require a professional to assist. We don’t believe you should have to pay for […]
