IT Tips Baltimore

IT Tips Baltimore

Did you hear about the Unsend button Gmail just introduced?

Tags: , IT Tips Baltimore

Did you know that there are Gmail features that you aren’t using?

Have you ever sent an email that you wish you hadn’t sent? Hasn’t everyone? What if you could stop it from sending and undo the disaster you were about to cause. Well, Google understands your struggle and has introduced a new “unsend” button. This revolutionary new feature is only one of the awesome features that Gmail offers. So, would you like to learn more about some more cool features from Gmail that you probably aren’t using? Well, let’s do it! Read More

Should You Integrate Tablets into your Office?

Tags: IT Tips Baltimore

 

Could your office benefit from tablets?

Well, that depends on what you want to get out of them. Tablets can unlock an amazing world of connectivity and mobility, but do you need it? Another question to answer is which tablet you think is going to work for your purposes. Today we’re talking about the possibilities a tablet can bring in your office. Are you ready to learn more? Ok, let’s do it! Read More

Overheating is not Good for your PC

Tags: , IT Tips Baltimore
featured image

 

 

Is your PC overheating?

Many great computers have been lost in the battle against heat. Overheating is a major issue for most computers at some point during their lifetime. So, today we’re going to talk about how you can prevent your PC from overheating and how you can check the temperature of your internal hardware. So, are you ready to learn more about keeping your computer from overheating? Let’s do it! Read More

How to Choose the Right Business Laptop

IT Tips Baltimore
featured image

How to Choose the Right Business Laptop

How can you find the right laptop for your business?

Replacing a laptop, or even investing in a new one can be tricky. There are hundreds of models to choose from with even more specs to decipher. So, how do you know which laptop is right for you and your business? We’ve got the scoop on how to find the right laptop for your business needs. Ready to learn more? Here we go! Read More

Is Your Outlook Up to Date?

Tags: , , , IT Tips Baltimore
featured image
Is your Outlook up to date?

On April 20th some components of Microsoft Outlook stopped working in conjunction with google apps. This change is very important to note if you’re using google apps to sync with Outlook. Those of you who have automatic updates will probably not even notice a change, but those of you who do not might be in for a bumpy ride. Make sure that your Outlook software is completely up to date so that you can keep utilizing it. Read More

Why Updating your Operating System is Worth It

Tags: , , IT Tips Baltimore
featured image
Keep your OS updated and see the benefits.

If you’re still using Windows XP then you are probably getting regular messages from Microsoft. These messages are going to keep telling you that XP is no longer supported and that updating your OS is essential to stay in touch with the modern world. These messages aren’t being pushy. They’re giving you the right information. Keeping your Operating System (OS) updated is an essential practice if you own a business. So, let’s find out why that is.

Read More

Defragging Your Machine is Essential

Tags: , , , IT Tips Baltimore
featured image
It is more important than you think.

A zippy machine is a happy machine and a happy machine means a happy end user. We all love when our machines work quickly, but the trick to making that happen is making sure that your machine is running efficiently. Now, when your computer saves things into your hard drive, it does so in blocks. These blocks are ordered sequentially within the hard drive, but sometimes the blocks get confused and get a little misplaced. This is called “fragmentation” and it causes your machine to take longer to recall the blocks. Now, when you “defrag” your machine, you are defragmenting those blocks so that they can be recalled faster. This won’t slow you down quite as much as it used to, but keeping track of your machine’s efficiency can make a big difference in performance.  Read More

The Importance of Software Updates

Tags: , Cyber Security, IT Tips Baltimore
featured image

There are a great many people who never perform updates on their computers. They continually dismiss the notifications and reminders, plugging along as if they don’t need the updates. Some people even believe that updates are bad for their computers! These people couldn’t be more incorrect about updates. Performing regular updates on your computer’s programs is absolutely essential for maintaining a machine that runs efficiently.

Automatic Updates VS. Manual Updates

Automatic updates can often make our lives a lot easier in terms of keeping track of all of our software. They’ll pop up and remind us that they need to be executed. What we need to do is actually execute them. Updates may seem like a hassle because they may, momentarily, slow our machine down. However, they may makes processes smoother once they’re complete. So, a momentary slowdown is worth it in the long run. Now, manual updates are a bit more problematic, but only because you need to stay on top of them. Now, after updates occur, you may be asked or required to restart your machine to complete the process. Manual updates are more common on older machines with older operating systems. Write yourself a note if it helps you to remember!

Why Updates Matter

So, if it slows you down and is generally annoying then why should you have to endure it? Well, sometimes an update can make the software run more efficiently. In the case of anti-virus software, the malware database within the program will become more current, which will keep your machine safer. Any bugs from previous versions might be addressed in an update. There is also the probability of new features, settings, or other things that can be added with updates. Now, it is extremely important to note that software developers are expecting the updates to take place, so any support that you may need may not be accurate to your version.

At Working Nets, we know that handling the cybersecurity for a business while actually keeping that business running can seem impossible, especially in the daunting face of cyber-attacks against much larger businesses. Outsourcing your IT can give you peace of mind and allow you to take care of the things that are important for your company. Working Nets is a Maryland based IT Service and Security company that services small businesses nationwide. We’re always on top of emerging cybersecurity trends and threats so you don’t have to be. So talk to us about keeping your updates current.

To talk to someone about managed IT for your business, give us a call at (443) 992-7394. We’d be happy to assist you with your professional business networking needs.

You can also visit WorkingNets.com and follow us on FacebookTwitterLinkedIn and Google+

Small Businesses and The Cloud

Tags: , , IT Tips Baltimore
featured image
Take advantage of The Cloud for your small business.

You’ve probably heard about this magical storage device known as “The Cloud.” But what is it exactly? The Cloud is a virtual server that stores data on the internet. This allows employees to access files and share content through any device inside and outside of the office. The cloud is infrastructure as a service so that you don’t have to host your own servers, making it a fantastic tool for small businesses. There are several different companies that offer these services on a small scale that may fit your business. Read More

Setting Up Your Small Business Office Network

Tags: , , , , IT Tips Baltimore, Network Management

Setting up an office computer network for a small business isn’t always an easy task. Even with some tech-savvy people on your team, setting up a network that’s built to last and easily expand as your business does can be difficult. While it’s almost always better to consult a professional office network design and installation company, Working Nets is here with a general guide to make the process easier for any DIYers.

Wired vs. Wireless

Within the past few years wireless networking has skyrocketed in popularity among small businesses, largely because of a great decrease in its price. The benefits of wireless networking are obvious, you won’t need to run as many cables through your workplace, giving you greater freedom with your setup, you can use it from anywhere on your premises, and you can offer guests easy access.

However, there are still some advantages to sticking with Ethernet-focused wired networking. Wired office networks will still have the edge speed-wise, be cheaper than purchasing a powerful router, and won’t run into as many connectivity issues that can sometimes plague wireless systems. At Working Nets, we recommend a combination system with wired access for any permanent terminals with wireless network availability for anything portable.

What Do I Need?

Windows and OS X have built in networking features that make setting up a simple office network fairly straightforward, Aside from the computers themselves, you’ll need a few basic pieces of networking equipment to start connecting your system together.  To set up a network you’ll need a router that connects with your internet provider and your main server. Larger set ups may need additional routers or wireless relays to ensure network coverage for your whole office.

How Do I Keep My Network safe?

It’s crucial that after setting up your small business’s office network, you take the time to implement ample security measures to keep your data safe. To start with you should make sure all your computers and your router are operating with active firewalls (this can be easily checked in their respective settings) to keep malicious software out. If you’re running a wireless network make sure that WEP encryption is enabled and that users will need to put in a pass key before accessing the network. Make sure networked computers are using the most updated and secure versions of their preferred web browser, and check their history to monitor for suspicious activity.

So this is All I Need for Easy, Safe Networking, Right?

Unfortunately, no. With cyber criminals become more prevalent and creative every day, maintaining an office network is a constantly evolving challenge. While the steps listed above will get you started on your way to a great office network, they won’t take care of everything. If you want complete network security, easy set up, and management, call Working Nets today! We’re a Maryland based company with years of experience managing networks of both large and small businesses, as well as a team of highly dedicated, well-trained technical experts who stay on the cutting edge of network management so you don’t have to.

To talk to someone about network management for your small business, give us a call at (443) 992-7394. We’d be happy to assist you with your professional business networking needs.

You can also visit WorkingNets.com and follow us on FacebookTwitterLinkedIn and Google+