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Windows Sales have declined since the launch of Windows 8

“People always fear change. People feared electricity when it was invented, didn’t they? People feared coal, they feared gas-powered engines… There will always be ignorance, and ignorance leads to fear. But with time, people will come to accept their silicon masters.” – Bill Gates

Well, Microsoft has recently changed, launching its newest version of its popular operating system, Windows 8, and people have not been receptive. In fact, window sales were down 21% after the first four weeks Windows 8 was on the market.

“Windows 8 has captured 58% of Windows computing device sales. Comparatively, Windows 7 had garnered 83% of such device sales in its first four weeks of release,” according to the NPD Group.

However, it is unclear as to whether the drop in sales is due to the release of Windows 8 or the fact that Microsoft increased the average price of its machines from $433 to $477 after the release of the new operating system. The only thing that is for certain is that Microsoft Windows sales are down. But Microsoft should have saw this coming, right? Public opinion of Windows 8 was not good when the product was demoed before its full scale launch. If you recall from one of our previous blog posts a few months ago, before the launch of Windows 8, most analysts were not very high on the new operating system.

 

According to ZDNet.com, even hard-core Windows 8 fans prefer Windows 7 by a two to one margin.

“We really don’t think Windows 8 will get significant traction as a PC OS in a corporate environment,” said Gartner analyst Steve Kleynhans. “Why? Because Windows 8 is a “plumbing” upgrade. This is an upgrade that drastically changes the technology without adding significant improvements.” “An SMB is unlikely to decide ‘Windows 7 is no longer good enough, I must have Windows 8!’,” said Analysys Mason analyst Patrick Rusby. “Windows 7 is proven and popular.”

Do you have Windows 8 or have you used it? What do you think about the new operating system? Do you love it, hate it, or are you indifferent? We want to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please contact Working Nets by calling (443) 992-7394 or visit WorkingNets.com today!

Welcome to Working Nets – your virtual IT Department!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

Sources:

Windows Sales Down 21% Since Windows 8 Launch

Brainy Quote

Windows 8 is set to be released next Week. What is the Public saying?

The release of Windows 8 is right around the corner. But why does no one seem excited? According to Microsoft, Windows 8 is “Windows reimagined and reinvented from a solid core of Windows 7 speed and reliability.” But what does the public think?

Unfortunately for Microsoft, public opinion has not been in favor of Windows 8. In fact, the closer Microsoft gets to unveiling its newest operating system and the more the public learns about Windows 8, the less likely they are to implement it.

Windows 8 Reviews

 

  1. “We really don’t think Windows 8 will get significant traction as a PC OS in a corporate environment,” said Gartner analyst Steve Kleynhans. “Why? Because Windows 8 is a “plumbing” upgrade. This is an upgrade that drastically changes the technology without adding significant improvements.”
  2. According to ZDNet.com, even hard-core Windows 8 fans prefer Windows 7 by a two to one margin.
  3. “An SMB is unlikely to decide ‘Windows 7 is no longer good enough, I must have Windows 8!’,” said Analysys Mason analyst Patrick Rusby. “Windows 7 is proven and popular.”
  4. “[Windows 8] really seems to be designed for tablets and phones,” said Working Nets own David Spigelman. “While you can install and run it on a desktop or notebook, it’s really not designed for that.”

Checkout How People React to Windows 8

Do you think you will make the switch to Windows 8?

If you have any questions about Windows 8, please contact Working Nets by calling (443) 992-7394 or visit WorkingNets.com today!

At Working Nets, we work closely with each client to determine their IT needs, and how to meet them quickly and inexpensively. We’ll meet with you and perform an extensive system review before creating a detailed, comprehensive strategy to meet your unique needs.

Welcome to Working Nets – your virtual IT Department!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

 

Cybersecurity News: Microsoft PCs are infected before reaching Consumers

It has not been a good couple of weeks for Microsoft. First, they discovered that Hackers had found a Security Hole in Internet Explorer. Now, the computer company has discovered that many of their PCs and laptops made in China were embedded with malicious software before ever reaching the consumer. The computer virus allows hackers to switch on a microphone or Webcam, record keystrokes, and access login credentials and online bank accounts.

And because computer companies rely on such a long and complex supply line, the malicious software could have been uploaded at any point, something Richard Domingues Boscovich, the assistant general counsel for the Microsoft Digital Crimes Unit, called “especially disturbing.”

“It’s one of the toughest cybersecurity challenges out there,” said Tom Kellermann, vice president of cybersecurity at Trend Micro. “There’s not really a solution unless you start to only build computers in the USA again.”

This isn’t the first time this has happened either. In 2008, the Defense Department and Federal Aviation Administration unknowingly purchased counterfeit Cisco routers, which were pre-loaded malicious software. FBI investigators found the routers allowed hackers to “gain access to otherwise secure systems.”

Then in May, the Senate Armed Services Committee released  a report citing 1,800 cases of counterfeit electronics from China, electronics used in the Air Force’s largest cargo plane and Special Operation helicopters.

“Companies are in a competitive dogfight to make products cheaper and hit the market faster,” said Scott Aken, a former FBI special agent who dealt with cyber counterintelligence. “They’re not spending time or money to ensure those products they are sourcing from overseas are devoid of counterfeits.”

So what are consumers to do?

Boscovich offers this simple advice: Consumers can often spot dangerous counterfeit technology if the deal “appears too good to be true.”

“However, sometimes people just can’t tell, making the exploitation of a broken supply chain an especially dangerous vehicle for infecting people with malware.”

If you have any questions about Cybersecurity, please contact Working Nets by calling (443) 992-7394 or visit WorkingNets.com today!

Welcome to Working Nets – your virtual IT Department!

At Working Nets, we support your business by providing top-notch Information Technology (I.T.) services to companies like yours: Companies that don’t need full-time I.T. services, but do need someone to turn to, when they are having a problem. We provide services like Network Design, Monitoring and Maintenance. We troubleshoot technical issues when they arise, and give you options for solving them. We help you use your technology investment to achieve your business goals.

At Working Nets, our focus is on your needs!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

Sources:

Pre-Infected PCs Expose Flaws In Global Supply Chain

Updating the Virus Signature: Why it isn’t enough

What is a Virus Signature?

A virus signature, sometimes referred to as a definition file or a DAT file, is an algorithm or hash used by antivirus software to identify a specific virus or threat. However, signatures are only affective at detecting previously known viruses. When a new virus arises, a new signature must also be created.

What it means to Update the Virus Signature

When a new virus is discovered that is not detectable by an existing signature, a new signature must be created and tested by the antivirus vendor. This new signature is then pushed to the public in the form of a signature update, adding the detection capability to the scan engine.

Why it isn’t enough to just Update the Virus Signature

Because it is not practical for antivirus companies to release individual signatures, they often release several at a time on a set schedule. Still, keeping your signatures up to date will not guarantee a new virus will not slip through. To better protect yourself, it is recommended that you purchase the latest version of the antivirus software.

It’s important to keep the actual software current; not just the virus signatures!

If you have any questions about Antivirus Software, please contact Working Nets by calling (443) 992-7394 or visit WorkingNets.com today!

Welcome to Working Nets – your virtual IT Department!

At Working Nets, we support your business by providing top-notch Information Technology (I.T.) services to companies like yours: Companies that don’t need full-time I.T. services, but do need someone to turn to, when they are having a problem. We provide services like Network Design, Monitoring and Maintenance. We troubleshoot technical issues when they arise, and give you options for solving them. We help you use your technology investment to achieve your business goals.

At Working Nets, our focus is on your needs!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

Another Website Hacking Incident: What the LinkedIn & DropBox Hacks mean

First there was the infamous LinkedIn hack a few months ago. Now, another major website has been attacked, Dropbox.

“Our investigation found that usernames and passwords recently stolen from other websites were used to sign in to a small number of Dropbox accounts,” said Aditya Agarwal, VP of engineering at Dropbox. “We’re sorry about this, and have put additional controls in place to help make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

In instances such as these, hackers breach a website to steal usernames and passwords in hopes that these login credentials work for other services, as well. If they do, these hackers harvest personal data to use in future scams.

Protecting your Information: Simple IT Security Tips

The only way to truly prevent cyber-attacks is completely avoid using the Internet, which is nearly impossible these days. There are, however, several ways in which you can make your business network more secure. These security tips include:

  • Stop Password Reuse: Do not use the same password for multiple accounts. Yes, using multiple passwords will not be as easy to remember, but it will make you much less susceptible to cyber-attack.
  • Reset your Passwords Regularly: Security experts advise people to regularly change their passwords.
  • Choose your Security Question Carefully: Don’t make it too easy for hackers to access your information. Do not use personal information or basic information that can be found on the Internet.
  • Be Careful: Only access the Internet over a secure network.
  • Keep Everything Up to Date: Keep your operating system, browser, anti-virus and other critical software up to date.
  • Outsourced IT Security Services from Working Nets: Data protection is crucial. Working Nets assures that your vital business data is available when you need it by implementing tools to protect you!

If you have any questions about Hackers, Hacking, and IT Security, please contact Working Nets by calling (443) 992-7394 or visit WorkingNets.com today!

Welcome to Working Nets – your virtual IT Department!

At Working Nets, we support your business by providing top-notch Information Technology (I.T.) services to companies like yours: Companies that don’t need full-time I.T. services, but do need someone to turn to, when they are having a problem. We provide services like Network Design, Monitoring and Maintenance. We troubleshoot technical issues when they arise, and give you options for solving them. We help you use your technology investment to achieve your business goals.

At Working Nets, our focus is on your needs!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

Outsourced Preventative Computer & Network Maintenance Program

Productivity is crucial in any business.  For this reason, we at Working Nets have put together a preventative maintenance program to analyze your computer systems for potential problem areas to keep your business running smoothly, reducing costly downtime. And by reducing downtime, your office remains more productive, more often.

The Benefits of Working Nets’ Preventative Maintenance Program

  • Productivity: As we have already touched on, Working Nets can identify and remedy problems before they result in downtime, meaning your employees can remain productive.
  • Minimize Breakdowns: Besides keeping productivity high, preventative maintenance helps eliminate most costly breakdowns.
  • Keep Data Secure: You rely on your business information to stay profitable. So doesn’t it make sense to do whatever you can to protect your business critical information?
  • Optimize Machine Performance: Regular maintenance can help you get the most out of your machines.
  • Reduce Intrusion: Hackers can be a business’s worst nightmare. Is your network secure?

Performing proactive maintenance, by taking care of the overall health of your network,  is the most cost-effective and efficient way to prevent system problems and minimize breakdowns.

If you have any questions about Prevetative Maintenance or Outsourced IT Services, please contact Working Nets by calling (443) 992-7394 or visit WorkingNets.com today!

Welcome to Working Nets – your virtual IT Department!

At Working Nets, we support your business by providing top-notch Information Technology (I.T.) services to companies like yours: Companies that don’t need full-time I.T. services, but do need someone to turn to, when they are having a problem. We provide services like Network Design, Monitoring and Maintenance. We troubleshoot technical issues when they arise, and give you options for solving them. We help you use your technology investment to achieve your business goals.

At Working Nets, our focus is on your needs!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

IT Purchasing Assistance: Finding the Right Technology for your Business

As a business owner, you are busy enough running your business and trying to turn a profit. You don’t have the time to track business technology advancements and determine if your business needs to upgrade its current hardware or software. Unfortunately, without a dedicated IT department handling these duties for you, your business may be quickly falling behind the competition. So what do you do?

Outsource your IT assessment and purchasing needs to Working Nets – your Virtual IT Department!

Our philosophy is that business owners should focus on their business, not on the tools that make it run. At Working Nets, our outsourced IT assessment and IT purchasing assistance services help your business find the right solutions for your hardware and software needs.

Benefits of a Technology Assessment and IT Purchasing Assistance

  • Identify your current strengths and learn how to better utilize the technology you currently have
  • Identify potential security risks and learn how to fix them.
  • Identify the new technologies – both hardware and software – you need to operate your business as effectively and efficiently as possible
  • Reduce your total cost of ownership!

Your network is at the core of your business. Ensuring that it is designed correctly and properly maintained, is at the core of ours. So contact Working Nets today and develop a plan for future IT growth and development!

If you have any questions about Outsourced IT Purchasing Assistance, please contact Working Nets by calling (443) 992-7394 or visit WorkingNets.com today!

Welcome to Working Nets – your virtual IT Department!

At Working Nets, we support your business by providing top-notch Information Technology (I.T.) services to companies like yours: Companies that don’t need full-time I.T. services, but do need someone to turn to, when they are having a problem. We provide services like Network Design, Monitoring and Maintenance. We troubleshoot technical issues when they arise, and give you options for solving them. We help you use your technology investment to achieve your business goals.

At Working Nets, our focus is on your needs!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

The Benefits of Outsourced Disaster Recovery :: Maryland IT Support

With so much of your business relying on technology, you cannot afford to lose critical data. The outcomes could be disastrous to your business. In fact, of companies that had a major loss of business data…

  • 6% Survived
  • 51% Closed Within 2 Years
  • 43% Never Recovered!

So what do you do when disaster strikes?

Do you have a plan in place?

Don’t wait until disaster strikes to step back and look at what you could have done differently. Now is the time to act. Now is the time to address Disaster Recovery.

What is Disaster Recovery?

Disaster recovery is the process and procedures your business puts in place for the recovery of your technology infrastructure and critical data after a natural or human-induced disaster.

What is Outsourced Disaster Recovery?

Companies of all shapes and sizes – from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies – are beginning to realize the importance of disaster recovery. But what do you do if you cannot afford to hire an in-house IT technician?

You outsource your disaster recovery needs to Working Nets, your virtual IT department! We assure that your vital business data is available when you need it.

What are the Benefits of Outsourced Disaster Recovery?

  • It is often cheaper to outsource your IT needs than it is to hire an in-house IT professional. Plus, you can utilize an entire team of IT experts without having to pay a single salary!
  • There are no upfront technology or storage costs.
  • There are no hardware maintenance costs.
  • There are no software subscriptions.
  • Peace of Mind!

So do the right thing for your business and outsource your disaster recovery to Working Nets!

If you have any questions about Outsourced Disaster Recovery, please contact Working Nets by calling (443) 992-7394 or visit WorkingNets.com today!

Welcome to Working Nets – your virtual IT Deptartment!

At Working Nets, we support your business by providing top-notch Information Technology (I.T.) services to companies like yours: Companies that don’t need full-time I.T. services, but do need someone to turn to, when they are having a problem. We provide services like Network Design, Monitoring and Maintenance. We troubleshoot technical issues when they arise, and give you options for solving them. We help you use your technology investment to achieve your business goals.

At Working Nets, our focus is on your needs!

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.

Sources:

Data Storage: 10 Compelling Reasons for Outsourcing Disaster Recovery

Outsourcing Disaster Recovery versus traditional in-house methods

Disaster Recovery Services FAQ

Disaster Recovery Guide