Reviewing Your IT Needs as a Small Business

As a small business owner, your IT infrastructure is critical to your operations. It’s essential to review your IT periodically needs to ensure they align with your business goals and are optimized for efficiency and security.

Key Areas to Evaluate

  1. Hardware and Software:
    • Age and condition: Are your computers and servers outdated or need repair?
    • Compatibility: Do your software applications work seamlessly together?
    • Security: Are your systems protected from cyber threats?
  2. Network Infrastructure:
    • Speed: Is your internet connection fast enough to support your business operations?
    • Reliability: Are there frequent network outages or connectivity issues?
    • Security: Are your network devices and data properly protected from unauthorized access?
  3. Data Backup and Recovery:
    • Frequency: How often are your data backed up?
    • Storage: Where are your backups stored? Are they accessible in case of disaster?
    • Testing: Are your backup procedures regularly tested to ensure they work as intended?
  4. Cloud Computing:
    • Benefits: Could cloud-based solutions help reduce costs or improve flexibility?
    • Risks: Are there any security or compliance concerns associated with using cloud services?
  5. IT Support:
    • In-house vs. outsourced: Are your current IT support arrangements meeting your needs?
    • Expertise: Do your IT staff have the necessary skills and knowledge to address your challenges?

Tips for Effective Review

  • Involve your team: Get input from employees who use IT systems daily.
  • Prioritize needs: Identify the most critical IT functions for your business.
  • Consult with an IT professional: A qualified IT consultant can provide expert advice and recommendations. Here at IT Turning Point this is what we do.
  • Consider future growth: Plan for your IT needs as your business expands.
  • Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest technology trends and security best practices.

By regularly reviewing your IT needs, you can ensure that your technology infrastructure is supporting your business goals and helping you achieve success.

May The Force Be with You!

Why is getting an I.T. needs Analysis is not just a good idea, but an essential one?

it analysis

In today’s digital age, technology is the backbone of most successful businesses. But for small businesses, navigating the ever-changing tech landscape can be daunting. This is where regular IT checks come in. Just like a car needs tune-ups, your business technology needs regular assessments to ensure it’s running smoothly and meeting your evolving needs.

Why Regular IT Checks Matter

Here are three key reasons why small businesses should prioritize regular IT check-ups:

  • Security: Cybersecurity threats are a constant concern. Regular IT checks can identify vulnerabilities in your systems, outdated software, and weak passwords, all of which leave you open to attacks. IT professionals can recommend and implement security measures to keep your data and operations safe.
  • Efficiency and Productivity: The right technology can streamline processes and boost employee productivity. IT checks can identify outdated software that’s slowing you down and suggest more efficient options. They can also ensure your systems are properly configured for your specific needs, eliminating unnecessary steps and wasted time.
  • Cost Savings: Small problems left unchecked can snowball into expensive repairs or data loss. Regular IT checks can catch small issues before they become major problems, saving you money in the long run. Additionally, IT professionals can help identify areas where you might be overspending on technology and suggest cost-effective alternatives.

Finding the Right IT Support

Many IT service providers offer flexible plans tailored to small businesses. Look for a provider who understands your specific needs and budget. Regular check-ups can be scheduled quarterly or even annually, depending on your risk profile and how often your technology changes.

Investing in regular IT checks is an investment in the future of your business. By proactively managing your technology, you can ensure it’s working for you, not against you.

Check out our IT needs analysis packages here, all tailored to you and your budget and needs. Needs Analysis.

2024: Unveiling Tech’s Next Horizon

technology over the horizon
What’s over the horizon?

As we step into 2024, the tech landscape buzzes with excitement and anticipation. Beyond the usual suspects, groundbreaking advancements simmer beneath the surface, promising to reshape our world. Let’s peek at some of the key developments on the horizon:

1. Generative AI Takes Centre Stage: Imagine AI not just mimicking, but creating the next Picasso or composing a Beethoven-esque symphony. Generative AI, harnessing the power of deep learning, will unleash its creative potential. From personalized design solutions to hyper-realistic virtual experiences, expect this technology to blur the lines between art and code.

2. Quantum Computing Leaps Forward: While still in its nascent stages, 2024 could see significant progress in quantum computing. These powerful machines, capable of tackling previously insurmountable problems, will accelerate advancements in drug discovery, materials science, and financial modelling. Prepare for a world where the impossible becomes achievable with the aid of qubits.

3. The Metaverse Expands its Reach: The immersive digital world known as the metaverse will push the boundaries of reality. Expect advanced AR/VR experiences, seamless integration with everyday life, and even the emergence of virtual economies. As the lines between physical and digital blur, prepare for your avatar to become an extension of your identity.

4. Smart Devices Get Smarter: Our beloved devices are about to get a serious IQ boost. Expect smarter homes that anticipate our needs, self-driving cars that navigate complex scenarios, and wearables that monitor our health with unprecedented accuracy. The Internet of Things will not just connect devices, it will weave them into the fabric of our lives.

5. Sustainability Goes High-Tech: Climate change remains a pressing concern, and technology will play a crucial role in addressing it. Advances in renewable energy, energy storage, and green manufacturing will take centre stage. Expect smarter grids, efficient solar panels, and sustainable materials made from waste. Technology will become a weapon in our fight for a greener planet.

Of this course, this is only a glance

Of course, these are just a glimpse of the tech magic brewing in 2024. From ethical considerations surrounding AI to the potential implications of the metaverse, there will be challenges to navigate. But one thing is certain: the year ahead promises to be a thrilling ride, one where technology redefines what it means to be human, connect with the world and shape our future.

And that’s just the beginning. Buckle up, 2024 is going to be a wild ride! So get in touch here an check your tech will keep up. Click here.

The Worst That Can Happen If You Don’t Update Your IT Equipment as A Business

Worse that could happen

In today’s digital world, it is more important than ever for businesses to keep their IT equipment up to date. Outdated equipment can lead to a number of problems, including:

  • Security breaches: Outdated software and hardware are more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Hackers can exploit known vulnerabilities to gain access to your systems and steal data or disrupt your operations.
  • Compliance issues: Many industries have regulations that require businesses to use certain types of IT equipment or software. If you don’t update your equipment, you could face fines or other penalties.
  • Performance problems: Outdated equipment is often slower and less efficient than newer models. This can lead to productivity losses and customer dissatisfaction.
  • Compatibility problems: Newer software and hardware may not be compatible with older equipment. This can make it difficult to integrate new systems into your existing infrastructure and can lead to data loss or corruption.
  • Increased costs: In the long run, outdated equipment can cost you more money. You may have to pay for more expensive repairs or replacements, or you may lose business to competitors who have invested in newer technology.

Here are some of the worst things that can happen to your business if you don’t update your IT equipment:

  • Data loss: A data breach can be devastating for a business. If your IT equipment is outdated and vulnerable to attack, hackers could steal your customer data, financial information, or intellectual property. This could lead to lost revenue, reputational damage, and even legal liability.
  • System outages: Outdated equipment is more likely to fail, which can lead to system outages. This can disrupt your operations and cost you money. For example, if your online store goes down, you could lose sales and damage your customer relationships.
  • Compliance violations: Many industries have regulations that require businesses to use certain types of IT equipment or software. If you don’t update your equipment, you could face fines or other penalties. For example, healthcare providers must comply with HIPAA regulations, which require them to use certain security measures to protect patient data.
  • Competitive disadvantage: Your competitors are probably investing in new IT equipment to improve their efficiency and productivity. If you don’t do the same, you will quickly fall behind. Outdated equipment can make it difficult to keep up with customer demand and offer innovative new products and services.

What can you do to avoid these problems?

The best way to avoid the problems associated with outdated IT equipment is to have a regular replacement schedule. You should also keep your software up to date by applying security patches and updates as soon as they are available.

If you are not sure whether your IT equipment is up to date, you can consult with an IT professional. They can assess your needs and recommend the best way to update your systems. We at ITTP carry out I.T. needs analysis surveys for this very reason.

Here are some tips for updating your IT equipment:

  • Create a budget and a timeline: Before you start updating your IT equipment, it is important to create a budget and a timeline. This will help you to stay on track and avoid overspending.
  • Prioritize your needs: Not all IT equipment is created equal. Some equipment is more important to your business than others. Prioritize your needs and update the most important equipment first.
  • Consider your options: There are a number of different ways to update your IT equipment. You can buy new equipment, lease equipment, or rent equipment. Consider your budget and your needs to choose the best option for your business.
  • Get help from an IT professional: If you are not sure how to update your IT equipment, you can get help from an IT professional. They can help you to choose the right equipment and install it correctly.

 Contact us on our Contact form page here. Updating your IT equipment is an investment in the future of your business. By keeping your systems up to date, you can avoid a number of problems and improve your efficiency, productivity, and security.

The AI Revolution, Pros and Cons. Article 2

AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that deals with the creation of intelligent agents, which are systems that can reason, learn, and act autonomously. AI has the potential to revolutionize many aspects of our lives, from the way we work to the way we interact with the world around us.

There are many potential benefits to the AI revolution. For example, AI could be used to automate tasks that are currently done by humans, freeing up our time for more creative and fulfilling pursuits. AI could also be used to improve healthcare, education, and transportation.

However, there are also some potential risks associated with the AI revolution. For example, AI could be used to create autonomous weapons that could kill without human intervention. AI could also be used to create systems that are able to manipulate and control human behaviour.

It is important to be aware of both the potential benefits and risks of the AI revolution. We need to ensure that AI is used in a way that benefits all of humanity, and that we do not allow AI to become a threat to our existence.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the AI revolution:

Pros:

  • AI can automate tasks that are currently done by humans, freeing up our time for more creative and fulfilling pursuits.
  • AI can improve healthcare, education, and transportation.
  • AI can help us to better understand the world around us.
  • AI can help us to make better decisions.

Cons:

  • AI could be used to create autonomous weapons that could kill without human intervention.
  • AI could be used to create systems that are able to manipulate and control human behaviour.
  • AI could lead to mass unemployment, as machines become capable of doing many of the jobs that are currently done by humans.
  • AI could lead to a widening of the gap between the rich and the poor, as those who own the AI systems will benefit from increased productivity and efficiency, while those who do not will be left behind.

In Conclusion

It is important to weigh the pros and cons of the AI revolution carefully before making any decisions about how to use this technology. We need to ensure that AI is used in a way that benefits all of humanity, and that we do not allow AI to become a threat to our existence.

The AI Revolution, Pros and Cons. Article 1

working smarter
Time for change

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken the world by storm and is revolutionizing the way we live, work, and interact with each other. AI is a technology that enables machines to learn and perform tasks that would typically require human intelligence, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and natural language processing. The AI revolution is happening right now, and it has both pros and cons.

On the positive side, AI is bringing about significant improvements in various industries, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and manufacturing. AI-powered robots and machines are taking over tedious, repetitive, and dangerous tasks, allowing humans to focus on more creative and productive work. AI-powered medical devices are helping doctors and healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat diseases more accurately and efficiently. AI-powered vehicles are making transportation safer and more sustainable.

AI is also helping businesses to improve their operations, increase their efficiency, and reduce costs. AI-powered systems can analyse vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and provide insights that help businesses to make informed decisions. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are enhancing customer service, providing 24/7 support to customers, and improving customer satisfaction.

However, the AI revolution also has its downsides. One of the most significant concerns is job displacement. As machines become more intelligent, they are taking over jobs traditionally performed by humans, leading to job losses and unemployment. This could have a severe impact on society, particularly for low-skilled workers who may find it challenging to find new employment.

Another significant concern is the potential misuse of AI. As AI becomes more advanced, it could be used to create autonomous weapons, surveillance systems, and other technologies that could threaten human rights and freedoms. There is also the risk of AI being used to perpetrate cyber-attacks or manipulate public opinion, which could have disastrous consequences.

In Conclusion

The AI revolution is happening right now, and it has both pros and cons. While AI has the potential to bring about significant improvements in various industries, it also poses significant challenges and risks. As we continue to develop and deploy AI technologies, it is essential to be mindful of the potential risks and take steps to mitigate them. Ultimately, the key to harnessing the power of AI lies in responsible development, deployment, and regulation.

So, Windows 11 then?

Windows 11

Microsoft has done the very thing it said it wouldn’t and launched a new operating system, Windows 11. They had always said that Windows 10 would be the last and it would be tailored and updated. However, here we are with a new version of Windows. So, Windows 11 then?

So lets all go and download and install it.

Microsoft has said it is a free download for Windows 10 users, so surely it should be a simple case of downloading and installing it. Well, unfortunately, no it isn’t.

So what are the issues, or known issues just now?

Here is what we know so far and it is changing every day. Windows 11 looks at two main things and they are as follows: –

It checks if your current hardware system has something called TPM version 2. (Earlier versions are not supported.) What is TPM, well it is explained here? I have version 1.5 on my system.

The next thing it checks is your processor and it must be 8th generation or higher CPU. I have an i7 and it won’t install on it as it must be an older generation. Now being a green focussed guy I purchased my desktop last year as a refurbished machine and has an i7 and 32Gb of ram and a 480Gb SSD and can handle everything I throw at it. I won’t be changing my machine soon.

Work arounds, what are they and are they recommended?

Now you may have read about various workarounds and even Microsoft posted a link to give a workaround for the TPM check. It involves changing registry settings on the current machine and then running the install package from a downloaded ISO of Windows 11. Someone has also come up with a workaround for the CPU being a problem. Some people I know have managed to install even though Windows 11 said their system wasn’t compatible.

But, the big elephant in the room is that Microsoft even in their own article about the workaround for the TPM has said, “We do not recommend this as the system maybe become unstable and it may affect future updates.”

The problem with these specific workarounds is that when Windows 11 updates run in the future the system may become corrupted or even completely brick itself and the machine will have to be flattened and reinstalled with a system that works. So do these at your own risk.

So what are Microsoft playing at?

Answers on a postcard, please. They have copied Apple on the TPM front which ties the Operating System to the Hardware. But making the processor such a new version seems a bit ridiculous, as I can’t see larger organisations and even some smaller orgainsations I deal with replacing all their machines just to get Windows 11. The cost would be massive and very prohibitive. This would suggest that Microsoft is going to have to support Windows 10 well into the future until these organisations replace their machines with the later kit. I honestly think that Microsoft has lost the ball here and/or is playing a new card that we are all unsure of. They may be trying to force people to replace machines, they have rumored that Windows will become a Software as a service like Office 365, and in fact, they have that just now where you can purchase Microsoft 365 which includes the Operating System. How this will be affected by Windows 11 being so selective, for the people who have already purchased this I don’t know.

Here are a few other links that talk about the workarounds and some of the Windows 11 stuff. ( I do not recommend these, do them at your own risk)

TPM workaround, https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-shares-windows-11-tpm-check-bypass-for-unsupported-pcs/

CPU workaround, Check out this site.

Windows 11 causing problems with AMD processors, https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/6/22713310/windows-11-amd-ryzen-processors-performance-issues-software-update-october

Good luck out there folks

What is the key factor about adopting technology?

A question I am asked a lot is, “What technology should I be using?”

The better question would be why should I use that technology?

So, what is the point of this article.? It is all about what you need and what you do.

The technology of yesterday, is not the technology of tomorrow as it is changing so fast. This matters because of the reason that technology is changing. It is changing because of customer demand a lot of the time and the new technology helps users work smarter and not harder.

So, what are the key factors about adopting new technology?

The ultimate answer is you are the key factor, let me explain further: –

I could easily go into any of my clients and simply say here is the new tech and you need it now. This of course is a broad-brush approach and they may not need half of what I am telling them they need.

So, I never do that, I ask loads and I mean loads of questions. I need to get inside their heads and their business. My forte is that I keep an eye and focus on what is out there and can advise accordingly.

I try and establish the following: –

  1. What do you and your business do just now?
  2. What may you be doing in the shorter term?
  3. Where do you see things in the longer term?

This enables me to focus on exactly you do and how you currently are doing it.

I can then look at solutions that are there just now that may make your tasks smarter and with emerging tech, I can advise on when you should maybe put your toe in the water.

I.T. is an ever-changing horizon and you have your focus and business to run. So why not hand it over to someone who focusses on the tech and get them to advise on what may be beneficial for you.

So, the key factors about adopting technology is you and your team and business. I always start from that point.

Should old kit be abandoned?

laptop update
Old kit gets a new life

The current statistics shown that the sales of various tech is now down and that people aren’t eagerly awaiting to buy the latest thing.

There are various reasons for this and to put your finger in the one would be wrong.

But it begs the question about what we do with old kit? I have been recently taking 7 year old laptops that have still some very good kit on board and upgrading by adding a SSD drive to them.

What do we do with our computers?

We need to look at what we now do with computers: –

  • A few years ago all programmes were on the computer and so was the data until we backed it up
  • The Internet was growing fast and we are getting faster access.
  • So cloud storage became a thing and has grown over the last few years to an amazing level.
    • “According to recent research by Nasuni, there is over 1 Exabyte of data stored in the cloud, or: 1024 Petabytes of data. 1,073,741,824 Gigabytes of data. Quintillion bytes of data” This data was 2013. 6 years ago.
  • These figures don’t even make sense to us. To try and comprehend this amount of data and storage becomes something we can’t relate to.
  • Applications are also becoming more cloud driven and this will only increase over the next few years. SAAS. (Software As A Service). Office 365 is a well-known one. Google utilities, (G-suite), etc. Monthly subscriptions and the latest and greatest always at your fingertips.

So what does this mean?

Well, the strain is being taken off a lot of standalone machines as the storage needs to be less as all data goes to the cloud. (See article on using the cloud, here.)

The machines if they have a large amount of RAM and a fast SSD drive can boot up in anything from 4 seconds to 18 seconds. (The one I worked on recently booted up in 4 seconds)

So old kit can be slightly upgraded and cope very well with what you need it to do. Thus alleviating the direct need to buy the latest kit all the time.

What’s best for you?

Well, that really depends on how you operate and the things you need to achieve. But don’t immediately write off all your current kit. Maybe it is just better connections that you need or you need to think about the way you operate and see if there are ways it can be done better.

What are your thoughts on this?

Comment below.

Why do I recommend using Vanilla when installing Windows on machine?

technology

Why Vanilla?

We techie people like to have nice names for things and also some nice technobabble names for things. The word Vanilla has a rough meaning of the following: –

“Computer software, and sometimes also other computing-related systems like computer hardware or algorithms, are called vanilla when not customized from their original form, meaning that they are used without any customisations or updates applied to them. Vanilla software has become a widespread de facto industry standard, widely used by businesses and individuals. The term comes from the traditional standard flavour of ice cream, vanilla.  According to Eric S. Raymond’s The New Hacker’s Dictionary, “vanilla” means more “default” than “ordinary”

So what we mean is that when a vanilla copy of Windows 10 is installed onto a machine it is only Windows 10 with all its baggage and faults. We know that nothing else exists on the machine.

This, for us IT guys makes life easier for troubleshooting. If there are problems with the machine it can only be between Windows and the hardware as there is nothing else on the system at this point. Once we cure these and the system is running well and all seems to be operating the way we expect, we can then look at installing other programs and seeing how Windows talks to them. Each software install can have its own issues or it can simply work. Guess which one we like?

What is the alternative to a Vanilla Install?

Well, that sadly is what most of us do, thinking all will be well. “That accepting the update scenario.”

Here is the situation, you are running Windows 7 and all is well. It has been around for quite a while and all the patches and fixes have been out and installed. Your system is sweet. The Windows 10 comes out and promises a lot more, it’s faster, it’s better, you can do more and it works well.

Microsoft also offers it for free if you take it now, after that it will be charging….What do you do?

You click update and it downloads Windows 10. Oh’ the excitement of the new is always a draw, and surely it must be better, that is what they promised.

What could go wrong?

As with any installation you have to look at the foundation and what will the new Operating system be sitting on top off. Even though your computer seemed to running smoothly. Under the hood there may well have been issues that just didn’t surface. The software may have been compromising some operational items to get it all to work.

The adage we always like to use is, “If you have any issues or even minor bugs with the current system an update could cure them, but most likely it will just make them worse. A clean install and one that cures all the issues before any other apps are installed means that the foundation is correct and that issues after this are down to software conflicts of installed programs.”

Conclusion

I must be honest and I do believe that Windows 10 has some major bugs and a bit too much, what we call bloatware, (added items Microsoft think you need.)

I also believe however that some of the troubles people have had with Windows 10 on machines is because of the update option and not the flatten and fresh clean install option or vanilla install as I like to call it.

If you want to the latest and greatest operating system it is best to backup and flatten the machine. Then reinstall all the apps and connectivity. You will have a cleaner and more stable machine that you have had for a long time. Windows in itself becomes cluttered over the years with all the programs that have been installed and uninstalled leaving some fragments of files behind. So cleaning all this and installing is always the best option. I have done this to many machines last year and all are faster and getting the best performance they can. Windows also seems to update without any major faults.

If you want to talk about his or get me in to-do some of the above then get in touch or comment below.