IT Services

Cloud-backups

Microsoft’s New M365 Backup Service: A Paradigm Shift in Data Protection

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For years, Microsoft has been a proponent of utilising third-party services for backing up critical data such as emails, OneDrive files, and SharePoint documents. Despite the robust security and redundancy measures built into Microsoft 365 (M365), the inherent risks of data loss due to ransomware attacks or other unforeseen events have made third-party backups an essential part of a comprehensive data protection strategy. However, the landscape of data protection within the M365 ecosystem is poised to change with the introduction of Microsoft’s own M365 Backup service. Understanding the Need for Backups in the Cloud Microsoft 365, as an Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provider, offers a highly reliable platform for businesses to store and manage their data. However, the shared responsibility model in cloud computing delineates the boundaries of security obligations between the cloud provider and the customer. Microsoft ensures the availability and security of the infrastructure, but customers are responsible for their data. This distinction becomes crucial in scenarios such as ransomware attacks, accidental deletions, or other data corruption events. If data becomes encrypted or otherwise compromised, Microsoft does not retain a copy for disaster recovery purposes. Hence, the need for a reliable backup solution is undeniable. Microsoft’s Historical Stance on Third-Party Backup Solutions Historically, Microsoft has encouraged users to employ third-party backup services to mitigate these risks. Solutions from providers like Veeam, Barracuda, and Acronis have been popular choices, offering robust, dedicated backup and recovery capabilities tailored to M365 environments. These services have bridged the gap left by the native data retention features in M365, providing businesses with the confidence that their data can be restored in the event of a disaster. All our Managed it clients use one of these services to ensure the integrity of the data. The Advent of Microsoft’s M365 Backup Service With the launch of the M365 Backup service, Microsoft is entering the backup and recovery arena, offering an integrated solution designed to meet the specific needs of M365 users. This service promises to streamline data protection by leveraging the deep integration within the Microsoft ecosystem, providing several key benefits: Implications for Businesses The introduction of Microsoft’s M365 Backup service represents a significant shift in the data protection landscape. For businesses currently relying on third-party solutions, several considerations will come into play: Microsoft’s foray into providing a native M365 Backup service marks a notable evolution in its approach to data protection. By offering a built-in solution, Microsoft aims to simplify and enhance the way businesses safeguard their critical data within the M365 environment. While third-party solutions have been and will continue to be valuable, this new service provides an alternative that leverages the strengths of Microsoft’s integrated ecosystem. As businesses navigate this new option, they will need to weigh the benefits and align their strategies to ensure comprehensive data protection in an increasingly complex digital world.

cloud storage

choosing a business Cloud Storage Solution

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In today’s data-driven world, the importance of reliable data storage and recovery solutions cannot be overstated as users now seek secure and efficient storage solutions to manage their critical information. Cloud storage has emerged as an indispensable and versatile tool, offering a variety of services from different providers.In this blog we will explore leading cloud storage brands, conduct a cost comparison, outline the compelling reasons for their effectiveness in a business context, and help you make the best decision when choosing the solution that aligns with your required needs. Cloud Storage Providers Microsoft AzureMicrosoft Azure provides a pay-as-you-go pricing framework. Expenses are contingent on the services employed, storage capacity, and data transfers.– Noteworthy FeaturesAzure stands out for its seamless integration with Microsoft products, making it an attractive choice for businesses already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. It excels in hybrid cloud capabilities, enabling organisations to seamlessly combine on-premises and cloud resources while maintaining top-notch compliance and security features. Many businesses already using M365 for their mail, don’t realise they are already invested in Azure, and its simply a case of using the functionality they are already paying for. Amazon Web Services (AWS)AWS adopts a pay-as-you-go model, rendering it adaptable to businesses of all dimensions. Pricing fluctuates according to the specific services and storage preferences chosen.Noteworthy FeaturesAWS is known for its exceptional scalability, robust security measures, and a vast ecosystem of cloud services. This allows businesses to easily expand their infrastructure, ensuring data security, and access a wide array of cloud tools and solutions. Google CloudGoogle Cloud follows a pay-as-you-go system with competitive pricing. Costs are contingent upon the volume of data stored and data transfer.– Noteworthy FeaturesGoogle Cloud offers advanced analytics and machine learning capabilities, making it particularly appealing to data-driven businesses. It provides powerful tools for extracting insights from large datasets and leveraging machine learning algorithms to drive innovation. Dropbox BusinessDropbox Business presents tiered pricing structures, offering features such as file recovery and smart sync. Costs are predicated on the number of users and storage prerequisites.– Noteworthy FeaturesDropbox Business provides user-friendly file sharing and collaboration tools. It emphasises simplicity and ease of use, making it a popular choice for businesses looking for a straightforward and efficient file storage and sharing solution. Why Cloud Storage is EffectiveScalabilityCloud storage facilitates seamless scaling of storage requirements without the complexities associated with procuring and managing physical hardware.Cost EfficiencyCloud storage mitigates capital expenditure on infrastructure. With flexible pay-as-you-go models, businesses optimally manage costs in line with consumption.AccessibilityThe cloud enables remote data access, allowing for user’s access from anywhere in the worldSecurityLeading cloud providers invest in security measures, encompassing encryption and compliance certifications, assuring robust data protection.Data Backup and RecoveryMultiple data centres maintained by cloud storage providers ensure data redundancy and robust disaster recovery capabilities.Automatic Updates and MaintenanceInfrastructure maintenance and software updates are managed by cloud providers, liberating businesses from these responsibilities. Choosing the Right Cloud Storage for Your BusinessSmall Enterprises (1-50 Employees)We’d recommend you consider the storage solution alight with what mail you’re using. So for Microsoft M365 users, go OneDrive and SharePoint, and for Gmail users, go for Google Drive. Consider Dropbox Business or Google Cloud Storage for additional storage and their user-friendly interfaces and cost-effectiveness.Medium-Sized Companies (100-250 Employees)Microsoft Azure offers a balanced solution with hybrid cloud capabilities, while AWS provides scalability and an extensive service catalogue.Large Corporations (500+ Employees)For larger enterprises, AWS and Azure stand out due to their scalability, security features, and comprehensive service offerings.Data-Driven FirmsGoogle Cloud Storage is an excellent choice for advanced analytics and machine learning capabilities.Compliance-Oriented BusinessesMicrosoft Azure excel in compliance features, making them ideal for businesses with stringent regulatory requirements. Final thoughtsPicking the right cloud storage option depends on what you need, budget, and your future plans.Taking a close look at what each provider offers, how much it costs, and how easy it is to grow with them will help you the best choices that fits your organisation’s needs. So, it is a good idea to stay up to date with the newest choices and improvements to keep your business flexible and competitive in the digital world. For more information or a discussion with one of our team, get in touch.

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Streamlining Success: The Importance of Document Management for SME Buinesses

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Introduction:In today’s digital age, successful businesses must recognize the vital role of efficient document management. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK face unique challenges in handling their documents. Today’s blog emphasises the significance of effective document management for UK SMEs, providing valuable insights, facts, and figures that highlight the transformative power of streamlined document processes. Understanding Document Management:Effective document management involves organizing, storing, and tracking documents. It encompasses not only physical paperwork but also digital files, emails, invoices, contracts, and more.An efficient system ensures easy retrieval, enhanced collaboration, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Boosting Productivity with Streamlined Processes:Implementing a robust document management system can significantly enhance productivity for UK SMEs. By reducing the time spent searching for information and streamlining workflows, employees can focus on core tasks, leading to improved efficiency. Studies indicate that UK SMEs that embrace digital document management experience an average productivity increase of 20-25% compared to those relying on manual processes. Driving Cost Reductions through Efficiency:Document management systems drive substantial cost savings for UK SMEs. By eliminating the need for physical storage, reducing printing costs, and minimizing manual document handling, businesses can save on operational expenses. Research suggests that effective document management can result in cost reductions of up to 30% for UK SMEs, freeing up resources to invest in growth initiatives. Enhancing Collaboration for UK SMEs:Seamless collaboration is vital for the thriving of UK SMEs. Document management systems provide a central platform where employees can easily access, share, and collaborate on files. This fosters efficient teamwork, reduces communication barriers, and accelerates decision-making processes. According to a survey, UK businesses with effective document collaboration experience a 30% improvement in project completion times. Mitigating Risks with Effective Management:Proper document management is crucial for mitigating risks associated with data breaches, non-compliance, and legal challenges. UK SMEs often handle sensitive customer information and must adhere to data protection regulations. By implementing security measures like encryption, access controls, and regular backups, businesses can safeguard their documents and protect their reputation. Scaling for Growth with Flexible Solutions:As UK SMEs grow, their document management needs to evolve. A scalable document management system provides the flexibility to accommodate increased document volumes, additional users, and expanding operations. This adaptability ensures that as the business expands, document management processes can seamlessly support the growing demands. Leveraging Technology for Efficient Workflows:Modern document management systems leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). These technologies automate document categorization, data extraction, and indexing, reducing manual effort and improving accuracy. AI-powered optical character recognition (OCR) can convert scanned documents into editable text, enabling quick and efficient data retrieval. Key Takeaways:The significance of effective document management cannot be overstated for UK SMEs. Streamlining document processes through digital solutions not only improves productivity and collaboration but also reduces costs, mitigates risks, and supports growth. Embracing a comprehensive document management system equips UK SMEs with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive business landscape.

hybrid working

Cloud computing vs Local computing for businesses: Which one is right?

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In today’s digital age, technology plays an important role in driving efficiency, productivity, and growth. As a business owner, you need to choose between local computing, where your data and applications are hosted on your hardware, and cloud computing, where you access computing resources and applications via the internet. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each approach to help you make an informed decision. Local Computing Local computing, also known as on-premises computing, involves running your business applications and storing your data on your hardware. This could be a server in your office or a data centre you own and operate. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of local computing: Advantages:You have complete control over your data and applicationsYou can customize your IT infrastructure to suit your specific needsYou can keep your data and applications secure behind your firewall Disadvantages:You have to bear the cost of buying and maintaining your hardwareYou have to deal with software updates and security patches yourself Scaling your IT infrastructure can be a challenge if your business grows Cloud ComputingCloud computing involves accessing computing resources and applications over the internet from a third-party provider. You can choose between public cloud providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, or private cloud providers that offer cloud computing solutions designed for businesses. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of cloud computing: Advantages:You don’t have to buy or maintain your hardwareScalable based on your business needsYou can access your data from anywhere with an internet connection Disadvantages:You have to trust your cloud provider with your data and applicationsYou may have limited control over your IT infrastructureYou may have to pay for extra services or features you don’t need Which is right for your business?Choosing between cloud computing and local computing ultimately depends on your specific business needs and preferences. If you have the resources and expertise to manage your hardware and software, local computing might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you want to focus on your core business activities and don’t want to deal with IT infrastructure management, cloud computing might be the better option. When considering cloud computing, you should also consider the location of your cloud provider. UK businesses may prefer a UK-based cloud provider to ensure compliance with UK data protection laws like GDPR. In conclusion, both local computing and cloud computing have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your specific business needs. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve your business goals.

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Why your business needs a disaster recovery plan

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As a UK business owner, it’s crucial to prepare for unexpected events that could disrupt your operations, such as cyber-attacks, which can have a catastrophic impact on your business and its data. That’s why having a disaster recovery plan in place is essential. A disaster recovery plan is a pre-emptive approach that ensures your business can recover quickly and efficiently from any disaster or crisis. It’s a comprehensive document that outlines procedures and protocols to follow so that you don’t waste time figuring out what to do next. It covers every aspect of your business, from data backup to employee safety and customer communication. Here are some of the benefits your business can gain from having a recovery plan in place: Reduced downtime:One of the primary benefits of having a disaster recovery plan is that it minimizes downtime, which can be detrimental to your operations. A disaster recovery plan can help you minimize the time your business remains inactive, ensuring you can recover and return to normal operations. Data protectionAnother significant benefit of a disaster recovery plan is that it protects your data. Data is the lifeblood of any business, and losing it can be catastrophic. A disaster recovery plan ensures that all your critical data is backed up, so in the event of a disaster, you can quickly recover your data and resume your operations without much disruption. Business continuityA disaster recovery plan also ensures business continuity. Disruptions can be significant, and without a recovery plan, you risk losing customers and damaging your reputation. This is particularly important in today’s digital age, where customers expect businesses to be available 24/7. Regulation complianceCompliance with regulations is another critical aspect of having a disaster recovery plan. In the UK, businesses must comply with regulations like GDPR, which require companies to protect their data from potential breaches. A disaster recovery plan ensures that your business is regulation-compliant, avoiding potential legal issues in the future. This is especially important for businesses that handle sensitive data, such as financial or healthcare information. Peace of mindKnowing that your business is ready for any disaster means that you can focus on growing your business, knowing that if a crisis occurs, you have set plans to handle it effectively. Recovery plans are essential not just for business owners but also for employees. Who feel more secure knowing that their employer has a plan to protect them in the event of a disaster. ConclusionA disaster recovery plan is essential for any UK business owner. It ensures that your business can quickly recover from disruption, safeguarding your business, employees, and customers. Don’t wait until disaster strikes. Act now and get in touch today to develop a comprehensive disaster recovery plan to protect your business.

SharePoint Online

Benefits of using SharePoint online, building a cost effective Intranet within SMEs

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SharePoint Online is a cloud-based platform developed by Microsoft that provides a wide range of features to create, share, and manage content, collaborate with others, and automate business processes. One of the key advantages of SharePoint Online is that it allows businesses of all sizes to build a cost-effective Intranet, which is a private network that is only accessible to the employees of the organisation. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of using SharePoint Online to build an Intranet within Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

Firewall

Upgrading your Firewall

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A firewall is a crucial component of any small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) network security infrastructure. A firewall acts as a barrier between the internet and the internal network, protecting against unauthorized access, malware, and other cyber threats.

file retention

Benefits of Microsoft 365 File Retention policies

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Microsoft 365 is a comprehensive suite of cloud-based services and applications that offer numerous benefits to businesses and organizations of all sizes. One of the key features of Microsoft 365 is the file retention policy, which allows organisations to keep important data for a specified period of time. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of Microsoft 365 file retention policies and how they can help businesses to streamline their data retention and management processes.

Sophos Ranked 5-Star in CRN’s Partner Program Guide 2020

Cyber Security, IT Services / By

The Channel Company has announced its 2020 5-Star ratings, and Sophos is proud to be among this elite group. Every year, CRN’s Partner Program Guide is the definitive listing of partner programs. It reviews programs offered by technology companies providing products and services through the IT channel and identifies the most rewarding among them. A 5-Star rating means Sophos is among the best of the best in their partner programs. How is the 5-Star rating determined? The Channel Company’s research team analyzed each vendor’s partner program, scoring based on such key factors as: The team’s analysis of the Sophos Partner Program found it provides maximum value and support for solution providers. The reason Sophos is rated 5-Star is because of our partner program offerings, and we want to make sure you make the most of what we have available. Be sure to visit the Sophos Partner Portal where you’ll find: