Recently, a significant event shook the world of cybersecurity when a software update from CrowdStrike, a prominent US-based cybersecurity firm, inadvertently caused widespread disruption to computer systems globally. This incident has particular relevance to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that rely on such technologies to protect their digital assets. Here’s a breakdown of what happened and the broader implications for SMBs. 

Understanding the Incident 

CrowdStrike’s software, which operates deep within the Windows operating system at the kernel level—akin to the “core” of the OS—released an update that contained an unexpected error. This update included a file that was essentially empty, filled with zeros. Due to a bug in the software that operates within this core area, the processing of an empty file triggered a system crash. Since this component is crucial for the operating system’s overall functionality, the effect was immediate and severe: Windows systems crashed. 

The Impact on Global Systems 

The crash-inducing update spread globally. Most sources are saying approximately 8.5 million computers were affected worldwide. These systems, managed remotely in many cases, required physical intervention to resolve the issue— a logistical nightmare for IT teams, especially for businesses managing extensive networks possibly across different regions. 

Lessons for SMBs 

This incident underscores several vital lessons for SMBs: 

• Understanding Dependencies: SMBs often rely on third-party providers for security and IT management. It’s crucial to understand how these dependencies can affect operations. Knowing what software runs at critical levels of your infrastructure helps assess potential risks. 

• Emergency Preparedness: The need for physical intervention to fix the issue highlights the importance of having a robust emergency response plan that includes scenarios where remote management is not possible. 

• Software Updates Policy: While regular updates are crucial for security, having a controlled update process can mitigate risks. Testing updates in a controlled environment before widespread deployment can prevent potential disruptions. 

• Vendor Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication with vendors and understanding their update and escalation protocols can help in anticipating and preparing for changes that might impact your systems. 

Moving Forward 

For SMBs, the key takeaway is the importance of balance—between leveraging advanced security measures and maintaining operational readiness for unexpected issues. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role that cybersecurity providers play and the cascading effects that can arise from seemingly minor disruptions in their services. 

As we continue to integrate deeper and more complex systems into our business operations, the potential for significant disruptions increases. However, with careful planning, risk assessment, and by fostering robust security practices, SMBs can navigate these challenges effectively. 

This incident, while unfortunate, provides a valuable learning opportunity. It reminds us that in the world of cybersecurity, being prepared for the unexpected is not just an option; it’s a necessity. While CrowdStrike and other providers are undoubtedly staffed by competent professionals, errors can occur. It’s how we prepare for and respond to these errors that define our resilience in the face of cyber threats. 

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Imagine you’re on a tight deadline, racing against the clock to complete a critical project for your business. Suddenly, a technical issue emerges, threatening to derail your progress. These tech issues can cost a business $4,072 per Annum per Person.

Frustration sets in as you desperately seek assistance. In such moments, two unsung heroes emerge – IT Support vs Help Desk.

These two pillars of technical assistance often work behind the scenes, but their roles are pivotal in ensuring that businesses run smoothly in the digital age.

In this blog, we’ll embark on a journey to understand the nuances of IT Support vs. Help Desk, uncovering what sets them apart and why both are indispensable in today’s tech-driven world.

IT Support vs Help Desk: Key Differences

IT Support and Help Desk might seem interchangeable at first glance, but they serve distinct purposes within an organization. Let’s dissect these differences.

1. Primary Function

IT Support: IT Support teams are primarily responsible for providing technical expertise and addressing customer technical issues. They focus on solving complex technical problems and ensuring that technology-related aspects of products or services run smoothly.

Help Desk: Help Desk, on the other hand, acts as a single point of contact for customers who encounter issues or need assistance. Their core function is to handle service requests, incident management, and problem-solving with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction.

2. Scope of Work

IT Support: IT Support teams often delve into in-depth technical troubleshooting. They possess a deep knowledge of the products or services offered and are equipped to solve complex technical challenges.

Help Desk: Help Desk teams excel in addressing a wide range of customer inquiries. While they may not possess the same level of technical expertise as IT Support, they excel in knowledge management and efficient routing of issues to the appropriate teams.

3. Technical Expertise

IT Support: Technical expertise is the cornerstone of IT Support. These teams consist of experts who can tackle intricate technical problems efficiently.

Help Desk: While not as technically specialized as IT Support, Help Desk professionals possess a broad understanding of common technical issues and are adept at guiding customers through troubleshooting steps.

4. Tools and Software

IT Support: IT Support often utilizes advanced technical tools and software to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues. They may also be responsible for maintaining and upgrading technology infrastructure.

Help Desk: Help Desk relies on service desk software to manage and track customer inquiries. This software streamlines the process of addressing customer requests and ensures efficient communication within the support team.

Help Desk vs IT Support: What They Do

IT Support

IT Support teams play a pivotal role in maintaining the technical backbone of an organization. They provide the necessary technical support to internal and external customers, ensuring that products or services function without hiccups. Their responsibilities include:

• Solving complex technical problems.
• Managing and upgrading technology infrastructure.
• Ensuring the smooth operation of products or services.
• Addressing customer inquiries related to technical issues.

Help Desk

Help Desk teams serve as the first line of defense when customers encounter issues. They are the face of customer service, and their responsibilities include:

• Handling service requests promptly.
• Managing incident reports and escalations.
• Providing step-by-step guidance for problem resolution.
• Routing technical issues to the appropriate teams.
• Maintaining knowledge bases for efficient issue resolution.

Helpdesk vs Service Desk: Why are They Both Important?

The coexistence of IT Support and Help Desk is crucial for several reasons:

Efficiency: IT Support can focus on complex technical challenges, while Help Desk efficiently manages a wide range of customer inquiries.

Customer Satisfaction: Help Desk’s customer-centric approach ensures that customers receive immediate assistance and guidance, leading to higher satisfaction levels.

Issue Resolution: The synergy between IT Support and Help Desk results in faster and more effective issue resolution, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity.

Knowledge Management: Help Desk’s knowledge management capabilities enable them to maintain up-to-date information for issue resolution, benefiting both teams.

Streamlined Communication: The collaboration between these teams streamlines communication and ensures that issues are addressed by the right experts.

Helpdesk vs. IT Support Breakdown:

IT Support vs Help Desk: Experience the Best of Both Worlds With Executech

The symbiotic relationship between the helpdesk & support team ensures efficient issue resolution, enhances customer satisfaction, and ultimately propels businesses forward.

Why settle for less when you can partner with a proven leader? Executech, with over 20 years of experience, a dedicated team of 146 IT technicians, and an impressive 15-minute support ticket response time, has earned the trust of 689 companies.

Ready to elevate your IT support? Reach out to Executech for a free consultation today.

The post Helpdesk vs IT Support: What They Do (and Why Both Are Essential) appeared first on Executech.

According to an Orange Matter report, the average cost of an unplanned IT outage can be as high as $9,000 per minute. Time truly is money when it comes to downtime, and if your business was offline for an hour, you would stand to lose $540,000.

“There is more to understanding the true cost of IT support than just dollars and cents,” notes James Fair, Senior Security Architect for Executech. “It’s about ensuring you have a strong support system in place to help you return to work without incident.”

With so many pricing options and service models available to choose from, it becomes difficult to determine what the average cost of IT support services is. In this article, we’ll examine small business IT support pricing to help you narrow down your options and make the right choice.

Why Businesses Are Turning to Outsourced IT Support Vs. In-House Teams

Cost and complexity–those are two of the primary drivers of IT outsourcing today.

Managing an in-house IT team can be resource-intensive, requiring full-time salaries, benefits, and ongoing training. With IT salaries topping six figures on average, maintaining an IT team in-house is becoming financially prohibitive for small and large businesses alike. That’s not even counting the high turnover in IT staff because people get bored and leave.

The increasing complexity of modern IT systems—with the need to manage cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, and more—often demands specialized expertise that an in-house team might not possess. This growing complexity makes it challenging for small to medium-sized businesses to maintain an up-to-date and versatile in-house IT department.

Managed IT services offer a more scalable solution, allowing businesses to pay for only the services they need when they need them. This flexibility can translate to significant cost savings, especially for small businesses operating on tighter budgets.

A Market On the Move

The IT support services market is on the move, and primed for long-term growth. In 2022, the global professional services market was valued at $821.58 billion, and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% from 2023 to 2030.

One of the main reasons for this growth is the shift in customer demand for elements such as customized pricing and an improved customer service experience. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the industry to work remotely and adjust their business strategies accordingly.

Source: Grand View Research

Factors Influencing the Cost of IT Support

Scope of Services

Whether you’re looking for on-site or remote support, the services you require will directly influence the price. Ask yourself the following question: do you need someone available 24/7, or just during regular business hours?

Expertise and Experience

The average cost of IT support services can vary based on the provider’s expertise. Specialized support often comes at a premium, but the peace of mind and quality of service can be worth the investment.

Size and Complexity of Your IT Infrastructure

From the number of devices and servers to specialized software needs, the complexity of your IT setup can significantly influence your IT support costs.

Understanding IT Support Pricing Models

Comparison Table: IT Support Pricing Models

Now that you understand the factors that influence IT support pricing, let’s take a look at some of the different pricing models used by IT support service providers.

Per Hour or Per Incident

This model is often referred to as break-fix. You only pay when you need support, making it a cost-effective option for some. However, the average cost for IT support per hour can be higher in this model than in a retainer or managed service agreement.

Break-fix tends to be a one-time cost, usually ranging from $120 to $300 per hour, and is subject to the availability of the provider.

Monthly or Annual Retainers

With this pricing model, you pay a monthly fee for a set number of hours or incidents. It provides you with predictability, ensuring that they know what you’ll expect to pay each month.

On average, monthly retainers start at around $1,500 per month and generally cover around 8-10 hours of support per business. The hourly rate is generally between $125 to $250, depending on your provider’s qualifications and the complexity of your IT environment.

Managed IT Services

This is a comprehensive model where you pay a flat fee for all of your IT needs. It often includes remote monitoring, disaster recovery, and proactive maintenance, ensuring your tech support is always a step ahead.

Managed services tend to bill per user, device, or server with rates ranging from $75 to $200 for businesses with less than 100 users. Companies that have 100 or more users can expect rates of $50 and $180.

Additional Costs to Be Aware Of

In addition to charging for support services, your provider may be some additional costs you should consider:

Training and Onboarding

Integrating a new support team into your operations can come with its own costs, both in time and resources.

Specialized Tools or Software

While some tools might be included in your service package, others might come at an additional cost, especially if multiple licenses are required. Always clarify this with your provider.

The ROI of Investing in Quality IT Support

Consider the potential costs of not having adequate IT support. From lost sales due to website outages to the immeasurable cost of data breaches, skimping on IT can be a costly mistake.

Investing in quality tech support not only ensures smooth day-to-day business operations but also prepares you for any unforeseen challenges.

Lower Your IT Support Costs By Partnering With Executech

Understanding the average cost of IT support for small business is crucial for budgeting and ensuring you’re getting the best value for your money. As the digital landscape continues its evolution, having access to reliable IT support is no longer a luxury but a necessity.

If you’re looking for reliable outsourced IT support, we can help. Executech is a leading IT support provider, offering tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Trusted by more than 689 businesses, our IT support services are backed by a 15-minute average response time and a 98% customer satisfaction rating.

Stop losing valuable time, money, resources, and productivity to recurring IT issues. Contact us today for more information about our IT support pricing and to schedule a consultation.

The post Estimating the IT Support Cost for Small Business appeared first on Executech.

Failure to protect your cloud environment leads to dire situations. Data breaches and other types of cyber attacks have forced 60% of small businesses to close down within six months because they cannot properly recover from cybercrime.

“Ignoring cloud security is like leaving your front door wide open in a neighborhood known for burglaries,” says James Fair, Senior Security Architech for Executech. “It’s not a matter of if, but when disaster will strike.”

The good news is that there is a solution, and it comes in the form of cloud security. Read on to have the question: “What is cloud security?” answered and get some actionable insights to protect your cloud environments, data, applications, and more from evolving cyber threats.

What is Cloud Computing Security?

When you move your data and applications to the cloud, you’re not just shifting them to another computer. You’re entrusting them to a complex system that requires specialized security measures.

Cloud security is a set of policies, controls, and technologies designed to protect data, applications, and the associated cloud infrastructure.

It’s more than just traditional network security or data security; it’s a specialized field that addresses unique challenges associated with virtualized environments.

Why Should You Care About Cloud Security?

The stakes are high. Security issues like data breaches and unauthorized access can cripple organizations.

According to Astra, the global annual cost of cybercrime in 2023 is $8 trillion . That amount is expected to grow to $10.5 trillion by 2025 , an increase of 15%.

Key Features of Cloud Security: Your First Line of Defense

1. Data Encryption

Encrypting your data makes it unreadable to anyone without the decryption key. This is a fundamental aspect of what is data security in cloud computing.

2. Identity and Access Management (IAM)

Control who can do what within your cloud environment. Access control and multi-factor authentication are crucial.

3. Firewalls and Intrusion Detection

These security features protect against external security threats by monitoring any incoming or outgoing traffic from your network. They also determine whether to allow or prevent certain types of traffic based on established security rules.

4. Regular Audits and Monitoring

A lack of visibility can be fatal for your business. Regular checks and audits are essential for identifying vulnerabilities and taking steps to remedy or eliminate them.

Cloud Security Challenges: What You’re Up Against

Despite the many benefits it offers, you may face some challenges regarding cloud security. Here are some examples.

1. Complexity

Understanding infrastructure security in cloud computing can be challenging due to multi-cloud and hybrid cloud architectures.

2. Compliance

Regulations like GDPR and HIPAA impose additional security responsibilities. If you operate a business within a highly regulated industry, failure to comply with standards and regulations can result in fines, sanctions, legal issues, and reputational damage

3. Cost

Effective cloud security can be expensive, but it is a necessary investment in the future of your data protection strategy.

Best Practices: What You Can Do to Improve Cloud Security

It’s one thing to have dependable cloud security in place, but it’s another to ensure it follows best practices. Here’s a look at some of the best practices that should be a part of your cloud security strategy.

1. Update Your Security Protocols

Make sure your business stays up-to-date with the latest security controls, especially as attack vectors continue to evolve.

2. Employee Training

Educate your team about the different types of cloud security threats and what they can do to prevent them.

3. Choose Trusted Providers

Look for providers that specialize in specific areas, such as cloud workload security, or who have industry-specific cloud computing expertise.

Essential Cloud Security Features and Their Importance

What is Cloud Security? Find Out With Expert Support From Executech

Understanding what is cloud computing security is crucial for any organization that values its data and applications. If you’re looking to implement a new cloud security strategy for your business or need help enhancing an existing one, our team is ready to assist you.

Executech is a leading provider of comprehensive cloud security services , offering top-notch data protection, network security, migration support, identity and access management (IAM), and more.

Don’t leave your cloud environment vulnerable or your protection up to chance. Contact us today for more information and to schedule a free consultation.

The post What is Cloud Security? What You Need to Know appeared first on Executech.

A recent study by Gartner reports that 80% of small to mid-sized businesses experience significant operational disruption due to inadequate IT support. A critical decision confronting these enterprises is the choice between managed IT services vs the break-fix model.

To put it succinctly, [Executech Leadership Person] once said, “In the digital age, the right IT support model isn’t a luxury. It’s a critical business decision impacting efficiency and productivity.”

In this blog, we will break down the difference between these two popular models of handling IT issues and allow you to decide which one could be right for you.

Breaking Down the Break-Fix Model

The break-fix model can be understood as an IT version of an emergency room, responding to critical issues as they arise.

Your company experiences an IT issue, calls a technician, they fix the problem, and then you get billed for the time spent rectifying the issue.

Perils of the Break-Fix Approach

While the break-fix model may seem convenient, it is inherently reactive. Your business is vulnerable to unexpected downtime, and costs can rapidly escalate with each incident.

A Ponemon Institute study reveals that unplanned downtime costs $11,000 per minute, signifying a substantial financial burden.

Making Clear the Merits of Managed IT Services

On the other hand, managed IT services operate like a personal IT department for your business.

A service provider proactively monitors your systems, anticipating and addressing problems before they escalate into crises. The model is based on a predictable monthly fee, which includes maintenance, monitoring, and support.

Why Managed Services Reign Supreme

Managed IT services offer a host of benefits, including reducing risks, predictable budgeting, and access to a team of IT experts.

But the most crucial advantage is the proactive approach that these services offer. In a world where the average lifespan of a business-critical application is merely three years (source: IDC), proactive support can be the difference between thriving and simply surviving.

Navigating from Break-Fix to Managed IT Services

The shift from break-fix to managed IT services might seem daunting, but the benefits outweigh the challenges.

Start by assessing your current IT needs, resources, and budget. Then, find a managed IT service provider that matches your specific needs and helps you transition smoothly.

Managed IT Services vs Break-Fix: A Comparison Table

The following table outlines their main distinguishing features to provide a clear and concise perspective on the pivotal choice between Managed Services vs Break-Fix. This comparison serves as a guide to help you understand each approach’s advantages and potential drawbacks.

This comparison underscores the strategic advantages of Managed IT Services over the Break-Fix model. While Break-Fix might be appropriate for isolated incidents, Managed IT Services provide a holistic and proactive strategy, catering to your broader IT needs.

This comparison affirms the need for businesses to thoughtfully consider their choice in light of their long-term objectives and operational efficiency. Remember, proper IT support isn’t just a service; it’s an investment in your business’s future.

Explore Managed Services as an Option with Executech as Your Dedicated IT Partner

In conclusion, choosing between break-fix vs managed services comes down to choosing between a reactive and proactive approach. With their comprehensive support and cost-effectiveness, managed services present a more viable option for most businesses.

Here at Executech, we exemplify these benefits, offering tailor-made IT solutions that drive business efficiency and productivity.

Don’t leave your IT needs to chance. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore how our managed IT services can empower your business.

The post Break-Fix vs Managed Services: The Differences You Need to Know appeared first on Executech.

A fact that is made all the more staggering when you consider the sheer market growth of the IT consulting sector in the U.S . 

And since most businesses are not experts in IT and do not have the time or resources to manage everything themselves, that’s exactly where an IT consultant comes in. Because an IT consultant can help your business by providing expert advice and support, as well as implementing and managing your IT systems. 

In this blog post, we will discuss the 10 benefits of hiring IT consultants that every business should leverage.

What Exactly is IT Consulting and What Services Do They Usually Offer?

IT consulting is a type of consulting service that helps businesses with their technology-related needs. 

IT consultants specialize in various areas, such as network engineering, software development, database administration, and security. They can help your business improve its efficiency and operations through cost-effective solutions that are tailored to your specific requirements.

The services provided by an IT consultant often include: 

•  Setting up and managing networks
•  Supporting existing hardware and software 
•  Designing new systems or applications 
•  Developing plans for improving existing systems 
•  Integrating new technologies into the organization’s infrastructure 
•  And security audits to identify weaknesses in the system 

The 10 Major Benefits of IT Consulting Services

To better help you understand how the benefits of IT consulting can help you better achieve your business goals , remain competitive and overall improve the day-to-day performance of your information technology , here are the top 10 benefits of hiring an IT consulting service (as offered by most managed services ):

1. Reduced Costs

IT consulting services can help you save money by providing cost-effective solutions to your IT problems. By leveraging their expertise, you’ll be able to resolve issues quickly and efficiently, often at a fraction of the cost compared to hiring an in-house team.

2. Improved Efficiency

With the right IT consultants on board, you can improve your business’s efficiency and productivity by streamlining operations with more effective systems and applications.

3. Increased Expertise

Hiring an experienced IT consultant can give you access to high levels of expertise that would not have been available without such a specialist.

4. Increased Flexibility

With the ever-changing landscape of technology, having an experienced IT consultant can help your business stay on top of trends and make the most out of new opportunities.

5. Scalability

Hiring an IT consultant can provide you with scalability options that can help your business grow, as well as adjust to changing market conditions. 

6. Faster Implementation of Technology and Business Processes

With an experienced IT consultant on board, you can get new systems and applications implemented faster since they have the expertise and resources available to assist with such projects. 

7. Improved Security

IT consulting firms can help you strengthen your security measures and identify potential risks so that they are addressed before they become a problem.

8. Cost Savings & Risk Mitigation

By outsourcing certain tasks or services to an IT consulting company , you’ll be able to save time and money while also reducing the risk of recurring technology failure. 

9. Updated Knowledge

An IT consultant can provide you with up-to-date knowledge of the latest technology solutions and trends, which can be invaluable when developing a competitive edge in your industry.

10. Strategic Advice

Last but not least, an IT consultant can offer strategic advice that can help you improve your overall business performance for the long term and help business owners make more informed decisions.

Summing Up the Major Benefits of IT Consulting for Businesses

As you can see, an experienced IT consultant is worth their weight in gold for businesses looking to leverage the benefits of technology to gain a competitive advantage (as well as the peace of mind that comes along with knowing you’re making the most informed decisions possible).. 

Not only do they bring with them a wealth of experience and expertise, but they are also able to provide cost-effective solutions that are tailored to your specific needs.

Enjoying the Benefits of Hiring an IT Consulting Service with Executech

At Executech, we’re a leading IT consulting firm that specializes in providing end-to-end solutions for businesses of all sizes. 

With a team of highly experienced and knowledgeable consultants, we will provide you with the expertise and resources to help improve your operations and efficiency while also reducing costs. From networking to cloud services, we have the industry knowledge to ensure that your business has the best technology in place to meet its needs. 

Get in touch today to learn more about how Executech can help your business succeed!

The post Exploring the 10 Most Essential Benefits of IT Consulting for Businesses appeared first on Executech.

Want to listen instead?

We want to raise general awareness around a recent Microsoft SharePoint Phishing Scam that has been on the rise recently. What makes this scam so concerning is just how difficult it is to catch unless you know what to look for.

The attack starts via a specially crafted email. The email message appears to be a legitimate file share from a legitimate source (often coming from a compromised partner’s account to lend credibility). Here is a screenshot of the exact email we encountered, but there are many variations:

Although the link takes the user to a different domain than the originating sender, clicking the link takes you to a legitimate SharePoint site:

The attempt to harvest credentials (steal passwords and 6-digit multi-factor authentication codes) takes place when an unsuspecting user clicks the “View document” link shown above (or something similar in other cases).

The potential victim is then taken to what appears to be a legitimate O365 login page, which prompts for credentials. As the link originated from a legitimate SharePoint site, email security filtering technology trusts it, and it seems to the user to be a valid prompt for their credentials. Furthermore, the original email often comes from a trusted partner whose account has been compromised, which makes it even more difficult to detect.

Unfortunately, the redirected site is, in fact, a method of credential harvesting by attackers. When the victim enters their credentials, including MFA code, the attackers then immediately use that information to log in to the victim’s own 365 tenant gaining access.

In order to protect against this type of attack, we recommend the following:

• Be wary of unexpected shared SharePoint files/folders. Consider contacting the sender to confirm they shared the SharePoint link with you.
• Be diligent in inspecting website addresses before entering any credentials or accepting a downloaded file.
• Consider branding your organization’s O365 sign-in page and letting users know not to enter credentials on non-branded pages.
• Consider using push authentication with number matching through the Authenticator app for multi-factor authentication (MFA) (disallow 6 digit codes via text or app). This alone would mitigate this attack.
• We block sign ins from non-Azure AD-Joined Windows machines which significantly helps mitigate the risk.
• Consider blocking non-US top-level domains with Sophos Web Control (recent examples have resulted in pages hosted at URLs ending in .ru (Russia), for example).
• Please share this attack scenario with your employees for awareness.

Stay Secure!

The post Microsoft SharePoint Phishing Scam appeared first on Executech.

Plus, the state government offers considerable support for any tech businesses wishing to open up in the state, making it a prime location for startups.

In this blog post, we will discuss five of these top tech companies in Utah and how they use technology to their advantage. We will also explore how each company could benefit from having a managed IT service provider handling their IT needs.

The 5 Biggest Tech Companies in Utah (and How they Use IT)

Here is our breakdown of the 5 largest tech companies in Utah and how they use IT to find new ways to succeed every day:

1. Quickbase

Quickbase is revolutionizing the way businesses and IT teams can interact, giving them the opportunity to create and manage powerful applications with a minimum of technical hassle. 

Equipped with tools for tracking application development, as well as providing real time, actionable insights into operations and ensuring total enterprise-grade security and governance, Quickbase allows organizations in supply chain, CRM, field service, project management and more to scale up their work at an enterprise level. Boasting expansive capabilities that are easy to set up and use, it’s not hard to understand why Quickbase is becoming such a popular choice amongst businesses worldwide.

For any business creating innovative applications, having the right network support in Utah would be an incredible benefit, and indeed, almost a necessity.

2. Atomic

Atomic Financial has revolutionized the way both employers and employees manage payroll and banking.

Employees no longer need to worry about bank account changes due to location shifts, or other issues such as fraud. With Atomic’s suite of tools, employers are now able to quickly deposit payments and verify income & employment status in a secure, automated fashion. On top of that, users can easily transfer credit balances into a new account without any extra hassle.

Atomic has created a streamlined environment for all stakeholders, reducing the amount of friction in their onboarding processes in order to increase efficiency.

To ensure their customer data is protected and meet all the required data security regulations imposed by state and local governments, many businesses of Atomic’s size make use of Utah cybersecurity services to cement their information security.

3. Overstock.com

Overstock.com is quickly becoming one of the most popular online retailers of the 21st century – and for good reason.

Located in southern Utah, they offer a vast selection of products including home decor, pet supplies, jewelry and clothing. Not only do they provide shoppers with top-quality items, but at prices lower than most other outlets. To make purchases even more affordable, they regularly host daily sales and discounts as opposed to seasonal sales.

Since its humble beginnings in 1999, Overstock.com has continued to expand by acquiring five other organizations, such as SpeedRoute and Houserie furthering its mission to provide customers with the best possible shopping experience.

For any major shopping experience provider, having third-party IT outsourcing in Utah would help greatly in mitigating sudden IT issues and ensuring all of their technology works when they need it to.

4. Ancestry.com

Ancestry.com is an incredible resource that has delivered truly life-changing experiences to millions of people around the world.

Located in Lehi, Utah, this powerhouse company offers a range of at-home DNA testing kits that allow people to explore their family heritage, as well as gain valuable health and wellness insights. Going beyond their Utah headquarters, Ancestry.com now has satellite offices in Dublin, London, Sydney, Denver and San Francisco – providing more individuals with access to this powerful technology.

Truly committed to its mission of “empowering journeys of personal discovery” wherever they are located on the globe, Ancestry.com continues to provide meaningful results one test at a time.

And for when pesky recurring issues crop up to threaten everyday people discovering their ancestry, having an IT Helpdesk Service in Utah makes resolving those issues a breeze.

5. Executech

Executech is an award-winning managed IT services provider with a goal to improve lives, organizations, and communities through technology. Our innovative vision is to become the largest and most trusted IT partner in the Western U.S. In pursuit of this goal, we have built a suite of services that set us apart from competitors.

We provide fast, informed IT support; advanced cybersecurity defense; cloud services tailored to your needs; and more. With our commitment to customer service excellence and dedication to finding creative solutions for all kinds of tech issues – large or small – Executech stands with any business looking for superior quality in managed IT services.

Using IT Like the 5 Big Tech Companies in Utah with Executech as Your MSP

In the same way that some of the large tech companies in Utah have leveraged outsourced IT services to become more successful, businesses of all sizes can do the same with Executech.

We provide a full suite of managed IT services and third-party solutions that are tailored to your unique needs. From cloud hosting, cybersecurity defense, and 24/7 helpdesk support to VoIP communication systems, digital transformation consulting, and custom software development – we offer it all.

At Executech we believe in providing cost-effective solutions that maximize user productivity while keeping information secure – no matter what size business you are or where you are located in the Western U.S.. So don’t hesitate – contact us today and put our IT experts to work for you.

The post The 5 Top Tech Companies in Utah to Watch Out for, and How They Use IT to Keep Their Edge appeared first on Executech.

In 2021, Spokane welcomed 9.5 million visitors to partake in various cultural events around the city. This resulted in $1.2 billion in visitor spending while creating 16,340 new local jobs.

Whether you enjoy jamming out to rock and roll, hip hop , country music , or dance music , Spokane music festivals offer something for people of all musical tastes.

But while the tunes are playing, it’s important to keep your personal data protected. With more than 2,200 cyber attacks occurring daily and nearly 95% of them being the result of human error, the last thing you want is for your musical experience to end on a sour note.

In this article, we’ll take a look at five of the best Spokane music festivals . We’ll also provide some helpful tips on how music lovers can protect their data while enjoying these exciting events.

Unleash Your Inner Music Lover at These 5 Music Festivals in Spokane

1. Tinnabulation Music Festival

Held annually in September, the Tinnabulation Music Festival is an exciting three-day event celebrating the best of indie, alternative, and pop music.

This festival takes place at Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane, providing a breathtaking backdrop for fantastic live performances. With over 50 bands performing on multiple outdoor stages , the Tinnabulation Music Festival showcases both local and international talent.

Food trucks, local vendors, and interactive art installations enhance the experience, making it one of the most popular summer music festivals in Spokane .

2. Volume Music Festival

The Volume Music Festival is a two-day event that takes place every June and features the best of Spokane’s local music scene .

With over 100 bands performing in various venues throughout downtown Spokane, music lovers will enjoy a diverse mix of genres, including rock, hip-hop, electronic, and more.

As one of the biggest Spokane summer music festivals , the Volume Music Festival is perfect for those who want to discover the up-and-coming talent in the Pacific Northwest and enjoy an immersive music experience in the heart of Spokane.

3. MusicFest Northwest

MusicFest Northwest is a week-long annual celebration of live music , showcasing talented musicians across various genres.

Founded in 1945, it combines the excitement of a music festival with the prestige of a competitive showcase. Participants, ranging from young talents to seasoned performers, compete in classical, jazz, and contemporary music categories.

MusicFest Northwest is not only a delightful experience for music lovers , but also a platform for musicians to gain recognition, earn scholarships, and enhance their musical journey in a supportive and inspiring environment.

4. Sasquatch Music Festival

While not technically in Spokane, the Sasquatch Music Festival at the Gorge Amphitheatre in George, Washington is well worth the two-hour drive.

Held annually in May, this three-day festival features a lineup of some of the biggest names in the music industry, with acts covering rock, indie, hip hop , electronic and dance music performances.

The Gorge Amphitheatre ’s location on the Columbia River provides a spectacular background to a truly memorable concert experience. Music camping options are available on-site, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festival’s atmosphere.

5. Festival at Sandpoint

Another nearby music festival worth mentioning is the Festival at Sandpoint, located in Sandpoint, Idaho, which is just a two-hour drive from Spokane.

This unique eight-day festival takes place every August and showcases a mix of classical, jazz, blues, and contemporary music.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Pend Oreille, the Festival at Sandpoint offers a more laid-back and intimate concert experience with live music performances held under the stars on various outdoor stages .

The Importance of Data Protection at Summer Music Festivals in Spokane

As the cyber threat landscape continues to expand, it is crucial to protect your personal data while attending electronic music festivals in Spokane .

With the increased use of smartphones, social media, and electronic payment options, the risk of data breaches, identity theft, and digital fraud is higher than ever before.

According to data from ProofPoint, 33% of Americans have fallen victim to some form of identity theft, with credit card fraud being the most common kind. In particular, people aged between 30 and 39 were the most common identity theft targets.

To protect your data while attending music festivals in Spokane , follow these helpful tips:

1. Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and enable two- or multi-factor authentication methods.
2. Avoid using public Wi-Fi, as hackers can easily intercept your data. Use a VPN if you need to connect to a public network.
3. Be cautious when downloading festival apps and granting them access to your information.
4. Be aware of potential phishing scams or malicious links when purchasing tickets or merchandise online or while using social media.
5. Download and install an antivirus app on your mobile device and update it regularly to prevent viruses and other types of attacks.
6. Never leave your device (or devices) unattended, as they could easily be liable to theft.

Partner With the MSP Spokane Music Festivals Depend On

There’s a reason why music lovers enjoy attending the many rock, country music , hip hop , and electronic music festivals in Spokane . Each one delivers an unforgettable musical experience tailored to their favorite genres, featuring a wide range of established and up-and-coming artists.

Whether you are organizing or plan on attending music festivals in Spokane this weekend , protecting your data and personal information from loss, corruption, and theft is crucial. If you need to step up your data protection strategy, our experts are ready to assist you.

For over 20 years, Executech has helped some of the best Spokane music festivals and their attendees secure their data with cutting-edge tools, in-depth risk assessments, and executive-level cybersecurity consulting.

Refocus your digital protection efforts by partnering with us for cybersecurity services you can trust. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our cybersecurity team.

The post 5 Top Music Festivals in Spokane and How to Protect Your Data appeared first on Executech.

As one of the largest cities in Washington State, Seattle is home to a booming tourism industry. Despite the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the city welcomed 9.4 million unique visitors, nearly doubling the low of 4.6 million seen in 2020.

In addition, the city’s total peer downtown visitors ranked fourth among major U.S. cities, with 91% in 2022 as compared to 2019.

Live music lovers will find no end of musical entertainment in Seattle year-round. From the Bumbershoot Festival to the Upstream Music Fest and the Capitol Hill Block Party, each event offers unique performances and something for everyone to enjoy.

Not only do the top Seattle music festivals showcase incredible performances from renowned artists, they also make innovative use of technology to enhance festival-goers’ experiences. While this technology offers many conveniences, issues such as unprotected systems or WiFi connections can place attendees’ sensitive information at risk.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at five of the top music festivals in Seattle and provide some cybersecurity tips that can make your musical experience a safer one.

The Top 5 Seattle Music Festivals

1. Capitol Hill Block Party

A fixture since 1997, the Capitol Hill Block Party is among the best Seattle music festivals. It takes over the Capitol Hill neighborhood each summer and features some of the best local and national acts in genres like indie rock, hip hop, electronic dance music, and more.

The festival is always a major draw because it provides an eclectic mix of music, art and culture. It is renowned for its diverse lineup of artists that includes up-and-coming acts and many popular headliners.

But there’s more to this festival than its variety of live performances. It also features art installations, food trucks, exciting after parties, and other special events designed to keep attendees engaged.

2. Bumbershoot

Bumbershoot is Seattle’s longest-running annual music, comedy and arts festival held at the Seattle Center. Founded in 1971, the four-day event takes place over Labor Day weekend and has become one of the most widely-attended summer music festivals in Seattle.

Bumbershoot is well known for its eclectic mix of musical acts that span all genres. From alternative rock artists to electronic DJs and indie songwriters, this family-friendly festival has something for everyone.

While the live music performances are the focal point of Bumbershoot, it also features comedy showcases, interactive art displays and unique food vendors from around Seattle.

3. Belltown Bloom Festival

The Belltown Bloom Festival is Seattle’s annual celebration of urban music and culture. Founded in 2009, the festival takes place every summer in Seattle’s iconic Belltown neighborhood.

The lineup usually consists of indie, hip hop, funk and soul artists from Seattle and across the United States, making it one of the top Seattle summer music festivals.

Belltown Bloom is also well known for its mix of music, art and culture. Along with various live performances, the festival also includes interactive art installations, food vendors, and even scavenger hunts that are sure to strike a chord with attendees.

4. Beyond Wonderland Seattle

If you are an electronic dance music fan, Beyond Wonderland is the event for you. Since its start in 2012, the annual event has become one of the top Seattle electronic music festivals and a major destination for some of the best national and international DJs.

The lineup for this electronic music festival in Seattle usually includes genres such as house, techno, trance, dubstep, and more. In addition to the major performances, you’ll find DJs spinning at multiple stages, captivating art exhibits, and many good vibes that stay in tune with the Alice in Wonderland theme.

5. Timber! Outdoor Music Festival

Combine a musical gathering with a fun-filled exploration of the great outdoors, and you get the Timber! Outdoor Music Festival.

Timber! was founded in 2012 and takes place at Tolt-MacDonald Park on the shores of Lake Sammamish. The lineup covers musical genres such as indie, folk, rock and more from some of the best local and national artists.

Timber! is popular among Seattle locals for its laid-back atmosphere and intimate setting. Along with live music performances, the festival also includes hiking, biking, yoga sessions, nature painting, a farmer’s market, stargazing opportunities, and much more.

How to Protect Your Data at the Top Music Festivals in Seattle

If you’re planning on attending any music festivals in Seattle this weekend, it’s important to be mindful of how you protect your data.

Seattle’s music festivals utilize the latest technologies to provide their attendees with the best experience possible. From online ticketing systems to instant payments through Square, these methods help to streamline your festival experience.

While helpful and convenient, it’s important to ensure that your personal information is properly secured while you’re enjoying Seattle’s music festivals.

Whether you’re listening to some chamber music, sampling local delicacies from food trucks, or taking a break at the beer garden, here are some tips on how to protect your data while enjoying Seattle’s music festivals:

1. Always use a secure internet connection when accessing online ticketing systems or streaming services.
2. While several music festivals in Seattle offer free WiFi connections, these are often not secured. Be careful when using these connections, or use your mobile device’s data or hotspot options instead.
3. Set up and use two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, making it more difficult for hackers to gain access to your sensitive data.
4. Be aware of phishing scams or malicious links when buying tickets online or using social media.
5. Use an antivirus application and update it regularly to prevent viruses from infecting your mobile device.
6. Avoid leaving your devices unattended, as thieves may be looking for easy targets.

By following these tips and being aware of the risks, you can ensure that your data is secure and you can enjoy Seattle’s music festivals with peace of mind.

Work With the MSP That the Best Seattle Music Festivals Trust

Every year, music lovers flock to Seattle to take in some of the city’s diverse live music events. Whether you’re into indie rock, hip hop, electronic dance music, or jazz, there are music festivals in Seattle that cover all musical genres.

Whether you’re an organizer or an attendee, it’s important to ensure your data is never at risk of being lost or stolen. If you need help improving your cybersecurity strategy, we can help.

For over 20 years, Executech has helped the top summer music festivals in Seattle and their audiences keep their data protected with the latest tools, detailed assessments, and security consulting services.

Experience the evolution of digital protection by choosing us as your trusted cybersecurity partner. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our security experts.

The post The Top 5 Music Festivals in Seattle and How to Keep Your Data Safe appeared first on Executech.