Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Fri, Jun 24, 2011 @ 09:49 AM
Business owners are finding it increasingly difficult to manage company information technology services while still keeping up the newest trends in information services. That is one reason why companies today are beginning to move to the Microsoft Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS). The BPOS is a set of Microsoft hosted messaging and collaboration solutions including Microsoft Exchange Online, Microsoft SharePoint Online, Microsoft Office Live Meeting, and Microsoft Communications Online. These online services are designed to give businesses streamlined communication with high availability, comprehensive security, and simplified IT management. The following are some of the benefits of using Microsoft Business Productivity Online Suite.
ELIMINATES THE NEED TO MANAGE HARWARD/SOFTWARE:
Microsoft Business Productivity Online Services allows its users access to the most updated version of the productivity and communications tools without the need for any end user intervention. Because Microsoft hosts these services, it reduces a company’s need to maintain hardware and licenses on site.
MICROSOFT EXCHANGE ONLINE:
Like the standard on premise Exchange we’ve all come to know and have used for years, this service delivers email services including spam filtering, anti-virus protection and synchronization of mobile devices. Used in conjunction with the familiar Microsoft Office client or Outlook Web Access users can take advantage of advanced email, calendar, contact and task management features of Microsoft Exchange Online.
DOCUMENT COLLABORATION WORK SPACES:
SharePoint Online allows you to share and work together on documents, maintain version control for shared documents, create intranet sites to manage projects and project workflows, post calendar information, and set up blogs. As part of BOPS services even the smallest of companies can gain access to this enterprise solution.
WEB CONFERENCING:
Office Live Meeting allows you to hold online meetings with colleagues, customers, and partners in real time. Office Live Meeting participants can convene online to share documents, ask questions, work on a virtual "whiteboard," and talk to each other during the meeting. This feature can save companies the time and effort of trying to get everyone in one place for a particular meeting and instead focus on company goals and objectives.
MICROSOFT ONLINE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION CENTER:
The Administration Center gives you an online management portal to manage your services and users. From the Administration Center, service administrators can import multiple user accounts, use e-mail migration tools, create distribution groups, create SharePoint site collections, and many other functions.
There are many benefits to pushing your business productivity tools to the Cloud. At Celera Networks you can talk with a Certified Professional about how Microsoft Business Productivity Services can change the way you utilize your IT resources. Give us a call today and see what the Cloud can do for you.
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Fri, May 20, 2011 @ 10:44 AM
If you have not already brushed up on the new privacy and data security laws that are now in effect for companies doing business in Massachusetts, there are a number of things that you will need to take note of. With the passage of the data security law MA 201 CMR 17 the rules have changed regarding of the protection of information for your clients and employees. It is important to note that the penalties can be quite severe for companies that do not comply. Here’s how to make sure that you’re 100% complaint.
MA 201 CMR 17 was mandated that all companies have procedures in place as of March 1, 2010, so if you have not taken steps to ensure compliance; it is certainly time to act now.
Not only will you have to ensure that all outgoing e-mail is properly encrypted, but you are also required to have written procedures about how these communications are handled, also known as a WISP. Your Written Information Security Policy (WISP) should cover not only electronic communication but also any physical documents that contain personal information you store in your office.
The laws specifically talk about the protection of personal information both for employees and for clients. This includes but is not limited to social security numbers, driver’s license numbers and credit card numbers. Any information that is personal in nature would be included in the kind of sensitive information that is the focus of the new privacy laws.
When it comes to procedures for e-mail encryption, there are a lot of options out there and it may be hard to determine which is the best solution for your small business. You should look for a solution that will be able to provide you with robust encryption that is capable of providing a level of security that will make your company compliant and avoid potential lawsuits due to the mishandling of client information.
In terms of the way that you send e-mail, there will not be any difference in terms of the actual process that you use when you edit an e-mail and send it. The encryption programs will handle everything in the background so all that really needs to be done is to have it installed on all of the necessary systems. This includes not only mainframe and personal computers that are used by employees but other storage devices as well.
If you have not read the details about the new privacy laws, then it is definitely time to take action. Liability is not limited, and it can end up costing your company a significant amount of money. This amount will be much more if there is an accident and not just a situation where authorities become aware that your information is not properly secured.
Take a look at our offerings for Email Encryption and how Celera Networks can bring your small business into compliance: Celera Encrypt
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Wed, May 18, 2011 @ 09:27 AM
When a company is entrusted with vital information, whether it is for personal or business reasons, confidentiality and security are extremely important. In the case of small and medium sized businesses, the protection of this data is of paramount importance due to the wide range of customers they may have. With the growing number of complex federal regulations for companies to juggle, compliance has become an increasingly hot topic in recent years. That is one reason that 201 CMR 17.00 (Standards for The Protection of Personal Information of Residents of the Commonwealth) was enacted by the federal government in September of 2008 and has since undergone a number of amendments. Here is a brief overview of how this data security compliance works and how it applies to companies such as Celera Networks.
WHAT IS 201 CMR 17.00?
Basically, this law means that you must also have Written Information Security Plan (WISP) on file along with whatever security measures are already in place to safeguard customer’s personal information. This requirement applies to those who collect and retain personal information in connection with the provision of goods and services or for the purposes of employment. This security plan MUST be in writing and should include detailed measures involved in protecting such information.
HOW IT HELPS:
- Ensures security and confidentiality of information consistent with industry standards.
- Protects against anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of information.
- Protects against unauthorized access to or use of such information.
RESULTS:
With these regulations now present in all facets of business from information technology departments to legal departments, compliance is now a company-wide initiative. That has brought a sizeable increase of Federal Compliance Officers within companies so that they can focus on meeting these ever changing regulations within their business. Since it is rare to find an individual who is knowledgeable in all company departments, a lot of companies are now forming compliance committees instead. Most companies either have a full time IT specialist, compliance officer or committee to handle these responsibilities which will increase your budget. However, since you are going to have to commit some income to security anyway, it is now becoming wiser and more affordable to hire reliable outside help.
Having been in effect for about a year now after the latest amendment was extended to last March, this regulation has forced business owners to take personal information identification security seriously if they were not doing so already. This is just another reason why technology solution companies are becoming more useful in today’s business world.
The team at Celera Networks is well versed in the requirements of the 201 CMR 17 Data Security Regulations and can assist your company with becoming compliant. Contact us today to learn more about the precautionary steps you can take and how you can help ensure your valuable data is not compromised.
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Fri, Apr 22, 2011 @ 11:42 AM
Lately, the word “cloud” has become the new it-word for all things Internet-based. But do you know what it means? In fact, I bet if you ask several people for a definition of what cloud means, you’ll get several different answers. Simply, cloud computing is a term for explaining how hosted services are delivered over the Internet. Providers such as managed services providers may rely on cloud computing to ensure your IT systems remain up and running.
Why would this type of service work for you? Cloud computing makes it possible to increase your IT capacity or add capabilities without needing to invest in new infrastructure, train new employees, or get new software. Your IT department’s existing capabilities can be extended via cloud computing, especially if you’re working with a reliable managed services provider.
Managed services providers have been relying on cloud computing longer than any other users. Managed services are applications your IT department can use, like virus-scanning services for internal and external e-mails, or a service that monitors the applications being used on servers or workstations. A managed services provider can also give you assurance that your data is continually backed up, and that a plan for disaster prevention and recovery is in place.
According to a recent survey conducted by AFCOM, the leading association of data center management professionals (www.afcom.com), more and more data center operators are relying on cloud computing, and, by 2016, between 80 to 90 percent of such providers will rely on cloud computing. The survey found that 36.6 percent of respondents are already using cloud computing, and 35.1 percent are considering making the switch soon.
Why the interest? Respondents listed the rise of servers and the decline of mainframes as reasons why cloud computing is an attractive option, and 86.6 percent of respondents said that the need for cloud computing is based on the number of Web applications being used. Of course, the need for additional servers, and an increase in the number of Web applications being used, are not reasons in and of themselves to rely on cloud computing. But, these environments do make cloud computing more possible than, say, five years ago, when servers and Web applications were less used.
90.9 percent of respondents also said that cloud computing is attractive because it lets them increase the space they have as well as their computing power. These increases mean more electricity, and more electricity means higher bills, so working with a managed services provider not only can help your day-to-day business, but it can also save you money in the long run, from your power bills to the cost of hiring and training employees to run your IT department.
There are several other reasons why cloud computing may work for you, and several ways in which you can bring a managed services provider into your business. Let Celera Networks work with you to determine the best ways to utilize these powerfull new tools. Contact us today for a free Network Evaluation.
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Thu, Apr 14, 2011 @ 09:27 AM
If you’re a small business owner with two or more computers, it’s time to consider investing in a server. By keeping your data secure and organized, servers offer a wealth of features that can significantly increase your day to day efficiency.
You want to share data or programs with more than two computers:
A server allows you to store and organize data in one central location which is a key factor in sharing access to files or programs across a network.
Host your own company information:
An On-Site server allows you to host your own website and e-mail exchange which presents a more professional image to your clients and provides a great detail of customization. Using a local email exchange is often faster than off-site hosted solutions.
You need access to your files while out of the office:
Having a server on site not only makes working in the office more efficient, but outside the office as well. While on the road, a business trip, or just working from home using a server to access all your important files is much easier as a server allows you to connecting to network drives, printers, files, programs and anything else hosted on the server.
You need to share access with Office Equipment:
If you need to share access to peripherals, such as printers and fax machines, between the computers in your office a server will help you eliminate the mess of excess cords by networking all those devices. Without having to run cords to each machine you’ll be able to print, scan, or fax to any of the devices on your network.
Your current computers are slowing down:
Using a server takes the strain off your individual computers because you can host major programs like ACT!, Quicken, Yardi, and other proprietary software on the server itself rather than each workstation. This also allows for users to always have access to the latest versions of all files eliminating duplicate files.
You need to set security levels for users:
Servers allow administrators to limit which users have access to certain drives by restricting access to sensitive files saved on the server. You will also be able to manage firewalls, virus protection, and other security feature settings.
You want to keep the lines of communication open:
With the ability to add platforms, such as customer relationship management (CRM) software and accounting programs like QuickBooks, you’ll be able to manage clients and vendors more efficiently. Sending group e-mails and faxes, and organizing customer contacts and data in one location accessible by everyone in the office will help with project management and allow you to focus on getting more business, not cleaning up your current accounts.
Easy to perform maintenance:
Servers allow technicians easy access to provide assistance, perform maintenance, and run patches and updates to all the programs on your network. Connecting through the server to all the peripherals and computers on the network makes servicing much more efficient.
You want improved reliability in your Technology Investments
With a server purchase comes more reliability and redundancy – this equals more efficiency and high ROI for business owners and the ability to leverage on-going support and warranty options available for purchase.
Centralization of Information
Whether it’s a handheld device or Antivirus Software – why renew individual licenses or software on every machine in your office? With centralized server options available for software, there is just one license to renew and a device like your Blackberry can sync wirelessly and not rely on your Desktop PC.
Call us today to speak with one of our Technicans for a free network evaluation to review your needs and the benefits of investing in new Server.
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Thu, Mar 24, 2011 @ 10:12 AM
In February 2011, Celera Networks received an A-plus rating from Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Eastern Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island, and Vermont. BBB provides information about a company to consumers and can help resolve complaints made against a company. An A-plus is the highest grade BBB will award a company.
The A-plus grade represents BBB’s degree of confidence that the company is operating in a trustworthy manner and will make a good faith effort to resolve any customer concerns about the company filed with BBB.
BBB relied on a 16-point ratings system to determine a company’s grade. The ratings include type of business; length of time in operation; competency licensing; complaint volume and analysis;government action; advertising review; background information; clear understanding of business; mediation/arbitration’ and revocation. Each category is worth a specific number of points, including negative points. Companies that earn an A-plus grade must earn between 97 and 100.
Celera, which was established and incorporated in Massachusetts in 2002, has been a BBB accredited business since 2004 and strives to provide small to medium businesses in the Greater Boston Area with the highest quality solutions for optimal productivity in the workplace. Over the past nine years Celera Networks has developed long standing relationships with many industry leading manufacturers and vendors and is able to provide enterprise level solutions to small and medium businesses.
We take great pride int eh realtionships we build with our clients as well. Working together with business owners to develop custom technology plans that best fitx their specific needs and budgets.
Call us today to see how Celera Networks can benefit your organization. Check out our Tech Services Buying Guide to get started!
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Tue, Mar 08, 2011 @ 10:14 AM
Unsolicited emails, or as they are commonly known, spam emails have become a nuisance for many small business that use company email addresses. Seeing your inbox fill up with worthless emails isn’t pleasant but they often are easy to prevent. There are many versions of anti-spam software available however there are also a few easy steps you can take to avoid some of the main problems of email spam.
The more you spread your email around the internet, the more likely it is that a spammer could get hold of your address and once they have it, you are helpless. The best way to avoid this is to prevent your email address from getting taken by spammers in the first place. Here are a few spam and email tips for you which will help you get rid of some of the spam.
Read the Privacy Policy
When you are giving your personal information to any website, read the privacy policy to ensure that the website will not use your information for other uses. Some websites sell the email addresses of their subscribers to other sites. This is one of the key spam and email tips and one that can help you a lot.
Avoid Suspicious Emails
There are some emails that may be very tempting. You get an email offering you one million dollars and in your mind you know something is fishy. While, the prospect of clicking on it may be tempting, don't. You may think it’s only an email, but this is a big mistake committed by users tempted into clicking on spam emails as it often invites viruses on to your computer. While immediately getting a computer virus is unlikely, clicking on a spam mail will result in more and more spam emails coming into your inbox.
Web Crawlers
Many people leave their email address on their website for easy access for anyone who wants to contact them. This can also be an invitation to be spammed. Spammers use computer programs known as web crawlers to find your email and use it from there. You can prevent this by changing the format of your email address when you write it. It is easy to be safe from web crawlers and this is one of the most important spam and email tips.
Follow all these spam and email tips and you may see an imporovement in the amount of spam that reaches your inbox. It may also be worth while to look into one of the many anti-spam software solutions, contact us today to learn more.
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Fri, Feb 11, 2011 @ 04:56 PM
The concept of outsourcing some of the work in an organization has become very popular over time. The tasks that require the utmost professionalism are handed out to agents or businesses which specialize in that field. Managed service providers are now sought by businesses to provide several services to them.
Managed service providers generally take care of the information technology for a company. The services that will be provided are decided between the company and the managed service provider. Managed IT services are commonly used by businesses, as IT has become an integral component of the business culture nowadays, even the accounting business.
Should you choose to hire managed IT services for your accounting firms, you will be able to get the following benefits.
Productivity
Outsourcing the IT work to a specialist reduces the workload of the company itself. Furthermore, any problems that occur with the computer network or system can be easily taken care of by the managed IT services provider. As the managed IT services provider is an expert in its field, there is less likelihood of any problems arising as every potential kink will be taken care of. This will help to increase the productivity of the business.
IT
Small businesses do not have the resources to have a well-equipped IT department for themselves. They do have IT departments which are not up to the level required to run a business efficiently. For such businesses, the managed IT services provider can take care of the work that cannot be performed by the company’s IT department. The sharing of the workload will ensure that the burden doesn’t fall on to any one and that there are no problems with the IT.
Cost
Managed IT services are generally offered at very competitive prices. This means that you can get an affordable managed IT services provider for your business, which will take care of all your IT needs. Since you have to pay the managed IT services provider for the number of services that you need, you can reduce the number of services it will provide to you and reduce the cost.
Here are some tips to help you choose an IT services provider which is right for you.
Feedback
Do some research on managed IT services providers. The best way is to ask the existing customers of any provider and you will get an insight into the quality of its services.
Cost
There are many managed IT services providers in the market at a variety of prices. Check out as many as you can until you find the best deal for yourself.
Ability
You should know whether the managed IT services provider has the ability and experience of working for an accounting firm, because the needs of every firm are not the same.
Services
Look at what services he will be providing you. You can choose the range of services that you want once you have seen what the managed IT services provider offers to you.
>>Download Th
e Celera Networks IT Services Buyers Guide and Learn What You Should Look for in Evaluating and IT Company
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Thu, Jan 13, 2011 @ 09:55 AM
There are a number of reasons as to why you’d want to secure your critical data and information with both a Local and Online Backup, redundancy being one of the biggest. It’s also becoming easier and less time and resource consuming to implement both technologies.
There are benefits to both systems. Local Backups are great for daily changes to files and programs. Should you need to retrieve just one document, it’s much quicker to pull it off a disk, hard drive or backup tape than it would be to download the information online.
Online backups have their own perks, mainly piece of mind. An online backup can be set to run automatically on a certain time schedule and most come with a software platform that can also be configured to back up only new and changed files. This method is the easiest way of backing up all your critical data.
The principal reason for setting up both a Local and Online (also called Off-Site) Backup is simply data security and redundancy. If you have only a Local Backup, as do most small businesses, you’re leaving your critical information out in the cold, vulnerable to physical damage or theft. Another major detriment of using only a Local Backup, is that often it’s often necessary to rotate the media you’re storing the data on, and store one drive in an offsite location. It’s up to you to rotate these drives but with everything else going on in your business it can be easy to forget. Backup media left onsite can be damaged and potentially cause critical data loss. By also setting up an Online Backup you can be sure that even if you forget to rotate and bring one drive offsite, the online backup will still run and should a physical disaster strike, you won’t have to worry about recovering information from damaged media. Simply pull the info you need from your online storage account and you could be back up and running in a matter of hours.
It’s easy and often costs very little to run just a local backup, but consider the hassle and heartache that could be caused by failed drives, data loss, or damaged or corrupted drives. You could easily loose months of records, files and information.
Call us today to learn about how setting up both a Local and Online Backup can benefit your business. Check out Celera Off-Site Backup Protection Service, our fully managed and monitored backup solution for small and medium business.
Posted by Jenny Whitaker on Sat, Dec 11, 2010 @ 10:15 AM
Celera Networks Presents for MGISA on Cloud Computing
Last week Boston Based Celera Networks presented to the
Massachusetts Government Information Systems Association (MGISA), a state-wide association of information technology professionals working in local, county or state government on the future of cloud computing and how it can help local municipalities and small businesses save valueable time, money and resources.
You can view the presenation below: