Is this the ultimate browser for business?

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It’ll come as no surprise, but Microsoft has yet more exciting news for us. Sometimes we wonder if they allow their employees to sleep!

This time it’s a new browser aimed specifically at businesses: Edge for Business.

The updated browser has security and productivity features that are perfect for employers and their teams alike.

Edge for Business could become the best choice for browsing the web on work-related devices, whether they’re managed or unmanaged. That’s because it will allow companies to maintain a level of control over employees without intruding on their privacy.

And that’s perfect for the way many of us work today. If you’re a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) company, Edge for Business is also going to be the perfect solution for you.

One of the best things about Edge for Business is that it separates work and personal browsing automatically into dedicated browser windows. It has its own favorites, separate caches and storage locations.

And some sites will automatically open in the relevant browser, like Microsoft 365 will go straight to your work browser, whereas a shopping site will open in your personal browser.

That means you don’t have to worry about accidentally sending a colleague that funny meme you saw on social media.

Edge for Business is currently available to test, but although we understand that you’ll be eager to give it a try, we advise holding off until its official launch in the fall. Let others be the guinea pigs.

And Microsoft has yet to add custom branding capabilities for businesses, but they promise that’s coming soon. The anticipation is half the fun, right?

Edge for Business aims to bridge the gap between work and personal on the same device, ensuring that personal and professional information remains separate and secure. With this new and exciting business browser, you’ll enjoy heightened productivity and security.

If we can help you stay productive and secure in the meantime, get in touch.

Unlocking Security and Simplicity: The Importance of Password Managers

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In an increasingly digital world, managing passwords for numerous online accounts can be overwhelming. However, relying on weak passwords or reusing them across multiple platforms poses significant security risks. This is where password managers come to the rescue. In this article, we will explore the importance of password managers and how they can revolutionize your online security while simplifying your digital life.

 

  1. Strengthening Security:

Using strong, unique passwords for each online account is vital for protecting your sensitive information. Password managers generate and store complex passwords, eliminating the need for you to remember them. This ensures that your accounts remain secure, even in the event of data breaches or hacking attempts targeting weak or reused passwords.

 

  1. Encrypted Storage and Syncing:

Password managers employ robust encryption algorithms to secure your passwords. They store your passwords in an encrypted vault, which can only be accessed with a master password known only to you. Advanced password managers also offer options for two-factor authentication (2FA), adding an extra layer of security to your accounts.

Additionally, many password managers provide syncing capabilities across devices. This enables you to access your passwords securely from multiple platforms, such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets, ensuring convenience without compromising security.

 

  1. Time and Effort Savings:

Password managers streamline the process of managing and inputting passwords, saving you time and effort. They can automatically fill in login credentials for websites and apps, eliminating the need to remember or type passwords manually. This enhanced convenience translates into increased productivity and a smoother online experience.

 

  1. Password Complexity and Variety:

Password managers not only generate strong, complex passwords but also enable you to diversify your passwords across different accounts. This means you no longer have to rely on easily guessable or memorable passwords. With a password manager, you can have unique, random, and highly secure passwords for every online service you use, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

 

  1. Centralized Management and Organization:

Password managers offer centralized management and organization of your login credentials. They provide features to categorize and label your accounts, making it easy to find and retrieve passwords whenever you need them. Some password managers even offer additional features, such as secure note storage and form autofill, further enhancing your digital organization and efficiency.

 

  1. Ease of Use and Accessibility:

Most password managers prioritize user-friendliness and intuitive interfaces. They offer browser extensions, mobile apps, and desktop applications with seamless integration, ensuring a user-friendly experience across all devices. Password managers make it easy for individuals of all technical levels to adopt and benefit from their features, making secure password management accessible to everyone.

 

The importance of password managers cannot be overstated in today’s digital landscape. By strengthening security, encrypting storage, simplifying password management, and promoting password complexity and variety, password managers offer a comprehensive solution to enhance your online security while streamlining your digital life. Embrace the convenience, peace of mind, and increased productivity that come with adopting a reliable password manager. Take the first step towards a safer and more secure online experience by entrusting your passwords to a trusted password manager today.

 

Tips to Keep Your Lithium Batteries Healthy

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Lithium-ion batteries have become the powerhouse behind our portable devices, from smartphones to laptops and electric vehicles. Maximizing the lifespan and performance of lithium batteries is crucial for optimal usage and reducing the need for frequent replacements. In this article, we will explore effective strategies to keep your lithium batteries healthy, ensuring longevity and reliable power for your devices.

 

  1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures:

Lithium batteries are sensitive to temperature extremes, both hot and cold. Exposure to high temperatures can accelerate degradation and shorten the battery’s lifespan. Likewise, subjecting the battery to freezing temperatures can affect its performance. To keep your lithium batteries healthy, avoid leaving devices in hot cars or exposing them to extreme temperature conditions for extended periods. Store devices in a cool, dry place whenever possible.

 

  1. Avoid Full Discharges:

Contrary to older battery technologies, lithium batteries do not require full discharges to maintain their health. In fact, deep discharges can be detrimental to lithium batteries. Avoid completely draining the battery before recharging. Instead, aim for regular partial discharges and recharge the battery before it reaches critically low levels. This practice helps extend the overall lifespan of the battery.

 

  1. Moderate Charging Habits:

Maintaining moderate charging habits is essential for lithium batteries’ health. Avoid consistently charging the battery to 100% or leaving it plugged in for prolonged periods once it reaches full capacity. Ideally, aim for a charging range of around 20-80% for everyday use. This range strikes a balance between maximizing battery life and ensuring adequate power for your devices.

 

  1. Use Original Chargers and Quality Cables:

Using original chargers and high-quality cables designed for your specific device is crucial for maintaining the health of lithium batteries. Generic or counterfeit chargers and cables may not provide the appropriate voltage or current regulation, potentially causing overcharging or inadequate charging. Stick to reputable brands and genuine accessories to ensure proper and safe charging.

 

  1. Avoid High-Current Rapid Charging:

While rapid charging can be convenient, it can also generate excess heat and stress the battery. Avoid using high-current rapid charging options unless necessary. Opt for standard or slow charging methods when time permits. Slower charging rates generally produce less heat and put less strain on the battery, contributing to its long-term health.

 

  1. Periodic Full Discharge and Calibration:

While frequent full discharges are not recommended, it is beneficial to perform a full discharge and recharge cycle occasionally. This process helps recalibrate the battery’s internal circuitry and improves the accuracy of the battery level indicator. Perform a full discharge and recharge every few months to maintain the battery’s capacity and ensure accurate battery readings.

 

  1. Regular Software and Firmware Updates:

Software and firmware updates released by device manufacturers often include battery management improvements. Keeping your devices up to date with the latest software and firmware versions can help optimize battery performance, improve power efficiency, and enhance overall battery health.

 

By following these tips, you can keep your lithium batteries healthy and maximize their lifespan. Avoid extreme temperatures, practice moderate charging habits, use original chargers and quality cables, and periodically perform full discharge and recharge cycles. Additionally, stay updated with software and firmware releases to benefit from battery management optimizations. By taking care of your lithium batteries, you can enjoy longer-lasting power, reduce the need for frequent replacements, and contribute to a more sustainable approach to electronics.

The GPU Market Gets Even Hotter

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The GPU market has long been dominated by AMD and NVIDIA, but a new player has entered the arena: Intel. Known for their CPUs, Intel has made a bold move to expand their presence and compete in the graphics market. In this article, we’ll explore Intel’s entry into the GPU market, the potential impact it may have, and what it means for consumers and the industry as a whole.

 

  1. Intel’s Xe Architecture:

Intel’s foray into the GPU market comes with their Xe architecture, designed to deliver high-performance graphics solutions. The Xe architecture encompasses a range of products, including integrated GPUs, discrete GPUs, and data center GPUs. Intel aims to offer scalable solutions that cater to various market segments, from gaming enthusiasts to data centers.

 

  1. Competition and Innovation:

Intel’s entry into the GPU market brings increased competition to AMD and NVIDIA. This competition is beneficial for consumers as it fosters innovation and drives advancements in graphics technology. The presence of Intel as a formidable competitor will likely spur both AMD and NVIDIA to further push the boundaries of performance, features, and value, benefiting consumers with more options and improved products.

 

  1. Potential Impact on Gaming and Content Creation:

The introduction of Intel’s GPUs has the potential to disrupt the gaming and content creation landscapes. Gamers may benefit from increased competition, leading to better price-performance ratios and more choices when selecting GPUs for their gaming rigs. Content creators, including video editors and 3D artists, may also benefit from Intel’s GPUs, as they offer an additional option for high-performance graphics processing tailored to their specific needs.

 

  1. Integrated Graphics and System Integration:

Intel’s GPUs will have a significant impact on integrated graphics solutions, which are built into CPUs and commonly found in laptops and entry-level systems. Intel’s focus on system integration may lead to enhanced performance and improved energy efficiency in devices with integrated graphics. This development can benefit casual users, as well as those who prioritize mobility and battery life, such as laptop users and portable device enthusiasts.

 

  1. Future Technological Advancements:

Intel’s entry into the GPU market signifies their commitment to diversify and expand their product offerings. As a technology leader, Intel’s expertise and resources can drive advancements in graphics technology and contribute to the overall evolution of the GPU market. Their entry could potentially bring fresh perspectives, innovative features, and new technologies to the table, benefiting the industry as a whole.

 

Intel’s entry into the GPU market introduces a new player, bringing increased competition and potential innovation to the industry. With their Xe architecture, Intel aims to challenge the long-standing dominance of AMD and NVIDIA. This development is a win for consumers, as it encourages competition, spurs innovation, and provides more options in terms of performance, features, and value. The presence of Intel in the GPU market signifies a promising future for gamers, content creators, and technology enthusiasts, with the potential for exciting advancements and heightened competition that will shape the graphics landscape for years to come.

Scary stat: 87% of businesses hit by this in the last year

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You may think that cyber attacks only happen to large corporations. But unfortunately, that’s not the case.

According to a recent report, almost two-thirds of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) suffered at least one cyber attack over the past year. That’s a staggering number, and it should serve as a wake-up call for businesses everywhere.

But it gets worse.

More and more businesses are also experiencing repeat attacks, with 87% reporting at least two successful attacks over the past year. And on average, a company suffers almost five successful cyber incidents.

Terrifying.

The question is, why are these attacks happening, and what can you do to prevent them?

The most common types of cyber attack that businesses face are malware and ransomware.

Malware is malicious software. It invades your system and can cause all sorts of problems, from slowing down your operations to stealing your data.

Ransomware is even more dangerous as it encrypts your data, making it impossible for you to access it unless you pay a ransom fee. This can be devastating for any business and can lead to significant losses and downtime.

What factors are contributing to more successful attacks?

One reason is the rise in BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). This means employees using their personal devices to access company information, which can be risky.

Another factor is the explosion of productivity apps, which can create security vulnerabilities if not properly secured.

Finally, the number of devices we’re using now means there are more entry points for cyber criminals to exploit.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect your business. Here are five solid security steps you can take.

  1. Use strong passwords: Passwords are your first line of defense, so make sure they’re strong and unique. Better yet, use a password manager that can create and remember randomly generated passwords
  2. Keep software up to date: Software updates often contain security fixes, so make sure you’re always running the latest version. This applies to both your operating system and all applications you use
  3. Train your staff: Educate your employees on how to identify phishing emails and other scams. You can also run regular security awareness training sessions to keep everyone up to date
  4. Backup your data: Doing this means if you do suffer a cyber attack, you can restore your systems quickly and with less disruption
  5. Use antivirus software: This can help protect your systems from malware and other threats. Make sure you’re running a reputable and up-to-date solution

Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Take action today to help you stay protected.

And if that seems like a lot of extra work, let us help. Get in touch today.

Unleashing the Power of Windows 11

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Unleashing the Power of Windows 11: Exciting New Features and Enhancements

Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 11, has arrived with a host of exciting new features and enhancements designed to elevate your computing experience. From a visually stunning interface to improved productivity tools, Windows 11 offers a fresh and streamlined user interface while delivering powerful capabilities. In this article, we’ll explore some of the standout features of Windows 11 and how they can revolutionize the way you work and play.

  1. Redesigned Start Menu and Taskbar: Windows 11 introduces a centered Start Menu and a simplified Taskbar, providing a clean and modern look. The Start Menu now features a grid of icons and a streamlined search experience, making it easier to find and launch your favorite apps. The Taskbar is more intuitive, with icons centered by default, giving your desktop a sleek and uncluttered appearance.
  2. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups: Enhanced multitasking capabilities take center stage in Windows 11. Snap Layouts allow you to effortlessly organize and snap multiple windows into predefined layouts, enabling seamless multitasking across multiple applications. With Snap Groups, you can quickly switch between groups of apps you use together, picking up where you left off with ease.
  3. Microsoft Teams Integration: Windows 11 deeply integrates Microsoft Teams, making communication and collaboration more accessible than ever. The new Chat feature in the Taskbar enables you to connect with friends, family, and colleagues directly from your desktop. Whether it’s a quick chat or a video call, staying connected is effortless with Teams integration.
  4. Gaming Enhancements: Windows 11 brings several gaming enhancements to enhance your gaming experience:

4a. DirectStorage: With DirectStorage, games load faster and offer smoother gameplay by leveraging the power of NVMe SSDs, reducing load times significantly.

4b. Auto HDR: Windows 11 automatically adds High Dynamic Range (HDR) enhancements to compatible games, improving visual fidelity and bringing games to life with vibrant colors and improved contrast.

4c. Xbox App and Game Pass Integration: The Xbox app is integrated into Windows 11, providing quick access to your gaming library, friends list, and Game Pass subscription, making it a seamless experience for Xbox gamers.

  1. Virtual Desktops and Productivity: Windows 11 offers enhanced productivity features to help you stay organized and focused:

5a. Virtual Desktops: Create multiple virtual desktops to separate your workspaces and switch between tasks effortlessly. This feature allows you to have dedicated desktops for work, entertainment, and personal use.

5b. Widgets: Widgets make a comeback in Windows 11, providing personalized news, weather, calendar, and other at-a-glance information to keep you updated and informed.

5c. Microsoft Store Redesign: The Microsoft Store has been redesigned with a new layout, making it easier to discover and install apps, including support for popular apps like Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Teams.

Conclusion: Windows 11 introduces an array of exciting features and enhancements that elevate your computing experience. From the visually appealing interface to improved multitasking capabilities, Microsoft Teams integration, gaming enhancements, and productivity tools, Windows 11 is designed to empower users with a modern, efficient, and enjoyable operating system. Embrace the power of Windows 11 and unlock new levels of productivity, creativity, and entertainment. Upgrade to Windows 11 and embark on a journey into the future of computing.

This is the latest trend in phishing attacks

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Have you heard the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words”? It seems cyber criminals have too, and they’re using it to their advantage.

In a new twist on phishing campaigns, cyber criminals are luring victims to click on images rather than downloading malicious files or clicking suspicious links.

Let’s dive into the warning signs, so you can keep your business safe from these sneaky attacks.

First things first, what’s the big deal about clicking on an image? It might be promoting a killer deal or one time offer.

But when you click on the image, you don’t go to the real website. Instead it’s a fake site designed to steal your personal information.

Imagine being lured in by a cute cat photo only to find out that Mr. Whiskers was actually a wolf in sheep’s clothing! Not so cute anymore, right?

So, how can you tell if an image is part of a phishing campaign? Here are some warning signs to look out for:

  • Unexpected emails: Did you receive an email from someone you don’t know or weren’t expecting? Be cautious! It’s like accepting candy from a stranger – you never know what you’re getting yourself into.
  • Too good to be true: If an email promises you a free vacation or a million dollars just for clicking on an image, remember the golden rule: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Spelling and grammar mistakes: We all make typos, but if an email is riddled with errors, it could be a sign that something is going on.
  • Mismatched logos or branding: If an email claims to be from a reputable company but the logo or branding doesn’t match up, assume it’s a scam.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s talk about how to protect your business from these image-based phishing attacks:

  1. Educate your employees: Knowledge is power! Make sure your team is aware of the latest phishing tactics and knows how to spot the warning signs.
  • Keep software up-to-date: Just like you wouldn’t drive a car with bald tires, don’t let your software become outdated. Regular updates help patch security vulnerabilities that cyber criminals might exploit.
  • Use strong passwords: It might be tempting to use “password123” for all your accounts, but resist the urge! A strong, unique password for each account can help prevent unauthorized access. Using a password manager is even better.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring people to verify their identity through another method, such as a text message or fingerprint scan.
  • Backup your data: In case disaster strikes, make sure you have a backup of all your files. That way, you won’t be left high and dry if your data is compromised.

Whilst cyber criminals are getting smarter and smarter with their tactics, there’s no need to panic. By being aware of the warning signs and taking proactive steps to protect your business, you can stay one step ahead of these digital tricksters.

Remember, not all that glitters is gold – or in this case, not every cute cat picture is just a cute cat picture. Stay vigilant, and don’t let the scammers win!

Privacy alert: Change this setting in Edge, now

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UPDATE: This controversial image enhancement feature now seems to have been removed by Microsoft, following privacy concerns.

Don’t be mistaken, we love Microsoft Edge (and think you will too), but lately, something has come to our attention that we wanted to share.

It’s always a good idea to be aware of what your browser is doing behind the scenes. And there’s an Edge setting that you might be interested to learn about. It’s one that sends the images you view online to Microsoft.

While this might not seem like a big deal on the surface – it’s done to enhance the images – some business owners might be concerned about the privacy implications. After all, you never know who might be looking at your browsing history.

The good news is that it’s easy to disable this setting if you’re concerned about it. Here’s how:

  1. Open Microsoft Edge and click on the three dots (“More actions”) in the upper-right corner of the screen
  • Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu
  • Scroll down and click on “Privacy, search, and services”
  • Under the “Services” section, turn off the toggle switch next to “Improve your web experience by allowing Microsoft to use information about websites you browse to improve search suggestions, or to show you more relevant advertizing”

That’s it! With just a few clicks, you’ve disabled the feature that sends images to Microsoft.

Of course, there are other settings in Edge that you might want to explore as well. Like the ones that control your data collection preferences, or the ones that limit pop-ups and redirects.

Why should you take a few minutes to check out your browser settings? Well, for one thing, it can help protect your privacy and security online. By being aware of what your browser is doing, you can make informed decisions about what data to share (and what to keep private).

Plus, exploring your browser settings can be a fun and educational experience in its own right. You might discover new features or hidden gems you never knew existed.

And don’t worry, you don’t have to be a tech expert to understand these settings. In fact, Microsoft has done a great job of making them simple and straightforward, with clear explanations and helpful tips along the way.

If you ever get stuck, our team is happy to help. Get in touch.

Browse with confidence: Microsoft Edge’s security boost

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Browsing the web can be risky. It only takes one click on one bad link to put your business’s data at risk.

With cyber criminals constantly targeting businesses using automated tools, it’s important to stay one step ahead with your online security.

That’s why we’re excited that Microsoft is working on a major security update for its Edge browser, which will bring enhanced security to everyone using it.

It’s adding new security features and beefing up existing ones.

Maybe you’ve already seen features such as Password Monitor. This alerts you if any of your saved passwords have been compromised in a data breach, prompting you to change them immediately.

There’s also SmartScreen technology, which will help safeguard you from phishing scams and malware.

This checks websites against a list of known malicious sites, as well as analyzing URLs for any suspicious patterns or characteristics. If it detects something that’s not right, you’ll be warned before you proceed to the site.

Why should you care about all these security updates?

It comes down to this: Using a less secure browser could leave you vulnerable to all sorts of online threats. Cyber criminals are constantly coming up with new ways to exploit weaknesses in software, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest security measures.

Plus, let’s face it – no one wants to deal with the aftermath of a cyber attack. Whether it’s dealing with financial losses, identity theft, or just the hassle of cleaning up the mess, the consequences of a breach can be far-reaching.

By using a secure browser like Edge, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to such attacks.

Of course, we know that not everyone is an expert on  cyber security. That’s why Microsoft is making it easy to stay safe without needing a degree in computer science.

The new security features are built-in and easy to use so you don’t have to worry about configuring anything yourself. You can browse the web with peace of mind.

If you’re not already using Edge, give it a go. And if you need help getting your 365 suite optimized for your business, get in touch.