Office 365 #AchieveMore with OneDrive for Business

OneDrive for Business is a trusted, enterprise-grade service. It’s backed by SharePoint and Office 365. So you can get all of the benefits of security, management and administrative controls that you would expect in a service from Microsoft.

Watch the video and presentation to learn more.

Microsoft OneDrive for business vbsitservices.com from VBS IT Services

OneDrive for Business, one place for all your work files. 

Click to try the complete Office 365 suite including OneDrive for free

Is your VoIP phone system at risk of Shellshock Bash attacks?

The Shellshock Bash bug could potentially affect some voice over IP (VoIP) phone systems that are not properly protected. Bash is a command processor, that can execute applications. The vulnerability allows attackers to execute malicious commands within your network.

You can protect your VoIP phone system and other devices on your network by taking some steps to increased security on your network.

Best practice steps:

1- Block outside intrusions by ensuring that your router firewall is properly setup and has the latest software firmware updates

2- Update your phone system and servers with the latest software patches

3- Monitor your systems for suspicious activity. Setup alerts on your VoIP phone system and firewall to keep you informed.


Three steps you need to take to avoid overreacting to the bash bug


24/7 Network Security Monitoring | VoIP Security | Computer Network Security

We would love to hear from you. Let us know your thoughts and concerns about the Shellshock Bash attacks. Comment below \/

New Windows 9 sneak peak video

Microsoft Windows 9 will be released early next year, but we're seeing a lot of leaks about how the new interface will look. Here's a new Windows 9 sneak peak video. What do you think o the new look?




 


Click here to explore Cloud Solutions for your business


Computer Hardware Setup Installation Help Services

Provisioning Lenovo ThinkCentre M73 computers to install onsite. These compact machines are cost effective performers. And they are very energy efficient.

They may look small, but they pack serious power and come with built in WiFi. Click here to learn more.

Why Is Provisioning Important?
Before going onsite to install, we configure the system to the user's requirements, by setting up required software, installing updates, antivirus, etc. Preparing a computer to be used on a network saves the user allot of time and ensures a smooth roll-out installation. Downtime is minimized substantially when transitioning a user to a new computer.

Computer hardware consulting, planning, setup and installation services:
www.vbsitservices.com/services-solutions/it-consulting

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Small Business Networking

Effective technology is essential for small businesses looking to increase productivity. Even simple networks make sharing information and resources easier, provide better security and enable easy backup facilities for any small businesses.

How to Use Microsoft Office 2013 applications

Get more from Office 2013 by learning the basics. Learn how to use 2013 Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote. Click on the videos you want to watch below.

The new Outlook is so feature rich, but still easy to use. Start by downloading the quick start reference guide, which you can print for review. Click here to download the Outlook Quick Reference Guide.

- Click here to watch Outlook video tutorial

- Click here to watch Word video tutorial

- Click here to watch Excel video tutorial

- Click here to watch PowerPoint video tutorial

- Click here to watch OneNote video tutorial

Click here to check out the new free Office templates

How to use Windows 7 - Personalizing your computer

Watch this video to learn how to personalize your Windows 7 computer. Change user picture, desktop background, sounds, text size an other settings. Watch the video to learn how.

*** Other related articles ***

What is the differences between Windows XP and Windows 7 Video

How to use Windows 7 Video - Search and Finding your files

How and Why should you upgrade Microsoft Windows XP and Office 2003

How to use Windows 7 - Using email and the Internet

New to Windows 7 user experience? Even though there’s a lot in common with the version of Windows that you had before, you might still need a hand getting up to speed. Learn how to use email and Internet in Windows 7.

Click here to download the PDF for review

*** Other related articles ***

What is the differences between Windows XP and Windows 7 Video

How to use Windows 7 Video - Search and Finding your files

How and Why should you upgrade Microsoft Windows XP and Office 2003

How to use Windows 7 Video - Search and Finding your files

New to Windows 7? Even though there’s a lot in common with the version of Windows that you had before, you might still need a hand getting up to speed. Learn how to search and find files in Windows 7. Its easy, powerful and fast. Click on the video below to learn how.

Other related articles

What is the differences between Windows XP and Windows 7 Video

How to use Windows 7 desktop Tutorial Video

How and Why should you upgrade Microsoft Windows XP and Office 2003

How to use Windows 7 desktop Tutorial Video

New to windows 7? Watch this video to learn about what's new with the desktop in Windows 7 compared to previous versions. Learn the basics of how to get around the desktop and get the most out of the productivity features of Windows 7.

Click here to download the PDF for review

*** Other related articles ***

What is the differences between Windows XP and Windows 7 Video

How to use Windows 7 Video - Search and Finding your files

How and Why should you upgrade Microsoft Windows XP and Office 2003

What is the differences between Windows XP and Windows 7 Video

Watch this video to see some of the differences between Windows XP and Windows 7. If you love XP, you'll love Windows 7 even more. Its easier and faster to use. With lots of new features to get more out of your computer experience.

Click here to watch the Video: Windows XP vs. Windows 7

Other related articles

How and Why should you upgrade Microsoft Windows XP and Office 2003

Plantronics DuoPro H171 Headset is a Hit

The Plantronics DuoPro H171 Headset is a hit with customers. Sounds much better compared to the old headset and it converts to how you prefer to wear it.


The headset that transforms to suit you

Best-in-class comfort and quality

• Three way convertible: over-the-ear, over-the-head, behind-the-head with optional neckband wearing styles
• Innovative T-pad headband design, perfect balance in over-the-ear format and soft ear cushion offer all-day comfort
• Voice tube or noise-cancelling microphone options
• Pivoting anti-twist microphone for optimal placement and performance
• Quick Disconnect feature lets you walk away from your phone while wearing your headset

Do you spend alot of time on the phone? Eliminate neck pain and keep your hands free to multitask by using a wired or wireless headset for your desk phone.

Interested? Click here to contact us for a quote

Wired or Wireless Headsets | Mobile Worker | Virtual Worker | 

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We would love to hear your feedback and comments. Please comment below.

How to Prevent Phone System Hacking

Has your phone system been hacked? Are you a victim of long distance fraud? Do you want to prevent system hacking? Then you need to take steps to protect your business from unauthorized international long distance calling. And avoid a costly surprise.

Computer hackers have been known to the world for many years. A new kind of hacker has emerged recently targeting international long distance calling. These hackers gain access to your phone lines usually via your phone system and rack up thousands of long distance minutes without your knowledge. Before you know it, you have a hefty bill from your phone line or long distance provider and unfortunately you are responsible to pay it.

Phone companies have been warning their customers about criminal activity targeting phone systems of all brands for fraudulent usage. Many new systems have built-in security features that prevent fraudulent and unauthorized use. However, often the problem relates to systems without security passwords or the use simple passwords.

This is a list of recommendations and best practices that you can use to ensure maximum security for your phone system and phone lines.

1- ensure that you use passwords on your entire phone system including administrative access to the system, voicemail boxes, etc.
2- do not use simple passwords such as 1111, 2222 or 1234. Create passwords with at least 6 digits or 8, if possible.
3- never start passwords with a 0 or 1 and never use your own number or extension
4- change factory pre-set passwords, system passwords are available on the internet
5- change your password regularly, every 3 months is good practice
6- restrict international calls if possible or contact your phone provider and request for long distance access codes
7- password protect call back or call bridge phone system features with complex 8 digit passwords
8- disable unused extensions and voicemail boxes, if possible
9- if you’re using softphones, ensure that a complex unique 8 digit password is used
10- Phone systems are just like computers, ensure that you have the latest software and firmware updates.

There may be other steps you’ll need to take to ensure maximum security of your phone system. Its recommended that you contact your phone system provider for more information on how to conduct a security audit.

Is this information helpful? Please leave your comments.

How to Setup Multiple Monitors in Remote Desktop Session

Multiple monitors provide more real estate for you to work with and be more productive. Spanning your computer work space to allow you to have more windows open and multi-task more efficiently. 

Multiple monitor support for Remote Desktop Services (RDP) allows you to open a Remote Desktop connection expanded across all the monitors on the computer. The setup is simple. Click on the link below and follow the steps.

Click here to Learn How to Setup Multiple Monitors in Remote Desktop Session

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Microsoft Lync Connects Everyone Everywhere

Microsoft Lync video conferencing and instant messaging connects everyone anywhere. The new Universal Communications tool connects millions of Skype users with Lync-Skype connectivity.

Reduce travel costs and improve speed of communication, with desktop sharing and conferencing. With the presence information you get from Lync, you can reach out to an available colleague and attend to customer requests much faster.

Optimize Lync communication and collaboration with integration to your Avaya IP Office phone system and Microsoft Exchange.

Lear more by clicking here.



Use Lync to communicate anywhere, including outdoors on your deck.

Find out how to get Lync for your business. Its easy to install and have it up and running quickly. Click here to learn more or contact us.

Do you use Lync? Leave us some comments below. \/

Business Owners Are Getting More Optimistic about Growth. Are You?

Is it the weather, low cost of borrowing or increased consumer confidence? 

Optimism within the business community is the highest it's been since 2009, according to the National Federation of Independent Business. 

Why? A few reasons, including favorable expectations for the economy, plans to grow employment and increasing earnings.

Business owners are experiencing growth and hiring again. They're also investing in technology to help automate and optimize their business processes.

See the infographic below and tell us how optimistic are you feeling?

IT Consulting | Automation Technology | CRM Sales Automation

Related Articles

Toronto IT Consulting - Helping You Grow Your Business with Effective Technology Solutions

Want to cut costs? Look at your IT

So are you feeling more optimistic? Let us know by commenting below. We would love to hear from you.

Toronto IT Consulting - Helping You Grow Your Business with Effective Technology Solutions

Do you need help deciding which technologies are best suited to grow
your business? Never before has there been as many options as we have today. Business owners are inundated with information about all the options, but hardly have the time to understand which direction to take.

Making the wrong decision can cause the organization some pain and difficulty. But not making a decision at all can leave your business at a competitive disadvantage.

We can help make sense of it all. Our expert IT consultants understand how to use technology as a tool to streamline your business. An IT Consultant can create technology strategies that get rid of the constant IT problems that creep up unexpectedly.

IT Consulting Services | Strategy & Planning | Network Design Consulting | Computer Security Consulting | Business Continuity Planning | Computer Hardware Software Advice | Office Relocation | Cloud Solutions 

Schedule a free consultation. 
Click to read more.

How and Why should you upgrade Microsoft Windows XP and Office 2003

Its hard to believe that Windows XP is 12 years old, but this widely popular operating system has come to an end. Microsoft will end its support for the Windows XP operating system on April 8, 2014.

Microsoft is also cutting support for Office 2003, so that productivity software you've been enjoying on that old PC will also need to be upgraded. 

What are the Risks to your Business?

Windows XP and Office 2003, will no longer receive support, software updates, or security patches. Anyone using either Windows XP or Office 2003 risks attacks from hackers that takes advantage of an un-patched vulnerability or exploit. 

Unfortunately virus software will not protect your system or your business from possible hack exploitation. Virus software only protects your system from virus and malware on an email, browsing and file level. Read the Microsoft FAQ for additional details and other frequently asked questions.

In addition to security risks, businesses that have to meet compliance standards may also face a risk of breaching their regulatory obligations by not upgrade the software.

Learn how you can prevent network security vulnerabilities. Read this valuable article. 

Security – 5 threats in 2014

Microsoft is encouraging users to migrate away from Windows XP and upgrade to Windows 7 or Windows 8. Upgrading to the latest version of Office is also recommended. Check out Office 365 cloud.

Should you do Nothing? 

The wait and see kind of approach is no way to do business these days. If you think its costly to upgrade your Windows XP computers, imagine what it will cost if the systems are hacked and sensitive private and confidential information is circulated to your competitors and customers.

Being proactive with technology has been proven to be more effective in maintaining a competitive edge, but in this case it's also more cost effective. Replacing your XP systems will eliminate the anxieties of security vulnerabilities, business risk, not to mention prevent costly reactive rushed repairs and possible law suits.

Get help migrating from Windows XP

Migrating from Windows XP may not be easy. After all its an old version. The issue is that you can’t just upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7. The upgrade path would be XP to Vista to 7. There are tools out available to make things easier on you and keep you.

Should you Upgrade or Replace?

If your computer is older then 3-4 years old, you may not want to invest the time and energy in upgrading just the software. In this case, you may be better off to purchase a new computer with Windows 7 or 8.

If you choose to keep the existing hardware and upgrade just software, you'll need to pay someone to do the installation of the software.

However, if you purchase a new computer it will come with Windows 7 or 8 already installed. And in most cases, it also has the latest version of Office also already installed. This is not only a time saver to allow you to get back up and running, but its also more cost effective.

Replacing a Windows XP computer with a new Windows 7 or 8 PC makes more sense from a cost perspective. In addition, the new computer will be more powerful with the latest hardware configuration and warranty to give you years of peace of mind productivity.

Need help choosing the best computer for your business need? Check our selection of Lenovo computers and ask for a free quote from one of our IT Consultants. Call 905-709-2656 or toll free 1-877-709-2656 or complete our online form by clicking here.

Other Resources - click on the links below

Microsoft Solutions including Office 365 Cloud

What is Managed Antivirus?

Lenovo desktops, laptops, tablets and servers

Windows XP to Windows 8 upgrade assistant 
Microsoft FAQ about Windows XP End of Support 
What's a computer vulnerability? 

Just want to buy the software

If all you need is just a single copy of the Windows 7, Windows 8 or Office software, you can contact us for a quote of buy from Amazon using the links below:

Click for product details and pricing

Click for product details and pricing

Click for product details and pricing

Help is just a call or email away? Call and ask for a free quote on Lenovo computers from one of our IT Consultants. Call 905-709-2656 or toll free 1-877-709-2656 or complete our online form by clicking here.


Comment Below
What do you think about Microsoft ending support for Windows XP? 
We would love to hear from you. Leave us your thoughts below >

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Computer Technology News: Have you heard of spear phishing?

Keep your business IT infrastructure running smooth. Read about the latest technology security, trends and tips that can help your business grow and prosper.

Have you heard of spear phishing? Click to read March Newsletter.

Comment below or follow this blog by email>

What is Managed Anitvirus and Why Should You Have it

Managed antivirus solutions are offered by IT managed service partners. These tech experts take care of installing the software on PCs, MACs and other devices, and will then manage the solution within a dashboard that provides instant alerts and notifications of any issues.

They will also ensure that scans are up-to-date and scheduled for a convenient time, thus protecting computers.

The best way to think of these solutions is that they are specifically provided by a company to look after your computers and protect them from viruses and other security vulnerabilities.

Click here to read the full article

Managed antivirus is not more costly then traditional antivirus software, but it is much more effective. The investment in an antivirus security solution far outweighs the cost of downtime and repair, should your computer get contaminated.

Contact us for more information and a quote for managed antivirus at 905-709-2656 TF 1-877-709-2656 or click here to complete the request form.

Avaya IP Office Helps the Cake Boss Grow the Business

A bakery suddenly finds itself dealing with rapid business growth, after being on a hit reality show Cake Boss. Carlo’s Bakery challenge is how to expand the business without losing the creativity, quality, and customer service that they are famous for.

They realize that they need a simple, scalable collaboration solution and implement an Avaya IP Office phone system. By adding mobile, messaging, video and contact center applications that make collaboration with employees, customers and vendors seamless, simple, and personal - the same way it’s always been since 1910.

Click here to download the Success Storey in PDF

 

See How Carlo’s Bakery Scales Creativity and Customer Service

See what our customers are saying, click to read testimonials

Avaya IP Office UC PBX business phone system | Ontario | Toronto | GTA | Markham | Thornhill | Richmond Hill | Concord | Vaughan | Woodbridge | Mississauga | Brampton | Scarborough | Pickering | Oshawa | Whitby | Ottawa | London | Kitchener

Avaya IP Office Promotion 15% Discount

Take advantage of this limited time special discount of 15% on Avaya hardware. 

LIMITED TIME 15% Discount

Discounts on Avaya IP Office phone system, digital and IP phones and other hardware.

Expires March 28, 2014

Call today for a quote and all the details, 905-709-2656 TF 1-877-709-2656 or via email at

 www.vbsitservices.com/about-us/contact-us

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Phone systems & VoIP Technologies designed with your business in mind.

Click here to learn more 

 

 

Hear. There. Everywhere. Keeping your business moving forward with Avaya IP Office Solutions.

Customers demand immediate attention. Get a jump on the competition with Avaya’s IP Office Customer Experience Management solutions. The solutions are simple to deploy, integrate, run and manage, and they work with your existing systems.

The right telephone communication system can help your business break through the challenges that small business face today by enabling your company to achieve cost savings, functionality and flexibility to run your business more effectively.

Avaya IP Office business phone system gives you the flexibility to respond effectively to your customers across every communication channel from wherever your team is located.

Learn more by downloading the free whitepaper.
Click on the link below:

Avaya PDF Whitepaper Download


Need advice? Contact us with your questions. We'll help you figure out what features can help your business within your budget.

Call for a free consultation, 905-709-2656, TF 1-877-709-2656 or send us your questions via email at: www.vbsitservices.com/about-us/contact-us

How we Avoided a $40K Order Scam

This past week, we received an order for about $40,000 from a sizable organization, but quickly discovered it was a scam. I can't take credit, as I was not involved. But thankfully, we have a team that cares and processes to ensure that these situations are handled properly.

The skilled individual that orcastrated the deal, went to great lengths to ensure that he and his company looked legitimate. The website, email, phone numbers and address looked perfectly real. At first glance, it seemed like a real opportunity. 

The deal was red flagged early on, but our suspisions became apparent when the individual approved the order and requested immediate next day delivery on 30 day payment terms. This request triggered an internal process to investigate the customer. What happen next was astonishing. 

In a single phone call to the organization's head office, it was discovered that we had been targeted by a scammer. The individual was already being investigated. We offered to help, but it seems that they already knew who it was and didn't need further assistance.

When I first heard the details of this of this story, I didn't know if I should be angry or celebrate. Of course I celebrated. I celebrate the fact that we have a great team and that everyone cared enough to avoid a bad situation. 

I wanted to share this story with you because I would hate to learn that anyone has been taken advantage by this or any other scammer. There's a world of honest and amazing people out there that want to work with you, so don't think that you need to rush into every opportunity to make a sale. Be selective of who you work with. Base your relationships on trust and mutual respect. And work with people you like and enjoy dealing with.

The successful businesses that I have had the pleasure to work with, all have something in common. They understand that to succeed you need to have processes, technology to drive the processes and most importantly a strong team of dedicated and trained individuals. Organizations that don't understand this, could end up being taken advantage of and possibly in a difficult financial predicament. 

You've heard the old saying, "If it's too good to be true, it probably is."

The moral of the story is that every organization needs to have popper processes in place to qualify, verify and approve transactions. You also need to have clear policies and stick to them. Don't be seduced by a seemingly large order. Don't bend the rules to accommodate a customer you have no history with. Stick to your policies and don't be afraid to ask for a 50% deposit and/or COD. 

And as a last thought, "It's better to make no deal at all, than to make a bad deal."

(I learnt that one from my father)

I would love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to comment below.

To your success,

Miguel M. Ribeiro