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If you’re only talking to your IT provider when you renew your contract, you’re doing it wrong.

Technology isn’t a “set it and forget it” part of your business. It’s constantly evolving, and so are the threats that come with it. That’s why quarterly IT check-ins are nonnegotiable if you want your business to stay protected, productive and competitive.

But here’s the thing: Most business owners don’t know what to ask.

So today, we’re giving you a cheat sheet. These are the questions your IT provider should be ready to answer every single quarter – no tech-speak, no vague promises, just straight answers that keep your business running smoothly.

1. Are There Any Vulnerabilities We Need To Address Right Now?

This isn’t just about checking boxes. You need to know:

• Is our antivirus up-to-date?
• Are there unpatched systems?
• Have we had any near misses or red flags lately?

You’re not being paranoid – you’re being prepared.

2. What’s The Status Of Our Backups? And Have You Tested Them Lately?

Backups are like seat belts: You don’t think about them until you really, really need them. Ask:

• When was the last time you tested a full restore?
• Are we using the right backup strategy? Off-site? Cloud? Hybrid?
• Are we backing up the right things?
• Is everything being backed up and stored securely?

You’d be shocked how many businesses think they’re backed up…until they’re not.

3. Are All Employees Following Security Best Practices?

It only takes one team member clicking the wrong link to bring the whole network down. Ask:

• Have there been any unusual logins or risky behavior?
• Do we need another round of phishing training?
• Are employees using multifactor authentication?

Bonus points if your IT provider brings this up before you ask. That’s how you know they’re watching.

4. How Has Our Network Performance Been? Anything Slowing Us Down?

Slow systems = slow teams = lost productivity (and money). Ask:

• Are there any recurring performance issues?
• Are we outgrowing our hardware or software?
• Is there anything we can optimize to speed things up?

Even small tweaks can make a big difference.

5. Are We Still Compliant With [HIPAA, PCI-DSS, GDPR, etc.]?

Regulations change. So do the rules about how you store and protect data. Ask:

• Are we meeting the standards for our industry?
• Have any requirements changed?
• Do we need to update policies, software or training?

Fines for noncompliance aren’t cheap. Stay ahead of them.

6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?

Good IT is proactive. Ask:

• Are there any software licenses expiring?
• Any equipment nearing the end of its life?
• Any upcoming projects we should be planning for?

This helps you avoid surprise expenses and plan like a pro.

7. What Trends In IT Or Cybersecurity Are We Behind On That Are Making Us Slower Or More Vulnerable?

Technology doesn’t stand still – and neither do cybercriminals. Ask your IT provider:

• Are there new tools or best practices we’re not using yet?
• Are we lagging behind in any security protocols or performance benchmarks?
• What are other businesses our size doing that we’re not?
• Are there any rising threats that we need to be more cautious of?

Falling behind on emerging trends doesn’t just slow you down – it leaves you exposed. A great IT partner will keep you ahead of the curve, not playing catch-up.

You AREN’T Having These Conversations? Red Flag

If your IT provider doesn’t have clear answers to these questions – or worse, if they aren’t offering to meet with you quarterly in the first place – you might not be getting the support you need.

Technology changes fast. Cyberthreats move faster.

You need someone who’s not just reacting when something breaks but actively working to prevent the break in the first place.

We offer FREE Security Assessments to help business owners like you get a clear view of their tech setup – what’s working, what’s not and how to fix it before it turns into a problem.

Click here to book your assessment today!

It’s a quiet June morning. Half your team is on vacation. The other half is working from home or bouncing between coffee shops and hotel WiFi.
And then it happens.

● Your system goes down.
● The printer stops working.
● No one can access shared files.
● A phishing e-mail just landed in someone’s inbox.

You call your IT person – and they’re out of office too.

Now what?

Your business is frozen, and there’s no one available to fix it.

Sound dramatic? Maybe.

But unrealistic? Not even a little.

Summer’s Great For Fun, And Terrible For Reactive IT Support

Most business owners don’t realize how much goes into keeping their business up and running, until something breaks – and the only person who knows how to fix it is sipping daiquiris on a beach somewhere without a cell phone signal in sight.

That’s the main problem with reactive IT support.
It works fine…until it doesn’t. And then you’re left scrambling to repair the damage.
When your tech strategy is based on “Just call Bob if something goes wrong,” you’re taking a huge risk.
Especially in the summer, because tech problems don’t care about PTO.

● Servers still crash.
● Hardware still overheats.
● Hackers still send e-mails.

And when no one’s there to respond quickly, the damage stacks up – fast.

Reactive IT = Constant Firefighting

When you rely on a “fix-it-when-it-breaks” approach:

● Downtime drags on while you wait for someone to become available

● Cyberthreats slip through the cracks because no one is actively monitoring systems

● Small issues snowball into major headaches (and big expenses)

● You have no fallback when your go-to IT person is unavailable

And in June, when vacations peak and remote work is more common, it’s the perfect storm. Instead, you need to work with a company that takes a proactive approach to IT support.

Proactive IT = Business Continuity, Even When You’re On The Beach

A proactive IT partner doesn’t just wait for things to go wrong. They anticipate issues, prevent disruptions and make sure there’s a plan (and people) in place when your usual support is AWOL.

With a proactive team, you get:

● 24/7 system monitoring and maintenance
● Security updates before you’re exposed
● Regular backups and disaster recovery plans
● A team of experts – not just one person – with backup coverage
● Predictable costs and fewer surprises

The Cost Of Waiting Until It’s Broken

Downtime costs small businesses anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars PER MINUTE. Cyberattacks can be even worse, both financially and reputationally.

Waiting until things go wrong isn’t just inconvenient; it’s risky and potentially expensive.

Ready To Vacation Without Worry?

This summer, don’t leave your business exposed while your team (or your IT support) is away.

Let’s take a look at your setup and show you how a proactive approach can save you time, money and stress.

Click Here To Book Your FREE Network Assessment, and we’ll show you exactly where you’re vulnerable – and how to fix it before it becomes a headline.

If I asked you to name the biggest cybersecurity threats in your office, you’d probably say phishing e-mails, malware or weak passwords. But what if I told you that your office printer – yes, the one quietly humming in the corner – could be one of the biggest vulnerabilities in your entire network?

It sounds ridiculous, but hackers love printers. And most businesses don’t realize just how much of a security risk they pose – until it’s too late. In 2020, Cybernews ran what they called the “Printer Hack Experiment.” Out of a sample of 50,000 devices, they successfully compromised 56% of the printers, directing them to print out a sheet on printer security. That’s nearly 28,000 compromised devices – all because businesses overlooked this “harmless” piece of office equipment.

Wait, WHY Target Printers?

Because printers are a goldmine of sensitive data. They process everything from payroll documents and contracts to confidential client information. And yet, most businesses leave them wide-open to attack.

Here’s what can happen when a hacker gains access to your printer:

● Printers store sensitive data – Every time you print, scan or copy a document, your printer keeps a digital copy. Many printers have built-in hard drives that store years’ worth of documents, including payroll files, contracts and employee records. If a hacker gains access, they can steal or even reprint those files without your knowledge.

● Default passwords are a hacker’s dream – Most printers come with default admin logins like “admin/admin” or “123456.” Many businesses never change them, making it ridiculously easy for cybercriminals to take control.

● They’re an open door to your network – Printers are connected to your WiFi and company network. If compromised, they can be used as an entry point to install malware or ransomware, or steal data from other devices.

● Print jobs can be intercepted – If your print jobs aren’t encrypted, hackers can intercept documents before they even reach the printer. That means confidential contracts, legal documents and even medical records could be exposed.

● They can spy on your business – Many modern printers have built-in storage and even scan-to-e-mail features. If a hacker compromises your device, they can remotely access scanned documents, e-mails and stored files.

● Outdated firmware leaves the door wide-open – Like any device, printers need security updates. But most businesses never update their printers’ firmware, leaving them vulnerable to known exploitations.

● Data mining from discarded printers – Printers that were improperly disposed of can be a goldmine for cybercriminals. Residual data stored on discarded printers can be mined for sensitive information! This can result in potential security breaches. Printers need to have their storage wiped clean to avoid being vulnerable to data breaches and legal liabilities.

How To Protect Your Printers From Hackers

Now that you know printers can be hacked, here’s what you need to do immediately:

1. Change The Default Password – If your printer still has the default login credentials, change them immediately. Use a strong, unique password like you would for your e-mail or bank account.

2. Update Your Printer’s Firmware – Manufacturers release security patches for a reason. Log into your printer settings and check for updates or have your IT team do this for you.

3. Encrypt Print Jobs – Enable Secure Print and end-to-end encryption to prevent hackers from intercepting print jobs.

4. Restrict Who Can Print – Use access controls so only authorized employees can send print jobs. If your printer supports PIN codes, require them for sensitive print jobs. You can also add a guest option.

5. Regularly Clear Stored Data – Some printers let you manually delete stored print jobs. If yours has a hard drive, make sure it’s encrypted, and if you replace a printer, wipe or destroy the hard drive before disposal.

6. Put Your Printer Behind A Firewall – Just like computers, printers should be protected by a firewall to prevent unauthorized access.

7. Monitor Printer Activity – If your IT team isn’t already tracking printer logs, now is the time to start. Unusual print activity, remote access attempts or unauthorized users printing sensitive documents should be red flags.

Printers Aren’t Just Office Equipment – They’re Security Risks

Most businesses don’t take printer security seriously because, well, it’s a printer. But cybercriminals know that businesses overlook these devices, making them an easy target.

If you’re protecting your computers but ignoring your printers, you’re leaving a huge hole in your cybersecurity defenses.

Want to know if your office printers are secure? Start with a FREE Network Security Assessment – we’ll check for vulnerabilities and make sure your printers (and your entire network) aren’t leaving your business exposed.

Click here to schedule your FREE Network Assessment today!

Planning a vacation this year? Make sure your confirmation e-mail is legit BEFORE you click anything!

That’s right, summer is right around the corner and cybercriminals are exploiting travel season by sending fake booking confirmations that look nearly identical to e-mails from airlines, hotels and travel agencies. These scams are designed to steal personal and financial information, hijack your online accounts and even infect your device with malware.

Even tech-savvy travelers are falling for it.

Here’s How The Scam Goes

A Fake Booking Confirmation Lands In Your Inbox

● The e-mail can appear to come from well-known travel companies like Expedia, Delta or Marriott.
● Hackers often use official logos, correct formatting and even “customer support” numbers.
● Subject lines create a sense of urgency:
○ “Your Trip To Miami Has Been Confirmed! Click Here For Details”
○ “Your Flight Itinerary Has Changed – Click Here For Updates”
○ “Action Required: Confirm Your Hotel Stay”
○ “Final Step: Complete Your Rental Car Reservation”

You Click The Link And Get Redirected To A Fake Website

● The e-mail urges you to “log in” to confirm details, update payment info or download your itinerary.
● Clicking the link takes you to a convincing but fake website that captures your credentials when you enter them.

Hackers Steal Your Information And/Or Money

● If you enter your login credentials on the website they are impersonating, hackers now have access to your airline, hotel or financial accounts.
● If you enter payment details, they steal your credit card information or process fraudulent transactions.
● If the link contains malware, your device (and everything on it) could be compromised.

Why This Scam Is So Effective

1. It Looks Legit: These phishing e-mails perfectly mimic real confirmation e-mails – logos, formatting and even links that look familiar.
2. It Plays On Urgency: Seeing a “reservation issue” or “flight change” triggers panic, making people act fast without thinking.
3. People Are Distracted: Whether they’re in the middle of work or excited about an upcoming trip, they’re less likely to double-check an e-mail’s authenticity.
4. It’s Not Just Personal – It’s a business risk too.

If you or your team travels for work, this scam becomes even more dangerous. Many businesses have one person handling all reservations – flights, hotels, rental cars, conference bookings.

Because they receive so many confirmation e-mails, it’s easy for a fraudulent one to slip through. A single click from your office manager, travel coordinator or executive assistant could:

● Expose your company credit card to fraud.
● Compromise login credentials for corporate travel accounts.
● Introduce malware into your company network if the scam contains malicious attachments.

How To Protect Yourself And Your Business

1. Verify Before You Click – Always go directly to the airline, hotel or booking website instead of clicking e-mail links.
2. Check The Sender’s E-mail Address – Scammers use addresses that are close but not exact (e.g., “@deltacom.com” instead of “@delta.com”).
3. Warn Your Team – Train employees to recognize phishing scams, especially those handling company travel bookings.
4. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA) – Even if credentials are stolen, MFA adds an extra layer of security.
5. Lock Down Business E-mail Accounts – Ensure e-mail security measures are in place to block malicious links and attachments.

Don’t Let A Fake Travel E-mail Cost You Business

Cybercriminals know exactly when and how to strike – and travel season is prime time.
If you or anyone on your team books work-related travel, handles reservations or manages expense reports, you’re a target.

Let’s make sure your business is protected.

Start with a FREE Cybersecurity Assessment. We’ll check for vulnerabilities, strengthen your defenses and help safeguard your team against phishing scams like this.

Click here to schedule your FREE assessment today!

A client recently asked me, “What mistakes do you see business owners making the most when it comes to IT and cybersecurity?”

Oh, where to begin…

After years of working with businesses of all sizes, the biggest mistake I see time and again is treating IT and cybersecurity as an afterthought. It doesn’t matter how many data breaches are in the news; I see business owner after business owner either underestimating the real risks of cyberthreats or assuming that setting up some basic protections is enough. I hate to be the one to break it to you, but it’s not enough. A single breach, ransomware attack or IT failure can cripple your business overnight. And yet, too many companies take a reactive approach – prioritizing security only after something goes wrong – which, guess what, is more tiresome and more expensive.

Another common mistake? Thinking free software is “good enough.” Look, I get it. Free antivirus programs, consumer-grade routers and DIY security setups seem like an easy way to save money, especially when you’re a small business and inflation is everywhere. But those “savings” quickly evaporate when your business suffers a data breach, faces compliance fines or loses critical client trust. If you wouldn’t run your business on a free spreadsheet app, why would you trust your entire security infrastructure to bargain-bin software?

Then, there’s the issue of underestimating the cost of downtime. Many businesses assume they can afford to be offline for a few hours if something breaks. But when your network goes down, your team can’t work for hours or even days, your customers can’t access your services and you start hemorrhaging money. A solid IT strategy isn’t just about security – it’s about ensuring operational continuity so that when disaster strikes (and to some degree, it will), you don’t have to scramble to recover.

And finally, the most overlooked mistake is failing to plan for the long game. IT and cybersecurity aren’t set-it-and-forget-it investments. Threats evolve, technology changes and hackers get more sophisticated every day. If you’re not proactively assessing, updating and reinforcing your security posture, you’re already falling behind.

At the end of the day, you need to protect what you’ve built.

So, what’s the solution? I’ll give it to you straight.

1. Stop taking shortcuts. Invest in professional-grade IT and security solutions, not band-aid fixes.

2. Think long-term. A solid cybersecurity plan isn’t a onetime project – it’s an ongoing commitment.

3. Get expert guidance. You don’t have to (and shouldn’t) navigate the complexities of IT security alone. Surround yourself with people who know what they’re doing and can help you stay ahead of the curve.

If you’re ready to take IT and cybersecurity seriously, let’s talk. Click here to book a free 10-minute Security Assessment, and let’s make sure your business isn’t one click away from disaster.

Chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot and the recently released DeepSeek have revolutionized how we interact with technology, offering assistance with almost every task imaginable – from drafting e-mails and generating content to writing your grocery list while keeping it within your budget.

But as these AI-driven tools weave themselves into our daily routines, questions about data privacy and security are becoming harder to ignore. What exactly happens to the information you share with these bots, and what risks are you unwittingly exposing yourself to?

These bots are always on, always listening and always collecting data on YOU. Some are more discreet about it than others, but make no mistake – they’re all doing it.

So, the real question becomes: How much of your data are they collecting, and where does it go?

How Chatbots Collect And Use Your Data

When you interact with AI chatbots, the data you provide doesn’t just vanish into the ether. Here’s a breakdown of how these tools handle your information:

Data Collection: Chatbots process the text inputs you provide to generate relevant responses. This data can include personal details, sensitive information or proprietary business content.

Data Storage: Depending on the platform, your interactions may be stored temporarily or for extended periods. For instance:

● ChatGPT: OpenAI collects your prompts, device information, the location you’re accessing it from and your usage data. They might also share it with “vendors and service providers.” You know, to improve their services.

● Microsoft Copilot: Microsoft collects the same information as OpenAI but also your browsing history and interactions with other apps. This data may be shared with vendors and used to personalize ads or train AI models.

● Google Gemini: Gemini logs your conversations to “provide, improve, and develop Google products and services and machine learning technologies.” A human might review your chats to enhance user experience, and the data can be retained for up to three years, even if you delete your activity. Google claims it won’t use this data for targeted ads – but privacy policies are always subject to change.

● DeepSeek: This one is a bit more invasive. DeepSeek collects your prompts, chat history, location data, device information and even your typing patterns. This data is used to train AI models, improve user experience (naturally) and create targeted ads, giving advertisers insights into your behavior and preferences. Oh, and all that data? It’s stored on servers located in the People’s Republic of China.

Data Usage: Collected data is often used to enhance the chatbot’s performance, train underlying AI models and improve future interactions. However, this practice raises questions about consent and the potential for misuse.

Potential Risks To Users

Engaging with AI chatbots isn’t without risks. Here’s what you should watch out for:

Privacy Concerns: Sensitive information shared with chatbots may be accessible to developers or third parties, leading to potential data breaches or unauthorized use. For example, Microsoft’s Copilot has been criticized for potentially exposing confidential data due to overpermissioning. (Concentric)

Security Vulnerabilities: Chatbots integrated into broader platforms can be manipulated by malicious actors. Research has shown that Microsoft’s Copilot could be exploited to perform malicious activities like spear-phishing and data exfiltration. (Wired)

Regulatory And Compliance Issues: Using chatbots that process data in ways that don’t comply with regulations like GDPR can lead to legal repercussions. Some companies have restricted the use of tools like ChatGPT due to concerns over data storage and compliance. (The Times)

Mitigating The Risks

To protect yourself while using AI chatbots:

● Be Cautious With Sensitive Information: Avoid sharing confidential or personally identifiable information unless you’re certain of how it’s handled.

● Review Privacy Policies: Familiarize yourself with each chatbot’s data-handling practices. Some platforms, like ChatGPT, offer settings to opt out of data retention or sharing.

● Utilize Privacy Controls: Platforms like Microsoft Purview provide tools to manage and mitigate risks associated with AI usage, allowing organizations to implement protection and governance controls. (Microsoft Learn)

● Stay Informed: Keep abreast of updates and changes to privacy policies and data-handling practices of the AI tools you use.

The Bottom Line

While AI chatbots offer significant benefits in efficiency and productivity, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about the data you share and understand how it’s used. By taking proactive steps to protect your information, you can enjoy the advantages of these tools while minimizing potential risks.

Want to ensure your business stays secure in an evolving digital landscape? Start with a FREE Network Assessment to identify vulnerabilities and safeguard your data against cyberthreats.

Click here to schedule your FREE Network Assessment today!

Think ransomware is your worst nightmare? Think again.

Hackers have found a new way to hold your business hostage – and it may be even more ruthless than encryption. It’s called data extortion, and it’s changing the rules of the game.

Here’s how it works: They don’t bother encrypting your files anymore. Instead, they just steal your sensitive data and threaten to leak it unless you pay up. No decryption keys, no restoring your files – just the gut-wrenching fear of seeing your private information splashed across the dark web and facing a public data breach.

This new tactic is spreading like wildfire. In 2024 alone, over 5,400 extortion-based attacks were reported worldwide, an 11% increase from the previous year. This isn’t just ransomware 2.0. It’s a whole new kind of digital hostage situation.

The Rise Of Data Extortion: No Encryption Necessary

Gone are the days when ransomware simply locked you out of your files. Now, hackers are bypassing encryption altogether. Why? Because data extortion is faster, easier and more profitable.

Here’s how it works:

● Data Theft: Hackers break into your network and quietly steal sensitive information: client data, employee records, financial documents, intellectual property – you name it.

● Extortion Threats: Instead of encrypting your files, they threaten to publicly leak the stolen data unless you pay up.

● No Decryption Needed: Since they’re not encrypting anything, they don’t need to deliver decryption keys. This means they can dodge detection by traditional ransomware defenses.

And they’re getting away with it.

Why Data Extortion Is More Dangerous Than Encryption

When ransomware first hit the scene, businesses were mainly worried about operational disruption. But with data extortion, the stakes are much higher.

1. Reputational Damage And Loss Of Trust
If hackers leak your client or employee data, it’s not just about losing information – it’s about losing trust. Your reputation can be destroyed overnight, and rebuilding that trust could take years (if it’s even possible).

2. Regulatory Nightmares
Data breaches often trigger compliance violations. Think GDPR fines, HIPAA penalties or PCI DSS infractions. When sensitive data goes public, regulators come knocking with hefty fines.

3. Legal Fallout
Leaked data can lead to lawsuits from clients, employees or partners whose information was compromised. The legal fees alone could be catastrophic for a small or midsize business.

4. Endless Extortion Cycles
Unlike traditional ransomware, where paying the ransom restores your files, data extortion has no clear endpoint. Hackers can keep copies of your data and re-extort you months – or even years – later.

Why Are Hackers Ditching Encryption?

Simply put: It’s easier and more profitable.

While ransomware is still on the rise – with 5,414 attacks reported worldwide in 2024, an 11% increase from the previous year (Cyberint) – extortion offers:

● Faster Attacks: Encrypting data takes time and processing power. But stealing data is quick, especially with modern tools that allow hackers to quietly extract information without setting off alarms.

● Harder To Detect: Traditional ransomware often triggers antivirus and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions. Data theft, on the other hand, can be disguised as normal network traffic, making it much harder to detect.

● More Pressure On Victims: Threatening to leak sensitive data creates a personal and emotional impact, increasing the likelihood of payment. No one wants to see their clients’ personal details or proprietary business information on the dark web.

No, Traditional Defenses Aren’t Enough

Traditional ransomware defenses aren’t effective against data extortion. Why? Because they’re designed to prevent data encryption, not data theft.

If you’re relying solely on firewalls, antivirus or basic endpoint protection, you’re already behind. Hackers are now:

● Using infostealers to harvest login credentials, making it easier to break into your systems.

● Exploiting cloud storage vulnerabilities to access and extract sensitive files.

● Disguising data exfiltration as normal network traffic, bypassing traditional detection methods.

And the use of AI is making everything faster and easier.

How To Protect Your Business From Data Extortion

It’s time to rethink your cybersecurity strategy. Here’s how to get ahead of this growing threat:

1. Zero Trust Security Model

Assume every device and user is a potential threat. Verify everything – no exceptions.
● Implement strict identity and access management (IAM).
● Use multifactor authentication (MFA) for all user accounts.
● Continuously monitor and validate devices connecting to your network.

2. Advanced Threat Detection And Data Leak Prevention (DLP)

Basic antivirus won’t cut it. You need advanced, AI-driven monitoring tools that can:
● Detect unusual data transfers and unauthorized access attempts.
● Identify and block data exfiltration in real time.
● Monitor cloud environments for suspicious activity.

3. Encrypt Sensitive Data At Rest And In Transit

If your data is stolen but encrypted, it’s useless to hackers.
● Use end-to-end encryption for all sensitive files.
● Implement secure communication protocols for data transfer.

4. Regular Backups And Disaster Recovery Planning

While backups won’t prevent data theft, they’ll ensure you can restore your systems quickly in the event of an attack.
● Use offline backups to protect against ransomware and data destruction.
● Test your backups regularly to make sure they work when you need them.

5. Security Awareness Training For Employees

Your employees are your first line of defense. Train them to:
● Recognize phishing attempts and social engineering tactics.
● Report suspicious e-mails and unauthorized requests.
● Follow strict access and data-sharing protocols.

Are You Prepared For The Next Generation Of Cyberattacks?

Data extortion is here to stay, and it’s only getting more sophisticated. Hackers have found a new way to pressure businesses into paying ransoms, and traditional defenses just aren’t enough.

Don’t wait until your data is on the line.

Start with a FREE Network Assessment. Our cybersecurity experts will evaluate your current defenses, identify vulnerabilities and implement proactive measures to protect your sensitive information from data extortion.

Click here to schedule your FREE Network Assessment today!

Cyberthreats are evolving. Isn’t it time your cybersecurity strategy evolved too?

Mark your calendars: October 14, 2025 – the day Windows 10 officially reaches its end of life. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes or technical support for Windows 10. But what does this mean for your business applications and productivity tools?

If you’re still using Windows 10 after the cutoff date, it’s not just your operating system that will be at risk – your critical business applications could be affected too. Let’s break down what you need to know.

No More Security Updates = Major Vulnerabilities

Once Windows 10 support ends, there will be no more security patches. This means any vulnerabilities discovered after October 14, 2025, will remain unpatched, leaving your applications exposed to cyberthreats.

What This Means For Your Applications:

● Higher Risk Of Data Breaches: Without security patches, your applications will be more susceptible to hacking attempts, ransomware and other malicious attacks.
● Compliance Issues: If you’re in a regulated industry (e.g., health care or finance), running applications on an unsupported OS could lead to compliance violations and hefty fines.
● Productivity Disruptions: If a cyberattack compromises your systems, it could bring business operations to a standstill.

No More Feature Updates = Compatibility Issues Becoming Inevitable

As software vendors continue to release updates and new versions, they’ll eventually stop supporting Windows 10. This means your applications may no longer be compatible with your operating system, leading to:

● Frequent Crashes And Glitches: Applications may become unstable, crash frequently or fail to launch altogether.
● Feature Limitations: You might miss out on new features and functionality that are only available on supported operating systems like Windows 11.
● Security Gaps: Application updates often include security patches. If your OS is no longer supported, the latest security features won’t work, increasing your risk of cyberattacks.

No More Technical Support

It’s not just Microsoft ending support – third-party software vendors will follow suit. As Windows 10 becomes outdated, you’ll notice:

● No More Technical Support: Software vendors will stop providing customer support for their products running on Windows 10.
● Lack Of Integration With New Tools: Modern tools and applications will be optimized for Windows 11 and beyond, leading to compatibility issues and reduced productivity.
● Limited Hardware Compatibility: New peripherals and hardware may not have drivers compatible with Windows 10, limiting your ability to upgrade or expand your setup.

Performance And Productivity Will Suffer

Outdated systems can’t keep up with modern demands. As more advanced applications are developed, they require updated operating systems to run efficiently.

The Impact On Your Business:

● Slow Performance: Applications may run slower on outdated operating systems, affecting employee productivity.
● Increased Downtime: More frequent crashes and glitches lead to costly downtime.
● Maintenance Costs: Keeping legacy systems functional can require more IT resources and expenses, cutting into your bottom line.

What Should You Do?

To ensure your applications continue running smoothly after Windows 10 support ends, consider these steps:

1. Back Up Your Data – You don’t want to risk losing anything
2. Decide To Upgrade To Windows 11 Or Replace Your Computer

○ Check Compatibility: Not all devices will support Windows 11. You can use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to confirm.
○ Plan For Upgrades: Budget for new hardware if your existing devices are incompatible.

3. Partner With A Trusted IT Provider – RECOMMENDED

○ Get expert guidance on the best upgrade path for your business.
○ Ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption to your operations.
○ Implement security measures to protect your data throughout the upgrade process.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

The end of Windows 10 support is closer than you think. Waiting until the last minute could leave your business vulnerable to cyberthreats, productivity bottlenecks and compliance issues.

Start with a FREE Network Assessment. Our experts will evaluate your current setup, identify application dependencies and help you create a seamless transition plan to ensure your business stays secure and productive.

Click here to schedule your FREE Network Assessment today!

Don’t leave your applications to chance. Take action now to protect your business from the risks of outdated technology.

Imagine you and your team walking into work ready to tackle the day’s tasks when suddenly the Internet goes down, e-mails stop working and productivity grinds to a halt. What would you do? When the “Internet goes down,” most businesses’ operations come to a halt, which can cost thousands in lost productivity and sales. Just think back to the MGM data breach over the summer: electronic room keys failed, casinos shut down and even online restaurant reservations were unavailable. That downtime cost MGM millions.

But downtime is only one way bad IT support can cripple your business. Add in constant frustrations like forgotten passwords, malware infections or trouble accessing shared files, and the pile of inefficiencies starts to look like a mountain.

Far too often, business owners end up shelling out big bucks for IT support that’s barely capable of solving the simplest problems. These so-called “IT experts,” who promised world-class service at bargain-bin prices, often spend more time twiddling their thumbs than proactively solving issues – waiting for YOU to tell THEM something’s broken.

You don’t have to settle for tech headaches and reactive IT support that only shows up after the damage is done. It’s time to demand better and ELIMINATE tech problems before they start.

To help, we’ve created a checklist of essential standards that anyone managing your network should meet. See how your current provider measures up:

● Do they answer their phone LIVE and respond to emergencies within 5 minutes?
When you’re in a crisis, waiting on hold or leaving voicemails isn’t an option.

● Are they easy to reach and responsive for nonemergencies, with responses within an hour?
Everyday tech issues shouldn’t leave your team stuck in limbo.

● Do they proactively monitor, patch and update your network’s critical security settings?
If you’re unsure whether this happens daily, weekly – or at all – you’re likely at risk.

● Do they provide proof that ALL your data is being backed up, including laptops and devices?
A trustworthy IT provider ensures nothing slips through the cracks.

● Do they meet with you at least quarterly to review projects, performance and improvements?
Great IT support doesn’t just fix problems – it helps you plan for the future.

● Do their invoices clearly explain what you’re paying for?
No one likes surprises, especially when it comes to billing.

● Do they explain what they’re doing in plain language, not “geek-speak,” and take the time to answer your questions?
You shouldn’t need a translator to understand your IT provider.

● Do they proactively discuss cybersecurity, recommend solutions and offer employee training?
Cybersecurity isn’t optional, and employee education is a critical layer of defense.

● Have they provided you with complete network documentation, including admin passwords?
If they’re holding the “keys to the kingdom” hostage, it’s a huge red flag.

● Do their techs arrive on time, dress professionally and leave you confident after every interaction?
Professionalism matters – if you cringe every time you call, it’s time to move on.

Bonus Points: Is Your IT Provider Going Above And Beyond?

● Do they conduct regular disaster recovery drills to ensure your backups actually work?
A backup is useless if it fails when you need it most.

● Are they helping you plan for scalable growth with technology that evolves alongside your business?
The right IT partner ensures your systems grow with your company.

● Do they offer advanced cybersecurity tools, like endpoint detection and AI-driven monitoring?
Cyberthreats are always evolving – your protection should be too.

● Do they track and optimize your network’s performance to prevent bottlenecks and downtime?
Efficiency is the name of the game in today’s competitive landscape.

Time To Raise The Bar

If your current IT provider doesn’t check all these boxes, you’re likely paying for subpar service – and it could be putting your business at risk. From security vulnerabilities to lost productivity, poor IT support is more than just an inconvenience – it’s a liability.

Don’t settle for anything less than a partner who prioritizes your business’s success.

Contact us today to see how we can eliminate your tech headaches and ensure your business runs smoothly. Click here to schedule now or call us at 480-464-0202 to get started.
Let’s make tech problems a thing of the past.