Protecting Your Network from Ransomware

What is Ransomware? Ransomware is malware that holds the victim’s data ransom by preventing access to the computer by locking the desktop or by encrypting the user’s files where they cannot be read. The malware then displays a ransom note, possibly pretending to be from federal or local law enforcement of some sort. The ransom note may even claim that the computer was used to look at illegal websites, videos, or images and will try to frighten...

Cloud Applications VS Installed Software

In the past when a person needed new software such as Microsoft Office, they would simply travel to their nearest retailer and purchase a brightly-colored box with a CD and a license key inside. The next transition from this became visiting a website, purchasing online, and downloading a file directly from the website. And now it seems that we have hit the next phase. Applications now are going a step further by not requiring a download or installation...

Who's Looking Out for Your Network?

Today I want to talk about the importance of using a consistent IT services provider.  Every business out there relies on some type of technology to make their business run, whether it is your phone system or your computer network. At CMS, we work with a variety of customers both large and small.  Some customers employ their own IT personnel and simply rely on us as a provider of equipment and backup support, while others depend on us...

VoIP Solutions for Business

What is VoIP and Why do I Need It? TCP/IP is an amazing technology that allows for the convergence of data, voice and video on the same network.  What this means to you is that your path for growth is wide open.  For years your business has relied on TCP/IP to deliver data to your users.  This would be documents stored on your network file server, printing, email, internet browsing and more.  Now you are considering a Voice-over...

The Importance of Password Security

Passwords are everywhere.  From your Windows login to your banking software, to the online store where you purchase your "can't put down" books from; everyone wants you to log in with your special login. But how "special" is your login? It's simple.  We are busy people with lots to do; so to remember long, secure passwords may not be high on our priority list.  And if we have to have a different one for every site or device that...

The Value of Managed IT Services

So, What is "Managed IT Services"? We like to call it...your virtual IT department.  Imagine staffing an entire company just to be your IT support, but not having to worry about training, employees calling in sick, or any other issues with an in-house staff.  Managed IT services means that you have access to an entire technology company when you need it, staff who is watching and proactively protecting your business data and network. Here's...