Category: IT Security Los Angeles

Managed IT Services for Los Angeles Businesses: A Guide

Posted on by Mackenzie Craft

In the bustling city of Los Angeles, businesses face unique challenges and opportunities every day. From the entertainment industry to tech startups, a diverse array of companies calls this city home. While the City of Angels offers immense possibilities, it also demands a high level of technological sophistication. That’s where Managed IT Services come into play, helping Los Angeles businesses unlock the path to success.

This comprehensive guide will explore the ins and outs of Managed IT Services, emphasizing their importance, benefits, and how they can empower businesses in Los Angeles to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Download our buyers guide of Managed IT Services for Los Angeles Businesses

The Landscape of Business in Los Angeles

Managed It Services Los Angeles
Los Angeles Managed IT Services

Los Angeles is a city of dreams and ambition, but it’s also a city of fierce competition. Before diving into the world of Managed IT Services, let’s take a closer look at the unique business landscape in Los Angeles.

Diverse Industries

Los Angeles is a melting pot of industries, from Hollywood entertainment and fashion to tech startups and healthcare. Each sector has its own IT needs and challenges.

Los Angeles boasts a rich tapestry of diverse business industries. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s entertainment giants to the tech-driven innovation of Silicon Beach startups, and the bustling fashion and apparel scene to the thriving healthcare and finance sectors, Los Angeles is a dynamic hub for a wide array of industries. This diversity not only reflects the city’s cosmopolitan nature but also creates a fertile ground for innovation, collaboration, and economic growth. As a result, Los Angeles continues to be a beacon of opportunity and creativity, attracting entrepreneurs and professionals from around the world eager to contribute to its vibrant business landscape.

Learn About all the Industries We Serve

Growth and Innovation

LA is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and innovative culture. Startups are on the rise, while established companies are constantly seeking ways to adapt and grow.

Los Angeles is a hotbed of growth and innovation, offering boundless opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. Its dynamic ecosystem encourages startups and established companies to push boundaries and explore new horizons. With access to world-class talent, top-tier universities, and a thriving venture capital scene, Los Angeles provides the perfect environment for innovative breakthroughs. From pioneering sustainable technologies to leading the way in entertainment and healthcare innovations, the city is a breeding ground for transformative ideas. As the City of Angels continues to evolve, it remains at the forefront of innovation, attracting visionaries and dreamers eager to shape the future.

The Importance of Technology

In an era where technology drives business success, companies in Los Angeles must stay ahead of the curve to remain competitive.

In Los Angeles, technology isn’t just a tool; it’s the lifeblood of businesses. From streamlining operations in the entertainment industry to powering e-commerce for fashion brands, technology plays a pivotal role. Innovative startups leverage cutting-edge tech to disrupt traditional sectors, while established companies rely on it for competitiveness and growth. Moreover, tech enhances healthcare, finance, and logistics, optimizing services and improving customer experiences. In this sprawling metropolis, technology isn’t an option; it’s a necessity. Businesses that harness its potential gain a significant edge, driving efficiency, innovation, and ultimately, success in the City of Angels’ fiercely competitive landscape.

What Are Managed IT Services?

Before discussing their benefits, it’s crucial to understand what Managed IT Services actually are.

Defining Managed IT Services

An in-depth explanation of what Managed IT Services entail, including proactive monitoring, support, and management of IT infrastructure.

Managed IT services refer to comprehensive IT support solutions provided by external service providers to businesses. These services include proactive monitoring, maintenance, and management of a company’s IT infrastructure, networks, and systems. Managed IT service providers assume responsibility for tasks such as software updates, cybersecurity, data backup, and helpdesk support, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations. This outsourced model offers cost-effective, scalable, and expert IT management, enabling businesses to enhance efficiency, minimize downtime, and ensure the security of their digital assets while accessing a dedicated team of IT professionals without the need for in-house hiring.

The Evolution of IT Support

How Managed IT Services have evolved from traditional break-fix models to proactive, strategic solutions.

The evolution of IT services in Los Angeles mirrors global technological advancements. Decades ago, businesses relied on break-fix models, seeking IT help only when problems arose. However, as technology became integral to operations, the paradigm shifted. Managed IT services emerged, offering proactive, strategic support to prevent issues, enhance efficiency, and ensure cybersecurity. Los Angeles, with its diverse industries, demanded specialized solutions, leading to industry-specific IT services. In recent years, the city embraced cloud computing, AI, and IoT, revolutionizing how businesses operate. Today, IT services in Los Angeles are at the forefront of innovation, driving growth, and helping companies navigate a rapidly changing digital landscape.

The Benefits of Managed IT Services

Managed IT Services offer a wide range of advantages for businesses in Los Angeles. This chapter explores these benefits in detail.

Cost Savings

How outsourcing IT services can reduce operational costs and improve budget management.IT Cost Savings Los Angeles

Managed IT services offer significant cost savings for Los Angeles businesses. By outsourcing IT support, companies can reduce overhead costs associated with in-house IT departments, including salaries, training, and equipment expenses. Managed service providers (MSPs) often offer predictable, subscription-based pricing models, allowing businesses to budget effectively. MSPs also proactively monitor and maintain IT infrastructure, minimizing downtime and costly disruptions. Additionally, the expertise of MSPs in optimizing technology investments ensures that businesses get the most value from their IT expenditures. Overall, the cost-effectiveness of managed IT services enables Los Angeles businesses to allocate resources more efficiently while still benefiting from top-tier IT solutions.

Increased Efficiency

Discussing how Managed IT Services can streamline operations, minimize downtime, and boost overall efficiency.

Managed IT services significantly enhance efficiency for Los Angeles businesses and organizations. These services provide proactive monitoring and rapid issue resolution, reducing downtime and productivity loss. Expert IT professionals optimize technology systems, streamlining operations and workflows. Scalability options mean businesses can adapt swiftly to changing needs. Additionally, the security measures implemented by managed IT services protect against data breaches and cyber threats, further bolstering efficiency by ensuring uninterrupted operations. Overall, managed IT services are a key catalyst for improved efficiency, allowing organizations in Los Angeles to focus on their core missions.

Scalability

Exploring how these services allow businesses to scale their IT infrastructure as they grow.

Managed IT services empower businesses in Los Angeles to scale effortlessly, unburdened by IT challenges. As companies expand, their IT infrastructure needs to grow in tandem. Managed service providers (MSPs) handle this seamlessly, ensuring that networks, servers, and software are ready to accommodate increased demands. With MSPs overseeing technology scalability, businesses can concentrate on their core objectives, without diverting resources to IT intricacies. This proactive approach anticipates and mitigates potential issues, thus averting downtime and disruptions. As a result, Los Angeles businesses can scale confidently, knowing that their IT infrastructure will support growth without interruption or complications.

Enhanced SecurityIT services Los Angeles and IT Security

Highlighting the importance of cybersecurity and how Managed IT Services can protect sensitive data.

Businesses in Los Angeles leverage managed IT services to bolster their cybersecurity measures comprehensively. Managed service providers (MSPs) bring specialized expertise to the table, implementing robust security protocols and continuous monitoring. They proactively identify vulnerabilities, deploy firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption, safeguarding critical data against cyber threats. MSPs also offer regular updates and patches to keep systems resilient to evolving security risks. With 24/7 monitoring and rapid incident response, businesses can confidently protect themselves from breaches and data theft. Managed IT services ensure Los Angeles businesses can focus on their growth and operations while maintaining a strong defense against cyberattacks.

Access to Expertise

Discussing how businesses can tap into the expertise of IT professionals without the cost of hiring in-house.

Managed IT service providers offer invaluable expertise to businesses and organizations in Los Angeles. Their specialized knowledge spans various IT domains, from cybersecurity and network management to software optimization and cloud computing. This expertise allows them to proactively address IT challenges, minimize downtime, and ensure systems run smoothly. Moreover, they stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies, enabling businesses to make informed decisions for their IT infrastructure. With a dedicated team of professionals at their disposal, organizations can tap into this wealth of knowledge, enhancing their technological capabilities and ensuring efficient, secure, and competitive operations.

Managed IT Services for Los Angeles

Now that we’ve established the benefits, let’s delve into how Managed IT Services specifically cater to the needs of Los Angeles businesses.

Industry-Specific Solutions

How Managed IT Services can be tailored to address the unique IT challenges faced by businesses in entertainment, healthcare, finance, and other sectors.

Managed IT service providers in Los Angeles recognize the diverse needs of businesses across different industries. That’s why they specialize in offering industry-specific IT solutions tailored to each sector. Whether it’s healthcare, entertainment, finance, or manufacturing, these providers understand the unique challenges and compliance requirements each industry faces. They design IT strategies and services that cater to these specific demands, ensuring that technology not only supports but also enhances the core operations of businesses. This specialization allows organizations in Los Angeles to harness IT solutions that are finely tuned to their industry’s nuances, ultimately driving efficiency, security, and competitiveness.

Compliance and Data ProtectionIT consulting in Los Angeles

Discussing the importance of compliance with industry regulations and how Managed IT Services can assist with data protection.

Managed IT service providers in Los Angeles play a crucial role in ensuring compliance and data protection for businesses. They are well-versed in the intricate web of industry regulations and data privacy laws that companies must adhere to, offering tailored solutions that help clients meet these stringent requirements. These providers implement robust security measures, encryption protocols, and data backup strategies to safeguard sensitive information against breaches and loss. Additionally, they conduct regular audits and assessments to ensure ongoing compliance. By partnering with managed IT providers, businesses in Los Angeles can navigate the complex landscape of compliance and data protection with confidence, mitigating risks and preserving their reputation.

 

Disaster Recovery

Exploring the significance of disaster recovery planning in earthquake-prone Los Angeles and how Managed IT Services can help ensure business continuity.

In Los Angeles, managed IT service providers deliver vital disaster recovery and backup solutions crucial for maintaining business continuity. They formulate extensive strategies aimed at safeguarding essential data, ensuring its accessibility in the event of unexpected disasters like earthquakes or cyberattacks. These solutions encompass real-time data replication, off-site backups, and rapid recovery protocols, effectively reducing downtime and limiting data loss. Given the city’s susceptibility to natural disasters, these services offer a valuable sense of security, enabling businesses to sustain their operations and safeguard their assets. Los Angeles-based enterprises can depend on managed IT providers to fortify their data protection and swiftly recover from disruptions.

 

Choosing the Right Managed IT Services Provider

Selecting the right Managed IT Services provider is crucial for unlocking success. This section offers guidance on making the best choice.

Assessing Your Needs

How to evaluate your specific IT needs and match them to the services offered by providers.

Assessing your business’s IT needs is a pivotal first step towards optimizing technology resources. Start by understanding your organization’s goals, current challenges, and growth projections. Evaluate existing IT infrastructure, identifying areas that require improvement or modernization. Consider factors like data security, scalability, and industry-specific compliance requirements. Engage with key stakeholders to gather insights into departmental needs and pain points. A comprehensive IT needs assessment should also include a risk analysis, helping to identify potential vulnerabilities and threats. With a clear understanding of your business’s IT requirements, you can then formulate a strategic plan and make informed decisions to align technology with your organization’s objectives.

Reputation and Experience

The importance of choosing an experienced and reputable provider with a proven track record.

What is a Service Level Agreement?When choosing a managed IT service provider, understanding their reputation is paramount. A reputable provider will have a track record of delivering reliable services and exceptional customer support. Look for client testimonials, case studies, and reviews to gauge their performance. Assess their certifications and partnerships with technology vendors, which can be indicative of their expertise. A positive reputation signifies trustworthiness, reliability, and the ability to meet your IT needs effectively, making it a crucial factor in the decision-making process.

Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

Understanding the terms of the service agreement and the level of support you can expect.

Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are crucial when selecting a managed IT provider in Los Angeles. Review SLAs carefully to understand the level of service, response times, and support availability. A well-defined SLA ensures alignment with your business needs, guaranteeing that the provider meets your expectations and delivers reliable IT services.

What is a Service Level Agreement?

The Future of Managed IT Services in Los Angeles

As technology continues to evolve, what can Los Angeles businesses expect from Managed IT Services in the future?

IT consulting in Los AngelesEmerging Technologies

An overview of cutting-edge technologies that will shape the future of IT services.

The future of Managed IT Services in Los Angeles is intrinsically linked to emerging technologies. As the city continues to be a global tech hub, innovations like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and edge computing will play pivotal roles. AI-driven automation will enhance proactive problem-solving and predictive maintenance. IoT will optimize asset management and connectivity. Edge computing will reduce latency and boost real-time data processing. Cybersecurity will evolve with advanced threat detection using machine learning. These emerging technologies will enable Managed IT Service providers in Los Angeles to offer more agile, secure, and efficient solutions, ensuring businesses remain competitive in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Adapting to Change

How Managed IT Services providers will adapt to meet the evolving needs of Los Angeles businesses.

Managed IT service providers in Los Angeles are highly adaptable, evolving to meet the changing needs of businesses. They embrace emerging technologies, such as cloud computing and AI, to enhance service delivery. The shift to remote work has led to robust cybersecurity measures and improved support for distributed teams. Providers also offer scalable solutions to accommodate the growth of businesses. In a dynamic city like Los Angeles, Managed IT service providers remain at the forefront of innovation, ensuring that companies can navigate evolving technological landscapes with confidence.

Conclusion

Summing up the key takeaways from this guide and emphasizing the role of Managed IT Services in unlocking success for businesses in Los Angeles.

In a city as dynamic and competitive as Los Angeles, the right technology partner can make all the difference. Managed IT Services offer a pathway to efficiency, growth, and security. By embracing these services, businesses in the City of Angels can unlock their full potential and soar to new heights of success.

Benefits of IT Services to Law Firms

Posted on by Quadri Abdur

Security breaches remain a major concern for all types of businesses. The unprecedented amount of threat posed by cyberattacks makes it necessary for law firms to increase the level of security around them. Through IT services, law firms are able to improve security, increase productivity, reduce cost of operation, and improve compliance.

Law firms keep a large volume of personal, sensitive, and confidential information of their clients. For this reason, the firms are targets for cybercriminals. Therefore, it is essential for law firms to use IT services. The article will discuss the benefit of IT services and managed IT services to law firms in Los Angeles.

Enhanced Security

Managed IT services help law firms get access to state-of-the-art cybersecurity technologies and practices that are mostly limited to enterprise corporations. Since most law firms use case management software, managed IT services monitor and manage the security of your confidential digital information. Advanced Networks can help law firms in Los Angeles with the Managed IT services needed to improve security.

Improved Accessibility

Lawyers often need access to confidential and sensitive information and documents at any time or place. Consequently, it is crucial if access to be secure. The benefit of IT services helps legal professionals to store their files in the cloud where the information is secured and accessible from any Internet-connected device.

Higher Productivity

Slow internet, server breakdown, and other issues involving IT are common in any organization. But, these setbacks hurt the productivity of workers in the organization.

The IT support handles all kinds of IT issues to help organizations reduce server and network downtime through the use of redundancies, security measures, and disaster plans that stop issues or threats that hinder productivity.

Bolster Compliance

Since law firms handle a vast amount of sensitive information about their clients, it is necessary to comply with government regulations for data security. The managed IT services that we provide at Advanced Networks can assist law firms in Los Angeles to bolster compliance with the continually changing government regulations.

Reduced Operational Costs

Working Internet doesn’t only improve productivity but reduces operational costs. The firm will see savings related to floor space, human resources, and infrastructure, etc. According to statistics, managed IT services help reduce IT related expenses by about 25% or more. In addition, the lawyers have round-the-clock access to vital information for a lower cost than before.

Fixed Budgeting

The fixed monthly payment alternative given to law firms by managed IT service providers enables them to know the exact amount they pay for IT services. So the organization can plan for IT expenses instead of being surprised by unexpected costs.

Provides Level Playing Field

Many smaller law firms are not able to pay for in-house IT support services that larger firms keep. In addition, small practices often don’t budget for significant systems upgrades or updates. For this reason, the smaller law firms lag on the technology curve.

Engaging the services of managed service providers offers smaller legal practices a competitive advantage. It also gives them access to smaller technology and greater expertise than larger firms enjoy.

Scalability

Law firms, identical to other businesses, are open to growth and change. With expansion comes a higher need for software upgrades, servers, and desktops, and support systems to manage them well. Working with a managed services provider helps law firms in Los Angeles access recent technologies and the security measures. With this, the law firm can continue operating a growing practice.

Legal Application Expertise

Line-of-business applications (LOB) such as document management systems and cost-recovery systems are critical to the continued success of any legal firm. With the increase in the number of LOBs, the integration of such applications becomes more difficult.

Managed service providers can engineer these apps to work nicely with standard horizontal apps such as Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Cloud. Also, MSP will help remove a larger portion of frustration and inefficiency.

An experienced IT support from managed service providers working with Law firms is able to participate in potential issues related to the law profession, understanding each practice’s operational needs. Outsourcing IT to managed service providers permits attorneys to focus on their clients and cases without interruption or delays as a result of connectivity or backup concerns.

Proper Coordination

Most law firms operate a business from any locations, and they fail inappropriate coordination. The use of Managed IT Service Provider will help law firms bring uniformity to their operations.

Factors That Will Help You Choose the Ideal Managed IT Services Providers

Business continuity, backed by continuous improvement and innovation is a significant need of many organizations in different sectors. Managed IT Services presents an opportunity, making monitoring and execution of complex IT tasks easier than ever.

For you to decide on which Managed IT Service Providers to choose, consider the following factors:

Your IT Needs And Managed IT Service Providers Offerings

The first thing to consider before making any business deal, identifying the areas of improvement before going for a service provider. Considering this step helps you select a perfect match for your IT needs.

It is best to have a clear match between your requirements and the MSP offering. A perfect IT MSP performs technology auditing, helping you access the current situation, reveal gaps, and areas of improvement.

Market Portfolio and Presence

It is crucial to understand your selected MSP’s portfolio, market presence, experience with firms like yours and previous clients. With this in mind, you will access their capabilities, ability to meet up industry standards, and more.

For this reason, you need to consider these factors because they will give you confidence in moving forward with a specific painter.

Conclusion

As law firms depend on the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of its data, the lack of security awareness can create severe revenue loss and reputational damage. Therefore, a law firm needs to partner with the appropriate Managed IT Service Provider to give them the security they deserve. Contact us today at Advanced Networks to know more about our services. We can offer you Los Angeles law firm a personalized Managed IT solution.

How An IT Support Provider in LA Can Cut Operational Costs and Expedite Recovery

Posted on by Admin

IT support providers in LA provide many services to many businesses that are highly diverse. One of the most integral they provide is Backup and Disaster Recovery (BDR). Basically, this is a system of maintaining data so that it can be recovered if a system wipe and reboot become necessary. Before cloud computing became a mover and shaker in the tech community, this had to be done at intervals, and a crash could erase an entire shift’s data. Sometimes, that’s not a big deal, but mostly it is. Also, in some cases, a loss of this kind could fundamentally undermine operations to such an extent that resuming them becomes nearly impossible.

Surprising Advantages

When cloud computing came along, the power of multiple servers networked together and made it possible for businesses to continuously back up systems so that even in the event of a complete shutdown, essentially no data–except that which caused the error–would be lost. However, there is still time lost rebooting the damaged system, which cloud computing offers a solution for. It’s called “database mirroring.” Basically, the cloud can “reflect” your network so that if an imminent crash is detected on your primary network, the “mirrored” network begins its load-up cycle. This provides an essentially seamless transition. Work isn’t lost, employee productivity isn’t lost, client sales through your website aren’t lost and you can work on this network as long as you need while the primary one is restored. Though there will certainly be varying expenses pertaining to what you can and can’t do with such a mirrored solution, it’s definitely something worth considering for your business. Additionally, cloud computing support solutions cater to businesses of all sizes. The smaller your data load, the less expensive your cloud computing costs will ultimately be.

Next Level Security

In terms of the security of your data on a cloud network, consider that professionals running whatever cloud option you’re considering are doing so as a core business directive. As a result, IT support providers in LA are going to have the most cutting-edge security they can acquire. Additionally, since they deal with multiple clients, they have more information when it comes to systems management and can curtail more obscure problems before they even start. Consider that internal support solutions on a backup server you’ve purchased and maintained onsite don’t have the same experience. Additionally, you’ve got to pay those internal employees, and the server you use as a backup solution won’t be cheap. It won’t be as fast as the cloud (in most cases) either, since you don’t have the same level of resources to bring to the table. So with this in mind, recommended data protection solutions via cloud support include advantages, such as:

  • Continuous availability
  • Reduction in associated costs
  • Cutting-edge backup solutions
  • Increased experience in tech management

Securing Backup Solution

IT support in LA through Advanced Networks can provide you the cloud-based security of a comprehensive kind that can continuously safeguard your systems with the most top-tier tech around. Contact us now to ensure that your networks will remain sustainable even in the face of the most unexpected disaster situations.

IT Support in LA Needs to Combat Rising Ransomware Threats

Posted on by Admin

IT support in LA needs to be on the cutting edge when it comes to security solutions. If you’re on the hunt for an MSP to help safeguard your business, thankfully, you’ve got a lot of options. There are several security concentrations you’ve really got to take into consideration if you want to be the most effective. Several things to consider strongly include:

  • Proactive monitoring and support
  • 24/7 help desk availability
  • Ransomware solutions

Ransomware

Of the three in that list, Ransomware represents one of the most pernicious threats that your business needs to protect against. It turns out that hackers are abandoning old malware solutions in droves in order to employ more successful ransomware attacks. Between 2014 and 2016, there was a 93% drop in malware attacks against a massive increase in ransomware attacks.

In a nutshell, ransomware software works like this: hackers find a way to get malicious software on your system which, essentially, locks you out unless you’re able to pay a certain fee by a certain time.

As MSPs and other IT security solutions in Los Angeles learned how to hack through ransomware, cybercriminals upped the ante in the game by making it so that files on a system are erased after a certain period has elapsed. Now it’s true that nothing is ever truly “erased” when a computer deletes a file. Yet, recovering multiple terabytes in a network after ransomware has chopped everything up is expensive and unrealistic.

A better solution— should your system be infected with ransomware— is a quick shut-down, initialization, and reboot. With cloud computing, you can mirror your network on the cloud and experience no loss in productivity or visibility to clients. Although, it still costs you collaterally. Your best bet is to have such a solution available for the worst-case scenario and have the most up-to-date ransomware detection and prevention measures in place, otherwise.

Prevention Tactics

One way to prevent ransomware is to educate employees on how the pernicious software gets into networks in the first place. Primarily, email is the culprit. Another way this happens is through social engineering hacks where a hacker poses as someone with authority within a company and manages to secure login information. That may seem like something unlikely but it’s really not. Check out this video— a random girl hacks a man’s smartphone account just by acting like a harried married woman.

That said, even more, sophisticated means of getting ransomware installed on a given system are in place today. Have you heard the bad news about WannaCry? IT support in LA can keep you protected from these kinds of viruses, don’t worry; but they’re definitely frightening. In May of 2017, WannaCry infected businesses in over 150 countries. This was done through the Server Message Block (SMB) port. It was a virus that used an NSA-designed back door to compromise systems. Thankfully, companies with diligent MSPs received automatic patches and upgrades. Many businesses were preserved precisely because they worked with the right tech company.

Securing Requisite Support

IT support in LA through Advanced Networks can comprehensively protect you against ransomware. Contact us for the latest in digital security solutions.

Why Every Business Needs IT Support in Los Angeles for a Full-fledged IT Recovery Plan

Posted on by Admin

IT support LA, IT security Los AngelesIT has advanced at a breakneck pace over the past decade. It is no longer a limited to being a tool for your business to operate as a central hub for operations. IT is now central to just about every aspect of your business. Organizations that lack an effective IT recovery plan will face particularly nasty consequences in the event of a crisis. If you aren’t fully confident in your IT recovery strategy, you need assistance from a proven group of IT support gurus in Los Angeles.

Risks Abound

Take a look at the news and there is a good chance you will find a story about a data breach, a hack or some sort of other digital attacks. These threats are serious enough that they can completely shut down operations for extended periods of time. It is not only hackers who are a danger to your organization. Anything from flooding to a fire, earthquake, hurricane, tornado or other natural disasters can cause chaos. An IT recovery plan created by your IT support crew in Los Angeles is the solution.

Threats Affect Businesses of Every Type and Size

If you own or manage a small to medium size business, do not assume hackers and natural disasters do not pose risk to your organization. Phishing scams do not discriminate between businesses of varying sizes. These emails contain embedded code that transmits viruses. Ransomware that locks down your computer will prevent you from accessing your files. You do not want to face a situation where you must decide between paying a ransom or proceeding without your data. An IT recovery plan will help you mitigate these risks.

Don’t Underestimate Natural Disasters

Consider the incredible number of natural disasters that have occurred over the past couple years. From hurricanes to earthquakes, tornadoes, fires, floods and beyond, it seems like a natural disaster occurs every other week. These events are major threats to your data and operations. You must prepare accordingly with a rock-solid IT recovery plan. The unfortunate truth is that many companies lack such a plan and end up shutting their doors following a natural disaster. You need a robust IT infrastructure so your business can continue in a seamless manner.

If you aren’t scared by the specter of digital attacks or natural disasters, consider the potential damage of an electrical fire. Even vandalism, burglary or equipment failure can wreak havoc to the point that your business can’t recover. Don’t let this nightmare become your reality. Establish an IT recovery plan and your business will be in a much better position to survive.

IT recovery plan analyzes the existing network and improves it in numerous ways. The plan encompasses everything from threat mitigation to creating off-site workflows, forming a communications plan, recovery planning, off-site data backup, and generating redundant IT systems.

If you need any sort of IT support in Los Angeles, Advanced Networks is at your service. We provide IT security, backup and disaster recovery, network design, cloud services and more. Let us analyze your current setup, make improvements to boost your efficiency and solve complex IT challenges. Contact us our assistance will liberate your staff to focus on what they do best.

IT Consulting in Los Angeles for Roaming Users on the Move

Posted on by Admin

IT consulting Los Angeles, IT security Los AngelesThese days, keeping your technology secure is more important than ever. Business no longer takes place in the office alone. These days, keeping your technology secure is more important than ever. Business no longer takes place in the office alone. Employees are always mobile, they may be on the train arranging meetings or doing market research in a coffee shop. Their office goes with them no matter where they are and mobility means data safety is at risk more than ever. Hiring firms specializing in IT consulting in Los Angeles connects you to the security resources your roaming business needs.

The Risk to Your Business

Roaming users present a unique challenge. Time and again, human error contributes a large part to mistakes with technology. Your employees are only human. They can say they take every precaution when using public networks or managing sensitive client data, but everyone acts carelessly at times. People use unsafe applications. They download email attachments from unverified sources. Some access key information over unencrypted networks. These behaviors all leave your business vulnerable to malware, viruses, Trojan horses, and botnets. Running into any situation like those listed demonstrates the need for your company to seek out IT security Los Angeles.

Roaming employees might prefer working on their personal device at home. This presents an enormous risk. Whatever existing network security you have goes out the window the second data leaves the on-site server and gets loaded up to an unverifiable device. That kind of open access completely compromises your business.

Solutions for Roaming Business

Though widespread and stress-inducing, IT consulting in Los Angeles has many solutions to the problem your business faces. Old modes of thinking about network security no longer apply. Gone are the days when the server-based perimeter protected you from cyber-attacks. Data security must focus on the mobile user and the global network. Cloud-based security solutions provide the stability and safety your company and your clients deserve.

Security for roaming users all but forces them to be safe. When logging on to any connection, cloud-based systems redirect employees to a proxy page for verification. This ensures that data accessed on public networks never go without some kind of protection. Cloud-based data security protects against the all too common human error. You can remotely control the use of certain applications with IT security in Los Angeles. You can disable those programs deemed vulnerable, risky, or infected. Thus, you remove the likelihood of a roaming user coming into contact with malware on accident.

Limiting access to risky materials does not make your roaming business inaccessible. On the contrary, your IT solutions work smoothly and globally. Since security solutions using the cloud take little front-end costs or labor, they work across all platforms. Every digital point at which you do business has guaranteed data safety. Emails, websites, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and any other technology you may employee can all benefit from the added security.

Your business’ complicated problems need quick, bold solutions. Advanced Networks takes your data security seriously.  Our firm leads the industry for IT consulting in Los Angeles. We offer tested expertise when faced with any security issue your company may have. Contact us at Advanced Networks for informed, reliable, and friendly support no matter what challenges your business faces.

IT Support in LA Can Help You Design a Comprehensive Cybersecurity Plan

Posted on by Admin

IT support LA, IT security Los AngelesFive Primary Points of Security

IT support in LA is cutting-edge because it has to be. Security is top-priority and this should be the case no matter the size of your business. A small business may not be at the same level of financial risk as a larger operation but that doesn’t mean they’re at no risk. As a matter of fact, it may just be that SMBs have a somewhat increased risk because often times they are less likely to have the same levels of cyber security as bigger businesses; making them an easier target for cyber criminals. As it turns out, approximately 43% of small businesses are regularly targeted for cybercrime— this is a little more than four out of 10.

With this in mind, four areas where you can improve your business’s cyber-security are:

  • Passwords: make them complex and transitionary
  • Points of entry: ensure all are protected and can detect intruders
  • Security logs: make them and monitor them
  • Vulnerability identification: MSPs can help you detect and patch weak areas

Passwords

IT support providers in LA commonly advises clients regarding their password protection because so many clients are “out to sea” on this one. They have simple passwords they never change and which are extremely easy to crack with some basic knowledge of human predictability. You want a password with at least one capital letter, at least eight characters, and at least one symbol. “Password1!” fulfills these qualifications, but it’s really easy to crack because it’s just so obvious. There are quite a few passwords regularly used which are just like this and a hacker can simply run down the list until he finds one that works. You need password protection protocols which continuously transition obscure passwords impossible to predict and require military-grade decryption to crack. If all endpoints have detection protocols you can see if someone is trying to hack your system and block them.

Points of Entry

You’ve got smartphones, smartwatches, smart thermostats, smart fridges, cloud computing, and traditional on-site networks. In short, between the IoT (Internet of Things), existing tech, and the cloud, your SMB probably has many areas where a hacker could enter— some you won’t even realize. As a matter of fact, there’s such a thing as an “SMB” port, though here the abbreviation stands for “Server Message Block” rather than “Small to Medium-Sized Business.”

In 2016, Ransomware attack “WannaCry” affected 150+ countries by invading businesses through their SMB ports. You need to protect all points of entry like this and have monitoring protocols in place which can detect intruders and alert security personnel either of the internal or external variety.

Security Logs

You want security logs because compliance regulations stipulate their requirement and because you can expediently catch security issues and get ahead of them.

Vulnerability Identification

An MSP can help you identify vulnerabilities of operation and curtail them before they can be exploited by cyber criminals.

Securing Your Business

IT support in LA through Advanced Networks can help provide you with more robust IT security solutions for your Los Angeles business; identifying common problem areas and patching them before they can impact your business. Contact us to protect you against a cybercrime wave that is only getting bigger.

IT Support in Los Angeles: Understanding the Cyber Security Risks of IoT Devices

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IT support Los Angeles, IT security Los Angeles

The escalating growth of mobile devices and IoT (Internet of Things) devices is fueling the rising number of cyber security threats. Smart phones and tablets are now an integral part of most businesses’ technology infrastructure. Add in the growing number of IoT-enabled devices being added to business networks and you can see why cyber security must be a priority for businesses of all sizes. Ignoring the threat is a gamble that could cause your business to close its doors. Fortunately, you could turn to an IT support provider in Los Angeles to help you with your business’ cyber security.

Technology Innovation and the Rising Threat of Cyber Attacks

For the past few decades, technology innovation has increased at light speed— this is great for businesses that want to leverage new technology. However, manufacturers usually release new devices and technologies with little thought to security, and this opens up gaps in cyber security that low-level hackers, criminals, and hacktivists exploit. This scenario leaves the tech industry scrambling to fill in the gaps. But, it takes time to fill the security holes, giving hackers time to exploit the weaknesses.

What recent technology innovations leave security gaps? IoT devices are at the top of the list, according to a review of predictions completed by Tech Pro Research at the beginning of the year. Security automation and malware come in second and third place, respectively.

Where Is Your Organization Vulnerable?

The first step to counter the threat is to understand where your organization is vulnerable. It is not an easy undertaking, but it is necessary. You need a reliable IT support provider in Los Angeles to help you identify the vulnerabilities of your systems, so a security measure will be put in place immediately.

Here are some areas to consider for a tighter IT security of your Los Angeles business:

  • Number of IoT devices – How many IoT-enabled devices do you have connected to your network? IoT devices are those which can send or receive information via a network and which have a dedicated address on the network. This includes PCs, servers, printers, network devices, smart phones, tablets, laptops, smart copiers, and even some of the appliances in your break room. Every device on your network is a point of vulnerability.
  • Device tracking – Can you successfully track the IoT devices connected to your network? When employees bring their personal smart phones into the workplace, many businesses let them connect to the company network. Because they are not company assets, it is difficult to track them on the network— and that puts the network at risk of an attack through an uncontrolled asset.
  • Change of passwords ­- Do you have a process in place to change passwords on IoT devices? Most devices come with a default password. If that password is not changed, it can leave the device vulnerable to an attack. You may have done this on all the PCs, laptops, smart phones, and servers, but that still leaves a ton of IoT devices that have the default password still in place.
  • Necessary policy in place – Do you have a policy on the adoption of IoT devices and their integration to the network? Many companies don’t have a formal policy. Each department purchases devices and connects them to the network without IT’s involvement. Having a policy in place and enforcing it is a good move towards securing your network against cyberattacks.

If you want to improve your cyber security, you need the help of only the best IT support provider in Los Angeles— that’s us at Advanced Networks! Contact us today and let us help you improve your cyber security and propel your business to greater heights.

Protecting Your Data with IT Security in Los Angeles

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The sensitive data your company relies on must be protected by the proper IT security in Los Angeles. This information keeps your company running. For most corporations, items like customer orders, payment options, and personal information must be stored to operate. This data moves through different systems, networks, and departments, both internally and externally to your company. Keeping all these data safe is critical in maintaining your company’s reputation and ability to provide products and services. With data loss protection, your business has the tools needed to mitigate many of the risks associated with data loss.

Data Loss Risks

Data loss and information breaches hurt companies in a variety of ways. Here are some of the top risks your company is exposed to while you don’t have any data loss protection in place:

  • Stopping operations – Without information like order numbers, shipping information, and payment data, your business cannot function. This cuts into your revenue and hurts your bottom line.
  • Loss of additional revenue – Many of your sales efforts use previous sales data. When this information is lost, your sales staff loses critical information they need to make new sales.
  • Bad reputation – Losing payment information or having it end up in the wrong hands makes your company look bad. Other customers are leery of providing that information to you in the future, which drives them to your competitors.
  • Failure to comply with regulations – For many industries, the right protection from data loss is regulated. They can impose fines, release poor audit results, and have other negative consequences, if they are not followed properly.

What Data Loss Prevention Does

The threat of data loss is very real and includes some extremely high risks, but how do you protect your company? When looking into IT security in Los Angeles, you hear the term data loss prevention a great deal. It is important to understand the benefits your services are providing to make sure your risks are mitigated correctly.

Many data loss prevention plans provide tracking methods. This lets you know where your data is, where it came from, and who has access to it. These records help you stay safe, record any issues, and provide evidence in the event of a security breach. These methods keep both on-site and cloud-based storage solutions safe.

Data loss prevention systems protect your data from external sources. It also looks at the internal usage of data. Some employees require access to sensitive or proprietary information. This access has the potential to leak information, either with intent or by accident. By implementing data loss prevention, your company mitigates the risks associated with internal data breaches.

With the growing amount of data stored and accessed, the risks of data breaches have also grown. For the safety of your company’s data, IT security in Los Angeles should be carefully monitored. With the use of data loss prevention, your business faces lower risks. Advanced Networks is here to help you keep your data secure. Contact us today to learn how our services protect your sensitive information.