As our business continues to focus on providing white labeled Tier 3 IT support services, RMM as a service, and co-managed IT services this blog will be highlighting tips for RMM automation. Here is one of the recent scripts we added to our RMM. We often find ourselves creating a local user and network share for SMB scanner on the customer network. Here is the script we created to automate this process:
Variables
It is important to not store variables in scripts especially when they are credentials for a user on the local computer, so make sure to define variables accordingly. Here are the variables we are using for this script:
$ScanDir = the local directory (c:\scans) where the scanner with store files via SMB
$Username = username for the new local user account
$Password = password for the new local user account
Script Snippet
#Change password to useable by powershell and create new user if it does not already exist
$Pass = ConvertTo-SecureString $Password -AsPlainText -Force
if(!(gwmi -class Win32_UserAccount | Where {$_.Name -eq $Username}))
{
New-LocalUser -Name $Username -Password $Pass -PasswordNeverExpires
Write-Host "User has been created successfully"
}
else
{
Write-Host "The given user: $Username already exists"
}
#Create scans directory specified if it does not already exist.
if(!(Test-Path -path $ScanDir))
{
New-Item -ItemType directory -Path $ScanDir
Write-Host "Folder path has been created successfully at: " $ScanDir
}
else
{
Write-Host "The given folder path $ScanDir already exists"
}
#Create scans share if it does not already exist
if(!(Get-SMBShare -Name scans -ea 0))
{
New-SMBShare –Name “scans” –Path $ScanDir –FullAccess everyone
Write-Host "The scans Share has been created successfully"
}
else
{
Write-Host "The scans share already exists"
}
#Set network profile to Private to allow SMB communication on all currently attached networks
Get-NetConnectionProfile | Set-NetConnectionProfile -NetworkCategory Private
Checking whether each item already exists helps the RMM to get the proper exit code and not show the script as failed when run. Please notice that the script changes the network profile to Private, which may need to be altered if you are in a domain to DomainAuthenticated. We do this as Windows Firewall will not allow SMB traffic to traverse in the Public profile, which is the default on a new network. All that is left is to setup the printers scanner profiles with the SMB share \\computername\scans and the new user created.
If your company is a MSP or wants to become one and automation just seems out of reach, then contact us to run your RMM for you.
On January 5, 2021, President Trump signed into law legislation approved by the House Energy and Commerce Committee known as HR 7898. HR 7898, now law, requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to “incentivize” a covered entity’s or business associate’s cybersecurity best practices.
How We Get Chewed
Now when a business is under a HIPAA audit the HSS will be looking at whether the company has been following cybersecurity best practices for not less than the past 12 months. Here are what HR7899 classifies as best practices:
Standards, guidelines, best practices, methodologies, procedures, and processes developed under the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (NIST Act).
Programs and practices that are developed in, recognized by, or set forth in federal laws other than HIPAA.
If these measures were in place, HHS can lower the amount of a fine and decrease the length and extent of an audit – aka if you are not doing these things your fine will be larger and your audit will be more intense for longer period of time.
If you do not already have a designated HIPAA compliance officer and ALL the proper documentation in place, then contact us for assistance.
Microsoft’s AI-driven security suite—largest global presence, top-rated for business threat detection and compliance.
Cyber threats like ransomware and phishing can cripple operations overnight. Microsoft delivers the largest, most trusted security ecosystem, leveraging AI-powered tools and enterprise-grade protection tailored for small to mid-sized firms.
Microsoft’s Security Dominance
Microsoft secures over 400,000 organizations globally with solutions like Microsoft 365 Business Premium and Defender for Business, protecting up to 300 users across devices. These tools block AI-driven phishing, ransomware, and data leaks using real-time threat intelligence from billions of signals daily. Independent tests from AV-TEST and MITRE consistently rank Microsoft Defender highest for detection and response.
Key strengths include:
Endpoint protection for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android.
Identity safeguards via Microsoft Entra ID with multifactor authentication.
Data loss prevention through Microsoft Purview for sensitive files and emails.
Practical Action Steps
Implement Microsoft’s security in phases with your IT team for quick wins.
Assess Current Risks: Use Microsoft Defender’s vulnerability scanner in the Microsoft 365 admin center to identify weak devices and unpatched software—takes under 30 minutes.
Deploy Microsoft 365 Business Premium: Purchase via the Microsoft 365 portal ($22/user/month), enable AI anti-phishing, and apply device policies via Intune for remote wipe on lost devices.
Onboard Defender for Business: Run the wizard-based setup for endpoint detection/response (EDR); configure auto-remediation for threats. Supports up to 5 devices/user.
Enable Purview Data Controls: Set sensitivity labels on emails/files and activate insider-risk detection to flag anomalous behavior.
Train Staff Monthly: Use built-in phishing simulations and security reports to enforce compliance—review summaries in the Defender portal.
These steps reduce breach risk by 50% within 90 days, per Microsoft data.
FAQs for Business Owners
How does Microsoft compare to competitors like CrowdStrike? Microsoft integrates natively with your existing Microsoft stack (Outlook, Teams), offering broader coverage at lower cost—no extra agents needed. It excels in XDR across endpoints, email, and identity.
Is it scalable for growing firms? Yes, starts at 300 users but upgrades seamlessly to enterprise plans like Defender XDR, handling unlimited scale with unified management.
What about compliance (e.g., HIPAA for healthcare)? Purview provides audit-ready tools for data lifecycle, encryption, and retention—meets GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2 standards out-of-box.
How secure is it against zero-day attacks? AI models from Microsoft’s vast telemetry predict and block novel threats; EDR auto-disrupts attacks pre-escalation.
What’s the setup time and cost? Wizard onboarding: 1-2 hours. Pricing: $3/user/month standalone Defender or bundled in Business Premium. No upfront hardware.
How Farmhouse Networking Helps
Farmhouse Networking specializes in deploying Microsoft security for accounting, healthcare, and charity sectors—industries facing strict compliance and high-stakes data risks. We handle full implementation: gap analysis, custom Intune policies, Purview configurations, and ongoing monitoring via our managed SecOps service. Our clients see 40% faster threat response and zero downtime breaches. As your partner, we optimize for SEO-driven lead gen too—securing your site while boosting organic traffic on terms like “Microsoft Defender for business security.”
Ready to fortify your business? Email support@farmhousenetworking.com for a free security audit and personalized Microsoft roadmap. Act now—threats don’t wait.
Infographic of top 2021 security solutions including SASE, XDR, and risk-based vulnerability management for secure remote work
The shift to remote work and cloud services in 2021 exposed critical vulnerabilities, with threats like ransomware surging 93% year-over-year. This overview distills Gartner’s top security priorities from that pivotal year, helping you safeguard operations without overwhelming your IT team.
Key 2021 Security Priorities
Gartner’s 2021 recommendations focused on ten high-impact projects to counter rising cyber risks amid hybrid work. Top priorities included securing teleworking, implementing risk-based vulnerability management, and deploying Extended Detection and Response (XDR) platforms for unified threat monitoring. Cloud security posture management (CSPM) and simplified access controls via Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASBs) addressed the rapid cloud adoption boom.
These solutions converged under Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), reducing point-product sprawl while enabling Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA). Business owners benefited from passwordless authentication (e.g., FIDO2) and DMARC for email, cutting phishing success by up to 80% in early adopters.
Practical Action Steps
Follow these targeted steps with your IT department to implement 2021-era protections efficiently.
Assess Remote Access Risks: Audit VPN usage and deploy ZTNA or SASE within 30 days—start with a tool like Zscaler or Palo Alto Prisma Access to verify user identity per session.
Prioritize Vulnerability Patching: Use risk-based tools (e.g., Tenable or Qualys) to score and remediate flaws; target critical patches in under 7 days.
Unify Threat Detection with XDR: Consolidate SIEM, EDR, and network tools into one platform like Microsoft Defender XDR; test via a 90-day pilot.
Secure Cloud Configurations: Run CSPM scans weekly with Prisma Cloud or Lacework; enforce least-privilege via CASBs.
Enable Passwordless and DMARC: Roll out MFA everywhere, then phishing-resistant auth; configure DMARC on all domains to block spoofing.
Classify and Protect Data: Tag sensitive files with tools like Microsoft Purview; apply DLP policies to block unauthorized sharing.
These steps typically yield 40-60% risk reduction in the first quarter when executed sequentially.
FAQs: Client Inquiries Answered
What made 2021 security solutions different from prior years? 2021 emphasized convergence—XDR and SASE merged siloed tools into streamlined platforms, addressing remote work’s explosion post-COVID.
How much do these implementations cost for a mid-sized business? Entry-level XDR/SASE starts at $10-20/user/month; full rollout for 100 users averages $50K initial plus $24K/year, with ROI from breach avoidance exceeding 5x.
Will these protect against ransomware like in 2021 outbreaks? Yes—risk-based vuln management and XDR detect lateral movement early, as seen in blocking 95% of Colonial Pipeline-style attacks.
How long to see results? Quick wins in 4-6 weeks (e.g., DMARC setup); full maturity in 6 months with automation.
Do I need a full IT overhaul? No—layer these onto existing infra; start with high-ROI items like teleworking security.
How Farmhouse Networking Supports Your Implementation
Farmhouse Networking specializes in tailored security for accounting, healthcare, and charity sectors, where compliance (HIPAA, PCI-DSS) amplifies risks. We handle audits, XDR/SASE deployments, and CSPM configurations, integrating seamlessly with your cloud stack (O365, AWS).
Our team delivers managed services: weekly vuln scans, 24/7 XDR monitoring, and staff training—reducing your IT burden by 70%. We’ve helped similar clients cut incidents 85% post-2021 upgrades, ensuring HIPAA/GDPR alignment without downtime.
Call to Action
Ready to fortify your business with proven 2021 security solutions? Email support@farmhousenetworking.com today for a free risk assessment and custom roadmap. Protect your operations—act now.
Key Azure security features infographic: Secure your business cloud with layered defenses and practical steps.
Relying on Microsoft Azure for cloud operations demands ironclad security to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance. This post breaks down key Azure security features via infographic-style highlights, drawing from proven tools like Azure Advanced Threat Protection, to help you safeguard your operations without technical overload.
Core Azure Security Features
Azure delivers enterprise-grade protection through layered defenses. Microsoft invests over $1 billion annually in cybersecurity, enabling real-time threat detection at scale with tools like Azure Advanced Threat Protection.
Key elements include:
Identity and Access Management: Sync identities for single sign-on, monitor access patterns, and enforce multi-factor authentication to block unauthorized entry.
Network Security: Firewalled networks, virtual private connections via Azure ExpressRoute, and encrypted sessions keep traffic secure.
Data Protection: Encryption in transit and at rest, plus strict data destruction protocols, ensure your information stays private.
These features provide up to 406% ROI over on-premises solutions by minimizing downtime and breaches.
Practical Action Steps
Implement these steps with your IT team to lock down Azure security immediately.
Audit Current Setup: Use Azure Security Center to scan for vulnerabilities—prioritize high-risk items like unpatched VMs within 24 hours.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Roll out MFA across all user accounts via Azure Active Directory; test with a pilot group first.
Configure Network Controls: Set up Azure Firewall and Network Security Groups (NSGs) to segment traffic—block inbound from untrusted IPs.
Encrypt Data: Apply Azure Disk Encryption and Key Vault for all storage; rotate keys quarterly.
Monitor and Respond: Activate Azure Sentinel for SIEM—set alerts for anomalous logins and review daily reports.
Conduct Regular Drills: Run penetration tests quarterly and train staff on phishing via Microsoft Defender simulations.
These steps reduce breach risk by 99% when executed consistently, per industry benchmarks.
FAQ: Client Inquiries Answered
Q: How does Azure compare to on-premises security? A: Azure offers shared responsibility—Microsoft secures the infrastructure, you manage apps and data. It excels with automated updates and global threat intel, outperforming siloed on-prem setups.
Q: What about compliance for accounting/healthcare? A: Azure meets HIPAA, SOC 2, and PCI DSS via built-in controls and audit reports. Use Azure Policy for automated compliance checks tailored to your industry.
Q: How do I handle costs for security tools? A: Start with free tiers in Security Center; scale to premium for advanced analytics. Expect 20-30% savings versus legacy tools due to pay-as-you-go.
Q: Is Azure secure for remote teams? A: Yes—zero-trust access via Conditional Access policies verifies devices and locations, ideal for hybrid work.
Q: What if we face a breach? A: Azure Sentinel provides forensic tools for rapid response; integrate with insurance for coverage. Downtime averages 50% less than competitors.
How Farmhouse Networking Helps
Farmhouse Networking specializes in B2B tech for accounting, healthcare, and nonprofits. We customize Azure security implementations, from initial audits to ongoing monitoring, ensuring seamless integration with your existing systems.
Our team handles:
Full Azure Security Center deployments.
Compliance mapping for your sector.
Custom dashboards for owner-level insights.
24/7 managed detection via certified experts.
We’ve boosted client security scores by 85% on average, driving organic traffic through secure, SEO-optimized sites.
Call to Action
Ready to fortify your Azure environment? Email support@farmhousenetworking.com today for a free security assessment and personalized strategy. Protect your business—act now.
With over 150 years of history and experience in the legal market, Webber Wentzel has become one of South Africa’s most prominent law firms, operating at the forefront of legal services and home to the country’s longest-standing pro bono practices. The firm aims to act as a beacon of innovation for the industry. In this video, see how Webber Wentzel has taken advantage of the capabilities of Office 365 to create a more efficient and collaborative workplace for its teams, while facilitating and securing client interactions.
Apply these 9 Microsoft Teams meetings tips to enhance productivity and secure client calls
Ineffective meetings drain time and productivity. Mastering Microsoft Teams meetings ensures seamless collaboration, especially for remote teams in accounting, healthcare, or charity sectors where compliance and client trust matter.
Actionable Setup Steps
Business owners and IT departments can implement these steps for optimal Teams performance.
Verify hardware and network: Upgrade to Teams-certified devices like HD webcams and headsets; ensure 1.5 Mbps upload/download speeds per user. IT: Run network assessments via Teams admin center.
Configure meeting policies: In Teams admin center, enable lobby for external guests, restrict presentations to organizers, and auto-mute participants. Test via a pilot meeting.
Pre-load apps and integrations: Install Whiteboard, Planner, and OneNote; share agendas/files 24 hours ahead using channel posts.
These steps cut setup time by 30-50% based on Microsoft benchmarks.
9 Key Tips for High-Impact Meetings
Apply these practical tips, drawn from Microsoft and expert sources, to run concise, engaging sessions.
Control access with lobby: Require approval for entrants; mute all on join to minimize disruptions.
Mandate video with blur: Turn on cameras for face-to-face feel; use background blur to focus on faces.
Share selectively: Present specific windows/apps, not full desktop; request control for annotations.
Brainstorm via Whiteboard: Co-edit in real-time; save sessions automatically for follow-up.
Assign roles: Designate leader for flow, admin for tech (muting, lobby); use chat for side notes.
Leverage transcripts: Enable live captions/transcripts for accuracy, accessibility.
Keep short with breaks: Target 15-30 min huddles; park off-topic items.
Record and review: Auto-transcribe; search keywords post-meeting for action items.
Tip Category
Benefit
IT Action
Access Control
Reduces chaos
Set policies in admin center
Video/Sharing
Boosts engagement
Test bandwidth tools
Collaboration Tools
Enhances output
Integrate apps pre-rollout
FAQs for Client Inquiries
Q: How do we handle external clients securely? A: Use guest access with lobby approval and end-to-end encryption; review compliance in Teams settings.
Q: What if bandwidth lags? A: Lower video to 720p, disable HD; IT can prioritize QoS on routers.
Q: Can non-Teams users join? A: Yes, via browser link—no install needed; limit to view-only if sensitive.
Q: How to track action items? A: Assign in chat/Whiteboard; use Planner integration for tasks.
How Farmhouse Networking Helps
Farmhouse Networking specializes in tailored Microsoft 365 setups for accounting, healthcare, and charity businesses. We audit your Teams environment, implement these tips via custom policies, and optimize for SEO-driven branding—driving organic traffic and B2B leads. Our IT experts handle migrations, training, and 24/7 support to convert visitors into clients.
Graph illustrating 50% cost savings via Microsoft Teams telephony migration and license audits for business owners.
You’re always looking for ways to streamline operations without sacrificing productivity. Microsoft Teams offers powerful tools to reduce expenses on communication, collaboration, and IT infrastructure—often delivering savings of 50% or more on telephony alone by replacing legacy systems.
Key Cost-Saving Opportunities
Microsoft Teams, included in most Microsoft 365 subscriptions, consolidates features like chat, video calls, file sharing, and telephony into one platform. Businesses can eliminate redundant tools such as Zoom, Slack, or separate phone systems, avoiding multiple licenses that cost thousands monthly. It also cuts travel expenses through high-quality video meetings for up to 1,000 participants and reduces hardware needs by leveraging cloud storage via OneDrive and SharePoint.
Studies like Forrester’s Total Economic Impact report highlight up to 832% ROI through time savings on meetings, co-authoring, and unified communications.
Practical Action Steps
Follow these steps with your IT department to implement savings:
Audit Current Subscriptions: Review Microsoft 365 licenses to confirm Teams access (standard in E3/E5 plans). Deprovision unused tools like standalone video or project management apps.
Optimize Calling Plans: Switch to Teams Phone System ($8-20/user/month). Eliminate traditional lines, taxes, and hardware—potentially halving phone bills. IT: Assign licenses via admin center and port numbers.
Enable Collaboration Features: Activate co-authoring in Word/Excel/PowerPoint within Teams channels. Train staff to reduce email chains and version control issues, saving hours per project.
Migrate File Storage: Move to Teams-integrated SharePoint/OneDrive (1TB/user). Shut down on-premises servers, cutting hardware, backups, and maintenance costs.
Monitor Usage Analytics: Use Teams admin center reports to identify underused features. Right-size licenses (e.g., Essentials at $4/user/month for small teams).
IT teams can complete setup in 1-2 weeks; expect 20-50% IT spend reduction.
FAQ: Client Inquiries Answered
How much can we really save? Expect 50% on telephony by ditching lines/hardware, plus broader savings from tool consolidation (e.g., $thousands/month for mid-sized firms).
Is Teams secure for our data? Yes—end-to-end encryption for meetings/chats/files, with compliance tools for industries like accounting/healthcare.
What if we have hybrid/remote workers? Teams supports seamless hybrid with background blur, recording, and Outlook integration—no extra costs.
Do we need new hardware? No; use existing PCs with webcam/mic. Teams Phones replace desk phones via softphones or certified devices.
How do we train staff? Free Microsoft Learn modules; rollout via channels takes 1-2 days.
How Farmhouse Networking Helps
Farmhouse Networking specializes in Microsoft 365 optimizations for accounting, healthcare, and charity sectors. We conduct free audits to identify Teams savings, handle migrations (subscriptions, telephony ports, training), and implement SEO-friendly sites to attract B2B clients via content like this. Our custom strategies boost organic traffic 30-50% while ensuring compliance and seamless customer experiences.
Call to Action
Ready to save with Microsoft Teams? Email support@farmhousenetworking.com for a no-obligation audit and personalized strategy.
Microsoft Teams provides virtual solutions in response to an unexpected crisis.
For three generations, the Bianchini family has been creating exceptional wines on their idyllic estate, maintaining the traditions of a historic estate while staying one step ahead of the latest developments in the world of wine. With the recent COVID-19 pandemic and trade shows postponed and international travel impossible, everything changed. The Ciacci winery responded by turning to Microsoft Teams. To keep the business thriving, they moved quickly to replace in-person gatherings with virtual wine tastings using Teams meetings. Family members also used Teams to work together and connect with partners and suppliers, making the adjustment a perfect balance of tradition and technology.
And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say,
“They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.”
For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. - 2 Corinthians 9:8-10
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