Are you a business owner who heavily relies on Microsoft Outlook? Here are some pro tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your Outlook experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Outlook pro or just getting started, these tips are guaranteed to improve your productivity and streamline your daily workflow.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Outlook offers a plethora of keyboard shortcuts that can save you valuable time. Instead of navigating through multiple menus and options, simply memorize a few key strokes:
Ctrl + N: Compose a new email.
Delete: Deletes the currently selected message.
Ctrl + Enter: Sends the current message.
Ctrl + Shift + M: Create a new meeting request.
Ctrl + Shift + A: Create a new appointment.
Ctrl + R: Reply to an email.
Ctrl + Shift + R: Reply All to an email.
Ctrl + F: Forwards the currently selected message.
Ctrl + Shift + V: Move a message to a different folder.
By using keyboard shortcuts you can perform common tasks with lightning speed, getting more done each day. Check out a more complete list here.
Advanced Search Features
With the vast amount of emails and information being managed in Outlook, finding specific messages or attachments can be a frustrating. However, Outlook’s advanced search features can be a lifesaver. By utilizing the “Search” bar at the top of your Outlook window, you can search by sender, recipient, subject, date, and even specific keywords within attachments. By harnessing these powerful search capabilities, you can save time and quickly locate important information.
Email Rules and Filters
Tired of spending precious minutes organizing your inbox manually? Outlook’s email rules and filters to the rescue. By setting up rules, you can automatically sort incoming emails into their respective folders, mark them as read, forward them to specific recipients, or even delete them. This way, your inbox stays clutter-free, and you can easily prioritize or categorize emails based on your needs.
Outlook’s Calendar Features
Managing your schedule and appointments effectively is crucial for any business owner. Outlook’s calendar features can simplify this process. Here are a couple of tips to optimize your calendar usage:
Color-code your appointments: Assign specific colors to different types of appointments (e.g., meetings, conferences, personal events). This visual distinction makes it easier to differentiate between various engagements at a glance.
Share your calendar: Collaborate and stay connected with your team by sharing your calendar. This feature enables everyone to view your availability and schedule meetings accordingly, eliminating unnecessary back-and-forth communication.
Customize Your Outlook
Outlook can be customized to fit your specific work preferences. Take advantage of the following customization options:
Quick Steps: Create customized shortcuts for common tasks and actions.
Quick Access Toolbar: Add frequently-used features to the toolbar at the top for quick access.
Themes and Fonts: Personalize the visual appearance of Outlook to match your style and make it more visually appealing and user-friendly.
By customizing Outlook to align with your work habits, you’ll find yourself navigating the application more efficiently and enhancing your overall productivity.
Want to learn more about Outlook’s advanced features? Reach out to our team of experts today and discover how we can further enhance your business operations with Microsoft Outlook.
It’s that time of year, business owners need to start thinking about tax deductions and ways to maximize profit protection. One area not to be overlooked is IT expenses since IT plays a crucial role in every business. The good news is that many IT expenses can be deducted from your taxes. From hardware and software purchases to cybersecurity measures and cloud services, there are several essential IT tax deductions that can help you lower your tax bill and keep more money in your profit column.
IT Tax Deductions for Business Owners
As a business owner, it is crucial to recognize the importance of taking advantage of IT tax deductions before the end of the year. These deductions can significantly impact your bottom line. By deducting IT expenses, you are not only reducing your tax liability but also creating funds to re-invest in the growth of your business and upgrading to the latest technology, which positions your business for long-term success.
IT Tax Deductions to Maximize Your Savings
Take advantage of these IT tax deductions to maximize their profit savings:
Software and Hardware Expenses: Deducting the cost of industry specific software and hardware purchases is an excellent way to save on taxes. Whether you invested in new computer systems or upgraded your existing software, remember to include these expenses in your deductions as capital expenditures. Profit savings can be compounded by taking the amount saved through IT tax deductions and spending it on further software and hardware purchases.
Cybersecurity Measures: With the increasing threat of cyberattacks, investing in cybersecurity measures is crucial. These expenses can also be deducted from your taxes. From firewalls to antivirus software, make sure to claim any cybersecurity investments you have made throughout the year.
Cloud Services: Many businesses have moved to using cloud services for their storage and daily operations. These operational expenses are also eligible for tax deductions. Whether you use cloud computing, backup services, or cloud-based software, remember to include these costs in your deductions.
By focusing on these essential IT tax deductions, you will minimize your tax liability and position your business for success in the coming year.
Consulting with a Certified Public Accountant
While it’s important to have a basic understanding of the IT tax deductions for your business, it is equally important to consult with a certified public accountant. A knowledgeable CPA can provide you with personalized financial advice and guidance based on your company’s unique situation.
Tax laws and regulations are constantly changing, and it can be challenging to keep up with all the updates. By working closely with a CPA, you can stay updated on the latest deductions and strategies to maximize your savings while staying compliant with the law. They can review your financial records, identify missed deductions, and help you make informed decisions that positively impact your bottom line.
Remember, seeking advice from a tax professional will not only help you optimize your profit savings but also give you peace of mind knowing that your tax returns are accurate and in line with the regulations.
Keeping Detailed Records
One essential practice for maximizing your IT tax deductions is keeping detailed records of your IT expenses. Maintaining accurate and organized records throughout the year can help you claim all eligible deductions at tax time.
Start by creating a system to track and categorize your IT expenses. This can include items like software and hardware purchases, IT services, website development costs, and data storage fees. Keep receipts, invoices, and any supporting documents for each expense. Having detailed records allows you to easily identify and calculate eligible deductions. It also provides evidence and documentation if you ever face an audit or need to justify your deductions to the IRS.
Consider using accounting software or cloud-based platforms to streamline the record-keeping process. These tools can help you track expenses, generate reports, and ensure accuracy in your financial records. By maintaining detailed records of your IT expenses, you not only ensure that you are taking full advantage of available deductions, but you also create a solid foundation for your overall tax strategy.
Utilizing Section 179 Deductions
Section 179 of the tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and software purchased or financed during the tax year. By utilizing Section 179, you can deduct the entire cost of eligible technology investments in the year they are purchased. This deduction can help reduce your overall tax liability, allowing you to maximize your profit savings.
To qualify for Section 179 deductions, the equipment or software must be used for business purposes more than 50% of the time. This deduction is particularly beneficial for businesses investing in technology upgrades or replacements, as it encourages the adoption of new and improved IT systems. Be sure to consult with a tax professional to determine the eligibility of your IT investments for Section 179 deductions and to ensure you are maximizing this deduction for your business.
Bonus Depreciation for IT Purchases
Business owners can also benefit from bonus depreciation for their IT purchases. Bonus depreciation allows businesses to deduct a percentage of the cost of qualifying assets in the year they are placed in service. Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, businesses can take an 80% bonus depreciation deduction for qualified property acquired and placed into service in 2023, then depreciate the remaining 20% over the course of several years.
To qualify for bonus depreciation, the property must have a recovery period of 20 years or less and be purchased for business use. This deduction is particularly valuable for businesses that are investing in new IT equipment or upgrading their existing technology infrastructure.
By timing your IT purchases strategically, you can take full advantage of bonus depreciation and significantly reduce your tax liability. However, it’s important to note that bonus depreciation is subject to change based on tax laws and regulations, so consulting with a CPA is crucial to ensure compliance and maximize your savings.
Research and Development Tax Credit
While bonus depreciation and Section 179 deductions are great for maximizing your tax deductions when it comes to IT purchases, there is another valuable tax credit that often goes unnoticed – the Research and Development (R&D) tax credit.
The R&D tax credit is designed to incentivize businesses to invest in innovation and development activities. Many business owners mistakenly believe that this credit is only applicable to scientific or technological research. However, the R&D tax credit is much broader than that and can apply to a wide range of industries and activities.
To make the most of the R&D tax credit, it’s important to keep detailed records of your qualifying activities and expenses. Consult with a tax professional who specializes in this area to ensure that you are maximizing your tax savings while staying compliant with the IRS requirements.
To make best use of your IT tax deduction spending, contact us to discuss new purchases and upgrades.
It has become increasingly crucial for businesses to prioritize cybersecurity. We all need to be proactive in safeguarding sensitive information and protecting against cyber threats. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has been providing standards for cybersecurity practices. We will now delve into the updates and key changes in the fourth revision of the renowned NIST 800-53 publication.
Expanded Scope: NIST 800-53 Revision 4 broadens the standards scope to include private sector organizations dealing with sensitive information. This expansion reflects the need for all companies to implement cybersecurity best practices.
Threats and Vulnerabilities: This revision incorporates emerging threats and vulnerabilities faced by organizations today, such as advanced persistent threats, insider threats, supply chain risks, and cloud computing challenges. It emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to identify and mitigate these risks effectively.
Security and Privacy: NIST 800-53 Revision 4 highlights the connection between security and privacy. The guidelines provided help organizations maintain the delicate balance of ensuring data protection while respecting privacy rights.
Continuous Monitoring and Assessment: One significant change is the emphasis on continuous monitoring. Instead of periodic assessments, companies are urged to implement an ongoing, systematic approach to monitor security, identify vulnerabilities, and respond to them in real-time. This proactive approach helps in detecting and mitigating threats promptly.
Role-Based Access Controls (RBAC): Another notable addition is the strengthening of Role-Based Access Controls (RBAC). This approach ensures that users only have access to the information and functions that are needed to complete their jobs. Implementing effective RBAC helps minimize the risk of unauthorized access, privilege escalation, and data breaches.
Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM): Revision 4 also emphasizes the need for proper Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) practices. It recommends involving suppliers and stakeholders in security assessments and due diligence processes to mitigate risks associated with third party software, hardware, and services.
Remember, cybersecurity is a journey, not a one-time event. Stay vigilant, adapt to evolving threats, and contact us to create a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy to safeguard your business assets and reputation.
Your security is our top priority, and we want to make sure you and your business stay protected from evolving threats. Recently, we’ve seen a rise in AI-related scams, particularly voice scams, that can pose significant risks to individuals and businesses alike. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe:
AI Voice Scams
Voice scams involve malicious actors using AI-powered technology to impersonate trusted individuals or entities, such as your colleagues, clients, or even vendors. They may request sensitive information or even financial transactions, all under the guise of a familiar voice.
Protecting Your Business To safeguard your business from voice scams and other AI-related threats, here are some essential steps:
Verification Protocols: Establish strict verification procedures for any requests involving sensitive information or financial transactions, especially when received via voice communication.
Employee Training: Remind your team about the risks of voice scams and the importance of verifying requests, even if they sound legitimate.
Secure Communication Channels: Ensure that sensitive information is shared through secure channels and encrypted communication methods.
Regular Updates: Keep your security software, including anti-phishing and anti-malware tools, up to date to defend against evolving AI-driven threats.
MSP Support: As your MSP, we are here to help you implement these robust security measures and provide guidance on staying protected against AI scams.
We are committed to helping you navigate these challenges and keep your business secure. Please feel free to contact us if you have any specific questions or require assistance in strengthening your security protocols.
As your trusted Managed IT Service Provider (MSP), we are always looking for ways to help your business thrive. Today, we want to shed some light on the remarkable potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it can benefit your day-to-day operations.
Artificial Intelligence
AI isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a game-changer for businesses of all sizes, including businesses like yours. We wanted to highlight some of the ways AI can empower your business:
Improved Efficiency: AI can automate repetitive tasks, saving your employees time and allowing them to focus on more strategic and creative endeavors.
Data Analysis: AI can analyze large sets of data quickly and accurately, helping you make informed decisions and uncover valuable insights.
Personalized Customer Experiences: AI can help you tailor your products and services to individual customer needs, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty.
Enhanced Security: AI can bolster your cybersecurity efforts, identifying threats and vulnerabilities more effectively.
Cost Savings: With AI-driven solutions, you can reduce operational costs while increasing productivity.
We believe that implementing AI safely in your business can give you a competitive edge, improve your bottom line, and create new opportunities for growth. If you’re interested in exploring AI solutions for your business, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you navigate this exciting technology landscape.
Let’s embrace AI together and unlock new possibilities for your business’s success. Feel free to contact us for a personalized consultation and guidance on AI integration into your processes.
Data is the lifeblood of any business. From customer information to financial records, losing critical data can have devastating consequences for a company. That’s why businesses must have a reliable backup system in place. Managed backup services offer a comprehensive solution for data protection, providing automated backups, off-site storage, and quick data recovery in case of emergencies. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of protecting your business with managed backup services and how they can safeguard your valuable data.
The importance of data protection for businesses
Data protection is a top priority for businesses of all sizes. The importance of safeguarding your valuable data cannot be overstated. In addition to the potential financial losses that can result from data breaches or loss, businesses also face the risk of damaging their reputation and losing customer trust. Managed backup services are an essential part of a comprehensive data protection strategy. With automated backups and off-site storage, businesses can ensure that their data is safe and accessible, even in the event of a disaster. Additionally, quick data recovery capabilities minimize downtime and keep operations running smoothly. By investing in managed backup services, businesses can have peace of mind knowing that their critical data is protected and their business is secure.
Benefits of using managed backup services for your business
Using managed backup services can bring numerous benefits to your business. Let’s explore some of the key advantages that come with implementing managed backup services:
Increased Data Security: With automated backups and off-site storage, your valuable business data is protected from human errors, accidental deletions, or potential disasters. In the event of any mishaps, your data remains safe and easily recoverable.
Enhanced Disaster Recovery: Storing your data off-site ensures that even if your primary business location is compromised, you can still access your data and continue operations seamlessly. This added layer of security is crucial for business continuity.
Time and Cost Savings: The quick data recovery capabilities of managed backup services minimize downtime and save your business from significant financial losses. By swiftly restoring your data, you can maintain productivity and keep customer trust intact.
Peace of Mind: Investing in managed backup services equips your business with reliable and comprehensive data protection, giving you the peace of mind that your critical information is secure.
Factors to consider when choosing a managed backup service provider
When it comes to choosing a managed backup service provider for your business, there are several important factors to consider. Here are six key considerations that will help you make an informed decision:
Reliability and Security: Look for a provider that offers reliable and secure backup solutions. They should have a track record of successfully protecting data and providing seamless disaster recovery.
Scalability: Your business needs may change over time, so it is crucial to choose a provider that can scale its services to meet your evolving backup requirements without hindering performance.
Data Encryption: Ensure that the provider offers strong encryption measures to protect your data during storage and transmission. This will safeguard your sensitive information from unauthorized access.
Monitoring and Support: Opt for a provider that offers proactive monitoring and support services. They should be readily available to address any issues promptly and assist you in restoring your data whenever needed.
Cost and Pricing Model: Consider your budget and choose a provider that offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Assess the value of the service and determine if it aligns with your business’s financial objectives.
Backup Reliability: Regular testing and monitoring of your backups is crucial to ensure their effectiveness and reliability. It is important to regularly review and test the backups to verify that they are working correctly.
Taking a proactive approach to backup will provide you with confidence in your data protection strategy. By minimizing downtime and potential risks, you can focus on growing your business and achieving your goals. Invest in managed backup services today and secure your business’s future – contact us to get started
Had a charity notify us that they were getting a ton of phishing attempts to their email every day and wanted to know what we could do for them. They use Office 365, so we looked through the settings and found one called “First Contact Safety Tip” which makes a small banner appear at the top of the email like this:
Managing IT can be a daunting task, especially for businesses that lack dedicated IT personnel or the expertise to handle today’s complex technology. In recent years, more and more organizations have recognized the benefits of outsourcing their IT management to Managed Service Providers (MSPs).
What is an MSP?
A Managed Service Provider, or MSP, is a company that offers a range of IT services to businesses. These services can include network monitoring, infrastructure management, data backup, cybersecurity, and more. By partnering with an MSP, businesses can offload their IT responsibilities to professionals with deep expertise and industry-best practices.
The Challenges of Self-Managed IT
Self-managing your IT can be a significant challenge. Here are some of the common pain points that organizations face:
Lack of Expertise: IT is a complex and ever-evolving field. Keeping up with the latest technologies, security threats, and best practices can be overwhelming, especially for businesses without dedicated IT staff.
Resource Constraints: Managing IT requires time, manpower, and financial resources. Small and medium-sized businesses often struggle to allocate these resources effectively, leading to inefficiencies, downtime, and security vulnerabilities.
Limited Scalability: Growing businesses often find it difficult to scale their IT infrastructure to meet increased demand. Self-managing your IT environment may require significant investments in hardware, software, and additional staff, which can strain budgets and hinder growth.
Cybersecurity Risks: Data breaches and cyber-attacks are on the rise. Without proper security measures in place, businesses face significant financial and reputational risks. Implementing and maintaining robust cybersecurity protocols can be challenging for organizations without the necessary expertise.
The Benefits of MSP-Managed IT
Switching to an MSP-managed IT environment offers several benefits:
Expertise and Support: MSPs have a team of experienced professionals who specialize in different aspects of IT management. They stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices, providing businesses with access to a breadth of knowledge and expertise.
Proactive Monitoring and Maintenance: MSPs utilize advanced tools and technologies to monitor your IT infrastructure 24/7. They identify potential issues before they become critical, minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations.
Scalability and Flexibility: MSPs provide scalable solutions tailored to your business needs. Whether you’re experiencing rapid growth or need to downsize, an MSP can quickly adapt your IT infrastructure to meet changing requirements without additional investments or resources.
Enhanced Security: MSPs employ robust security measures to protect your systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. They implement industry-standard security practices, conduct regular security audits, and ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
Cost Savings: By outsourcing IT management to an MSP, businesses can reduce the overhead costs associated with maintaining an in-house IT department. MSPs work on a subscription-based model, allowing organizations to pay for the services they need, when they need them.
Strategic Planning: MSPs can act as your virtual chief information officer providing project planning services that keep IT spend spread across the years to make the IT budget easier to manage.
Consider making the switch to an MSP today and unlock the benefits of professional IT management, contact us to get started.
This is the seventh in a series that document the Tier 3 / Co-Managed IT work we did to setup a wireless test bed for a Linux based scientific device. The testing environment included two different wireless network hardware types (Ubiquiti and Cisco). There was also a Synology device used for various purposes including hosting the Ubiquiti controller inside a Kubernetes container, providing certificate services, providing LDAP authentication, and providing RADIUS authentication. Each article will detail a separate piece of the project. This article shows the basic setup of Ubiquiti Controller for PSK and RADIUS authentication from wireless devices.
Setup Ubiquiti Wireless Network with PSK
Login to Ubiquiti controller previously created – Here
Click on Setting gear icon at bottom left
Make sure you are on Wifi tab and click Create New link
Set network BSSID
Create Password
Click Add Wifi Network button
Setup Ubiquiti Wireless Network with RADIUS
Login to Ubiquiti controller previously created – Here
Click on Setting gear icon at bottom left
Click on Profiles
Click on Radius Tab
Click on Create New link
Give the Profile a name
Enter RADIUS server IP address as Authentication Server
Enter RADIUS shared secret
Click Add
Click Apply Changes
Click on Wifi Tab
Click on Create New link
Set network BSSID
Change Advanced to Manual
Set Security Protocol – WPA2 Enterprise
Select new RADIUS Profile
Click Add Wifi Network
If your company has highly customized setup requirements that you need consulting for, then contact us for assistance.
In the world of technology, advancements are constantly being made to enhance the user experience. One such innovation that has revolutionized the storage industry is the solid-state drive (SSD). For years, there has been a debate between skeptics and proponents of SSDs, with the former questioning the true benefits of upgrading from traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). However, empirical evidence has time and again proven that SSDs offer a significant performance boost in various aspects. In this article, we will explore the reasons why upgrading from HDDs to SSDs is worth it, shedding light on the remarkable advantages that SSDs bring to the table.
The Need for Speed
Faster Boot Times and Program Launches
One of the most noticeable benefits of upgrading to an SSD is the drastic reduction in boot times and program launches. Unlike HDDs, SSDs have no moving parts, which means they can access data much faster. When you power on your computer, an SSD can quickly retrieve the necessary files and get your system up and running in a matter of seconds. Similarly, launching resource-intensive programs becomes a breeze with an SSD. Tasks that used to take minutes can now be completed in a matter of seconds, saving you valuable time and increasing efficiency.
Improved File Transfer Speeds
Gone are the days of waiting for files to transfer at a snail’s pace. SSDs excel in delivering lightning-fast file transfer speeds. Whether you’re copying large multimedia files, transferring documents to the server, or backing up your data, an SSD will significantly reduce the time it takes to complete these tasks. With read and write speeds that can be several times faster than traditional HDDs, SSDs provide a seamless and efficient experience when it comes to managing your files.
Enhanced System Responsiveness
A Smoother User Interface
Upgrading to an SSD can transform your overall computing experience by providing a smoother and more responsive user interface. With faster data access times, an SSD ensures that your operating system (OS) responds promptly to your commands. Opening applications, navigating through menus, and multitasking become much more fluid, allowing you to work seamlessly without any frustrating lag or delays. This newfound responsiveness can make a significant difference, especially for professionals who rely on their computers for demanding tasks.
Reduced System Downtime
Slow and unresponsive systems can be a major hindrance to productivity. With an HDD, you may have experienced frequent freezes, crashes, and system slowdowns. SSDs, on the other hand, mitigate these issues by providing a stable and reliable platform for your computing needs. The absence of moving parts in an SSD means that there is less chance of mechanical failure, resulting in improved system stability and reduced downtime. Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, upgrading to an SSD can help you avoid frustrating delays and keep your workflow uninterrupted.
Power Efficiency and Durability
Energy-Saving Benefits
In addition to the performance advantages, SSDs also offer notable energy-saving benefits. Unlike HDDs, which require spinning disks and moving parts, SSDs operate using flash memory technology. This means that SSDs consume significantly less power, resulting in improved battery life for laptops and reduced electricity costs for desktop computers. If you’re constantly on the go or looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint, upgrading to an SSD can be a wise choice.
Enhanced Durability
Another compelling reason to make the switch to SSDs is their enhanced durability. Traditional HDDs are susceptible to damage from physical impacts, as they rely on spinning disks and delicate read/write heads. In contrast, SSDs are built with solid-state components, making them more resistant to shock and vibration. This durability factor makes SSDs ideal for portable devices, such as laptops, where they can withstand the rigors of daily use and transportation without compromising data integrity.
If your company is looking for a boost in performance without replacing all your computers, then contact us for assistance.
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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