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Category: Compliance

Avoiding Disaster: The Costly Consequences of Neglected IT Infrastructure

Has your business ever experienced a technology crisis that could have been easily prevented? Learn from the cautionary tale of a non-managed client who recently faced a major setback due to neglected IT infrastructure. This compelling story underscores the importance of proactive IT management and the need for robust backup solutions.

The Story: A Cautionary Tale

  • Neglected IT Infrastructure: After 5 years of radio silence, a panicked non-managed client reached out to us when their aging computer, hosting their crucial order processing system, malfunctioned.
  • DIY Mishap: Attempting to fix the issue themselves, the client inadvertently worsened the situation by installing the wrong part, leading to a cascade of problems.
  • Costly Consequences: The subsequent visit to a local repair shop and improper part replacement led to the corruption of critical files, including the Windows Operating System and the database containing vital client data.
  • Backup Oversight: The client’s failure to maintain updated database backups exacerbated the crisis, with the only available backup being approximately 5 years old.

The Solution: Managed IT Services

  • Proactive Maintenance: With managed IT services, critical components like the aged computer would have been promptly replaced before catastrophic failure, averting the entire crisis.
  • Remote Support: Swift remote intervention by a managed IT provider would have prevented the corruption of the operating system and database, substantially reducing the overall cost of the incident.
  • Comprehensive Backup Strategy: Every business should prioritize regular, imaged-based backups to safeguard their crucial data, ensuring seamless restoration in the event of a disaster.
  • Expert Guidance: Embracing managed IT services equips businesses with expert recommendations and proactive measures to avoid potentially devastating technology pitfalls.

Take the Right Step for Your Business! 

Don’t let your business fall victim to preventable IT disasters. Embrace the proactive protection and expert guidance offered by a managed IT service provider to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Comprehensive Guide to Cybersecurity for Charitable Organizations

Charities need to prioritize their cybersecurity measures. It’s no longer a matter of if, but when, a cyber attack will occur. This extensive guide outlines the essential steps charities can take to enhance their cybersecurity and protect their valuable data.

Understanding Cybersecurity Risks for Charities

Charities, like all organizations, are at risk of cyber attacks. These attacks can have severe consequences, including data leakage, financial loss, and damage to the charity’s reputation. Understanding these risks is the first step toward effective protection.

– The Reality of Cyber Threats:

Cyber threats are a reality for all organizations, including charities. With the rise of sophisticated cyber attacks, no organization can confidently say they will not be targeted. The aim is to make it as challenging as possible for cybercriminals to penetrate the charity’s defenses.

– The Importance of Cybersecurity in Charities:

The importance of cybersecurity in charities cannot be overstated. Charities hold sensitive data like donor information, employee details, and financial records. A cyber breach could lead to the loss or exposure of this data, damaging the trust of donors, employees, and beneficiaries.

Initial Cybersecurity Measures for Charities

Implementing initial cybersecurity measures can greatly reduce a charity’s vulnerability to attacks. These measures should focus on both end users and the charity’s IT infrastructure.

– Password Policies:

Establishing or revising a company password policy is a crucial first step. Passwords should be required on all devices employees use. They should be changed regularly, and employees should not be allowed to reuse old passwords. Furthermore, consider using multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an added layer of security.

– Cybersecurity Training

Training end users to be aware of various threats is a longer-term effort that can pay dividends. This includes being suspicious of emails requesting credential confirmation, checking website security before visiting, and ensuring sensitive information is transmitted securely.

– Limiting Access

Not all employees need access to all aspects of the charity’s operations. It’s essential to emphasize that limiting access is a critical part of protecting the charity against cyber attacks.

IT Infrastructure-Focused Measures

Charities also need to take measures focused on their IT infrastructure. These actions can further strengthen the charity’s defenses against cyber threats.

– Installing Protection

Installing additional protection, such as firewalls and antivirus software, can help shield the charity’s IT infrastructure against cyber attacks. Regularly updating and patching all software is also essential.

– Backing Up Files

Backing up files is another immediate action charities should take. This can be done offline, using external hard drives, or by backing up to the cloud. Furthermore, encrypting backups can provide an extra layer of security.

– Implementing Security Tools

Implementing security tools like browser management, DNS filtering, network monitoring, and endpoint protection can help detect and prevent cyber attacks.

External Resources for Cybersecurity Guidance

There are many external resources available to help charities improve their cybersecurity. These include government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and specific groups associated with nonprofit verticals.

– Government Agencies

Government agencies like the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Federal Trade Commission, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offer resources on cybersecurity.

– Nonprofit Organizations

Nonprofit organizations like the Cyber Readiness Institute, Global Cyber Alliance, and the National Council of Nonprofits also offer resources to help charities improve their cybersecurity.

Following the NIST Cybersecurity Framework

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a five-part best practices framework to help firms focus resources for cybersecurity protection. These steps include identifying, protecting, detecting, responding, and recovering from cyber attacks. The NIST framework offers a systematic approach to managing cybersecurity risks. It includes identifying all equipment, software, and data used; protecting data with security software and regular backups; detecting unauthorized access; responding effectively to attacks; and recovering after an attack.

Implementing Advanced Cybersecurity Measures

Implementing advanced cybersecurity measures can provide an additional layer of protection for charities. These measures include identity and access management (IAM), securing networks, and moving to the cloud.

– Implementing IAM

Implementing IAM can streamline access for users internally and externally. Features like single sign-on (SSO), social sign-on, and multi-factor authentication (MFA) can make it easier for authorized users to access the charity’s websites and applications.

– Securing Networks

Securing networks business class equipment from trusted brands can boost a charity’s network security. This includes using wired and wireless networking hardware to create a functioning network and protecting against online threats.

– Moving to the Cloud

Moving to the cloud can provide charities with flexibility and resilience. Cloud-hosted systems allow for secure work from anywhere and can help charities bounce back faster after a cyber attack.

Preparing for Cyber Attack Recovery

Preparing for cyber attack recovery is crucial. When defenses fail, charities need the ability to bounce back quickly.

– Data Backup and Restoration

Data backup and restoration is a key part of cyber attack recovery. Charities should regularly back up their data to protect against data-loss disasters. If an attack occurs, they can restore their data and resume operations quickly.

– Developing a Continuity of Operations Plan

Developing a continuity of operations plan can ensure that a charity can continue to serve its community even when disaster strikes. This includes planning for how to keep business operations up and running and reporting the attack to law enforcement and other authorities.

Contact us today to explore how to best setup your cybersecurity efforts, ensuring protection and compliance in an ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

CMMC Certification: A Comprehensive Cost Guide for Government Contractors

CMMC Certification is a new cybersecurity standard for the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) and defense supply chain, crucial for DoD contractors to protect sensitive information and prevent security breaches [1]. The framework’s introduction and integration into the acquisition and contracting process underscore its importance for cybersecurity maturity assessment and the safeguarding of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) [2].

Changes implemented with CMMC 2.0, including the use of Plans of Actions and Milestones (POA&Ms) and limited waivers, aim to streamline the certification process while ensuring rigorous cybersecurity standards align with NIST guidelines [2] [3]. These adaptations demonstrate an evolving approach towards enhancing the cybersecurity infrastructure of government contractors and maintaining public trust [3].

Factors Influencing CMMC Compliance Costs

Understanding the multifaceted nature of CMMC certification costs is crucial for DoD contractors aiming to achieve compliance. The cost factors are primarily influenced by:

  • Current Security Maturity: Organizations with a higher level of NIST 800-171 compliance face lower costs in adopting CMMC. This underscores the importance of existing cybersecurity practices within the organization [1].
  • Organization Size and Complexity: Larger organizations and those with multiple locations generally incur higher compliance and maintenance costs due to the scale of operations and the complexity of securing a wider network [1].
  • Scope and Access of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI): The extent of CUI access significantly impacts compliance costs. Organizations with broader access to CUI are required to implement more stringent security measures, thereby increasing the cost [1].

Additionally, the approach to system changes plays a critical role:

  • Full Approach vs. Enclave Approach: Opting for a full overhaul of operations to meet CMMC standards can be more costly compared to creating a secure enclave for CUI. The choice between these approaches affects the overall cost and strategy for achieving compliance [1].

These factors, combined with the costs associated with audits, expert consultation, and documentation, form the backbone of the financial planning required for CMMC certification. Understanding these elements is essential for DoD contractors to navigate the path to compliance efficiently and cost-effectively [1].

Estimated Costs by CMMC Level

Breaking down the estimated costs by CMMC level can provide a clearer picture for DoD contractors on what financial commitments might be expected. Here’s a concise breakdown:

  • CMMC Level 1: Basic Cybersecurity
    • Small Entity: Self-assessment and affirmation cost roughly $6,000 [5].
    • Larger Entity: Self-assessment and affirmation cost about $4,000 [5].
  • CMMC Level 2: Intermediate Cybersecurity
    • Small Entity: Self-assessment and related affirmations over $37,000; Certification by C3PAO nearly $105,000 [5].
    • Larger Entity: Self-assessment and related affirmations nearly $49,000; Certification by C3PAO approximately $118,000 [5].
  • CMMC Level 3: Good Cybersecurity Practices
    • Small Organization: Recurring engineering costs $490,000; Nonrecurring costs $2.7 million; Certification assessment over $10,000 [5].
    • Larger Organization: Recurring engineering costs $4.1 million; Nonrecurring costs $21.1 million; Certification assessment more than $41,000 [5].

This tiered structure illustrates the significant investment in cybersecurity infrastructure required at each level, highlighting the importance of accurate budgeting and financial planning for compliance [5].

Strategies for Minimizing Compliance Costs

To minimize CMMC certification costs effectively, consider the following strategies:

  1. Streamline Your Compliance Efforts:
    • Leverage the streamlined requirements of CMMC 2.0, including self-assessments for certain levels, which are expected to lower assessment costs compared to CMMC 1.0 [4].
    • Familiarize yourself with the revised CMMC 2.0 framework to understand how it aims to reduce costs and increase trust in the assessment ecosystem [9].
    • Conduct a comprehensive self-assessment using NIST’s guide for NIST SP 800-171, focusing on foundational security measures and managing consulting fees [10].
  2. Optimize Your CMMC Project Scope:
    • Determine the exact scope of your CMMC project. Consider storing CUI in a separate, secure enclave and using expert consultants to save money [4].
    • If only a portion of your organization handles CUI, create a separate enclave for a simpler assessment process, thereby reducing your compliance boundary [7].
    • Choose technologies and platforms that are easy to deploy and use, which support the NIST SP 800-171 security controls, and offers a compliance documentation package [7].
  3. Invest Wisely in Technology and Expertise:
    • Utilize automated platforms to centralize various types of GRC programs, reducing siloed tasks and leveraging technology to cut costs [12].
  4. Consider outsourcing for SIEM, vulnerability scanning, and hardware/software monitoring to manage costs effectively:
    • Engage consultants who are familiar with your technology, helping to ensure a smooth and cost-effective compliance process [7].

Contact us today to explore how to best align your cybersecurity efforts with the demands of CMMC Certification, ensuring protection and compliance in an ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

References

[1] – https://www.cuicktrac.com/blog/cmmc-certification-cost/
[2] – https://dodcio.defense.gov/CMMC/Implementation/
[3] – https://dodcio.defense.gov/CMMC/About/
[4] – https://www.thecoresolution.com/cmmc-2-certification-costs
[5] – https://defensescoop.com/2023/12/28/cmmc-implementation-cost-estimates/
[6] – https://blog.rsisecurity.com/how-much-does-cmmc-certification-cost/
[7] – https://www.preveil.com/blog/6-ways-to-save-money-cmmc-costs/
[8] – https://streamscan.ai/en/blog/2strategies-reduction-couts-cmmc-fr/
[9] – https://dodcio.defense.gov/CMMC/FAQ/
[10] – https://www.axiom.tech/how-to-manage-costs-for-cmmc-2-compliance/
[11] – https://www.cyberarmed.com/5-ways-to-lower-cmmc-costs/
[12] – https://www.centraleyes.com/reduce-compliance-costs-still-stay-compliant/

Our Pricing Explained

Managed Services - Grants Pass, OR

We have received numerous inquiries from potential customers regarding our pricing structure. Specifically, they want to know if we offer monthly contracts or if we charge an hourly rate. The answer is Yes.

Hourly Rate

For customers who require a one-time fix or need a project completed, we offer a service based on an hourly rate. Our rate for remote or on-site work that is not covered under a contract is $150 per hour. We bill in 15-minute increments and take pride in our efficiency. For clients with more than 2 service requests per month, we highly recommend signing up for a contract to save money and benefit from our expert oversight.

Monthly Contracts

There are three types of monthly contracts:

Remote Maintenance Contract

This is the package that most of our clients choose. It includes automated maintenance, cyber security protections, and unlimited remote support. Since most problems and questions can be handled remotely, this package offers real value.

Full Service Maintenance Contract

This package is for clients who want complete peace of mind. It includes all services, whether remote or at their offices. Additionally, it provides some additional benefits, such as top priority in our support queue.

Co-Managed IT Contract

This special package is designed for companies that already have a full-time IT employee or IT service companies in need of extra help. It provides them with the necessary automations and tools to make their jobs easier, allowing them to focus on what matters. This package also includes a discount on our remote and on-site services.

All contracts are based on a per-device model, taking into account the number of workstations, printers, servers, switches, etc. on the client’s network. We use this model because the other popular model, per user, is too vague and can easily hide excessive profit margins. Contracts can be month-to-month or a yearly commitment. The difference is that with a yearly commitment, you are protected from price increases for the entire year. We also offer many optional add-ons for our clients, such as Office 365, Employee Security Training, Penetration/Vulnerability Scanning, Mobile Device Management, Compliance, Secure Remote Access, and Security Operations Center.

Are you looking for reliable IT support that suits your business’s unique requirements? Look no further! Our flexible pricing options cater to businesses of all sizes. Whether you require one-time assistance or ongoing support, we have the right plan for you. Ready to take your business IT support to the next level? Contact us today to discuss your needs and find the perfect plan for your business.

Using SSO Single Sign-On for Enhanced Security and Convenience

Individuals and organizations rely heavily on various online platforms and services, the need for a secure and convenient way to access these resources is paramount. This is where SSO Single Sign-On comes into play. SSO Single Sign-On is a powerful authentication method that allows users to securely sign in to multiple applications and platforms using just one set of credentials. In this article, we will explore the benefits of SSO Single Sign-On, its implementation, and how it enhances security while streamlining the user experience.


Understanding SSO Single Sign-On

What is SSO Single Sign-On?  SSO Single Sign-On is an authentication process that enables users to access multiple applications and platforms using a single set of login credentials. With SSO Single Sign-On, users only need to remember one username and password, eliminating the hassle of managing multiple credentials for different services. This not only saves time but also enhances convenience for users.

How does SSO Single Sign-On work? SSO Single Sign-On works by establishing a trust relationship between an identity provider (IdP) and the various service providers (SPs). When a user attempts to access a service, the IdP verifies the user’s identity and provides a token to the SP, which grants the user access without requiring additional authentication. This seamless process simplifies the login experience and eliminates the need for users to repeatedly enter their credentials.

Benefits of SSO Single Sign-On

Enhanced Security: One of the key advantages of SSO Single Sign-On is its ability to enhance security. By consolidating login credentials into a single set, users are less likely to resort to weak passwords or reuse passwords across multiple platforms. This reduces the risk of password-related security breaches. Additionally, SSO Single Sign-On allows for stronger authentication methods, such as two-factor authentication, further bolstering security without requiring multiple accounts.

Streamlined User Experience: With SSO Single Sign-On, users no longer have to remember and enter multiple sets of login credentials. This significantly reduces the login friction and streamlines the user experience. Users can seamlessly navigate between different applications and platforms without the need for repetitive logins. This convenience not only saves time but also improves productivity.

Centralized Access Management: SSO Single Sign-On provides organizations with centralized access management capabilities. Administrators can easily control user access to various applications and platforms from a centralized dashboard. This simplifies user provisioning and deprovisioning, ensuring that employees have timely access to the resources they need while maintaining security and compliance.

Cost and Time Savings: Implementing SSO Single Sign-On can lead to cost and time savings for organizations. By reducing the number of password-related support requests, IT teams can focus on more strategic initiatives. Additionally, the streamlined login experience reduces the time spent by employees on authentication, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.

Implementing SSO Single Sign-On

To implement SSO Single Sign-On, organizations need to follow a few key steps:

  1. Evaluate SSO Solutions: Begin by evaluating various SSO solutions available in the market. Consider factors such as compatibility with existing systems, scalability, security features, and ease of integration.
  2. Choose an Identity Provider: Select an identity provider that aligns with your organization’s requirements. The identity provider will be responsible for authenticating users and issuing tokens for accessing service providers. Office 365 and Google Workspace are usually the best, most prolific IdP sources to use. 
  3. Configure Service Providers: Configure the service providers that you want to integrate with SSO Single Sign-On. This involves establishing trust relationships between the identity provider and the service providers.
  4. User Provisioning and Deprovisioning: Implement a user provisioning and deprovisioning process to ensure that users have the necessary access to the applications and platforms they require. This process should be integrated with the SSO Single Sign-On solution to maintain centralized access management.
  5. Test and Monitor: Thoroughly test the SSO Single Sign-On implementation to ensure its functionality and security. Regularly monitor the system to identify and address any potential issues or vulnerabilities.

Best Practices for SSO Single Sign-On Implementation

When implementing SSO Single Sign-On, it is essential to follow best practices to maximize security and usability:

  • Strong Authentication: Implement strong authentication methods such as two-factor authentication or biometric authentication to enhance security.
  • Regular Auditing: Conduct regular audits of user access rights and permissions to ensure compliance and detect any unauthorized access.
  • User Education: Educate users about the benefits of SSO Single Sign-On and best practices for password management to promote secure behavior.
  • Continuous Monitoring: Implement a robust monitoring system to detect and respond to any suspicious activities or potential security threats.
  • Regular Updates: Keep the SSO Single Sign-On solution and all integrated applications up to date with the latest security patches and updates.

Remember, security should never be compromised, and SSO Single Sign-On provides a robust solution to protect user identities and streamline access to applications and platforms. Embrace the power of SSO Single Sign-On and enjoy the benefits of enhanced security and convenience.

When was the last time your IT providers talked to you about cybersecurity?

Cyber threats continue to evolve and become increasingly sophisticated, so the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. Cybersecurity is a critical aspect of any company’s IT infrastructure, as it safeguards company / client data and ensures uninterrupted operations. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is the proactive communication from IT providers about cybersecurity. This blog article aims to remind IT professionals and decision-makers of the significance of regular discussions with their IT providers regarding cybersecurity, and the potential risks they could be exposed to by neglecting this crucial dialogue.

Importance of Regular Cybersecurity Discussions:

Cybercriminals are continuously developing new attack vectors and exploring vulnerabilities in software, networks, and devices. Cybersecurity is not a one-time fix; it requires ongoing monitoring, updating, and adaptations to counter new threats.

Unfortunately, many organizations assume that by employing an IT provider to manage their systems, they are automatically protected against cyber threats. However, this assumption can lead to complacency, leaving vulnerabilities unaddressed. Regular conversations with your IT provider regarding cybersecurity ensure that your organization is consistently assessing and improving its defense against threats.

Addressing Emerging Threats:

Cybercriminals are constantly adapting their tactics, making it essential for IT providers to stay ahead by implementing proactive security measures. By engaging in frequent discussions, your IT provider can inform you about emerging threats and share strategies to mitigate risk. These discussions should cover topics such as:

Vulnerability Scanning / Penetration Testing: Testing your IT infrastructure to find the weak points is crucial to minimizing the available attack surface for a hacker and decreasing the impact of a breach. Reviewing these findings with your IT provider quarterly is vital to keeping your network safe. 

Threat Detection: Standard antivirus software is no longer good enough to stop hackers. Talking with your IT provider about advanced threat detection software to make sure that both local and cloud resources are sufficiently protected from all kinds of attacks. 

Patch Management: Ensuring that all software and systems are up-to-date with the latest security patches is crucial. Regular communication will allow your IT provider to inform you about critical patches or upgrades and discuss their implementation to keep your systems secure.

Employee Training: Cybersecurity is a collective effort, and employees play a vital role in maintaining a strong defense. Regular discussions about employee training will ensure that everyone in the organization is aware of best practices, such as identifying phishing emails or avoiding suspicious websites.

Data Backup and Recovery: Regular conversations with your IT company can help you establish and review comprehensive data backup and recovery strategies, minimizing the impact of potential cybersecurity incidents.

Incident Response Planning: In the unfortunate event of a cybersecurity incident, having a well-defined incident response plan is crucial. Meet with your IT provider at least annually to ensure that your plan is up to date, reflecting any changes in your IT infrastructure or evolving threat landscape.

When it comes to cybersecurity, communication is key. If your IT provider has not talked to you recently about cybersecurity, then it is time to call Farmhouse Networking. We are huge on communication and meet regularly with our clients to discuss 42 different IT related categories.   

Adobe Acrobat Tips

Businesses are increasingly reliant on digital documents. From contracts to invoices, these important files need to be easily shared and accessible across different platforms and devices. This is where Adobe Acrobat comes in. Adobe Acrobat is a powerful tool that allows you to create, edit, and secure PDFs effectively. To help you make the most of this software, we have compiled a list of useful tips:

Create Interactive Forms

One of the key features of Adobe Acrobat is its ability to create interactive forms. Rather than wasting paper on printing out forms and having people fill them out manually, you can create digital forms that can be filled out electronically. This not only saves time and the planet but also reduces errors and allows you to collect data more efficiently.

Edit PDFs on the Go

With the Adobe Acrobat app, you can edit PDFs directly on your mobile device. This is incredibly useful for business owners who are constantly on the go and need to make quick edits to their documents. Whether it’s adding text, resizing images, or rearranging pages, you can do it all from the convenience of your phone or tablet.

Combine Multiple Files into a Single PDF

If you have multiple files that you want to combine into a single PDF, Adobe Acrobat makes it easy. You can simply drag and drop the files into Acrobat, rearrange them, and save them as a single PDF. This feature is ideal for business owners who often need to merge multiple documents into one proposal, contract, or report.

Protect your PDFs with Encryption

Security needs to be a top priority for businesses, especially when it comes to sensitive documents. Adobe Acrobat allows you to protect your PDFs by adding encryption. You can set passwords and permissions to ensure that only authorized individuals can access, print, or modify your files. This level of security is crucial for protecting confidential business and customer information.

Optimize PDFs for Web Viewing

PDFs can easily become large files, which can slow down loading times when viewing them online. Adobe Acrobat offers a feature called “Optimize for Web” that reduces the file size while preserving the document’s quality. This is particularly useful when sharing PDFs on your website or via email. When customers have to wait for things to load they are more likely to go somewhere else for what they are looking for.

Collaborate and Review Documents

Adobe Acrobat has collaboration features that allow multiple users to work on the same PDF simultaneously. You can easily share documents with colleagues, clients, or partners and track changes made by each. This streamlines the review and approval process, reducing the need for endless email threads and ensuring everyone is on the same page.

Automate Workflows with Adobe Sign

Adobe Sign, a component of Adobe Acrobat, enables you to send, sign, and track important documents online. It eliminates the need for paper-based signatures and accelerates the approval process. With Adobe Sign, you can automate workflows, whether it’s obtaining client signatures, approving contracts, or completing employee onboarding documents. This tool can streamline your business processes and save you a significant amount of time.

By familiarizing yourself with Adobe Acrobat, you can harness the full potential of this software and enhance your business’s productivity and efficiency. As an Adobe partner, Farmhouse Networking can help your company get the most out of its PDFs.

End-of-Year Technology Checklist

As the year comes to a close, we at Farmhouse Networking want to ensure that your business technology is in optimal shape for a successful transition into the new year. We’ve put together a checklist to help you wrap up the year on a technologically high note.  Some of these items we will work on together, and others will be the responsibility of your team. 

Items we will work on together:

  • Asset Inventory: We have recently conducted a thorough review of your technology assets, including hardware, software, and networking equipment. We updated your inventory list to account for any additions or retirements of assets throughout the year. You should be receiving an invite to our new system called Narmada which gives you constant access to our replacement recommendations.
  • Password Security: Prompt your team to implement multi-factor authentication for critical systems and applications. This will help to enhance password security. This is not something that should be put off till later. Get it setup on every site possible. It can be made easier with a password manager. 
  • Software Updates: We ensure that standard software applications, operating systems, and antivirus programs are up to date with the latest patches and updates. If you have industry specific software it would be a good time to check with them on the status of your support contract and if there are needed updates. 
  • Data Backups: Verify that your data backup systems are functioning correctly. Test the restoration process to confirm that your business can recover essential data in the event of a disaster. If you don’t have backups in place now is the time to get this critical technology in place. 
  • Security Assessment: Conduct a Security Risk Assessment to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. Ensure that your cybersecurity measures are up to date to protect against evolving threats. Many companies don’t realize that current compliance standards require this. 
  • Employee Training: Provide cybersecurity training to employees to reinforce best practices and raise awareness about potential threats. This should be mandated by your team’s management.

Items you should work on with your team:

  • Subscription Reviews: Review and audit all software and service subscriptions to ensure they align with your business needs. Cancel any unnecessary subscriptions to optimize costs.
  • Budget Review: Evaluate your technology budget for the year and identify any areas where adjustments may be needed for the upcoming year.
  • Technology Roadmap: Develop or update your technology roadmap for the coming year, aligning it with your business goals and objectives.
  • Compliance Check: Ensure that your technology practices comply with industry regulations and standards applicable to your business.
  • Communication Plan: Communicate any upcoming changes or upgrades to your team to ensure a smooth transition without disruptions.
  • Policies & Procedures: Review current documentation to make sure that it includes all needed items like disaster recovery, incident response, computer use, BYOD, and AI usage. 

Once you have determined some of your goals and budget, we should meet to discuss the implementation plan for any changes. We will be contacting you in February to setup our next Semi-Annual Business Review (SABR) meetings to discuss this years plan. 

If you have any questions or need assistance with any of these items, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team. We’re here to help you navigate the year-end process and ensure a seamless start to the new year.

End-of-Year IT Tax Deductions for Business Owners

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. 

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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