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Category: Daily Inspiration

Story Time: The Case of the Occasionally Missing Server

Today’s story highlights how we helped a Co-Managed client resolve a perplexing issue with their network. Random workstations were losing connection to the server at inconsistent intervals throughout the day. Despite the on-site technician’s best efforts, the root cause remained elusive, so they called us in to investigate.

We began by examining the suspected source of the problem: the server. Tracing all network cables from the server to the connected switches, we discovered a secondary failover server designed to take over in case of primary server failure. However, both servers had multiple network connections that weren’t properly configured. We corrected this setup, confident it would resolve the issue. Yet, the very next day, we received reports that the problem persisted.

In response, the on-site technician replaced the main server with the failover server, configuring it with the same name and IP address as the original. Unfortunately, this didn’t fix the issue, so we were called back for further investigation.

Drawing on our experience with similar cases, we suspected an IP address conflict. Specifically, two devices might have been assigned the same IP—one set statically and the other dynamically via DHCP. To test this theory, we asked the on-site tech to power down the server.

Our hunch was correct. A misconfigured network allowed an iPhone on the guest wireless network to obtain the same IP address as the server, causing both devices to compete for network traffic. We resolved the issue by isolating the guest wireless network from the main network, ensuring no overlap could occur.

With this fix in place, our client’s network has been running smoothly, allowing them to return to business as usual.

Uncover the Ghosts in Your Network! Contact Farmhouse Networking today to solve your IT mysteries and get back to business seamlessly. Don’t let hidden issues slow you down—schedule your consultation now!

Budget Talk 2025: Essential IT Spending for SMBs

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) must strategically plan their IT budgets to stay competitive and efficient. It’s crucial to allocate resources wisely to support both day-to-day operations and long-term growth. Let’s explore the key areas SMBs should focus on when budgeting for tech in 2025.

Cybersecurity Investments

With no end to cyber threats in site, cybersecurity should be a top priority in your 2025 IT budget. Consider allocating funds for:

– Advanced firewalls and intrusion detection systems
– Multi-factor authentication (MFA) implementation
– Regular security audits and penetration testing

Remember, the cost of preventing a cyber attack is far less than the potential losses from a successful breach.

Artificial Intelligence and Automation

AI is no longer a luxury reserved for large enterprises. In 2025, SMBs should budget for AI-powered tools to enhance efficiency and decision-making. Consider investments in:

– Chatbots for customer support
– AI-driven analytics for business insights
– Automated workflow tools to streamline operations

These technologies can help SMBs do more with less, improving productivity and customer satisfaction.

Hardware and Device Upgrades

SMBs still need to budget for essential hardware. This includes:

– Laptops and desktops for employees
– Mobile devices for remote work
– Networking equipment for reliable connectivity

Plan for a hardware refresh cycle to ensure your team has up-to-date tools to work efficiently. (Remember we meet with our clients twice a year in the Spring and Fall to discuss budget and replacement scheduling.)

Software Licenses and Subscriptions

Software is the backbone of modern business operations. Your 2025 IT budget should account for:

– Operating system licenses (Windows 10 is no longer supported as of October 2025)
– Productivity suite subscriptions (e.g., Microsoft 365, Google Workspace)
– Industry-specific software licenses 
– Collaboration and communication tools

Regularly review your software subscriptions to ensure you’re only paying for what you need and use. 

IT Support and Managed Services

Consider outsourcing some or all of your IT support to a managed service provider (MSP) like Farmhouse Networking to reduce in-house IT costs and gain access to specialized expertise. Budget for:

– Help desk support
– Compliance assistance
– Network monitoring and management
– Backup and disaster recovery services

Employee Cybersecurity Training

Hackers keep getting better at their crimes, so should it is mandatory to invest in your team’s cybersecurity skills. Allocate budget for:

– Yearly assessments of baseline knowledge
– Weekly trainings with quizzes to make sure they are paying attention
– Interactive or gamified content to keep people interested

Investing in your team’s skills can lead to better technology adoption and improved productivity.

Ready to optimize your IT budget for 2025? Don’t navigate this complex landscape alone. Contact Farmhouse Networking today to help you create a tailored IT budget that aligns with your business goals and maximizes your technology investments. Our experts can guide you through the process, ensuring you’re prepared for the technological challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Let’s work together to future-proof your business and drive success.

Make Cybersecurity Your New Year’s Resolution

Stepping into 2025, SMBs face an scary and complex cybersecurity field of battle. With hackers evolving cyber threats at a rapid pace, it’s crucial to make strengthening your digital defenses a top priority. Let’s explore some essential tips to boost your cybersecurity posture in the coming year.

Embrace a Zero Trust Mindset

Start the new year by adopting a Zero Trust approach to cybersecurity. This means verifying every user, device, and application attempting to access your network, regardless of their location. Implement Zero Trust Network Access protocols and use Application Allow/Deny lists to control which software can run on your systems.

Strengthen Your Network Defenses

Secure Your Wi-Fi: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is encrypted and properly configured. Use strong passwords and consider implementing network segmentation to isolate guest networks from your internal systems.

Implement Firewalls and Intrusion Prevention Systems: Deploy robust firewalls to filter incoming and outgoing traffic. Couple this with intrusion prevention systems that actively seek out and block known threats.

Protect Your Data

Encrypt Sensitive Information: Apply encryption to both data at rest and in transit. This includes emails, file transfers, and stored documents.

Implement Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Tools: Use DLP tools to track critical data and prevent unauthorized exfiltration attempts.

Enhance Authentication Measures

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implement MFA across all your systems, applications, and websites. This additional layer of security significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Use Password Managers: Encourage the use of password managers to generate and store complex, unique passwords for each account.

Educate Your Employees

Regular Security Awareness Training: Conduct ongoing cybersecurity training for all employees. Focus on recognizing phishing attempts, proper handling of sensitive data, and best practices for remote work.

Prepare for the Worst

Develop an Incident Response Plan: Create a comprehensive plan that outlines procedures for responding to various cybersecurity incidents. Regularly test and update this plan.

Implement Robust Backup Solutions: Establish a regular backup schedule for all critical data and systems. Store backups securely, preferably in multiple locations, including off-site.

Stay Updated and Vigilant

Keep Software and Systems Current: Regularly update all software, applications, and operating systems. Automate updates where possible and conduct periodic audits to ensure nothing is missed.

Implement Real-Time Monitoring: Deploy solutions that provide continuous, real-time monitoring of your network and systems. This allows for immediate detection and response to potential threats.

Secure Your Remote Workforce

With hybrid work models likely to persist, ensure your remote workers are equipped with secure tools:

– Provide Zero Trust VPN access for secure connections
– Implement endpoint security measures even on employee’s own laptops
– Educate on the risks of using public Wi-Fi

Address IoT Security

As the Internet of Things (IoT) expands, so do the associated risks. Inventory your IoT devices, regularly update their firmware, and implement network segmentation to isolate these devices.

Ready to make cybersecurity your New Year’s resolution? Contact Farmhouse Networking today. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through every step of enhancing your cybersecurity posture, ensuring that your business stays protected throughout 2025 and beyond. Let’s work together to create a robust, tailored cybersecurity strategy that meets your unique needs and keeps your business safe in the digital age.

Merry Christmas from Farmhouse Networking

A Very Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year 

We wanted to share with you why Jesus is the real reason for our joy and merriment at Christmas time.

The Gift of Salvation

Jesus’ birth marks the beginning of God’s plan to save humanity. The angel who appeared to the shepherds on that holy night proclaimed, “I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a savior who is God’s chosen Messiah the Lord of Everything”. This announcement heralded the arrival of our Savior, who came to rescue us from un-rightness and its effects.

Hope and Purpose

In Jesus, we find hope and meaning for our lives. His coming brings light to a world often shrouded in darkness. Through Him, we have the opportunity to be reconciled with God and experience eternal life and freedom. This profound truth gives us a reason to celebrate with genuine joy, knowing that our future is secure in Christ.

Joy in All Circumstances

Jesus demonstrated that it’s possible to have joy even in the midst of difficulties. He endured the cross “for the joy set before Him”. This teaches us that true joy isn’t dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with God. Like Mary, who rejoiced despite facing uncertainty, we too can find joy in Christ regardless of our situations.

The Promise of His Presence

Christmas reminds us that God is with us. Jesus, whose name “Immanuel” means “God with us,” came to dwell among us. His presence in our lives through the Holy Spirit continues to be a source of comfort, strength, and joy.

A Future Hope

Our Christmas joy isn’t just about the past or present, but also the future. Jesus promised to return and establish His kingdom of righteousness and justice. This gives us a joyful anticipation of a world made new, where we will live and reign with Him forever.

As we celebrate this Christmas, let’s remember that our merriment isn’t just about the festivities, but about the profound joy we have in Christ. He is the greatest gift we could ever receive, and His love for us is the reason we can truly rejoice.

May your Christmas be filled with the joy that comes from knowing Jesus!

Budget Talk: Top Tax Deductible IT Expenses for 2024

As we approach the end of the year, it’s crucial for businesses to understand the tax deductions available for their IT expenses. Maximizing these deductions can significantly reduce your tax burden and free up capital for further investment in your company’s technology infrastructure. Let’s explore the top tax-deductible IT expenses for 2024 that every business should be aware of.

Hardware and Equipment

Computers and Devices

Investing in new computers, tablets, or smartphones for your business can provide substantial tax benefits. The entire cost of these devices can be deducted from your taxable income. However, if the equipment is used partially for personal purposes, you may only be able to deduct a portion of the cost.

Office Equipment

Printers, scanners, and other office equipment are 100% tax-deductible in the year of purchase. This includes any IT-related furniture, such as ergonomic chairs or standing desks for your tech team.

Software and Services

Business Software

Software used for business purposes is eligible for tax deductions. This includes:

– Accounting software
– Project management tools
– Customer relationship management (CRM) systems
– Cybersecurity software

The deductible amount will depend on whether the software is purchased outright or subscribed to on a monthly basis.

Cloud Services

As more businesses move their operations to the cloud, it’s important to note that cloud service subscriptions are tax-deductible. This includes services like:

– Data storage
– Backup solutions
– Cloud-based productivity suites

Telecommunications


Internet Expenses

Internet services are crucial for most businesses today. You can deduct the full cost of your business internet connection[. If you work from home, you may be able to deduct a portion of your home internet expenses based on the percentage used for business purposes.


Phone Systems

All telecommunications fees within a commercial space can be deducted[1]. This includes:

– Business phone lines
– VoIP systems
– Cell phone contracts used for business

IT Services and Support

Managed IT Services

Fees paid for managed IT services, including network management, cybersecurity monitoring, and help desk support, are fully deductible as a business expense.

IT Consulting and Training

Any costs associated with IT consulting or training for your staff to use new technologies are tax-deductible. This can include workshops, online courses, or one-on-one training sessions.

Cybersecurity Measures

With the increasing importance of data protection, investments in cybersecurity are not only wise but also tax-deductible. This includes:

– Firewalls and antivirus software
– Security audits
– Employee cybersecurity training programs

Website Expenses

Development and Maintenance

Costs related to developing, hosting, and maintaining your business website are tax-deductible. This includes domain registration fees, hosting costs, and payments to web developers or designers.

E-commerce Solutions

If your business sells products online, the expenses for e-commerce platforms and payment processing systems are also deductible.

Home Office Technology

For those running businesses from home or with remote workers, the home office deduction can apply to technology expenses. You can deduct a portion of your home internet, personal computer use, and other tech equipment based on the percentage of your home used exclusively for business.

Ready to optimize your IT infrastructure while maximizing your tax benefits? Contact Farmhouse Networking today. Our expert team can help you implement cutting-edge IT solutions that not only boost your productivity but also provide substantial tax advantages. Don’t leave money on the table – let us help you navigate the complex world of IT expenses and tax deductions. Reach out now to schedule a consultation and start saving!

Embracing Industry 4.0

Small manufacturers are discovering the transformative power of Industry 4.0 technologies. By leveraging smart technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and machine learning, these businesses are not only staying competitive but also revolutionizing their manufacturing processes. Let’s explore how these cutting-edge tools can benefit small manufacturers and propel them into the future of production.

The Power of Real-Time Data

One of the most significant advantages of smart manufacturing technologies is the ability to harness real-time data. By integrating IoT sensors into production lines, small manufacturers can gain unprecedented visibility into their operations. This continuous stream of information allows for:

Improved Cost Control: Real-time monitoring helps identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and optimize resource allocation, leading to significant cost savings.

Enhanced Supply Chain Management: With up-to-the-minute data on inventory levels and production rates, manufacturers can make informed decisions to keep their supply chains running smoothly.

Proactive Maintenance: IoT sensors can detect early signs of equipment wear, allowing for predictive maintenance that prevents costly downtime and extends machinery lifespan.

AI-Powered Decision Making

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing how small manufacturers approach decision-making and problem-solving. By leveraging AI technologies, businesses can:

Optimize Production Schedules: AI algorithms can analyze complex data sets to create efficient production schedules that maximize resource utilization and meet customer demands.

Enhance Quality Control: Machine learning models can identify subtle patterns in production data, helping to detect and prevent quality issues before they escalate.

Personalize Customer Experiences: AI-powered recommendation engines can offer tailored product suggestions, improving customer satisfaction and driving sales.

Machine Learning for Process Optimization

Machine learning is proving to be a game-changer for small manufacturers looking to streamline their operations. This technology offers several key benefits:

Predictive Analytics: By analyzing historical data, machine learning algorithms can forecast future trends, helping manufacturers make proactive decisions about production, inventory, and maintenance.

Automated Quality Assurance: Machine learning models can be trained to detect defects or anomalies in products with high accuracy, reducing the need for manual inspections.

Process Optimization: Through continuous analysis of production data, machine learning can identify opportunities for process improvements, leading to increased efficiency and reduced costs.

Overcoming Implementation Challenges

While the benefits of Industry 4.0 technologies are clear, small manufacturers may face challenges in adoption. These can include:

Data Security Concerns: As more devices become connected, ensuring the security of sensitive manufacturing data becomes crucial.

Investment Costs: Implementing new technologies often requires upfront investment, which can be daunting for smaller businesses.

Skills Gap: Adopting advanced technologies may require upskilling existing staff or hiring new talent with specialized expertise.

The Path Forward

Despite these challenges, the potential rewards of embracing Industry 4.0 technologies far outweigh the risks. Small manufacturers who invest in smart technologies position themselves for:

– Increased competitiveness in the global market
– Improved operational efficiency and cost savings
– Enhanced product quality and customer satisfaction
– Greater agility in responding to market changes

As we move further into the digital age, the adoption of smart manufacturing technologies is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for small manufacturers who want to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Ready to take your manufacturing operations to the next level? Don’t let the complexities of Industry 4.0 technologies hold you back. Contact Farmhouse Networking today to learn how we can help you implement smart manufacturing solutions tailored to your unique needs. Let’s work together to unlock the full potential of your manufacturing business and pave the way for a smarter, more efficient future.

Farmhouse Networking Invests in Employee Cybersecurity Skills Through Innovative Funding Program

Farmhouse Networking, a leading provider of managed IT services, today announced a groundbreaking initiative to enhance its cybersecurity capabilities by leveraging the Rogue Business Elevate program to fund comprehensive cybersecurity training for all employees through TryHackMe. Farmhouse Networking is taking proactive steps to fortify its clients’ defenses and cultivate a culture of cybersecurity awareness across all the organization it supports. By partnering with Rogue Business Elevate and TryHackMe, the company is demonstrating its commitment to staying ahead of potential security risks while investing in the professional development of its workforce.

Empowering Employees with Cutting-Edge Skills
The TryHackMe platform offers an innovative, gamified approach to cybersecurity education, making the learning process both engaging and effective .Employees will have access to:

  • Interactive lessons that bridge theory and practice
  • Simulated network environments for hands-on experience
  • Real-world challenges based on actual cybersecurity scenarios

This comprehensive training program will equip Farmhouse Networking’s staff with the skills to identify, prevent, and respond to a wide range of cyber threats.

Investing in the Future of Cybersecurity
“At Farmhouse Networking, we recognize that our employees are our first line of defense against cyber attacks for many businesses throughout Oregon,” said Scott G. Carr II, CEO of Farmhouse Networking. “By investing in their skills through this innovative funding program and partnering with TryHackMe, we’re not just enhancing our clients’ security posture; we’re also providing our team with valuable, career-advancing knowledge.” The initiative aligns with Farmhouse Networking’s long-term strategy to build a resilient and knowledgeable workforce capable of addressing the complex cybersecurity challenges faced by businesses today.

Community and Collaboration
Beyond individual skill development, this program will foster a sense of community among Farmhouse Networking’s employees. TryHackMe’s platform encourages collaboration, allowing team members to connect with like-minded professionals, share knowledge, and learn from each other’s experiences. Farmhouse Networking’s innovative approach to employee development and cybersecurity preparedness sets a new standard in the industry. By leveraging the Rogue Business Elevate program to fund this initiative, the company is maximizing its investment in both its people and its technological defenses.

Cybersecurity isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. At Farmhouse Networking, we’re not only enhancing our own security measures but we’re also ready to help you fortify your defenses. Don’t wait for a breach to happen. Take proactive steps to protect your business today. Contact Farmhouse Networking today for a free consultation. Let’s work together to create a robust security strategy that safeguards your business, your data, and your peace of mind.

How do you know if your IT provider is doing their job

Businesses heavily rely on their IT providers to ensure smooth operations, enhance productivity, and safeguard data. However, determining whether your IT provider is doing their job effectively can be challenging. Here are some key indicators and evaluation criteria to help you assess their performance.

Quality of Service

1. Response Time and Resolution: A reliable IT provider should have short response times and lasting resolutions. Track how quickly they respond to issues and how often they resolve problems on the first attempt. Consistent delays or repeat issues may indicate they aren’t able to take care of your business properly.

2. Service Quality and Expertise: Evaluate the technical expertise of your IT provider. They should have a proven track record and relevant industry experience. Their ability to manage complex IT environments and provide innovative solutions is crucial.

Cost and Value

1. Cost Structure: Analyze the cost of your IT services, focus on the overall value of what they provide. A transparent pricing model with no hidden fees is also preferable.

2. Budget Management: Your IT provider should help you maintain a predictable IT budget. Proactive management of IT infrastructure should prevent unexpected costs and downtime.

Reliability and Security

1. Uptime and Availability: Assess the reliability of your IT provider in terms of network uptime and system availability. Downtime can lead to significant business losses, so aim for a provider with strong customer centric service level agreements (SLAs) that guarantee high uptime.

2. Security Measures: Inquire about the provider’s security protocols and compliance with regulations like PCI, CMMC, or HIPAA. A comprehensive security framework is essential to protect sensitive data from cyber threats
.

Communication and Support

1. Communication Channels: Evaluate the effectiveness of the provider’s communication. They should offer multiple channels for support and maintain open, proactive communication about system updates or maintenance. You should not have to call them for issue status. 

2. Customer Support: A dedicated support team can significantly enhance the user experience. Ensure that your provider offers readily available customer support and is responsive to inquiries
.

Strategic Alignment

1. Business Understanding: Your IT provider should demonstrate an interest in your business strategy and goals. They should be involved in strategic discussions and provide technology solutions that align with your long-term objectives.

2. Flexibility and Scalability: The ability to customize services to meet your unique needs and scale them as your business grows is a valuable trait in an IT provider. This flexibility can enhance the overall value of their services. Your company should not have to bend to their technology stack. 

Regular assessments and open communication with your provider can help ensure that they continue to meet your evolving needs. If you have doubts about your current IT provider, contact Farmhouse Networking to provide a free network evaluation. 

Why You Don’t Want to Work with Us

Wanted to take a look at why prospective customers would not want Farmhouse Networking to be their Managed IT Service Provider. This article will be a little tongue-in-cheek, but will hopefully give you a fresh perspective on what to look for in a Managed IT Service Provider.

Why You Don’t Want to Work with Us

  • We are IT Experts: They will point fingers and blame others instead of taking ownership of your IT problems. Who needs real solutions to problem or to do things the right way the first time – Band-Aid the issues until they go away themselves. 
  • We know your software and hardware: There are lots of other Managed IT Service Providers who are IT generalists who have no experience in your industry who will charge you for their time while they stumble through fixing things.
  • We live answer our phones: Why would you want to talk to a human who cares when you can simply leave voicemails and hope for a callback? Better yet you can spend your day in the maze of an automated phone menu trying to get to the department that is in charge of your problem. 
  • We communicate: Who really needs to know what is going on with the tickets that are submitted? Isn’t it easier to just make a ticket and have faith in your Managed IT Service Provider to finish the task. It’s even better when they take over your computer and reboot the server before you can save anything. 
  • We only hire the best: There are so many Managed IT Service Providers who are willing to hire just anyone and let them pretend to know how to fix your problems.
  • We’re local: Who wants to have their computer issues handled by someone in their own country let alone within range to be able to show up quickly when things are really broken? Outsource everything important to your business to the lowest bidder from whatever country and make sure that they are unable to communicate effectively in English. 
  • We’re established and growing: Fly-by-night companies are the way to go. Call up the company that advertises on obscure streaming videos to handle precious customer data. 

In all seriousness, take time to think about who is your company’s Managed IT Service Provider and how they are treating you. Consider Farmhouse Networking to take better care of your IT needs. 

How We Saved One Client $1,600

It’s story time again!

This time we will be telling the story of Dr. Nick one of our monthly IT service clients. Back in March, Farmhouse Networking began the process of migrating Dr. Nick’s chiropractic office from their old server to a new one. After carefully preparing the server we contacted their practice management software vendor to get the software moved from the old to the new. The vendor simply asked us to provide them with remote access to the server to allow their techs to do the migration. During this process their tech asked our junior tech who was just there to babysit the process a question about the configuration of the old server. Our tech responded that he was not sure and the software vendor’s tech proceeded to follow his process for setting up the server. 

A couple of months go by and we at Farmhouse Networking notice that the new server is not performing as fast as it should be. We investigate the issue and find out that the software vendor’s had installed a free version of a critical piece of the software puzzle instead of re-using the license Dr. Nick had already purchased. Farmhouse Networking then went to the software vendor and explained the issue. We went back and forth with them for months to get them to the point where they finally agreed that they were at fault for the upgrade problem and agreed to pay for the software license to complete the puzzle and fix the speed issue that Dr. Nick and his team were experiencing. 

The moral of the story is that Dr. Nick did the right thing by having a support contract with a managed IT service provider, like Farmhouse Networking, who would take ownership of the problem and see it through to the best possible outcome. 

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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