Blogs & Techie Tips

  • Legacy Systems and Hardware: The True Costs Revealed

    A legacy system is defined as any piece of hardware or software that was once widely used but has been rendered obsolete by new models. And the biggest risk legacy systems pose is that they’re no longer supported by their manufacturers. Read More

  • Panasonic Toughbook CF-54 Review

    The Panasonic Toughbook CF-54 laptop line is much more durable than traditional laptops — continuing to perform in situations where other laptops may break or fail. When you need a laptop that can withstand the tough conditions of your job, look no further than a Panasonic Toughbook. Read More

  • HP ProBook vs. EliteBook vs. ZBook: What’s the Difference?

    There are so many options when it comes to laptops for your business that deciding on one can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, HP offers a variety of portable PCs that address a wide range of requirements without compromising on quality. Read More

  • Choosing RAID Controller Hardware: Internal or External?

    Today’s servers have impressive storage capability, but it’s also critical to be able to access that information quickly when it’s needed and to keep that data protected and safe. That’s where a RAID controller comes in. Read More

  • Your Guide to Buying a Server: Entry-Level Servers vs. Enterprise Servers

    As your small business grows, you’ll likely hit the point where you realize you’re ready to add a server to your business environment. Learn the difference between entry-level and enterprise servers on our blog. Read More

  • Server Types Defined: 5 Different Types Of Servers and Their Roles

    If your small business doesn’t already have a server, you may wonder whether you really need one. The answer depends on a number of factors that are unique to your business. Learn more about the different types of servers. Read More

  • The Best Business Desktops for Remote Work

    Now that working from home has become the new normal for many employees, desktops are coming back into fashion. Learn about the best desktops for working from home. Read More

  • The Best 6 Laptops for Working From Home and School

    Now that working from home is the new going to work, and online learning is queued up to be part of the new normal, the need for the right laptop is greater than ever. Learn about the six best laptops for work or school. Read More

  • How Bitdefender Can Keep Your Remote Workers (and RDP) Safe from Hackers

    With the new age of remote working, a new variety of security issues are becoming more prevalent as workers use personal computers. Learn how Bitdefender can keep your company safe from hackers. Read More

  • What Makes a Private Cloud Provider Better Than a Public Cloud? [Infographic]

    Did you know that 60% of all business owners host their data in the cloud? Learn about the differences between private and public clouds, and what they mean for your business. Read More

  • Server Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your Server Running in Tip-Top Shape!

    Even though servers play such a key role in keeping operations running, businesses are sometimes tempted to ignore updates or let maintenance slide. Learn about best practices for keeping your servers maintained. Read More

  • Microsoft 365 vs. G-Suite: Choose Your Perfect Cloud Productivity Suite

    Now that there are several options for office software, it can be difficult to choose which one for your own business. Learn about what to consider when deciding between Microsoft 365 and G Suite. Read More

  • Enable Remote Work with Cortavo [Infographic]

    Are your employees adjusting to working from home? Learn how the Cortavo Work From Home Bundle can help you continue "business as usual." Read More

  • When to Buy Refurbished vs. New PCs

    The ultimate aim for any business should be to secure the ideal type of PC in the appropriate condition for each worker based on his or her specific responsibilities to ensure maximum productivity without having to pay more than necessary. Read More

  • How Cortavo Tackles the Challenges Facing SMBs' IT Infrastructure: An Interview With Aventis Systems’ VP of IT Operations

    COVID-19 has changed the remote workforce landscape. Tom Lasswell, vice president of IT at Aventis Systems, talks about how a managed services provider like Cortavo can address many of the new concerns that have emerged as the result of a remote workforce, including SMB IT challenges. Read More

  • How Cortavo Reimagines IT: Stories From Cortavo Customers

    As a managed services provider, Cortavo by Aventis Systems is able to adapt to the needs of individual industries, as well as drill down to the needs of specific companies within those industries. Learn more from companies who use Cortavo. Read More

  • Product Review: Dell and HP Mini Tower Servers

    When it comes time to make the purchase, buying a server doesn’t have to break the bank. Small businesses should consider mini tower servers because they pack the power needed to optimize small business’ networks, are affordable, and don’t require a server closet, since they can sit on top of a desk. Read More

  • Cloud-Based Application Security Tips for IT Professionals

    Security threats continue to evolve and grow in sophistication, so a robust cloud security plan is critical for IT professionals. With the right security measures in place, you can keep your cloud-based applications safe from an attack. Read More

  • Dell PowerEdge 840 and 860: It’s Time to Upgrade!

    For several years, the Dell PowerEdge 840 and PowerEdge 860 servers have given small businesses the kind of processing power needed to help them meet whatever demands they faced. Learn about the signs that it's time to upgrade. Read More

  • Build Your Own Server By Aventis Systems: Custom HP and Dell Servers

    As your small business grows, you might consider investing in your own server infrastructure. Learn about the benefits with Aventis Systems. Read More

  • How to Prevent Phishing Attacks: Strategies for Small Business IT Departments and Specialists

    Phishing is the number one security threat for small businesses. Intended to sound like ‘fishing’, this social engineering tactic attempts to trick targets into providing their personal information or installing malicious software. The U.S. Department of Justice believes there’s $5B in financial damage attributed to such scams every year. Read More

  • Selecting the Right Desktops for Your Small Business

    Small businesses should seek customizable desktops that are cost-effective and built for their daily business operations. Models such as the Dell OptiPlex and HP Elite are ideal for small business use. The key is to never rule out refurbished as an option. Since these machines are compatible with component replacements and often come with a strong warranty from their vendor, you are more likely to get a longer lifespan out of a desktop than a laptop. Read More

  • Synology simplifies storage management for small businesses

    Between 2018 and 2025, worldwide data is expected to grow 61% to 175 zettabytes – that’s 175 trillion gigabytes! Businesses are storing more data than they had in years past because it is valuable and it helps them make better business decisions. This means the need for data storage is growing as well. Small businesses do not have millions of dollars to spend on storage infrastructure, but they still must find a solution that delivers the same flexibility and interoperability that enterprise solutions do. Read More

  • Backup Solutions Comparison: Veeam Backup Essentials vs. Acronis Backup 12.5

    With so many backup software solutions available, every small business can find a solution that is right for their specific needs. The right backup software can ensure that you are completely covered when it comes to disaster and recovery. Learn about the best backup options for your business. Read More

  • What’s the Difference Between MySQL and SQL Server?

    Data is now an integral part of business, so companies need an efficient way to store and manage it. Most companies rely on a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) to allow them to do just that. This software enables users to update, modify, and administer data in ways that are easy to navigate. Read More

  • Benefits of 3rd Party Office 365 Support

    Harnessing the full capabilities of Office 365 requires knowledge, training, and customer support. Otherwise, you might be missing out on the many great features and options that it has to offer. Office 365 is always updating, and having top-notch customer support provides the expertise to solve issues and make sure everything is up to date. Having a support team handling your Office 365 saves you time and allows you to focus more on your business. Read More

  • Top Small Business Hardware For 2020

    Keeping information technology up to date can be costly, but it’s essential for maintaining a business that operates smoothly and securely. Considering how important hardware updates will be for small businesses this year, here are some of the top pieces of business hardware for 2020. Read More

  • Product Comparison: OptiPlex 3050, OptiPlex 5050, OptiPlex 7050

    While the number of OptiPlex options provides convenience and resilience for any work environment, it can also be overwhelming. Let’s make it easier by narrowing down the best options for small businesses to include the Dell OptiPlex 3050, 5050 and 7050. To select the right model for your business it helps to understand your needs and budget first. Read More

  • When to Buy Refurbished vs. New Storage

    Knowing what types of data your business accrues and defining what is mission-critical will help you decide if a new or refurbished storage option will be best for your business. Read More

  • The Benefits of a Virtual CIO for Small Business Owners

    A well-qualified CIO often does not fit within a small business’s budget. Rather than hiring someone who does not have the proper skill set or experience to manage their IT needs, small businesses should consider getting a virtual CIO (vCIO). vCIOs are third party contractors or companies that fulfill the functions of a proper in-house CIO. Read More

  • HP ProDesk, EliteDesk, and Z Workstations: What’s the Difference?

    Choosing desktops for your business is no small task, as it is vital for your employees and can help create a more productive and secure environment. Due to the overwhelming number of options and features, many business leaders spend an exorbitant amount of time deciding what desktop to choose. Read More

  • AMD Ryzen Vs. Intel Core: Which is Right for You?

    The CPU is a critical part of your computer, so finding the best one for your specific needs is vital. AMD Ryzen and Intel Core CPUs are the biggest processor manufacturers in the market due to their ability to offer the best speed and processing for laptops and desktops. They can both help run programs, perform calculations, improve graphics, and make running a business smoother. Read More

  • Hard Drive Comparison - What Storage is Best for Your Small Business: SATA, SAS, or SSD?

    Data has become the lifeblood of the small business world and is at the core of nearly every business decision made these days. It’s essential that small businesses obtain the right storage technology based not only on the volume and type of data they retain, but also on the frequency in which they retrieve it. Read More

  • Are Dedicated Servers Better Than Cloud Servers?

    Cloud based services continue to grow and with more options than ever, IT decision makers are under tremendous pressure to move to “the cloud.” Everything from file storage to hosting can now be done without the need for an on-site physical device. Read More

  • The Importance of Local IT Support for Your Business

    In a business world that depends on connectivity and speed, having the right IT support is critical for success. Partnering with a dependable local IT support company is one way to improve your IT operations while also doing what’s best for your bottom line. Read More

  • Why Early Software Renewal Is Valuable to Your Business

    Your business depends on software to perform several important functions, both internally and client-facing. Learn about why early software renewal is key to saving you time, money, and stress in the long run. Read More

  • When to Buy Refurbished vs New Servers

    The cost difference between a brand new server and its refurbished equivalent is substantial. Many small businesses find the lower price point of a refurbished server appealing but worry about the quality and reliability of used equipment. Read More

  • What Are the Benefits of a Local Cloud Provider?

    By now, cloud computing has become a standard part of doing business. Moving to the cloud has many advantages, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses. But when you’re considering the options, you probably have several questions. You might be a little wary about making that move, and you want to find the provider that is right for you and can meet your needs. Read More

  • What is the Difference Between a Server and a NAS Device?

    Sharing and storing data is an essential component of an effective business. It allows companies to share information quickly and keep it secure. Read More

  • How a Server Can Benefit Your Small Business

    Servers are essential to any small business that plans to grow, but choosing a dedicated on-premise server can be intimidating for business owners. Understanding how a server can provide a solution to your business needs will help you get started with choosing, purchasing, and setting up your first server. Read More

  • Comparing Essentials Express & Extended Warranties

    When it comes to the health and well-being of your business, the ability to rely on sensitive equipment is critical. IT downtime can have a considerable impact on your bottom line. Depending on your industry and the size of your business, the average cost of network downtime is $5,600 per minute. Read More

  • What Sets an HP Workstation Apart from an HP Desktop?

    Amidst the broad proliferation of laptops and tablets, the desktop industry is still going strong. Desktops are valued by businesses because of their ability to provide deep customization. When small businesses with limited IT budgets purchase desktops for employees, it’s important they’re familiar with the different subsets of desktops to choose from. It’s critical they select wisely to get the most out of their spending power and ensure workers are sufficiently equipped to accomplish the tasks at hand. Read More

  • Why Your All-in-One Computer Should Not Skimp on Specs

    All-in-One (AIO) computers can provide the perfect solution for small and medium-sized businesses. Their compact design, coupled with a larger screen, can help meet the specific challenges of a growing business by maximizing productivity. Read More

  • What Are the Benefits of Office 365? [Infographic]

    Microsoft Office 365’s many features and tools are particularly useful for small to mid sized businesses. Offering access to an enterprise-level platform at an affordable price, it continues transforming the workplace with new, better tools. Click here to take a look at the seven benefits of Office 365. Read More

  • Essential Tools to Achieve Productivity in Your Small Business

    Why is it that everyone has the same 24 hours in their day, but some people seem to get more done than others? Productivity tools help you to get the most out of your day and life. Thanks to the newest technology, it's easier than ever to streamline your projects, communication and experience to get more done. Read More

  • A New Service to Manage Your Office 365 Security Policies

    When workers used only in-house technology to get their jobs done, it was relatively simple for companies to secure their IT infrastructure. Now that the average employee uses 2.3 devices to access company applications and data, effective cybersecurity is much more difficult to achieve. Each device brought into the fold has its own security policies (rules that define users’ permission within a company’s IT environment) that need to be configured, which gets cumbersome quickly. Read More

  • The Benefits of SharePoint for Small to Medium-Sized Businesses

    Small and medium-sized businesses should be armed with the same tools as their large enterprise counterparts in their pursuit of market share. In recent years, the barrier to entry for many leading software offerings has come down. Microsoft SharePoint is a prime example and is a boon for companies with not-as-deep-pockets. Here we will discuss what it is, how it can be implemented, and what its benefits are for small and medium-sized businesses. Read More

  • Cisco Security: Which Product is Right for My Small Business?

    For the small-business owner, making sure that your sensitive information is protected is among the most critical things you do. Even though large data breaches grab the headlines, small businesses are more frequently hit by cyberattacks, to the tune of about 4,000 attacks per day. Conducting a risk assessment to identify possible threats and formulate a response plan is a good starting point. Read More

  • Top 5 Office 365 Collaboration Tools for Home and Business

    Collaborative tools have become essential components of the digital workplace, and it seems nobody understands that better than Microsoft. While new tools and apps are introduced on various platforms in what seems like an hourly basis, they may not always be as effective in providing exactly what users need. Read More

  • 8 Things to Consider When Comparing Refurbished and New Equipment

    Information Technology is assuming increasingly larger proportions of companies’ budgets. When looking for ways to improve the bottom line, businesses of all sizes naturally explore how they can shave some spend from this swelling category. Read More

  • Microsoft Exchange vs. Outlook: Which One Is Right for My Small Business?

    Despite the rising popularity of messaging apps and business communication platforms like Slack, email still remains the most popular way to communicate. In the U.S. alone, 95% of businesses use email as their primary form of internal communication and the use of email is expected to grow by 2 to 3% every year until 2023. With companies depending so heavily on email, both for internal and external communication, it’s important for each business to find the email solution that works best for its individual needs and users. Read More

  • The Benefit of Software-Defined Storage for SMBs

    Until about five years ago, SMBs were perpetually behind their larger enterprise peers technologically. Without multi-million-dollar IT budgets, they too often were unable to afford the latest and greatest IT products. Luckily, that financial barrier to entry was blown wide open thanks to the proliferation of virtualization technologies. Read More

  • What Are the Benefits of a Local Cloud Provider?

    By now, cloud computing has become a standard part of doing business. Moving to the cloud has many advantages, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses. But when you’re considering the options, you probably have several questions. You might be a little wary about making that move, and you want to find the provider that is right for you and can meet your needs. Read More

  • What is the Difference Between a Server and a NAS Device?

    Sharing and storing data is an essential component of an effective business. It allows companies to share information quickly and keep it secure. Read More

  • What Sets an HP Workstation Apart from an HP Desktop?

    Amidst the broad proliferation of laptops and tablets, the desktop industry is still going strong. Desktops are valued by businesses because of their ability to provide deep customization. When small businesses with limited IT budgets purchase desktops for employees, it’s important they’re familiar with the different subsets of desktops to choose from. It’s critical they select wisely to get the most out of their spending power and ensure workers are sufficiently equipped to accomplish the tasks at hand. Read More

  • Why Your All-in-One Computer Should Not Skimp on Specs

    All-in-One (AIO) computers can provide the perfect solution for small and medium-sized businesses. Their compact design, coupled with a larger screen, can help meet the specific challenges of a growing business by maximizing productivity. Read More

  • 8 Things to Consider When Comparing Refurbished and New Equipment

    Information Technology is assuming increasingly larger proportions of companies’ budgets. When looking for ways to improve the bottom line, businesses of all sizes naturally explore how they can shave some spend from this swelling category. Read More

  • The Best Data Storage for Small Businesses

    Given the massive amount of data that small businesses have to manage daily, a reliable form of data storage is critical to operations. When you think about how much information you receive and generate daily — from emails and documents to audio files, presentations, graphics and spreadsheets — you’re reminded of how the need for managing and storing information has become integral to business success. Read More

  • Why IT Teams Spare No Expense For A Spare Kit

    It's 2019, time is limited, time is money and frustration begins to set in once your time is wasted. Sounds familiar? Do you find yourself racking your brain for ways to avoid this frustration? Read More

  • Benefits of Plug and Play Email Servers

    Imagine, just for a moment, what it would be like to try to run your business without email — even just for a day. Or an hour. Read More

  • Six Reasons Refurbished Hardware Is Better

    Savvy car buyers know that buying a slightly used car is a smarter investment than buying brand new. Since new cars decrease in value by about 60 percent over the first five years, smart shoppers can often get the car they want at a much more affordable price if they’ll get it a year or two after it’s released. Read More

  • Is Tape Dead? Tape Storage in Modern Backup

    Extinct, dead, antiquated...these are words you will hear used to describe Tape Backup and Storage, but is that true? Read More

  • Understanding RAID: The Uses, Pros and Cons of Each Level

    One of the primary considerations when setting up a server is the storage capacity, and for operations that need greater protection or performance, RAID is often seen as the best answer. While simpler operations often do well with single disks, as storage needs grow you may want to consider how RAID configurations could benefit you. Read More

  • The Best Hard Drives for NAS Systems

    Network-Attached Storage (NAS) is one of the most flexible types of storage a business can use. They include many features that can keep your business running smoothly in office and remote environments. However, a NAS system is only as good as the hard drives in it. Read More

  • The Basics of Network Attached Storage

    Data storage is something that should be top of mind for all companies. Depending on the company's size, the data storage needs can differ dramatically. Storage Area Networks (SANs) might not be the best solution, especially if remote access by employees to files is necessary. The better option would be Network-Attached Storage (NAS). Read More

  • Four Steps to Take Before Migrating to the Cloud

    In today’s world, migrating to the cloud has become a common practice for companies that want to improve efficiency, cut costs and create a more collaborative environment. According to the 2016 IDG Cloud Computing Survey, at least 70% of U.S. organizations are now using cloud computing in some form — either public, private, hybrid or as a mix of various cloud computing models. Read More

  • What Is Software as a Service (SaaS) and What Are Its Benefits?

    Although the Software as a Service (SaaS) business model is seen as a relatively new concept, the model of sharing computer software has been in play since the 1960s. At a time when computers were too expensive for most small businesses and organizations, the time-sharing model allowed multiple users at different terminals to access a particular computer system at the same time. Read More

  • Best Practices to Look for in a Managed Services Provider (MSP)

    Since the late 1990s and early 2000s, when companies began depending more heavily on IT services for overall operations, the need for subscription-based services to help manage that technology started becoming more valuable. Now that the rise of technology has made IT essential to every size and type of business, the need for managed services has become more prevalent. Read More

  • Seven Benefits of a Strong MSP Partnership

    Partnering with an MSP instead of managing multiple vendors on your own makes it easier to stay up-to-date on security enhancements, while also enabling you to work with the same partner for security, backup and disaster recovery. Read More

  • How Virtualization Makes Hardware Support More Important Than Ever

    Hardware virtualization has become very popular in many IT organizations. Not only is virtualization of all — or at least some — of your infrastructure more cost-effective for your business, it's also much more efficient. Read More

  • 4 Reasons Office 365 Migrations Are Difficult

    If your company hasn’t already migrated from an on-premise platform to cloud-based Office 365, you might be wondering if it’s something you should consider in 2020. Or it may already be in the budget for the coming year. If that’s the case, you’re certainly in good company! Read More

  • You Migrated to Office 365: Now What?

    Preparing for and executing a migration to Office 365 is no small feat; it requires a lot of planning and preparation, and it can come with a bit of a learning curve as well. And, once you finally finish your migration, chances are you’ll breathe a big sigh of relief and be glad it’s over. Read More

  • What Are the Benefits of Office 365? [Infographic]

    Microsoft Office 365’s many features and tools are particularly useful for small to mid sized businesses. Offering access to an enterprise-level platform at an affordable price, it continues transforming the workplace with new, better tools. Click here to take a look at the seven benefits of Office 365. Read More

  • A New Service to Manage Your Office 365 Security Policies

    When workers used only in-house technology to get their jobs done, it was relatively simple for companies to secure their IT infrastructure. Now that the average employee uses 2.3 devices to access company applications and data, effective cybersecurity is much more difficult to achieve. Each device brought into the fold has its own security policies (rules that define users’ permission within a company’s IT environment) that need to be configured, which gets cumbersome quickly. Read More

  • Top 5 Office 365 Collaboration Tools for Home and Business

    Collaborative tools have become essential components of the digital workplace, and it seems nobody understands that better than Microsoft. While new tools and apps are introduced on various platforms in what seems like an hourly basis, they may not always be as effective in providing exactly what users need. Read More

  • Microsoft Exchange vs. Outlook: Which One Is Right for My Small Business?

    Despite the rising popularity of messaging apps and business communication platforms like Slack, email still remains the most popular way to communicate. In the U.S. alone, 95% of businesses use email as their primary form of internal communication and the use of email is expected to grow by 2 to 3% every year until 2023. With companies depending so heavily on email, both for internal and external communication, it’s important for each business to find the email solution that works best for its individual needs and users. Read More

  • Grow Your SMB with Tools from Microsoft Office 365

    Being a small business owner often means spending so much time dealing with day-to-day situations that it can be hard to find time to plan for your company’s growth. Having access to the right tools can make all the difference in how well you’re able to improve your processes and save time. That, in turn, allows you to focus on other things that need your attention. Read More

  • Top 5 Features in Windows Server 2019

    The launch of Windows Server 2019 late last year marked the arrival of some great new features that updated Windows Server 2016. It corrected flaws in the previous system to show a tremendous advancement in its features in just three years. The new release delivers improvements in security, the application platform and the infrastructure, providing better performance and results for users. Read More

  • Microsoft Office 365 Security Best Practices

    The importance of security in today’s world is underscored every time a company experiences a data breach. The ensuing media coverage and fallout from a data breach can result in loss of reputation, loss of customers and loss of revenue. Read More

  • Step-by-Step Office 365 Planning

    Whether you’re moving to a new home, a new office or just cleaning your desk, the same question seems to come up time after time: Do I still need this? Read More

  • Understanding Office 365 Mailbox Types and When to Use Them

    Office 365 delivers a number of features and benefits, and among those are its flexibility and options for mail delivery. Just like the many choices offered by different licenses, Office 365 gives users a number of different options when it comes to mail accounts. Some of these require a paid license, but most do not. Read More

  • Office 365 License Comparison: Which License Is Right for You?

    Making the choice to migrate to Office 365 is a big decision in itself, with many considerations such as what content will be part of that migration and where your content will now live. But before migrating to the cloud, you must choose the Office 365 license that is right for your business. Read More

  • The Basics of Microsoft Licensing for Your Business

    Confused about choosing the right Microsoft operating system or software licensing option for your business? You’re not alone. Microsoft licensing is a complex topic, and deciphering which option is the best deal can be a real challenge, even for the most seasoned IT professionals. Read More

  • Cisco vs. HP Networking Equipment: Which is Right for You?

    When it comes to getting the most out of your technology, the right networking equipment is essential. You can have the most sophisticated software, but without the proper hardware, you will be falling behind cutting-edge technology. Read More

  • HP vs. Dell: Which is the Right Server for You

    HP and Dell have been in a neck-and-neck race for dominance for the server space. In 2018, Dell took over as the top server. Then this year, HP gained the top spot on the market. Read More

  • The Synology Advantage: Value Series and Plus Series

    Network Attached Storage, or NAS, used to be the kind of equipment only large enterprises could use. However, with the rise in data as an asset, most businesses need to invest in the right storage solution. Read More

  • Cisco Security: Which Product is Right for My Small Business?

    For the small-business owner, making sure that your sensitive information is protected is among the most critical things you do. Even though large data breaches grab the headlines, small businesses are more frequently hit by cyberattacks, to the tune of about 4,000 attacks per day. Conducting a risk assessment to identify possible threats and formulate a response plan is a good starting point. Read More

  • HPE Flash Storage Review: MSA 2050 and 2052

    Most small- and medium-sized businesses face the same challenge as enterprises: how to find the right storage architecture that will grow with the company, be flexible enough for future workloads and is able to maximize productivity for the entire operation. Read More

  • Product Review: Optiplex 3020 vs. Optiplex 7020 vs. Optiplex 9020

    The Dell Optiplex family of desktops provides a reliable and cost-effective option for businesses of all sizes. In their most recent desktop releases, Dell offers three different Optiplex business desktop series, each of which is available in multiple form factors and configurations. With so many options available, it’s certain that there will be an ideal model for your business, but wading through the options can be difficult. Read More

  • Dell PowerEdge R630 VS HP ProLiant DL360 Gen9: Which One is Right For You?

    As a business owner, you’re looking for servers that are small but mighty — and both Dell PowerEdge R630 and HP ProLiant DL360 Gen9 fit that bill. You depend upon servers being able to provide top performance to handle all your database operations quickly and give you the scalability needed for future growth. So when it comes to the Dell PowerEdge R630 and the HP ProLiant DL360 Gen9, which one is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at what each one offers to help you decide. Read More

  • Hyper-V vs. VMware vSphere: Which Solution is Right for You?

    As virtualization becomes commonplace in businesses of all sizes, IT decision-makers in small and medium operations must embrace this trend to increase savings and stay competitive. Selecting the hypervisor solution that’s right for your business will make operations more efficient, improve IT productivity and increase your savings when it comes to hardware. Read More

  • Synology's Top Selling Products

    Storage needs vary with the size and needs of each company, and for many home users and small businesses, Network Attached Storage (NAS) is your best option. Connected storage is more versatile than other forms of storage, and NAS is easier to use, more accessible and costs less than other storage. Read More

  • SQL Server Hardware Guide: Finding the Perfect SQL Hardware Configuration for Performance

    For system developers and database administrators, ensuring the performance of the SQL server is critical to the company’s overall mission. The SQL server plays perhaps the most important server role for a business, since it stores all the critical data for operations. When performance of these servers is compromised, so are your overall business operations. Read More

  • Tower v Rackmount Servers: Which One Is Right for You?

    Every buying decision you make for your small business is tailored to fit your individual needs, as well as your particular services and work environment. Choosing the right server is no different, which is why there’s no single (or simple) answer to the question of which server is right for you. Read More

  • Head-to-Head: Dell vs. HP vs. Microsoft Laptop Comparison

    Laptops have become an essential tool for everyone, from busy students to on-the-go executives. As their quality and capabilities have improved, they’ve become as robust as desktop solutions. They offer more choices to provide users with the exact experience and performance they need. Read More

  • Virtualization with Synology

    Virtualization is a big part of any companies IT infrastructure, and it is only become more and more prominent. While server virtualization is the main type talked about there are other types of virtualization that could be beneficial for companies to consider. A big one being storage virtualization. Read More

  • Modular Storage Product Comparison: Dell MD 1200 Series Vs. MD3200 Series

    When it comes to your data storage, you want it to be simple, safe and available when you need it. Dell’s PowerVault MD Family is a line of data storage and backup products designed with the intention of simplifying the IT architecture. By leveraging its intelligent automation, Dell’s PowerVault line can help you reduce costs (and headaches) while at the same time freeing up your IT team to attend to other areas that need attention. Read More

  • Comparing Top-of-the-Line Servers: HP ProLiant DL360 Gen9 vs. DL380 Gen9

    The right server can transform the way your small business operates, and there are several things to take into consideration when buying a new server — or upgrading your current configuration. Read More

  • Product Review: Synology for Network Storage

    Today’s small businesses have many different options for network storage solutions; sometimes it might seem as if there are almost too many options and the choices can start to become overwhelming. But Synology has built its reputation (and its entire business) by offering storage systems make your choices easier. Read More

  • Product Review: Unitrends Backup Software

    When it comes to backup software solutions, companies often had to choose between physical, virtual and cloud-based options. However, few businesses have just one form of backup, even though most backup solutions are usually dedicated to a single form of backup. Read More

  • Standard vs. Enterprise: Comparing Microsoft SQL Server 2017 Licenses

    Understanding the differences in editions of Microsoft SQL Server licenses can help you determine which one offers the best solution for your business. Choosing between the SQL Server Standard Edition and the SQL Server Enterprise Edition means taking a deeper dive into each licensing method to make sure you’re getting the right option for your organization’s workload. Read More

  • The Ins and Outs of APC Hardware

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  • Product Review: Cisco Meraki Switches for SMBs

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  • Product Review: Microsoft Touchscreen Laptops

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  • Product Review: Microsoft Touchscreen Laptops

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  • Product Review: The Dell PowerEdge R720xd

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  • The Ins and Outs of APC Hardware

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  • Standard vs. Enterprise: Comparing Microsoft SQL Server 2017 Licenses

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  • Product Review: Unitrends Backup Software

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  • Comparing Top-of-the-Line Servers: HP ProLiant DL360 Gen9 vs. DL380 Gen9

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  • Modular Storage Product Comparison: Dell MD 1200 Series Vs. MD3200 Series

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  • Virtualization with Synology

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  • SQL Server Hardware Guide: Finding the Perfect SQL Hardware Configuration for Performance

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  • Synology's Top Selling Products

    Storage needs vary with the size and needs of each company, and for many home users and small businesses, Network Attached Storage (NAS) is your best option. Connected storage is more versatile than other forms of storage, and NAS is easier to use, more accessible and costs less than other storage. Read More

  • Hyper-V vs. VMware vSphere: Which Solution is Right for You?

    As virtualization becomes commonplace in businesses of all sizes, IT decision-makers in small and medium operations must embrace this trend to increase savings and stay competitive. Selecting the hypervisor solution that’s right for your business will make operations more efficient, improve IT productivity and increase your savings when it comes to hardware. Read More

  • Dell PowerEdge R630 VS HP ProLiant DL360 Gen9: Which One is Right For You?

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  • HPE Flash Storage Review: MSA 2050 and 2052

    Most small- and medium-sized businesses face the same challenge as enterprises: how to find the right storage architecture that will grow with the company, be flexible enough for future workloads and is able to maximize productivity for the entire operation. Read More

  • Cisco Security: Which Product is Right for My Small Business?

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  • The Synology Advantage: Value Series and Plus Series

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  • HP vs. Dell: Which is the Right Server for You

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  • Cisco vs. HP Networking Equipment: Which is Right for You?

    When it comes to getting the most out of your technology, the right networking equipment is essential. You can have the most sophisticated software, but without the proper hardware, you will be falling behind cutting-edge technology. Read More

  • How a Server Can Benefit Your Small Business

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  • 6 Tips to Protect Yourself Against Phishing Attacks

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  • Windows 7 End of Life Is Nearly Here

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  • How to Spend Your Remaining 2019 IT Budget

    As the end of the year quickly approaches, one of the things most companies should be looking at is how much of their budget remains — and what to do with it. If you still have unspent money in your yearly IT budget, the clock is ticking. That means you should make plans now on how to use the rest of your budget so you don’t end up losing it. Read More

  • Essential Tools to Achieve Productivity in Your Small Business

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  • The Benefits of SharePoint for Small to Medium-Sized Businesses

    Small and medium-sized businesses should be armed with the same tools as their large enterprise counterparts in their pursuit of market share. In recent years, the barrier to entry for many leading software offerings has come down. Microsoft SharePoint is a prime example and is a boon for companies with not-as-deep-pockets. Here we will discuss what it is, how it can be implemented, and what its benefits are for small and medium-sized businesses. Read More

  • The Benefit of Software-Defined Storage for SMBs

    Until about five years ago, SMBs were perpetually behind their larger enterprise peers technologically. Without multi-million-dollar IT budgets, they too often were unable to afford the latest and greatest IT products. Luckily, that financial barrier to entry was blown wide open thanks to the proliferation of virtualization technologies. Read More

  • Windows 7 Support Ends on January 14th, 2020: Are You Ready?

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  • Keep Your Data Safe This World Backup Day

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  • How Are SMBs Spending Their IT Budgets in 2019?

    Each year, IT continues taking a larger piece of the operational pie. According to the 2019 State of IT annual report from Spiceworks, IT budgets for all types of businesses have shown consistent annual growth, and that trend will continue in 2019. However, it’s significant to note that while everyone from small businesses to large enterprises have, overall, increased their annual IT budgets, spending by industry and by size make a significant difference in how that money is allocated. Read More

  • 5 Storage and Server Trends to Watch for in 2019

    Some of the biggest trends of 2018 will continue to be major players in 2019. With economic growth expected to continue, the majority of businesses say that their IT budgets will increase or stay the same in the coming year, according to the 2019 State of IT annual report. While small businesses are going to invest in hardware, larger enterprises are focusing more on increasing their cloud budgets. Read More

  • Comparing Essentials Express & Extended Warranties

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  • Why Hardware Matters in a Software-Defined Data Center

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  • Tips for Migrating to a Tier 4 Data Center

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  • 6 Common Virtualization Mistakes on Servers

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  • Opportunities to Reduce IT Infrastructure Costs

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  • Do You Know What Flash Can Do For Your Business?

    Storing information — and finding a way to share it with others only when needed — has been a challenge for humans since the beginning of time. From images on cave walls to hieroglyphics on scrolls made from papyrus, mankind has searched for ways to record information, then has searched equally as hard for ways to keep it safe. Read More

  • Making the Case for Cisco Meraki Implementation

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  • 3 Reasons You Need to Update Your IT Infrastructure

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  • Video Surveillance for Local Governments

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  • 2019 Best Selling Laptop Predictions

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  • How Penetration Testing Can Help Secure Your Company’s Infrastructure

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  • Virtual Machine Backup Made Simple

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  • Become Your Own Network Admin

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  • Setting Up a Multi-Site Network With Meraki

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  • Where to Start When Building a Network

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  • Five Key Trends in IT Consulting

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  • Top Tips for Backing Up Your Business Data

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  • The 3-2-1 Data Backup Method Explained

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  • What Is a CAL, and How Many Do I Need?

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  • Server Buyers Guide: Key Features to Consider Before You Buy

    Choosing a server for your small business is a big decision. Servers support multiple users within your organization and are designed to run multi-user applications such as email, printers, shared files and databases. Your server acts as a central repository for all your company’s important files, making it easy for employees to share data and collaborate. Read More

  • How to Convince Your CEO Its Time to Standardize Software

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  • Test How to Find and Implement the Best Server Solution for Your Business

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  • Test How to Find and Implement the Best Server Solution for Your Business

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  • The Best Free Veeam Tools for Powerful Data Protection

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