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Streamlined Device Refreshes with Now Micro

Leveraging Customized Services to Simplify Purchasing, Provisioning, and Management.

Device refreshes allow organizations to take advantage of the latest technology and improve security, productivity and user experience. But for many companies, going through the process poses numerous hurdles.

At Now Micro, we understand those challenges and offer a partnership to make the process easier for our customers. We make device refreshes easy through our customized purchasing, provisioning, and ongoing management.

Tailored Purchasing

We start by understanding your specific needs and goals. Do you need laptops? Tablets? A mix? What applications and software will be required? Any specific security protocols?

Armed with this knowledge, we curate the ideal mix of devices purpose-built for your organization. Our experts handle procurement, leveraging our strong vendor relationships to get you the best pricing and products.

Streamlined Provisioning

Getting new devices deployed can eat up IT resources. We direct ship configured equipment right to your end users, ready to go out of the box. This includes imaging, software installation, security protocols, and any other customization.

Our imaging services save you time and effort while ensuring your new devices are optimized for your environment.

Ongoing Management

We also offer ongoing asset management to keep your technology up to date and secure. This includes order and device information, warranty lookup, open API, device monitoring, user editable fields, geotracking, IoT device management, and more.

With Now Micro as your device refresh partner, you get a tailored, turnkey experience. We handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on your core business. Contact us today to learn more!

Learn more here:

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Windows LAPS: Keeping Your Organization Secure

Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS) is a feature that automatically manages and backs up the password of a local administrator account on your Azure Active Directory-joined or Windows Server Active Directory-joined devices. This solution is one of the most effective ways to protect administrator passwords and prevent unauthorized users from accessing systems or data that they shouldn’t. 

With Windows LAPS, passwords are automatically randomized and updated on a routine basis, so that no two users ever have the same passwords and that passwords don’t become stale and more vulnerable to hacking. This investment in security is crucial for protecting your organization’s data and ensuring peace of mind. This new version of the tool can be configured with Microsoft Intune and can store passwords in Azure Active Directory. 

At Now Micro, we understand the importance of keeping up with the latest technological advancements to help organizations take advantage of new programs. That’s why we stay on top of the news and partner with IT experts to ensure our clients have the most up-to-date hardware and software. 

Contact us at Now Micro to learn more about how we can help your organization take advantage of Windows LAPS and other cutting-edge technologies. Our team of experts can help implement the tool, making it super easy for our customers and their IT staff to manage and maintain security.
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Higher Education’s Future: Embracing Technology for a Better Learning Experience

The future of higher education is exciting as we strive to create a better learning experience for students. Technology plays a crucial role in offering new and innovative ways to enhance the educational experience.

The Challenge: Higher education today faces many technological challenges but with the right guidance, these can be navigated successfully. Some of the challenges include:

These issues have prompted a reevaluation of traditional approaches to education. Universities often depend on experts in the field to guide them in their hardware & software needs, ensuring their investments are effective.

Tech’s Role Today & Tomorrow: Technology is already being used in higher education to improve the learning experience through online courses, virtual classrooms, and digital resources. Exciting emerging trends are:

Investing in Technology for Higher Education: University IT budgets are increasing to support the adoption of new hardware and software. This investment is crucial for improving students’ and educators’ higher education experience.

The Benefits: Embracing technology in higher education can bring many benefits including:

  • Increased accessibility
  • Flexibility in schedules and learning styles
  • Personalization of the learning experience
  • Effective messaging and retainment of information

In summary, embracing technology in higher education is essential for creating a better learning experience for students. Having the correct and most up-to-date hardware is the first challenge. While keeping up with tech innovation can be tricky, partnering with IT experts who stay on top of the news makes it easier. Let’s embrace technology and shape the future of education together!

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Mastering Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Business from Evolving Threats

In today’s digital landscape, protecting your business from cyber threats is essential. Here are 5 efforts that will significantly enhance your cybersecurity status and minimize the risk of attacks. Let’s explore practical advice and best practices to safeguard your business against malware or other cyber-attacks.

  1. Strong Access Controls: Control access to systems and data with strong passwords, regular password changes, and multi-factor authentication (MFA). Apply the principle of least privilege to limit access. Regularly review and revoke access for employees who no longer require it.
  2. Up-to-Date Software and Systems: Keep operating systems, applications, and firmware updated with the latest security patches. Enable automatic updates and maintain an inventory of software and hardware assets to promptly address vulnerabilities.
  3. Robust Security Solutions: Invest in comprehensive security solutions, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, antivirus/anti-malware software, and email filters. Configure and update these solutions to match evolving needs.
  4. Employee Education and Training: Educate employees on cybersecurity best practices, such as identifying phishing emails, safe browsing habits, and password security. Foster a culture of accountability and encourage prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
  5. Incident Response Planning: Develop an incident response plan to minimize the impact of a cyber-attack. Define roles, establish communication protocols, and regularly test and update the plan to align with emerging threats.

Protecting your business from cyber threats requires a proactive and multi-layered approach. By implementing these efforts, you can significantly enhance your cybersecurity position. Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and staying informed and proactive is essential to safeguarding your business.

At Now Micro, we offer a variety of solutions to help you achieve cyber security and tackle the 5 tips above. Reach out to see how we can help!

Stay secure, stay safe!

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Transforming K-12 Education: The Power of Technology in Schools

Technology plays a huge role in the k-12 school system. It’s important to understand this role to create the best educational experience for students and teachers. The ever-changing world of technology brings some pretty cool opportunities.

Technology Helps Online Learning. One of the most evident applications of technology in K-12 education is online learning. Through online platforms and tools, students can access educational materials and resources from anywhere. This flexibility empowers students to learn at their own pace. Whether it’s watching educational videos, participating in virtual discussions, or completing interactive assignments, technology facilitates a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Digital and cloud-based applications have revolutionized the way students interact with course content. Platforms like Kahoot, Quizlet, and Seesaw have gained popularity due to their interactive quizzes, flashcards, and collaborative features that promote active learning and student engagement. Teachers can easily create and share educational materials, monitor student progress, and provide personalized feedback through these platforms. The use of such applications not only enhances student learning but also makes the educational experience more enjoyable and interactive.

Perks of technology in school:

  1. Catering to diverse learning styles. Whether it’s visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learners, technology provides various tools and resources to accommodate different learning preferences.
  2. Accessibility. With digital resources, students can access educational materials anytime and anywhere. Technology breaks down geographical and schedule barriers, allowing students to learn beyond the classroom.
  3. Expanded resource availability. Teachers can incorporate multimedia elements such as videos, interactive simulations, and virtual field trips into their lessons, enriching the learning experience.
  4. Increased Assessment tools for teachers. From online quizzes to automated grading systems, technology streamlines the assessment process and provides timely feedback, enabling teachers to monitor student progress effectively.

Advantages of Cloud-based technology in K-12:

  1. Remote configuration of devices. IT administrators can easily manage and maintain devices in a school setting, ensuring smooth operations.
  2. Controlled access levels on devices. Technology allows for the monitoring and control of content accessibility, ensuring students are exposed to appropriate materials.
  3. Enhanced security measures. Cloud-based technology provides robust security measures to protect sensitive information and mitigate potential risks.
  4. Information sharing. Facilitates the seamless sharing of information and resources among teachers and students, promoting collaboration and fostering a sense of community within the education ecosystem.

The use of technology in K-12 education aims to create an exceptional educational experience for both teachers and students. From online learning to digital applications and cloud-based technology, the integration of technology offers numerous perks. As technology continues to advance, it will undoubtedly play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of K-12 education.

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Now Micro Inc Honored on the 2023 CRN Tech Elite 250 List

Mendota Heights, MN (April 11th, 2023) – Now Micro Inc. announced today that it was named to the 2023 Tech Elite 250 list by CRN, a brand of The Channel Company.

This annual list features leading solution providers of all sizes across the U.S. and Canada that differentiated themselves by achieving the highest level and largest breadth of certifications and specializations from key technology vendors in the infrastructure, cloud, and security spaces.

“We are honored to be recognized as a CRN Tech Elite 250 company,” said Patrick Finn, President of Now Micro, Inc. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in staying at the forefront of the ever-evolving IT landscape, and our commitment to providing our customers with innovative technology solutions that drive their success.”

Now Micro, Inc. has a 30 year history of delivering best-in-class IT services to our customers. With a team of highly skilled and certified IT professionals, we are committed to staying ahead of the technology curve, continuously updating our knowledge and skills, and delivering cutting-edge solutions that enable our customers to achieve their business objectives.

As a recognized CRN Tech Elite 250 company, Now Micro, Inc. is well-positioned to continue delivering top-notch IT services to our valued customers. Our technical expertise, combined with our customer-centric approach, will continue to be the driving force behind our success as we strive to exceed our customers’ expectations and help them achieve their business goals.

Coverage of the Tech Elite 250 will be featured in the April issue of CRN Magazine and online at www.crn.com/techelite250.

About Now Micro Inc

Founded in 1993, Now Micro goes beyond the edge to help customers procure, deploy, and manage computing assets. With a blend of purpose-built hardware, factory automation and partnerships with industry giants including Intel, HP, Dell and Lenovo, Now Micro is uniquely positioned to help customers maximize investments in technology. www.NowMicroplayers.com illustrates Now Micro’s focus on purpose-built media players for use in digital signage, video wall and edge IoT. Now Micro further differentiates itself with complementary services designed to reduce deployment costs and improve customer experience. Based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Now Micro partners with OEMs, IT and ProAV resellers and public sector government and education customers.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solutions providers and end users. Back by more than 40 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

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World Teachers’ Day: How technology can make teachers’ lives better

Teachers are essential to schools and student learning. They impart academic knowledge and social and emotional tools that boost students’ long-term life outcomes. In addition, teachers inspire future generations of leaders and innovators that shape our society.

Technology can ensure teachers have the right tools and expertise to do their jobs. In our ever-growing digital world, it’s also essential for teachers. Here is how IT administrators can guarantee the technology is used intentionally in the classroom

1. Technology is not the end-all-be-all solution, but it can be a solution to various problems.

There are many challenges in education that all have different solutions. One can’t just throw new laptops or tablets into a classroom and expect it to be a utopia. However, technology can help solve more minor issues, as shown in the table below.

ChallengeTechnology Solution
Communication with parents and students is unorganized and confusingA classroom site can help a teacher streamline all communication and be a resource for parents and students
Illness or weather keeps causing students to be absentProviding laptops or tablets so they can still do their work at home
Students are at different levels in the curriculum, and it’s hard to give everyone attention.Virtual learning tools allow teachers to make lessons that actively engage students at all learning levels. (More here: https://ozobot.com/blog/27-tech-tools-teachers-can-use-to-inspire-classroom-creativity)

2. Investing in training and support is essential.

Each teacher comes into each school year with unique skills and knowledge related to technology. IT administrators should provide training and support on new technologies they implement to guarantee that teachers can use them successfully. Also, if teachers have any questions, there need to be resources or people available to help answer their questions.

3. Testing technology will ensure that it works, is used, and increases learning.

IT education administrators must continually monitor technology performance to ensure that implementation and training are worthwhile. Every school or classroom runs differently, so what works in one may not work in another. The fun of technology is that there is always something new out there or improvements to existing technology that could help, so IT administrators should always research new classroom tools.

To learn more about education solutions from Now Micro, visit https://www.nowmicro.com/.

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6 Benefits of Moving to a Cloud-Based Infrastructure

What is the cloud?  

The cloud refers to servers that run on the internet rather than a local physical server. This system allows you to access data remotely. A few examples of cloud services are Google Drive, Apple iCloud, and Microsoft OneDrive, to name a few.  

What is a Cloud Infrastructure? 

A cloud infrastructure is much like a physical/on-prem infrastructure. A Cloud infrastructure mimics things like servers, switches, storage, etc. Computing, networking, storage, and virtualization make up a cloud infrastructure.  

What are some of the benefits of a business moving to the cloud? 

  • Increased Security 
  • Cost Savings 
  • Disaster Recovery 
  • Reduced Risk 
  • Collaboration across teams 
  • Better Accessibility 

Increased Security 

One of the most beneficial aspects of the cloud is security. Unfortunately, no matter who you are, you are at risk from hackers, malware, phishing, and other cyber-attacks. Moving to the cloud can add an extra layer of support for your important data.  

  • When you store a file in the cloud, your files are encrypted, which means the files are difficult for cybercriminals to access.  
  • The cloud provides consistent and regular patches, reducing malware infection risk. 
  • When a business has critical data, it is far safer to keep that information off-site.  
  • With the cloud, it is easier to maintain compliance requirements. 

Cost Savings $$$ 

Cost is a significant factor when businesses decide to move to the cloud or not. Therefore, looking at the initial cost of making the migration and all the benefits of a cloud-based infrastructure is essential. For example, 98% of organizations say a single hour of downtime costs over $100,000 https://www.the20.com/blog/the-cost-of-it-downtime/#:~:text=According%20to%20Gartner%2C%20the%20average,hour%20at%20the%20higher%20end.  

Disaster Recovery  

Disasters happen; we all know that. Unfortunately, downtime for a business can be one of the most costly challenges a company faces because it leads to a loss of productivity, revenue, and reputation. With a cloud-based infrastructure, your business can recover far quicker than you can if a physical server fails. 

Reduced Risk 

When your data is stored in physical hardware like a computer or server, it is at a greater risk of loss. For example, if the server fails or the computer dies, you might not be able to get your data back. Things like viruses, age, and natural disasters can all cause hardware to malfunction. In addition, they can also be lost or stolen, posing a security risk.  

You can access your data from any computer anywhere when you store your data on a cloud-based server.  

Collaboration across teams 

The cloud allows employees within the same organization to share information and collaborate on documents or other important company data. For example, with SharePoint, four employees can be working on the same document simultaneously, and the most recent version will be saved and accessible to all employees who have access.  

Better Accessibility 

Since the start of the pandemic, many businesses have decided to allow their employees to work from home part-time, if not 100% of the time. The cloud enables employees to access their company’s network from anywhere. In addition, they can access critical files and data from anywhere, increasing productivity and efficiency.  

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Five Reasons Why SMBs will invest in an MSP in 2022 

As times change, business owners need to adapt. Here are some reasons why an SMB may be considering an MSP

1. Modernizing IT 

As SMBs move to modernize their IT, they don’t have the expertise to keep up with the complexities of managing and maintaining their IT environment.

2. Employee Growth

Despite the pandemic, many organizations are growing rapidly. But unfortunately, some can’t keep up with the growth. For example, they can’t continuously upgrade and install the number of endpoints, onboard new employees, or educate them on the best security practices.  

3. Not enough IT support

Many SMBs do not have an internal IT employee, and one of their employees must take it on as an extra job responsibility which decreases productivity. If they do have an IT employee, they often are faced with more pressure than they can handle alone.

4. Outside threats

 Over half of businesses have faced some type of financial cyberattack in the last year; most SMBs don’t have the resources to combat these risks internally.

5. Compliance

Compliance is a tricky concept for most SMBs. Working with an MSP can help them adhere to the often changing regulations.

Since most businesses rely nearly entirely on the internet to perform their day-to-day operations, an important goal for SMBs is to strategize and prioritize digital transformation. Unfortunately, this is no small task and can be very overwhelming for SMBs. However, a Managed Service Provider can take on the entirety of IT management, allowing them to mitigate risk, get the best return on their technology investments, and educate their employees.

If you are interested in learning more about how Now Micro can help you manage your IT more effectively, or you’d be interested in receiving a free network assessment, reach out to Sydney Ellison at sydneye@nowmicro.com or check out our website.

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The Consequences of a Cyberattack on SMBs

Nearly every company relies on the internet for its business operations, which means almost every company is at risk for a cyber-attack. In last week’s blog post, we discussed why Cybercriminals are targeting SMBs, but what are the consequences of falling victim to a cyberattack or data breach for SMBs?

Downtime

After a cyberattack, an SMB is likely to face significant downtime, which means their employees cannot do their jobs. While one can expect revenue to take a substantial hit from downtime, employee productivity usually is the most significant consequence. Employers are still required to pay their employees, they may be missing deadlines, and downtime may cause excess stress on their employees.

The cost of downtime = minutes of downtime x cost per minute.

Damage to hardware 

In the event of a cyberattack, malware, or data breach, not only is your data at risk, but it can also cause damage to your hardware such as PCs, Servers, and more. In addition, the repair or replacement of hardware can be very costly.

Fines and penalties

Legal and regulatory requirements seem to be constantly changing, which can be very overwhelming for a business owner. However, business owners must comply with these rules and regulations, and when they don’t, they are subject to fines and penalties costs.

Damage to reputation and loss of customers

When a company falls victim to a cyberattack, their customer data is often compromised, leading to a loss of customer trust, which leads to customers taking their business elsewhere. Data breaches also hurt attracting and obtaining new customers when the news is public.

High costs

In the event of a cyberattack, an SMB is likely to experience downtime, damage to hardware, fines and penalties, damage to reputation and loss of customers, and more. Each of these consequences has its own cost, and sometimes it is enough for a business to close its doors for good. Forbes states that the average cost of a single data breach on an SMB is $149,000. Additionally, 76% of SMBs have experienced a cyberattack in the last 12 months.

We’ve said it before, and we will say it again: It is no longer a question of if your business will be the target of a cyberattack, but when. Can you afford the consequences of a data breach?

Working with a Managed Service Provider can help you better secure your network and prevent cyberattacks from happening. To learn more about our managed services, visit our website or reach out to Sydney Ellison at sydneye@nowmicro.com.