IT Connect Newsletter

by

Windows 10 End of Life: What It Means for Your Business and How to Prepare

With Windows 10’s end of life scheduled for October 14, 2025, it may seem like there’s plenty of time to prepare. But if you wait too long, you could end up scrambling for a solution as the deadline approaches. Understanding what’s at stake and how to plan now can save your business from unexpected downtime, security issues, and potential workflow disruptions.

What Does “End of Life” Mean for Your Business?

When Microsoft declares a version of Windows “end of life,” they stop providing security patches and updates for that version. While this might seem like a problem for tech enthusiasts, it’s a much bigger deal for businesses such as yours. Without those updates, new security vulnerabilities and exploits will never be fixed, leaving your systems at risk.

In the case of Windows 10, the situation is a bit more complex. This time, Microsoft has raised the hardware requirements for Windows 11, which means some of your existing computers might not be compatible with the new system. This could lead to disruptions to daily workflows or even unexpected downtime if your business is not properly prepared.

Conduct an IT Audit: Get to Know Your Current Setup

Before you start thinking about upgrading, take a step back and conduct a comprehensive IT audit. Knowing what hardware and software your business relies on will give you a clear picture of what needs attention before Windows 10 hits its expiry date.

  1. Hardware compatibility. Start by identifying your current hardware. Some older computers might not meet the strict requirements for Windows 11. For example, Windows 11 requires a TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module), which older systems may not have. If your hardware is incompatible, it might be time for an upgrade.
  2. Software compatibility. Some of the software your business uses might work on Windows 11. Some legacy programs could encounter issues or be outright unsupported. Review the software you rely on daily and check for compatibility with Windows 11. If certain software needs an upgrade, it’s best to know now rather than waiting until the last minute.
  3. Prioritize what’s most important. Once you’ve got a handle on the hardware and software, prioritize what needs to be upgraded first. The most essential tools for running your business should be at the top of your list. Hardware that impacts productivity or mission-critical software should be updated ahead of less important systems.

Estimate Hardware and Software Costs

When you begin your audit, keep track of any items that will need to be upgraded. Whether it’s new laptops, desktops, or licenses for software that works with Windows 11, you’ll need to factor in those costs as part of your planning.

Hardware upgrades. It’s possible that you’ll need to purchase new computers, which can be a significant investment. Plan for this ahead of time so it doesn’t become a surprise.

Software upgrades. If your business depends on specific software, check if the latest versions are compatible with Windows 11. In some cases, you might need to upgrade your software to continue using it after the transition.

Both hardware and software upgrades can be costly, so budgeting these changes early will help keep your business prepared financially.

Create an Update Schedule to Minimize Downtime

Upgrading your operating system takes time, and doing it all at once could result in unwanted downtime. To avoid interruptions to your business, create an update schedule that minimizes disruptions.

Consider the best time to upgrade. Which hours or days are least busy for your team? By upgrading systems during low-traffic times, you can avoid having to shut down important systems during peak business hours.

You might need to plan for staggered updates if your business uses many systems. This way, not all computers will be unavailable at the same time, and you can keep your team up and running throughout the transition.

Let Us Handle the Transition for You

While the deadline for Windows 10 support might seem far away, it’s not too early to start planning your upgrade to Windows 11. By conducting an IT audit, estimating costs, and creating an upgrade schedule,  you can make this transition smoothly without disruption to your business.

But you don’t have to do this alone. As a managed service provider, we specialize in helping businesses such as yours navigate these kinds of transitions. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, from evaluating your hardware and software needs to training your staff. Let us take the stress out of upgrading to Windows 11 so you can stay focused on running your business.

Contact us today at  (416) 645-2469, and let’s start planning your smooth transition to Windows 11!

Want to be notified when our next blog is posted, sign up here.

by

What Happens If You Never Update Your Laptop’s Operating System?

We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of something important when that pesky update notification pops up. “Now is not a good time,” you think, and click “Remind me later.” The problem is that “later” never seems to come. Weeks, months, even years go by, and your laptop is still running the same old version of its operating system.

So, what happens if you never update your laptop? Is it really that big of a deal? Let’s talk about it.

Why Do These Updates Keep Coming?

It might seem like your laptop just likes to nag you, but there’s a good reason those updates exist. Your operating system is a complex piece of software, and no software is perfect.

Every update is designed to fix something, whether it’s a security risk, a software bug, or compatibility with new programs. Ignoring updates doesn’t just leave you with an outdated system; it leaves you exposed to potential problems that could have been prevented.

Hackers Are Always Finding New Ways In

Every day, hackers are hard at work finding vulnerabilities, small flaws in the code that they can exploit to gain access to your system. Once a weakness is discovered, cybercriminals can use it to steal your data, install malware, or even take control of your laptop.

Updates exist to patch these security holes, and if you’re not updating, you’re leaving those doors wide open for attackers. Even if your laptop seems to be working fine, it could already be compromised without you knowing.

Safe Browsing Isn’t Always Enough

You might think, “I don’t visit sketchy websites, so I’m fine.” Unfortunately, that’s not how modern cyberthreats work. Some attacks don’t require downloading anything or clicking on a suspicious link. These are called zero-click exploits.

If a website you trust has been hacked or displays a malicious ad, simply visiting the page could be enough to infect your computer. Security updates help protect against these threats, but only if they’re installed.

Bug Fixes Keep Things Running Smoothly

Security isn’t the only reason to update. Have you ever had a program that suddenly started behaving strangely? Maybe your laptop crashes unexpectedly, or certain features don’t work right. Often, these issues are caused by software bugs, glitches in the code that developers didn’t catch when the system was first released.

Updates often include fixes for these bugs, improving your laptop’s performance and stability. Skipping updates means you’re stuck dealing with problems that have already been solved.

New Software May Not Work on an Outdated System

If you’re someone who installs new software or updates apps regularly, skipping operating system updates can eventually become a problem. Many third-party programs require a minimum OS version to run. Over time, you may find that you can’t install certain applications or that updates to your favorite programs are no longer available to you.

That can be frustrating, especially when a simple system update could have kept everything working as expected.

Big Jumps Can Be Risky

The longer you go without updating, the harder it becomes to catch up. If you go years without installing updates, eventually you may reach a point where you can’t simply update to the latest version in one step.

Older versions sometimes require incremental updates before you can install the latest release. Skipping too many updates in a row can turn what should be a simple process into a much bigger hassle. In some cases, upgrading from an old system might even require a complete reinstall, which could mean backing up all your data and setting everything up from scratch.

Your Hardware Won’t Be Supported Forever

At some point, even the most up-to-date operating system will become outdated. But until that day comes, it’s best to stay on the latest version that your laptop supports.

Once an OS version stops receiving updates, it’s no longer being patched for security vulnerabilities. That means using it becomes increasingly risky over time. Eventually, even hardware manufacturers stop providing updated drivers, which can lead to performance issues, compatibility problems, and security risks.

The Bottom Line

Keeping your laptop updated might seem like a hassle, but it’s one of the easiest things you can do to keep your computer secure, reliable, and running smoothly. Skipping updates leaves you open to cyberthreats, software bugs, and compatibility issues that only get worse over time.

If you’ve been avoiding updates for a while and aren’t sure where to start, we can help. Whether it’s making sure your laptop is up to date, troubleshooting issues caused by outdated software, or helping you transition to a new system, we’re here to take the stress out of IT. Reach out to us today at (416) 645-2469; we’ve got you covered!

Want to be notified when our next blog is posted, sign up here.

by

Make March 31st World Backup Day

What Is World Backup Day?

Every year on March 31st, World Backup Day serves as a reminder to protect our digital files. Whether it’s family photos, work documents, or important financial records, losing data can be frustrating, sometimes even devastating. A good backup plan keeps your files safe and easy to recover if something goes wrong.

Why Backing Up Matters

Imagine turning on your computer and finding all your files are gone. Maybe your hard drive failed, you accidentally deleted something important, or malware locked everything up. Without a backup, recovering those files could be impossible or very expensive.

A proper backup means you don’t have to worry. If something happens, you can restore your files quickly and get back to what matters most.

Common Ways People Lose Data

People lose files all the time, and it’s not always their fault. Here are some of the most common causes:

  1. Hard drive failure. Traditional hard drives wear out over time, and solid-state drives (SSDs) aren’t immune to problems either.
  2. Accidental deletion. We’ve all deleted something we shouldn’t have.
  3. Ransomware and viruses. Some malware can lock or destroy your files.
  4. Theft or loss. Laptops, external drives, and even phones can be stolen or misplaced.
  5. Natural disasters. Fires, floods, and power surges can damage computers and storage devices.

What Makes a Good Backup Plan?

A backup is useful only if it’s reliable and up to date. A strong backup strategy follows the 3-2-1 rule:

  1. 3 copies of your data – one primary and two backups.
  2. 2 different storage types. For example, an external hard drive and cloud storage.
  3. 1 off-site backup – a copy stored somewhere safe outside your home.

Best Ways to Back Up Your Files

1. External Hard Drives

A simple and cost-effective option. Just plug in a drive and copy your important files. Some external drives come with automatic backup software that runs on a schedule.

2. Cloud Storage

Services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and iCloud allow you to store files online. Cloud storage is great for automatic backups and accessing files from multiple devices.

3. Full System Backup

Instead of backing up just files, a full system backup creates a copy of everything, including your operating system, programs, and settings. If your computer crashes, you can restore everything to how it was before.

How Often Should You Back Up?

This depends on how often you create or update important files. For some, a weekly backup is enough. For others, such as small business owners or students, daily backups might be a better choice. The key is making it a habit.

Need Help Setting Up a Backup? We Can Help!

If you’re not sure where to start, or if your current backup system needs an upgrade, we can help. We can set up automated backups, recommend the best storage options, and make sure your data is protected the right way.

World Backup Day is a great time to start thinking about protecting your files. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out today, and let’s get your backup system in place!

Call us at (416) 645-2469.

Want to be notified when our next blog is posted, sign up here.

by

Cybercriminals Are Now Targeting Business Collaboration Tools

Collaboration Tools Have Changed How We Work

Five years ago, most businesses relied on emails, phone calls, and in-person meetings to communicate. Fast forward to today, and tools such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Zoom have completely changed the way we work.

Whether it’s real-time messaging, video calls, or file sharing, these tools have made it easier than ever for teams to collaborate. Even people who had never touched a collaboration tool before are now using them like pros.

But as businesses have embraced these tools, so have cybercriminals, and they see them as a new way to break into company networks.

The Tools Themselves Are Safe – Hackers Exploit Your Familiarity

Let’s get one thing clear: Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, and other collaboration tools are safe. The companies behind them invest heavily in security.

The problem isn’t the software itself but how hackers manipulate people into giving them access. Cybercriminals know you trust these tools and use that trust against you.

Here’s how they do it.

Phishing Attacks: Tricking You With Familiarity

Phishing is one of the most common ways hackers take advantage of collaboration tools.

Imagine this:

  1. You receive an email saying a coworker has shared a file with you.
  2. You recognize the name, so you click the link.
  3. A login page appears. It looks exactly like the Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Google Drive login page.
  4. You enter your username and password.

That’s it. You’ve just handed your login credentials to a hacker.

Now they can:

  1. Log in to your account.
  2. Send messages or files as if they were you.
  3. Target your coworkers, pretending to be you.

Because the email came from someone you know, and the login page looked real, you didn’t think twice. That’s what makes phishing so dangerous.

Weak Passwords: An Easy Way In

Not everyone in your company has the same level of cybersecurity awareness. Some people still use easy-to-guess passwords such as their child’s name, pet’s name, or birthdate, information that’s often publicly available on Facebook or LinkedIn.

Even though most collaboration tools force complex passwords, that doesn’t stop password reuse.

Here’s why that’s a problem:

  1. Hackers steal login credentials from data breaches on other websites.
  2. If an employee reuses the same password for their business email (e.g., jane@yourbusiness.com), hackers will try it on Microsoft Teams, Slack, or your company’s email system.
  3. If it works, they now have access to your workplace.

It’s not just about having a strong password; it’s about using a unique password for every system.

Supply Chain Attacks: When the Hack Comes From Outside Your Business

Your business doesn’t have to be the one that gets hacked. It could be a supplier, partner, or contractor.

For example:

  1. You and your supplier share a spreadsheet via Google Drive.
  2. One day, you get an email from them with a link to the spreadsheet.
  3. You trust them, so you click the link.
  4. But the email wasn’t actually from your supplier; it was from a hacker who gained access to their account.

The hacker now has a way into your business, using your supplier’s identity.

Because businesses collaborate across multiple platforms, these attacks can spread from one company to another like a chain reaction.

Oversharing and Open Access: Leaving the Door Unlocked

We’ve all done it: quickly sharing a file with someone by sending them a link. But here’s where things go wrong:

  1. Many people don’t set an expiry date for shared links.
  2. Some links give anyone with the link full access, including the ability to edit files.
  3. If you share an entire folder, all files inside it may be visible, even ones that should remain private.

That means old employees, external contractors, or even hackers who come across the link might still have access to company data long after they should.

How to Protect Your Business

Cybercriminals rely on human error, but there are steps you can take to stop them from gaining access to your collaboration tools.

1. Employee Awareness Training

Most attacks start with a simple mistake: clicking the wrong link, entering a password on a fake page, or using a weak password.

Regular cybersecurity training can:

  1. Teach employees how to spot phishing attacks.
  2. Show them how to check if a shared link is legitimate.
  3. Encourage them to use strong, unique passwords for each system.

2. Always Verify Suspicious Links

If you receive an email or message about a shared file, don’t click the link right away. Instead:

  1. Contact the sender through another method (e.g., call them or send a separate email).
  2. Ask if they actually sent the link.
  3. If you weren’t expecting the file, assume it could be a phishing attempt.

3. Adopt Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Even if a hacker steals a password, they still can’t get in if 2FA is enabled.

Two-factor authentication requires a second form of verification, such as a text message code or an authentication app, making it much harder for attackers to access your account.

4. Audit Who Has Access to What

Regularly review:

  1. Who has access to shared files and folders.
  2. Whether old employees, external contractors, or third-party vendors still have access.
  3. If shared links have expiry dates or open-access settings.

Keeping access tightly controlled reduces the risk of unauthorized users getting in.

Need Help Securing Your Collaboration Tools?

Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Zoom are fantastic for working together, but they also open new security risks if not managed properly.

If you’re not sure how to:

  1. Train your team to avoid phishing attacks.
  2. Set up strong passwords and 2FA across your business.
  3. Audit access controls to lock down sensitive data.

That’s where we come in.

We help businesses like yours secure collaboration tools, prevent cyberattacks, and stay protected.

Let’s talk. Contact us at (416) 645-2469 to make sure your business stays one step ahead of cybercriminals.

Want to be notified when our next blog is posted, sign up here.

by

Hackers Hide in the Hyperlinks: Spotting Malicious URLs

Whether browsing the Web, using social media, or checking your email, it’s important to exercise caution when encountering links. Cybercriminals actively craft deceptive links to steal personal information or infect devices with malware.

Here’s what to look out for:

Hover Before You Click

To identify a malicious link, you must first see where it goes. Hover your mouse cursor over the link’s text, but don’t click on it. This allows you to preview the full destination address before deciding whether to proceed. Be very wary of links trying to send you to an unknown site other than what’s expected based on the context.

Look for HTTPS at the Start

Legitimate websites will use “https://” to indicate that the page connection is secured using SSL encryption. However, just seeing the “s” does not guarantee safety, so further inspection is needed.

Observe the Subdomain

It’s important to pay attention not just to the overall domain name but also to any subdomains listed before the main domain. This is often just “www,” but it can be anything. You might have seen something like “mail.google.com,” and that’s perfectly legitimate.

However, an attacker could use the subdomain to look like the actual domain. For example, “google-mail-login.fake-domain.com.”

The domain you will go to when clicked is “fake-domain.com,” not Google.

Watch out for Special Characters

Look out for hyphens in the domain name. A hyphen alone doesn’t mean a website is malicious – many websites have hyphens in their domain names – however, it is a common trick to emulate a well-known domain name.

For example, a link to “www.g-oogle.com” would be suspicious, as Google’s actual domain is simply “www.google.com.” The extra hyphen is a red flag that the site could be impersonating Google.

Look at the Extension

Another essential aspect to scrutinize regarding domains is the top-level extension at the end. Common extensions for legitimate websites include “.com,” “.org,” “.edu,” “.gov,” and country-specific endings such as “.ca” for Canada or “.uk” for the United Kingdom. However, cybercriminals may use alternative extensions, hoping to disguise malicious sites. Be wary of unfamiliar extensions or ones that don’t align with the expected use case. For example, a banking site using “.net” instead of “.com” could indicate a phishing attempt.

Staying vigilant and taking the time to inspect links quickly can help shield you from the majority of online threats. If any part of a link raises concerns about where it may lead, it’s usually best not to risk clicking until you’ve had a chance to verify the context through other trusted means.

Maintaining cautious Web habits is the easiest way to help avoid becoming the victim of deceptive scams or malware attacks online.

If you think you have clicked on a malicious link, contact us at 416-645-2469 today and see how we can help.

by

Unexpected 2FA Codes: Your Cybersecurity Wake-Up Call

We’ve all had those moments of confusion when our phone buzzes with a notification that doesn’t seem quite right. If you’ve ever woken up to a text with some random numbers and wondered what it is, you’re not alone.

Getting a code for two-factor authentication (2FA) from a service you use when you didn’t request one deserves some attention. Rather than ignoring the strange message, it’s a good idea to take action to help protect your online accounts.

Understanding 2FA

2FA, or “Two-Factor Authentication,” is an important security feature many apps and websites use. It adds an extra verification step beyond just a password. After you log in, 2FA will text or email you a special code to enter before you’re given access to your account. This acts like a second lock, keeping hackers out even if they somehow steal your password.

Spot the Warning Signs

When you receive a 2FA code you didn’t request, it’s a clear sign that someone is trying to access one of your online accounts. It often indicates that your password has been compromised through a large-scale data breach or a more targeted attack. Hackers may be attempting to log in using your stolen credentials, and the 2FA code is the only thing standing in their way.

Taking Immediate Action

Rather than ignoring the 2FA code or brushing it off, it’s important to take action right away to secure your accounts.

  • Do not click on any links in the email or SMS. Open a browser, log in to the relevant account, and change your password to something unique and complex. Make sure it’s different from the one you used before and not used for other accounts.
  • Check if your old password was involved in any known breaches using a tool such as HaveIBeenPwned.com. This can help you identify if you have any other accounts that may be at risk.
  • Consider changing passwords for any other accounts using the same or similar passwords in case of credential stuffing attacks. This is when hackers use stolen passwords from one breach to try and access other accounts.
  • Be wary of emails or texts asking you to provide a 2FA code. Legitimate services will never ask for this, and it’s likely a phishing attempt.

This unexpected 2FA code experience is a valuable reminder of the importance of proactive security measures. Two-factor authentication is what saved you this time by blocking the hacker’s attempt to access your account, so take a moment to ensure you’ve enabled it on every site that offers it.

Additionally, using unique, strong passwords for each account is essential to prevent the ripple effects of a single data breach. A password manager can help you generate and store complex credentials, ensuring one compromised password doesn’t put all your other accounts at risk.

While complete online security can never be guaranteed, taking these fundamental steps – enabling 2FA and using unique passwords – goes a long way toward safeguarding your personal information and digital identity.

by

Struggling With Tech Issues? Avoid the Most Common Help Desk delays

We’ve all been there: an unexpected tech glitch throws a wrench in your works at the worst possible moment. As annoying as it is, staying calm and providing full transparency with your IT friends will have you back up and running in no time.

In this article, we’ll share what essential details to include in a help ticket to get you up and running quickly.

Describe the Specific Behavior

Start with a clear description of what the problem entails: what is and isn’t functioning as expected. Be as specific as possible about error messages or unusual symptoms and which computer it is happening on. For example, instead of simply stating, “Wi-Fi isn’t working,” elaborate that “the Wi-Fi network doesn’t appear in the list of available connections on my laptop.” This level of detail paints a fuller picture.

Supply Contextual Details

Include any relevant contextual details about your setup, recent changes, or activities preceding the issue. Ask your coworkers if they are experiencing the issue as well. Help desk staff need background to diagnose root causes properly. For instance, note if a new device was added to the network or an access point was moved. Mentioning you were transferring large files before the problem arose provides valuable context clues.

When Did It Last Work Correctly?

Providing a timeline of when the problem first appeared and any relevant events helps pinpoint the scope. Note when it last worked correctly and if the way it has been behaving has changed or has remained consistent. This timeline helps technicians determine whether the cause lies in recent system changes or an ongoing intermittent issue.

Impact on Your Workday

Tell your IT support exactly how the problem impedes your work. Does it fully prevent tasks from being completed or just create minor inconveniences? Is the inability to access certain files delaying an important deadline?

Prioritizing showstoppers ensures the swiftest attention to those who need it the most.

We’re here to make your life easier during stressful times, so help us help you.

Taking a few extra minutes to craft comprehensive help desk tickets ensures you receive truly helpful, convenient support when you need it most.

Want to be notified when our next blog is posted, sign up here.

by

Is It Worth Fixing My Aging Office Computer?

If your trusty office PC has started showing its age, with more issues cropping up lately, you may be wondering if it’s finally time to say goodbye to your old friend. Or could some TLC in the form of repairs get it back in the game?

We are often asked to help clients make this decision. Several important factors must be considered when determining the best path forward.

How Old Is It Really?

While it may seem like you just bought it yesterday, some computers have relatively short lifespans in technological terms. If your machine is more than 7 years old, it’s likely well past its prime. Parts can become difficult to source, and repair costs may exceed the original value.

What Issues Are Cropping Up?

Minor glitches that cause annoyance but don’t hamper use, such as a faulty keyboard, can often be fixed for $50-$150. On the other hand, multiple hardware failures, a dying motherboard, or other major component replacements indicate deeper underlying issues. For problems of that magnitude, repairs may run to 50%-75% of a new comparable model.

Will Parts Be Readily Available?

Specific key components may go out of production after a few years, especially with aging laptops. If it’s determined that your motherboard, screen, or other vital piece needs swapping out, there’s a good chance we won’t be able to get a replacement. This significantly increases repair costs and turnaround time, due to custom orders or used-part sourcing.

How’s the Performance Over Time?

Modern computing demands continue to grow exponentially with each passing year. If your PC has been steadily slowing down over the last 6-12 months and is struggling to run even basic tasks, it may be time for an upgrade.

What’s Your Budget Situation?

For clients on a tight budget, we’re always willing to thoroughly diagnose issues and provide affordable repair options to squeeze out a little more usability from an older machine. However, if an attractive new model is realistically within your means, an upgrade may give you several more years of smooth sailing.

Let’s Diagnose Your Situation

Rather than taking guesses, we always recommend bringing your computer for a thorough diagnosis. We can carefully assess its overall condition, identify any underlying problems, provide repair estimates, and help you weigh up the costs and benefits of fixing versus upgrading based on your unique needs and budget.

With the right solution, you’ll be back to enjoying your computer for many more years to come! 

Want to be notified when our next blog is posted, sign up here.

by

This Familiar Pop-up Could Be Hiding a Nasty Surprise

If your business uses Microsoft 365 applications, you or your employees may have encountered a pop-up window requesting permission to access various account data.

In this article, we’ll cover choosing the safest option next time you encounter this pop-up.

What Is the “Permissions Requested” Pop-up?

This innocuous-looking window pops up from time to time within programs such as Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, and others. It prompts users to grant a specific app or add-in permission to access parts of their Microsoft account.

Users are quick to press the Accept button to remove the pop-up; however, as with any unsolicited request, caution is key, especially considering the sensitive nature of the business data in your Microsoft 365 account.

Understanding the Dangers of Overly Broad Access

At first glance, a request for permission may seem minor or necessary to use a certain program feature, but have you considered what exactly you may be granting access to? And more importantly, WHO are you granting it to?

You could be granting a third-party the ability to:

  • access all files within your account, both reading and writing;
  • read all of your emails and send emails as you;
  • read and modify any calendar you have access to;
  • read all of your contacts;
  • read Teams chat messages;
  • read all full user profiles within Microsoft 365;
  • and much more.

By approving these requests without understanding, you could unwittingly hand over control of your entire Microsoft environment and any contained data to an unknown third party. They would have ongoing access, potentially even after the app is removed.

Legitimate Uses

Certain apps and add-ins within Microsoft 365 do have legitimate integration needs. For example, your job scheduling CRM may require calendar and email access.

A project management tool allowing teams to collaborate directly within SharePoint may also need permission to upload files on behalf of users.

In these cases, granting an appropriate amount of permission makes sense.

What to Look For in a “Permissions Requested” Pop-Up

The key is to carefully review the proposed permissions for all external apps and add-ins, and understand precisely what access is required.

For example, reviewing the name of the requesting app or add-in can help determine if it’s something your company has purposefully installed or a potentially suspicious third-party program. If it says “Unverified” or “This app may be risky,” it might be best to press the Cancel button for now.

Check which specific permissions are being asked for. Does it make sense for a graph-making add-in to ask for full access to your emails and their contents? Probably not.

Checking with Your IT Team

If any aspect of the request seems ambiguous, vague, or overly broad in scope, it’s always best to approve it only once it can be validated by your company’s IT staff or managed service provider.

Their oversight helps ensure all access to Microsoft 365 data aligns with approved usage policies and does not inadvertently enable unauthorized or unintended access that could pose future risks. Even if it requires delaying approval, taking these extra precautions is well worth it to help maintain a secure environment.

After all, it’s much easier for your IT staff to investigate before sensitive data is exposed than to deal with potential security issues or breaches later. you can also purchase your Microsoft 365 license through CPI Networks and let us be the administrators to ensure these kind of requests are legitimate.

If you have any questions or are concerned that you may have given an App too much access in the past, reach out to us at (416) 645-2469, (905) 667-0441 or email us.

 

Want to be notified when our next blog is posted, sign up here.

by

When Your IT Goes Wrong, Who Do You Call?

It’s a Wednesday afternoon, and you’ve just sat down to focus on an important project. But suddenly, you notice your internet connection isn’t working. A few minutes later, the printer on the other side of the office starts beeping with an error. Then, a pop-up appears on your computer saying your antivirus subscription needs to be renewed.

You sigh in frustration. Not again! In the back of your mind, you see the notification from last week that your backup failed, but you haven’t had time to look into it.

Who do you even call for these issues? Which company provides your internet? Is it the one that also sets up the printer? Or did you get them from separate vendors at different times? You can barely remember all the various IT products and services you use on a daily basis, let alone who’s responsible for each one.

It’s a common dilemma business owners face. Over the years, technology solutions have been patched together from various sources, but now, when problems crop up, you’re left scrambling to determine who handles what.

When multiple providers are involved, finger-pointing becomes common. “It’s not our problem; you need to call someone else.” This runaround can drag problems out for days or weeks.

Wouldn’t having one trusted IT advisor on your side be a relief, rather than frantically searching for answers when problems strike? Imagine this: instead of making call after call, you open an app on your phone and quickly send a message explaining the issue. Then, you can relax, knowing CPI Networks is already working to resolve it.

CPI Networks is trained to see the bigger picture of your entire technology ecosystem. They can work with you proactively to design integrated systems that work as a cohesive unit, eliminating compatibility issues caused by patchwork solutions over time. And with 24/7 monitoring, CPI Networks is often alerted to problems even before they affect you.

Rather than waiting for problems to disrupt your work, CPI Networks shifts you to a proactive model where they work behind the scenes to pre-empt as many issues as possible, so there is no more feeling stressed each time a new pop-up or error message appears!

Imagine your busy day without worrying about when the next IT glitch may strike. With CPI Networks as a dedicated MSP partner, you can gain that peace of mind.

Contact us today at (416) 645-2469, (905) 667-0441 or email us to find out how CPI networks can help tame your technology problems. 

 

Want to be notified when our next blog is posted, sign up here.