Whether you’re a small business or a multinational corporation, your success hinges on the integrity and availability of critical data. Every transaction, customer interaction and strategic decision relies on this precious asset.
As your dependence on data grows, so do the risks. Cyberthreats and data breaches aren’t just potential disruptions when you possess valuable and sensitive data; they’re existential threats that can undermine your business continuity.
Key Considerations for Data Security
Fortunately, ensuring data security is achievable with the right strategies. Here are some steps you should consider taking:
Data Backups:
Regularly back up your data to secure off-site locations. Cloud storage services by reliable providers are a good choice. Consider using external hard drives or network-attached storage (NAS) devices. These backups ensure that even if your primary systems are compromised, you can swiftly recover essential information.
Databranch offers our BCDR solution from Datto, the leader in Total Data Protection. Not only will the Datto backup all your data to the device itself, but it will also backup everything to 2 separate offsite cloud storage locations.
So, in the event that the local device is destroyed, you can still access your information even from a remote location.
With Datto you will receive daily backup verifications and screen shots of your virtual servers, giving you peace of mind and ensure that your backup data is working and accessible to you when you need it.
Encryption:
Encryption is your digital armor. It protects sensitive data during transmission (when it’s being sent) and at rest (when it’s stored). Implement strong encryption algorithms like Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to render data unreadable to unauthorized individuals. Remember that encryption scrambles data, making it inaccessible to anyone without the decryption key.
Access Control:
Implement strict access controls to limit who can view or modify sensitive information. Role-based access control (RBAC) can effectively assign permissions based on job functions.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security. It requires additional verification steps (such as one-time codes sent to mobile devices) to ensure that only authorized personnel can access critical data.
Remote Work Security:
As scattered work environments become more commonplace, secure remote access is vital. Here’s how you can implement it:
- Virtual private networks (VPNs): Use VPNs to create a secure connection between remote devices and your internal network. This shields data from prying eyes.
- Secure remote desktop protocols: If employees access company systems remotely, ensure they use secure protocols like RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) over encrypted channels.
- Strong password policies: Enforce robust password policies. Encourage passphrase-based authentication for added strength.
Incident Response Plan:
Develop a detailed incident response plan. Consider the following:
- Roles and responsibilities: Clearly define who does what during a data breach or cyberattack.
- Communication protocols: Establish channels to notify stakeholders, including customers, employees and regulatory bodies.
- Recovery procedures: Outline steps to recover affected systems and data promptly.
Continuous Monitoring:
Implement continuous monitoring of your IT systems. Tools like Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) track and analyze security-related data. Proactive threat detection allows swift responses to potential breaches.
Partnering with Databranch means your business will receive our 24 x 7 proactive monitoring and alerting service which allows you to take this off your plate and focus on your business needs.
Employee Training:
Regularly train employees on data security best practices, such as:
- Phishing awareness: Teach them to recognize phishing attempts, such as fraudulent emails or messages that trick users into revealing sensitive information.
- Understanding of social engineering: Educate employees about social engineering tactics used by cybercriminals.
- Device security: Remind them to secure their devices (laptops, smartphones, tablets) with strong passwords and regular updates.
Partner for Success
Worried about where to start?
Our expert team is here to help. Databranch can assess your current data security setup, identify areas for improvement and develop a tailored plan to protect your data and strengthen your business continuity.
Contact us today at 716-373-4467 option 6, [email protected], or complete the form below to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards securing your business’s future.
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Imagine being the owner of the most popular coffee joint on the corner. Your loyal customers line up outside each morning, eager to grab their caffeine fix. But, one day, as your staff hustles to keep up with the orders, a sudden storm knocks out the power, leaving the cafe in the dark. Or worse, a cyberattack targets your billing system, leaving a long line of frustrated customers.
Unexpected chaos can strike any business at any time. One moment, you’re basking in the glory of running a successful establishment; the next, you’re thrown against a wall, staring at a crisis that could disrupt your entire business. Don’t let this be your story.
In this blog, we’ll show you the key steps to create a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) that works for you and ensures your business stays up and running, even in the face of disaster.
Key Steps to Successful Business Continuity Planning
Here is how you can stay resilient in the face of any challenge:
Find What’s Important for Your Business and Prioritize It
Identify what’s necessary for your business. It’s crucial how you prioritize your business-critical resources. Once you’ve figured that out, try to understand how sudden disruptions can affect these functions.
For example, if you run a coffee shop, brewing coffee and serving customers would be some of the essential functions of your business. You’d need to understand how disruptions can impact your business. Similarly, you must also ensure your kitchen runs efficiently while your coffee supply remains steady.
Develop a Comprehensive Plan
Provide your team with clear, step-by-step instructions on the actions to take during a disruption. One goal is to minimize downtime, so assigning team members tasks to help manage disruptions efficiently is critical. With an effective incident response plan in place, you can handle any incident with confidence.
For example, say you own a bakery, and your oven fails. You should have a plan that helps your team manage orders and communicate the delay to your customers. You should allocate specific roles to members to handle the repair work or the communication.
Leverage the Latest Tools to Protect Business Data
Some tools and solutions can take data backups automatically. The data is then saved in the cloud and can be retrieved when you need it. Similarly, you can utilize failover systems to switch to backup systems in a disaster.
Databranch offers our BCDR solution from Datto, the leader in Total Data Protection. Not only will the Datto backup all your data to the device itself, but it will also backup everything to 2 separate offsite cloud storage locations.
So, in the event that the local device is destroyed, you can still access your information even from a remote location.
With Datto you will receive daily backup verifications and screen shots of your virtual servers, giving you peace of mind and ensure that your backup data is working and accessible to you when you need it.
For example, if you run a gym, you can regularly back up and save your membership records on the cloud. The copies of all critical information can be accessed anytime and retrieved in case of a disruption. Additionally, you could keep an extra Point of Sale (POS) device in case your other payment options fail.
Train Your Staff and Test for Preparedness
Regularly train your staff to improve team preparedness by simulating mock scenarios. This will help you test both your business continuity plan and your team’s efficiency. You can update and enhance your BCP per your business needs based on the training and testing.
Databranch offers our Breach Prevention Platform and Security Awareness Training with simulated phishing tests that engages your team and strengthens your organization’s defenses against evolving cyberthreats.
For example, restaurant staff should have ample instruction on how to handle kitchen fires. Similarly, the waitstaff must be prepared to handle backup billing machines and manage customer orders.
Involve Key Stakeholders
Consider the opinions and feedback from your managers and key staff members. For the success of your BCP, it’s crucial to keep everyone in the loop as you update and make changes.
For example, your cafe staff can share valuable information that could be important while building your BCP. It’s vital to keep them updated on changes to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Continuous Monitoring and Improvement
Technical problems can come up at any time. Make it a standard practice to regularly look for potential system issues early. After a disruption, consider gathering information from your staff and customers to improve your continuity plan.
Partnering with Databranch means your business will receive our 24 x 7 proactive monitoring and alerting service which allows you to take this off your plate and focus on your business needs.
For example, coffee and customer billing machines are the business-critical systems for a cafe. It’s crucial for you to check these types of equipment regularly for any issues. Use any disruption as an opportunity to improve. Take feedback from customers and your employees.
Simplify Continuity Planning
It can be overwhelming to implement business continuity planning, especially while managing your business independently. That’s where an experienced IT service provider, such as Databranch, can step in. From helping you identify critical business functions to implementing failover systems and conducting regular tests, we can guide you through every step of the way.
Our experts will ensure that your BCP is effective and tailored to your unique business needs. Contact us today at 716-373-4467 option 6 or at [email protected] and let’s make continuity planning stress-free for you.
You can also download our checklist today to get started.
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Annual Channel Futures MSP 501 Identifies Best of the Best in the Managed Services Industry
Databranch has been named as one of the world’s top-performing managed service providers in the prestigious 2024 Channel Futures MSP 501 rankings for the 3rd year in a row. The Channel Futures MSP 501 list, a technology industry benchmark, ranks companies based on their growth, profitability and innovation.
For the past 17 years, managed service providers around the globe have submitted applications for inclusion on this prestigious and definitive listing. It is a milestone achievement for any managed services organization to be included on the list. The Channel Futures MSP 501 survey uses a quantitative methodology to rank companies based on their annual revenue, profitability measured by EBITDA, and recurring revenue. The methodology has been developed by a Who’s-Who in the managed services industry.
MSPs that qualify for the list must also pass a rigorous review conducted by the Channel Futures research team and editors. Channel Futures ranks applicants using a unique methodology that weighs financial performance according to long-term health and viability, commitment to recurring revenue and operational efficiency.
Channel Futures is pleased to name Databranch to the 2024 MSP 501.
This year’s list is one of the most competitive in the survey’s history. Winners will be recognized on the Channel Futures website and honored during a special ceremony at MSP Summit, Sept 16-19, 2024 in Atlanta, GA.
The MSP 501 represents the best in the technology services industry delivering outstanding vendor and platform neutral advice and value to small, midsized and enterprise customers. This year, the MSP 501 generated aggregate revenue of nearly $25 billion with average growth or recurring revenue of 19%. These are truly the best of the best. Many of their services and technology offerings focus on customer needs in the areas of AI, cloud, security, collaboration, networking, help desk and remote monitoring and management.
The Channel Futures MSP 501 is responsible for keeping their global customers safe, connected and efficient.
“The 2024 Channel Futures MSP 501 winners survived a challenging market and emerged as the highest performing and most innovative IT providers in the industry today,” said Dave Raffo, MSP editor and MSP 501 project manager. “The most impressive thing about the MSP 501 winners is they deliver for their customers every day. These are the most innovative, driven, and successful MSPs in a fiercely competitive industry.
“For a managed service provider to attain a spot on the Channel Futures MSP 501 everything must be operating at peak performance. This list represents the most productive, profitable, fastest-growing, organizations in the technology industry focused on driving their customers to new heights.” said Bob DeMarzo, VP Content, Informa Channels.
“These are the best of the best in the managed services industry as defined by Channel Futures’ extensive research. The MSP 501 companies are the most sought after by peers who want to understand today’s best practices and by technology suppliers who want to partner with these organizations,” DeMarzo stated. “At their core, these are vendor and platform neutral partners focused on doing what is right for their customers.”
The Channel Futures media organization, owned and operated by Informa, is the only channel-centric events, media and research company that can provide such insight into the managed services market.
The data collected by the annual MSP 501 helps every company on the list and every provider with a managed services practice, benchmark their performance and uncover new ways to grow.
Background
The 2024 MSP 501 list is based on confidential data collected and analyzed by the Channel Futures research and editorial teams. Data was collected online from February to May, 2024. The MSP 501 list recognizes top managed service providers based on metrics including recurring revenue, profit margin and other factors.
About Channel Futures
Channel Futures is a media and events destination for the information technology and communications industry. We provide information, perspective, and connection for the entire channel ecosystem, including solution providers (SPs), managed service providers (MSPs), managed security service providers (MSSPs), cloud service providers (CSPs), value-added resellers (VARs) and distributors, technology solutions brokerages, subagent and agents, as well as leading technology vendor partners and communication providers.
Channel Futures is where the world meets the channel; we are leading Channel Partners forward. Our properties include awards programs such as the Channel Futures MSP 501, a list of the most influential and fastest-growing providers of managed services in the technology industry; Channel Partners events, which delivers unparalleled in-person events including Channel Partners Conference & Expo and MSP Summit. More information is available at channelfutures.com.
Channel Futures is part of Informa Tech, a leading provider of market insight and market access to the global business technology community. Through in-depth expertise and an engaged audience community, Informa Tech helps business professionals make better technology decisions and marketers reach the most powerful tech buyers and influencers in the world. Across its portfolio of over 100+ trusted brands, Informa Tech has over 1000 industry experts, including over 400 research analysts and consultants in global research group Omdia, and a monthly audience reach of over 125 million. Informa Tech is a division of FTSE 100 company Informa plc.
About Databranch
Databranch is an IT consulting and outsourcing provider serving local, national and international businesses in Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania since 1985. We help our clients use information technology to cut costs, increase efficiencies and enhance customer service across 5 main areas:
- Managed Technical Services
- Networking
- Security
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
- and Hosted VoIP
The Databranch staff is made up of highly skilled, experienced, and certified professionals. Our clients look to us to provide technology solutions that work. We offer consulting services that provide organizations with the best possible solutions for the most affordable price that are executed with a personal touch. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.
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We live in a world where possibilities are endless. From automated cars ferrying passengers to AI systems carrying out surgeries, tech innovations are quickly taking over our lives. The world of business is no different. Machine learning, AI, robotics and automation tools promise an unparalleled level of business efficiency.
Many businesses are rushing to embrace these innovations because they fear being left behind. However, the critical question is: Do you fully understand the technology, including its potential negative consequences?
All evolving technologies come with underlying risks. In this blog, we’ll discuss the dangers of rapid tech acceleration. We’ll also show you how to develop a strategic approach to ensure your technology investments push your business forward while minimizing the associated risks.
Potential Risks of Tech Acceleration
Here are some of the potential risks associated with rapid tech acceleration:
Security vulnerabilities: Advanced technologies are still nascent and often come with several undetected security flaws. Hackers can exploit these weaknesses to steal your data or launch a cyberattack.
Pro tip: Make security assessments a standard practice before implementing a new IT solution.
Operational disruptions: Hastily implementing new technology can affect your day-to-day operations. Issues like system malfunction, data loss and employees struggling to adapt to new solutions can adversely impact your productivity and efficiency.
Pro tip: It would be prudent to implement tech upgrades in phases. Testing it first within a small team will help you identify and fix issues without disrupting daily operations. Also, have a strong Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery plan will help ensure you data remains protected if something were to happen.
Skill gaps: Using a new IT tool requires new skills. But if your team isn’t well trained, they won’t be able to leverage the latest technology effectively. Untrained teams are bound to make more mistakes, which could reduce overall productivity.
Pro tip: Investing in employee training modules will ensure they have the knowledge and skills to leverage the new IT tool effectively.
Vendor lock-in: The tech industry is constantly innovating. Committing to a vendor who doesn’t keep up with the changing times could prevent your business from achieving growth and success.
Pro tip: Databranch can help you choose scalable solutions that seamlessly integrate with your current infrastructure.
Ethical dilemmas: Evolving technologies such as AI or robotics can give your business a competitive edge, but do you understand the ethical risks surrounding these innovations? Ignoring the ethical use of AI can have a far-reaching impact on data privacy and business transparency.
Pro tip: Develop guidelines for the ethical use of technologies. An internal ethical committee can help promote a culture of responsible technology use.
Regulatory challenges: It’s critical to ensure your business isn’t breaking any laws while implementing a new IT solution. With new technologies, it can get tricky as there might not be a proper regulation in place, but you still could unknowingly end up attracting fines or penalties.
Pro tip: Legal experts can help you better understand your responsibilities surrounding the new technology. Additionally, you can seek the help of Databranch, who will always work hard to point you in the right direction.
Strategic misalignment: It’s easy to fall for the latest tech that’s creating buzz. But if your new IT solution doesn’t align with your goals, you would be wasting your time and money on something that holds your business back instead of propelling it forward.
Pro tip: Choose a solution that empowers your team and creates efficiency. Have a well-defined goal and clear success metrics. Also, regularly monitor and evaluate to see if the new IT solution delivers the desired results. Make further adjustments as necessary.
Unleash your Growth Potential
Technology can help you take your business to new heights. However, not all IT solutions are created equal and can expose your business to security or financial risks. On the other hand, a trusted IT service provider, such as Databranch, can help you navigate the complexities effortlessly.
Contact us today at 716-373-4467 option 6, or at [email protected] and learn how we can guide you through the new tech implementation while minimizing disruptions and maximizing results.
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Are you feeling like you’re falling behind in today’s digital race? You’re not alone. The cutthroat business world no longer tolerates “good enough” or subpar technology.
Therefore, it’s high time to turn technology into your growth engine, but hasty tech adoption won’t cut it. This is where smart tech acceleration comes in.
What is Smart Tech Acceleration?
Smart tech acceleration isn’t just updating your tech at a breakneck pace, but transforming it into a powerful ally for your business ambitions. This approach isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about adopting a visionary stance to ensure your tech journey aligns perfectly with your goals.
Say goodbye to outdated tech. With smart tech acceleration, guide your business towards a dynamic and resilient future.
Top Business Benefits of Smart Tech Acceleration
Smart tech acceleration offers numerous benefits that drive business growth. Here’s a closer look:
Adaptability and Resilience:
Stay ahead of the game by utilizing technology that adjusts to your evolving business needs. This empowers you to swiftly respond to market changes and stay one step ahead of the competition.
Think of it this way: when the business landscape shifts due to economic changes, consumer trends or unforeseen challenges, your operation will not only survive but thrive.
Efficient Operations:
Streamlined technology helps you optimize your business processes, slash costs and supercharge productivity. Automation and workflows will free up valuable resources for strategic ventures, essentially allowing you to do more with less.
Here at Databranch, our automated managed service platforms proactively monitor and support your network and technology infrastructure, keeping your network functioning seamlessly.
Imagine having the ability to allocate your efforts and finances to innovation and growth rather than being bogged down by repetitive tasks. That’s the power of smart tech acceleration at your fingertips.
Competitive Advantage:
Integrating cutting-edge solutions will set your business apart, attracting customers seeking innovative offerings. It’s not just about being different; it’s about being better and faster.
By staying ahead of technology trends, you essentially future-proof your business, ensuring that new and existing customers see you as a trailblazer in your industry.
Databranch has recently announced our new AI Cybersecurity training for all of our Breach Secure Now members! Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be a transformative force when it comes to streamlining your processes and enhancing your decision making.
Not a BSN member? Reach out today to discuss how our training program can both maximize employee efficiency and mitigate risk.
Enhanced Customer Experience:
Delight your customers with personalized services that boost satisfaction and loyalty. Smart tech acceleration allows you to leverage data and analytics for targeted marketing and improved customer interactions.
Imagine creating a customer journey so seamless and tailored that each client feels like your services were crafted just for them. That’s the ultimate goal and a surefire way to build lasting relationships.
Innovation:
Drive new revenue streams with state-of-the-art technology. Embracing innovation opens the door to developing fresh products and services, expanding your business and boosting profits.
Remember, innovation isn’t just about having the latest tech; it’s about creatively integrating it into your offerings to excite and serve your market better. It’s about leading the charge in solving problems and fulfilling needs in ways no one else has thought of.
Partner for Success
Are you ready to supercharge your business with smart tech acceleration? Our team of experts is standing by to help you unleash the full potential of tech acceleration.
Databranch can assess your current technology setup, pinpoint areas for improvement and carve out a tailored roadmap for integrating innovative solutions that fuel your business growth.
Don’t hesitate — kickstart your business transformation with smart tech acceleration. Reach out to us today at 716-373-4467 option 6 or at [email protected].
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