Blog

My thoughts on technology.

Data Mapping

October 14, 2019

According to Zoho, Data mapping is using the variables of a trigger or action as input for the next steps of the flow. It lets you decide how data should be organized when the flow is processing. With mapped data you can create a consistent flow of information through your apps.

Mapping data on platforms, such as Zoho One, are straight forward, and user-friendly. Data integrity can be easily assured with these platforms.

Having a cloud-based solution, such as Zoho One, provides a lower-cost solution than having to install software and hardware at the work place. It is also accessible anywhere, so even on the go, one can have access to their work platforms.

Importance of S.E.O.

October 28, 2019

SEO is Search Engine Optimization. SEO helps the pages of a particular website to rank higher compared to the other sites against a specific keyword.

Per JinConnect, there are several benefits of SEO. Cost savings, visibility, relevant traffic, long-term gains, enhanced user experience, and creating brand awareness are just a few. The full article can be read here.

Strong Passwords

November 11, 2019

Strong passwords are the #1 way to thwart Internet crime and security breaches. Stanford University suggests using a 16 character password made up of words. You can also test your password using a password tester, such as one by Dashlane.

A good tool to have on your smartphone is a password manager. My favorites are Dashlane and LastPass. Both are paid services, but are a great way to create and store strong passwords. They also allow you to auto-fill usernames and passwords in PC browsers (via a browser extension). They have a limited, free version that you can try out before you buy. I highly recommend both platforms.

Whatever tool you use, be sure to make your password strong to keep private data private.

Google Docs

November 18, 2019

Google Docs is a viable option to Microsoft Office. Microsoft Office has many subscription options, but for many small businesses, it is cost-prohibitive. Google Docs is available for free for personal use. Business plans (G Suite) start at $6 per month. It is a cloud-based solution that can be a viable alternative to Office.

First Line PC can configure and setup Google Docs for you. Call or email us to find out more.

Business E-Mail Security

November 25, 2019

More and more, business email accounts are susceptible to all kinds of attacks. Businesses need to protect their email accounts to prevent or mitigate compromises.

Due the popularity of email as an attack vector, it is critical that enterprises and individuals take measures to secure their email accounts against common attacks as well as attempts at unauthorized access to accounts or communications.

According to Microsoft, the top 6 email security best practices to protect against phishing attacks and business email compromise are:

  1. You need a rich, adaptive protection solution.
  2. Complexity breeds challenges. An easy-to-configure-and-maintain system reduces the chances of a breach.
  3. A breach isn’t an “If”, it’s a “When.” Make sure you have post-delivery detection and remediation.
  4. Your users are the target. You need a continuous model for improving user awareness and readiness.
  5. Attackers meet users where they are. So must your security.
  6. Attackers don’t think in silos. Neither can the defenses.

Smaller businesses with a few users can usually handle security themselves. First Line PC can help local, small businesses with their e-mail security needs.

If your company has multiple users, an email security provider might just be what is needed to keep your e-mail platform safe. Go with a company that is reliable and is well-reviewed. The top e-mail security providers include Barracuda, ExchangeDefender, and Symantec.

Benefits of Online Technical Support

12/02/2019

Online technical support is becoming more and more the norm for many larger companies, as well as consumers. There are many benefits to having online customer support.

Availability. Customers want to be able to access an agent quickly, and not have to wait for hours to get a quick answer. Online chat platforms can also help customers who do not need to speak to a person on the phone (chats can provide links to resources where customers can find the answer easily).

Efficiency. Customer who normally have to take the computer to their local shop and leave it for a few days, can now have an online agent fix many problems over the phone (or via chat).

Cost-effectiveness. It is cheaper for customers to have a service plan with a top company, like Asurion, than to take their PC down to a shop where there is an hourly charge to repair it, and have it returned a few days later.

Where First Line PC is unique, is that we cater to small businesses in Orange and Osceola counties (Florida) AND we come to you. We provide a personal service for the small business when the online service option is not truly an option for them.

Benefits of VoIP Phone Service

12/16/2019

VoIP or Voice Over Internet Protocol, is a reliable telephone service.

According to many online resources, there are many reasons to switch your phone service to VoIP:

  • Low cost per call.
  • Service mobility
  • Features
  • Better use of bandwidth
  • Highly reliable

In Florida, there are many VoIP providers. Some of the best include CSX Cloud, Jive Communications, Quest Blue.

If you are needing assistance setting up your new VoIP phones or need technical support, please contact First Line PC to assist. Thank you.