Aug
2022

Cloud-Based IT Support: Centralizing Computer Protection

The next phase in computer technology is making the system smarter and more powerful than the previous generation models. The idea has crossed my mind several times whenever I fix my computer wishing that all the heavy lifting stuff will be taken out of my hands, and I think that a Cloud-based IT assistance technology would be a great thing! Simply said this technology will allow for remote PC maintenance to be done on multiple endpoints (users/computers), with least disk space intrusion while scanning any system and removing malwares, bugs, worms and viruses efficiently and in real-time. That’s exactly what we need right now as apparently anti-virus software doesn’t work so well anymore.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud Computing is an amalgamation of multiple hardware and software and is sometimes separated by miles or countries apart, repackaged and offered as a service to any company that wishes to use it as a central core of a specific system that they wish to create. A good example of this is Apple’s iTunes where subscribers can access files, music, videos, gaming apps and other files from a single repository of information. Microsoft and other game producers have reportedly revolutionized their game consoles that the next generation of platforms and will no longer be using DVD or Blu-ray discs to play games. Instead gamers will link with the game’s cloud-based system online in order to access thousands of games and soon online muli-tiplay will not only become possible, but the norm for all gaming platforms. This is another example of a Cloud-based system that will soon be employed. The days when I used to fix my computer could completely become obsolete any time soon I suppose, as apparently, smarter computer systems are being developed more quickly on a daily basis.

Could Cloud Computing be used as an A/V Client?

Yes, as a matter of fact it can. But more than just an A/V client you can also setup a Cloud-based IT Department where you will not only be providing anti-virus protection to your clients but provide remote PC maintenance as well. There are actually a few small businesses now that are taking advantage of Cloud Computing and creating their own Cloud-based IT assistance services, although it is still experimental in nature and is localized to a city and in some cases an entire state in the US. However, most people are either not aware of this amazing innovation or still cling to the idea “I can fix my computer” or “I have an updated anti-virus software and I don’t need remote PC maintenance.” But I think with more education and proper exposure to this kind of IT support people will come to accept this kind of service.

Data Breach Statistics

Prevx, a well-known network and IT security firm that provides computer security services to thousands of businesses, admitted that more than 2,500 of its clients may have suffered data intrusion. One of its clients was a recording company and about 75,000 songs were downloaded without prior permission from them. This happened back in 2010, I can’t imagine just how efficient they’ve become now and how much resistance an ordinary A/V client could offer against these so-called “Trojan Horse” viruses. Even I had to give up the idea that I can still fix my computer on my own after hearing this from a top IT security firm itself – this is basically jut disturbing.

Mitigation

The United States along with other allied nations who are opposed to data intrusion and software piracy leads in the research & development of counter measures in order to prevent further computer hacking. The FBI and Interpol are also working together in line with this policy so that the culprits could be caught, stop their illegal operation and put those responsible behind bars. But enforcing the law will not stop other hackers from willfully invading private and government databases, instead an impervious network firewall will. A Cloud-based IT assistance would be the best defense against these stealthy hackers and it will also prevent malicious ware from accidentally getting into your system.

May
2022

Three Apps for Fitness Freaks

If your new years resolution was to get in shape, and if that said resolution is still going strong then you might want to take a look at these apps to help you continue your journey.

All of these apps are available on the iPhone. Android devices unfortunately do not have GAIN Fitness

Endomondo

Endomondo is a really neat app. You can track pretty much anything outdoors in there whether it be a nice leisurely stroll through the park or an intense bike ride in the mountains.

The app will track your journey via GPS and save it using Google Maps so that you can look over it later. You can also take frequent workouts and try to beat your personal best. Also, using the GPS, the app can track your speed and uses it to create mile long splits to tell you if you slowed down towards the end of that bike ride.

All of the data is stored on your profile online where you can look on a calendar to see what days you worked out on and how good you did. The online portal also compiles some useful statistics on your workouts and you can even compete against others in your area on trails that they have set up.

I highly recommend this app, there is a free version which should be all that you need.

GAIN Fitness

This is for replacing that costly personal trainer. The app will customize the workout based upon what it learns about you. The workouts are customized based upon your age, weight, goals and earlier workouts. Don’t have a full set of workout equipment? Don’t worry, the app will only customize to what you have.

There is, once again, a web portal for the app that allows you to see data on a bigger, expanded screen.

The app is five dollars and is not available on Android.

Calorie Counter by MyFitnessPal

Input your goal weight into this calorie counter and it will do its best to figure out how much nutrition you’ll be needing each day. Unlike traditional calorie counting methods though, there is no real work once you get started. All you have to do is snap a picture of the barcode on the food you eat, input a portion size and watch those calories pile up. If you input your workouts too then the app will calculate if any more calories are needed.

This app is available on iOS and Android so you have no excuses.

May
2022

Salon Manager Software – Why You’ll Save Money by Spending on This

As the owner of a beauty salon, you will be hard pressed to offer excellent service to your clients while ensuring a high degree of profitability at the same time. The best run beauty salons are usually ones where the owners use special software to manage the day to day operations. The right software enables you to allocate resources properly and it also enables you to market your services properly. You can also manage your appointment book without any mistakes if you use the right salon manager software. Needless to say, this comes at a price and you will have to make the necessary investment if you wish to get the benefits.

Using salon manager software involves more than a one-time investment because you will also be advised to pay a monthly fee to the manufacturers in order to get regular support and maintenance. This might seem to be a big payment but it pales in insignificance to the profits you will make if you use the software. Not only will you save money by using your resources effectively but you will also earn higher revenues because customers will be more satisfied by the service you offer.

Paying money for monthly support and maintenance ensure that you will receive regular upgrades for the salon manager software that you have purchased. This is very important because it enables you always have the latest version of the software. Needless to say, it is best that you buy your software package from a company that puts in a lot of money into research and development in order to provide you with the most suitable software at all times. Your needs might keep changing and the software should be able to take care of it. The best software companies tend to offer upgrades every year although there is no fixed rule regarding this.

You will also need a lot of technical support from time to time. The company that you buy the salon manager software from should offer you excellent support around the clock so that all your needs can be addressed in a reliable and timely manner. It should also offer you training programs so that you and your employees can make good use of it. As a result, you will save a great deal of money in the long run by investing in the right software and will be able to take your business to greater heights.