Older Systems Won’t Be Compatible with Windows 11: Here’s What You Need to Know

Has your office tech been around 5 years or longer?

If so, it may be in your best interest to replace it before October 2025. 

Microsoft has announced that by October 2025, Windows 10 will come to an end. Users must update before then, or be charged with a hefty subscription fee. While this upgrade is free, it’s not compatible with many older devices. Here’s what you need to know: 

Older Systems Will Not Be Compatible with Windows 11 

Older systems will not be eligible to upgrade to Windows 11. The recommended lifespan for a computer is 5 years, so if your device is that age or older then it’s time to start looking into a replacement anyway. 

If you have several devices running on Windows 10 then it’s time to start coming up with a plan for upgrading or replacing. 

A good way to start this process is to perform a system inventory that includes the age of each device, as well as the specifications like CPU, RAM, model number, etc. This will help you determine which devices are compatible with Windows 11 and how many will need to be replaced in the near future. 

How We Can Help! 

If you would like assistance with this, we have IT support specialists in Ann Arbor who are available to help you upgrade your compatible systems to Windows 11. 

We sell laptops and computers, so we can also help with the process of performing a system inventory and help you replace any devices that are due to be upgraded. 

Read our latest article here to learn more! 

Our IT Support Specialists in Ann Arbor Can Help You Replace Your Old Systems 

Don’t put off replacing your older systems for too long or else you could wind up dealing with some messy technical difficulties come next fall. 

If you have any questions, or need help finding new systems that are compatible with Windows 11, our IT support specialists in Ann Arbor are only a phone call away! 

Out Dated Systems Are Low-Hanging Fruit For Cybercriminals

When was the last time you backed-up your computer?

In our experience, 99% of people who turn down our monitoring and maintenance programs and say, “I’ll do it myself” won’t actually to it themselves, or if they do, they don’t do it consistently. 

While they have good intentions, when life gets busy and they’re focused on growing their business, this task could slip their mind and before they know it, a year has gone by without an update and their computer is at high risk. 

If you find yourself questioning the cost and need of these programs, know that if your data is not backed up, monitored, and protected consistently, you could be in for a rude awakening should hackers strike. 

Outdated Systems are Low-Hanging Fruit for Cybercriminals 

Putting yourself in the mind of a criminal: would you rather rob the house with the, “Beware Dog” sign or find an easier target? 

Outdated systems are easy to hack, which is why pairing monitoring and maintenance programs, comprehensive backup solutions, and business class antivirus solutions will create a multi-layered approach in your computer’s line of security. 

We recognize the critical role in safeguarding businesses against ransomware and security threats. Our comprehensive solutions offer proactive monitoring, robust backup capabilities, timely updates, and reliable antivirus protection, ensuring your business remains resilient against cybercriminals. 

Don’t wait until disaster strikes – prioritize your security today and empower your business to thrive online. 

Read more in our latest article! 

Secure Your Website with a Computer Service in Ann Arbor 

Cybersecurity is not a matter to be taken lightly. It’s imperative to invest in proactive measures to shield your business from the devastating impacts of ransomware and other security threats. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late! 

Partner with a computer service in Ann Arbor like Network Services Group to fortify your defenses and safeguard your data. 

Contact us today to get started. 

Cybersecurity for Small Businesses

Is your small business protected from ransomware?

Yes, you want to have good backups and antivirus software, but that by itself isn’t enough.  There are effective and cost-effective steps that a small business can take to up their level of security and protection, including:

• Download NSG’s security baseline for small businesses
• Backups, backups, backups!
• User training and awareness
• Password policies
• Multifactor Authentication
• Security software that is regularly updated and monitored
• DNS filtering
• Next generation firewall
• Patching policy
• Network monitoring
• Auditing and logging software
• Regular security reviews

Secure Your Business with an Ann Arbor Computer Service

Ready to secure your business?

Network Services Group is an Ann Arbor computer service that can help you defend your small business from and cyberattacks. Contact NSG today to discuss how you can take your cybersecurity to the next level.

Network Services for Cybersecurity

Are you up to date on best cybersecurity practice?

Cybersecurity is serious business.  Hackers, scammers, and ransomware are everywhere, and it seems like you can’t go more than a few days without hearing about some business being the victim of ransomware.  It almost seems like cybersecurity is a fulltime job and many industries have specific security requirements that would be difficult or impossible for a small business to meet.

What can you do to protect yourself as a small business?  The answer is to work with a qualified and knowledgeable network service and support company to take your cyber security to the next level.

Support Your Business with Computer Service in Ann Arbor

Ready to secure your business?

Network Services Group is an Ann Arbor computer service that can help you defend your small business from and cyberattacks. Contact NSG today to discuss how you can take your cybersecurity to the next level.

Ditch the Long Contract Lock-In

Looking for a provider that doesn’t lock you into a multi-year contract?

A lot of MSP's that we've encountered don't even want to talk to you unless you sign up for their full managed services plan, and even then, they want to lock you into multi-year contracts with built in price hikes each year. Yikes! 

At NSG, we work hard to provide great service and support with the goal of making our customers happy. We don't see the need to lock people into long term contracts. If you like what we do, then you'll stick with us. It seems that too many MSP's are interested in making their accountants happy as opposed to their customers.

Read more about MSP’s here.

Trust Your Managed Services to an Ann Arbor IT Support Specialist 

If you’re looking for an all-in-one MSP that cares about your business, look no further than Network Services Group. We’re an IT Support Specialist in Ann Arbor with twenty-two years of experience in the industry. Call (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here for all of your IT needs.

Managed Services from NSG

Does your business need a managed service provider?

NSG offers a wide range of services, including managed services. Under a managed service agreement, there is a fixed price that includes monitoring, maintenance, and support services. This is great for companies who want to know what they will be spending each month on IT support. 

We also provide some of these services separately, such as monitoring and maintenance plans, and then bill for any additional support services as they are utilized. 

The important thing is to have some kind of monitoring and maintenance plan in place to keep your systems up and running and secure, as well as having access to quality and experience support when you need it.

Read more about MSP’s here.

Managed Services from an Ann Arbor IT Support Specialist

If you’re looking for an all-in-one MSP that cares about your business, look no further than Network Services Group. We’re an IT Support Specialist in Ann Arbor with twenty-two years of experience in the industry. Call (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here for all of your IT needs.

Consult NSG for Your Business Computer

Are you on the hunt for a new computer for work?

You could go over to Costco or some other big box store and buy whatever computer they have on the shelf.  However, keep in mind that those types of stores usually only carry consumer grade equipment that isn’t suitable for business use, and it’s actually surprising how many times that storyline doesn’t have a happy ending.

When it comes to computers, there are so many different brands and options that it can be difficult to know exactly what you need.  What brand and model are best?  What specs do I need?  Contact NSG and take the guesswork and headaches out of technology.

Oh, and that new computer?  You’re going to want to have an experienced IT professional set it up for you so that it is properly configured, has security updates and software installed, and is optimized for performance and security. 

Read more about computer consultation here.

Ask a Computer Consultant in Ann Arbor

Working with the right technology company can help set you up for success, so that you have the right gear, configured the right way, so that it works for you when you need it.  Work with NSG, a premier computer consultant in Ann Arbor, and experience the positive side of what technology has to offer. Call us at (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here!

Get a Computer Prepared for Business

Unsure what to look for in a business computer?

The motto of the boy scouts is to be prepared, and we think they might be on to something.  Business users rely on their computers and technology to get their jobs done, so you don’t want to show up to work with the wrong computer.  The right computer saves you time and makes you more efficient and productive.  The wrong computer… not so much.

At Network Services Group, our main focus is providing computer network service, support, and consulting services to business customers, but we also sell computers, laptops, servers, and networking equipment.   The reason we do this is partly a matter of convenience for our customers (one stop shopping), but also because we want to help ensure our customers are getting the right gear.

To read more about selecting the right work computer, click here!

Get Your Tech from a Computer Consultant in Ann Arbor

Working with the right technology company can help set you up for success, so that you have the right gear, configured the right way, so that it works for you when you need it.  Work with NSG, a premier computer consultant in Ann Arbor, and experience the positive side of what technology has to offer. Call us at (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here!

How to Know If Your Business Is Vulnerable to Online Attacks

Are you worried about the online safety of your business? 

Do you want to proactively block cyber-threats?

 

Knowing if your business is vulnerable can be helpful in taking the next steps in being proactive against cyber-attacks. Any company of any size can be a target, but whether your company falls victim is influenced by certain factors, like:

• How attractive your data might be to a hacker
• How important it is to your company that you respond quickly to an attack
• How strong your security is, and if you have good IT support
• How prepared your employees are to recognize a potential attack 

Computer Consultants Ann Arbor 

At Network Services Group, we work with small businesses to make their experience with technology both positive and productive. We take care of their security so they can focus on what they do best – running their business!  

 

We will keep your servers and workstations up to date, verify backups, scan for viruses and malware, and check system health. Our formula for success is knowing what to look for, getting it done, and effectively communicating the results. 

 

Imagine how relieved you’ll feel when you know that your network and computers are secure, and your computers and backups are working optimally. Our 20 years of experience as computer consultants in Ann Arbor make us the right choice for your business’s IT needs.

Staying Proactive Against Hackers

Are you worried about the online safety of your business?

Do you want to proactively block cyber-threats?

 

In this digital age, cyber security is one of many issues business owners must worry about. With hackers and scammers constantly trying to steal your information, it can be hard to feel safe. Being proactive is the best way to combat these attacks and put your mind at ease. 

 

Due to the recent political unrest overseas, we were alerted by the Michigan State Police warning of potential internet security threats to watch out for. Certain IP addresses were flagged as unsafe and at risk of causing harm. NSG was able to get ahead of these threats and proactively block these IP addresses for all our clients with maintenance plans. These clients know they can focus on running their business instead of worrying about the safety of their information online.

 

Computer Consultants Ann Arbor 

At Network Services Group, we work with small businesses to make their experience with technology both positive and productive. We take care of their security so they can focus on what they do best – running their business!  

 

We will keep your servers and workstations up to date, verify backups, scan for viruses and malware, and check system health. Our formula for success is knowing what to look for, getting it done, and effectively communicating the results. 

 

Imagine how relieved you’ll feel when you know that your network and computers are secure, and your computers and backups are working optimally. Our 20 years of experience as computer consultants in Ann Arbor make us the right choice for your business’s IT needs.

20 Years of Computer Service Experience Put to Work for You

Did you know that Network Services Group has been providing computer services in Ann Arbor for over 20 years, helping small business just like yours experience the positive side of what technology has to offer?

Why work with NSG?

We know how frustrating it can be to have endless tech problems, especially if you’re up against a deadline or trying to provide for your customers and clients. We focus on people over technology. We'll get the job done and done right using current best practices.

We take a proactive approach with our system maintenance and monitoring plans rather than waiting for something to go wrong! Best of all, we take the worry out - you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.

Don’t have the budget for an in-house IT person at your company? We can help with that too. Read the full article on our website!

A Tech Team that Works for You

You need people who are reliable that you can trust.  At Network Services Group, we’ve been providing computer service and support to businesses in and around Ann Arbor for over 20 years.  Experienced.  Friendly.  Reliable.

Call NSG today and get the computer service and network support you need to keep your business running effectively.  877-815-6974.

Reliable Computer Service for Your Ann Arbor Business

Today, most companies rely on technology to run and manage their business. Technology is great when it works, but frustrating and time consuming when it doesn’t.

If your business relies on technology, who are you going to call when you run into problems?  Comcast?  AT&T?  Dell?  That sounds like fun - wait on hold for who knows how long only to get someone who doesn’t know you, doesn’t care about you, and whose job performance is measured by how long it took them to get you off the phone.

What if you could have a relationship with a local computer service that not only takes care of you when you’re experiencing issues, but checks in on you even when you’re issue-free?

NSG can help. Visit our website to read the full article!

A Tech Team that Works for You

You need people who are reliable that you can trust.  At Network Services Group, we’ve been providing computer service and support to businesses in and around Ann Arbor for over 20 years.  Experienced.  Friendly.  Reliable.

Call NSG today and get the computer service and network support you need to keep your business running effectively.  877-815-6974.

Tired of Unreliable IT Support? We Can Help!

How many messages do you have to leave before your "on call" IT support calls you back?

Cyber-attacks are on the rise and every business connected to the internet is at risk. You can’t afford to have IT problems. You really can’t afford to have unreliable IT support.

When a technology issue has brought business to a grinding halt and your IT support specialist is unreliable, what is it costing you? 

• Lost productivity
• Potential for data breach or loss
• Lost revenue
• Potential damage to client relationships and reputation

That’s a lot of damage because someone didn’t care enough to show up. We think that’s unacceptable.

From NSG’s founder, Don Prior: “I started NSG in 2001 – 20 years ago at the time this article was written.  They say most businesses fail within the first 3-5 years. I’m happy to report that we made it over the hump, and I’m so very grateful for our customers, many of whom have been there from the beginning.

I’ve also worked hard to build a great team over the years, and am also grateful for their support and commitment to helping our customers with their technology needs.”

Want to take your IT to the next level?  We can help! Spend less time worrying about security issues or frustrating PC problems and spend more time growing your business.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you.

Take Your IT Game to the Next Level

Are you looking for an IT team with experience and a proven track record?

Are you searching for reliable network monitoring and maintenance services for your business?

NSG is proud to celebrate its 20th year as computer consultants in the Ann Arbor area! We’ve seen the technological landscape drastically change since we’ve been in the business, but we’ve remained highly committed to providing cutting-edge tech services to our clients and staying on the forefront of computer security. 

Over the years, we’ve picked up many new clients who switched to us after becoming unhappy with their previous support company.  Usually the complaints are similar:

• “They don’t show up or call us back.”
• “We have the same problems over and over.” 
• “I asked them to setup a new computer for me and they didn’t install all my programs or copy over my data.” Worse, upon closer inspection (which is the first thing we do), we find that they don’t have backups or antivirus, and are running older and unsupported systems and software.  
• “Our systems are slow and we’re having so many computer issues.”

Sound familiar?

These problems are easy to fix when you have the right team!

Get Rid of IT Headaches with an Experienced Team on Your Side

Technology has certainly changed over the years, but our focus and commitment has remained the same – helping our customers get the most out of their technology investment and setting them up for success.  This is even more important in today’s technology driven world, and especially with viruses, malware, and ransomware becoming more and more prevalent.

Want to take your IT to the next level?  We can help! Spend less time worrying about security issues or frustrating PC problems and spend more time growing your business.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you.

Looking for an Experienced Computer Consultant Near You?

Are you tired of unreliable IT teams that don’t deliver? 

Are you searching for a technical support team that effectively communicates with you?

At NSG, we are committed to our core principles of knowing what it is, getting it done, and effectively communicating the results—values which have built up long-term trust between us and our customers. Our clients stick with us because we do our job right and keep them in the loop. 

Our 20 years of experience as computer consultants in Ann Arbor make us the right choice for your business’s IT needs. Our team is experienced in:

• Network setup and security
• Network monitoring and maintenance
• IT support
• Backup services
• Web hosting
• Web design
• SEO and internet marketing
• And even custom programming

If you’re looking for IT services in the Ann Arbor or Southeast Michigan area, our team would love to work with you! 

Give us a call at (877) 815-6974 or contact us to schedule a consultation.

To learn more about us, visit our website to see the full range of services we offer. You can also find lots of security tips and helpful articles for any business!

Entering Our 20th Year as Computer Consultants in Ann Arbor!

Are you looking for an IT team with experience and a proven track record?

Are you searching for reliable network monitoring and maintenance services for your business?

NSG is proud to celebrate its 20th year as computer consultants in the Ann Arbor area! We’ve seen the technological landscape drastically change since we’ve been in the business, but we’ve remained highly committed to providing cutting-edge tech services to our clients and staying on the forefront of computer security. 

From NSG Founder Don Prior:  
"Wow, how time flies!  I started Network Services Group on September 1st, 2001, and we are coming up on our 20th anniversary.  A lot has changed in the world during that time, but the one thing that hasn’t changed is our commitment to helping our customers get the most out of their technology.  We are grateful for the support of our customers over the years, and look forward to being able to support them and their technology needs both now, and in the future."

We provide top notch service and support with communication that you can depend on—we will always keep you in the loop! 

An Ann Arbor Computer Consultant You Can Count On

If you’re looking for reliable backups, IT security and maintenance, or computer consultants in the Ann Arbor area, our team would love to work with you! 

Give us a call at (877) 815-6974 or contact us to schedule a consultation.

To learn more about us, visit our website to see the full range of services we offer. You can also find lots of security tips and helpful articles for any business!

Your Best Line of Defense Against Ransomware

In business, it’s critically important to keep your systems patched and up to date with the latest security updates but, even so, new threats are discovered each and every day. Your tech support has to be vigilant.

Even with all your precautions, it’s possible that some hacker/scammer somewhere will trick someone into clicking on something and then… Bam!  You’re infected.

It would best to avoid getting infected in the first place — but there are no guarantees — so your last line of defense are good backups and a disaster recovery plan.

In terms of backups, you need a reliable and comprehensive backup plan.

Or, you need NSG: the best tech support in Ann Arbor. 

Learn more on our website!

Are You Protected from Ransomware?

You’ve read about it in the news.  Big companies and government agencies — the kind with big tech support departments — getting hacked with ransomware and being down for days. Then, having to pay an exorbitant ransom to get their data back.  The most recent example of this is the Colonial Pipeline.  Don’t let this happen to you!

I’m going to let you in a little secret.  The best way to protect yourself from ransomware is…. With backups!  I know it sounds simple but stick with me here.  It’s more complicated than it sounds.

Yes – you should have business class antivirus software.

Yes – you should have a business class firewall.

Yes – you should have a maintenance and monitoring plan in place to keep all your systems up to date with security patches.

Yes – you should be training your users to be cautious and not just click on attachments and links in random emails.

All of that stuff is important, but none of it is foolproof.

Why? Learn more on our website!

Work With the Right Guys — Get the Right Results!

If your company doesn’t have IT support, it’s only a matter of time before you find yourself in a bit of a mess. Like this client: one of their core servers was still running Windows Server 2003 (long since unsupported), and they had inadequate backups and antivirus protection. It was critical to their security that they upgrade, but they were hesitant to proceed — not because of the cost, but because a past IT project had turned into a disaster of downtime, crashes, and endless bugs. 

They weren’t eager to go through that again!

After we started working with them, they began to realize that things were going to be different this time and we were able to upgrade their server and protect their network.

Smooth transitions don't happen by accident, and we take great care to properly plan out projects like this, and equal care in the implementation and follow up. The end result is a smooth transition, happy client, and comments like this:

"Ross has been doing great. You found a lot of talent in that fella and things have been going smoother than I'm used to. Then again, you run a tight ship sir. I shouldn't be surprised. "

What can we say? Work with the right guys, and you'll get the right results.

Learn more on our website!

Is a Failed Microsoft Update Putting Your Business At Risk?

When you own a small business, challenges can appear when you least expect them from sources you’d least expect. When business owners worldwide installed the February 9th Windows Server update, they were met with one of those unexpected challenges. An issue with the component that installs Windows updates caused the update to fail, leaving many customers scrambling for a solution or even skipping updates. 

The real problem was those business did not receive the fix to a vulnerability that left their networks open to attackers. 

Cyber-attacks are on the rise and every business connected to the internet is at risk. Keep your business safe by maintaining good backups and by ensuring that your systems are monitored, maintained, and kept up to date with security patches. You don’t need to be an IT expert or have an IT department on staff. With one phone call, you can have the experts at NSG on your team. 

Give us a call at (877) 815-6974 to schedule a consultation or contact us on our website.

For more information, including links to helpful resources, read the full article on our website.