Back-to-School IT Refresh Tips for Ann Arbor Small Businesses

As summer winds down and students head back to classrooms across Southeast Michigan, small business owners are preparing for the fall rush. New devices, updated software, and increased online activity bring new opportunities; however, they also bring a noticeable increase in cybersecurity risk.

Why Fall Brings More Risk

Cybercriminals follow a predictable calendar. 

Phishing emails often pose as school administration or seasonal sales. Unsecured business networks create entry points for personal and family devices. After the summer slowdown, many systems are running on outdated software unnoticed. 

Limited in-house technology support can lead to prolonged downtime, lost data, or reputation damage. Having an on-call IT Support Specialist in Ann Arbor can help prevent further system damage and prevent issues before they occur. 

The 7-Point IT Refresh

1. Update everything ASAP! 

Computers, phones, tablets, routers, and firewalls all need the latest patches. Enabling automatic updates allows you to go about your day while your devices work hard in the background. 

2. Strengthen passwords and sign-in methods.

Now is the time to strengthen passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your email, banking, cloud tools, etc. Ensure that all access has been removed from former and seasonal workers. 

3. Secure new and returning devices.

Connect trusted devices to your business network, and keep personal and business use separate where possible. Ensure that connected devices are current and secure. 

4. Refresh email security.

Spam and phishing filters should be up to date and working hard this time of year. Advanced scanning and secure webmail access are critical when schedules are busy, and business is flowing. 

5. Review the backup strategy.

Follow the 3-2-1 rule. 

Have 3 copies, 2 media types, 1 offsite. Test the restore, not just the backup. A backup that doesn’t undergo routine testing might fail when the time comes to use it. 

6. Train your team and make an ongoing effort.

Security awareness and phishing emails are more than onboarding topics. Quick routine check-ins regarding phishing red flags and password hygiene can prevent most clicks that allow cybercriminals into your data and devices. 

7. Schedule a professional IT assessment.

A short review of network health, security posture, and hardware often catches what daily use misses. Our IT Support Specialists in Ann Arbor serve Southeast Michigan businesses, both in-person and remotely. Learn more in our latest article. 

Don't Overlook Cybersecurity This Fall! 

Ready to work through your IT refresh? 

Whether you need a full assessment or it's simply time to upgrade your devices before the fall rush, our IT Support Specialist in Ann Arbor can help you cover everything your business requires.

 Call 877-815-6974 or visit the contact page to get started.

Why Small Tech Problems Are Worth Taking Seriously

A computer runs a little slower than usual. You restart and move on. A week later, it happens again. Then it starts affecting another computer. 

Most tech issues follow this pattern; they occur gradually and are easy to ignore at first. These gradual issues are often the first indication that systems need closer attention.

The Normalization Problem

Issues often become part of the routine. 

• Slow performance feels normal.
• Recurring errors get overlooked.
• Workarounds become habits.

But these patterns usually indicate something deeper—systems that aren’t being maintained, outdated software, or setups that haven’t kept pace with the business’s growth. 

In some cases, older hardware can also contribute to these recurring patterns, especially when systems are no longer designed to handle current workloads.

What Early Attention Looks Like

Addressing issues early doesn’t have to mean big changes.

Sometimes it’s:

• Cleaning up background processes.
• Running updates.
• Reviewing the systems in use.

For many Ann Arbor businesses, starting with hourly computer service or break-fix support is a practical first step. As problems become more common, adding monitoring and maintenance helps catch issues earlier.

The Practical Benefit

A setup that gets regular attention runs more smoothly.

Fewer interruptions. Fewer repeated problems. Fewer unexpected disruptions during the workday.

That consistency makes a noticeable difference—not just in system performance, but in how your day feels overall.

Read more in our latest article. 

Computer Service in Ann Arbor That Fits Your Business

If you’re seeking computer service in Ann Arbor, NSG can walk you through your options and find a setup that suits your needs. 

Not sure about your options? Call 877-815-6974 or submit a contact form to get started.

Is It Time for a Tech Tune-Up? Here’s How to Tell

Most small businesses don’t suddenly notice their tech setup needs attention. 

It usually happens gradually; a slowdown here, a recurring issue there, or a team that has grown faster than the systems supporting it. The challenge is that these changes are easy to accept. 

Workarounds become normal, and small frustrations start to feel ordinary. 

Many businesses looking for computer service in Ann Arbor see these patterns, but don’t know how to respond.

Signs to Look For 

The signs are often subtle at first:

• Computers are running slower than they used to.
• The same issues keep returning after being “fixed.”
• You call for help more frequently.
• A setup that hasn’t kept up with your team.

On their own, they are manageable. But together, they create friction that builds up over time. 

You Don’t Have to Fix Everything at Once

One concern is that addressing tech issues entails a large, expensive overhaul.

That is a rare occurrence. 

Many businesses start with simple break-fix or hourly support, getting help when something comes up, and build from there. If patterns start to show, adding monitoring and maintenance can help reduce ongoing disruptions.

This layered approach allows you to improve your setup over time based on your business’s needs.

Why Catching It Early Matters

A slow system today is easier to fix than a major failure tomorrow.

Small updates, routine fixes, and early action help avoid larger disruptions and lessen long-term risk. Over time, these small improvements lead to a more stable and predictable work environment.

In some cases, recurring issues may also indicate that certain systems are reaching the end of their useful life. Identifying this early helps businesses plan for upgrades before performance becomes a daily problem.

Learn more in our latest article. 

Computer Service in Ann Arbor That Fits Your Business

If you’re seeking computer service in Ann Arbor or the surrounding areas, our team can walk you through your options and find a setup that works for you. 

Not sure what your setup requires? Let’s talk about your options. Call 877-815-6974 or submit a contact form to get started.

The Season of Giving

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and giving back. We believe that generosity extends beyond gifts under the tree — it’s about making a difference in our community and helping others thrive. Over the years, NSG has proudly supported local charities and causes that strengthen our shared community.

As we celebrate the spirit of giving, it’s also a great time to invest in yourself and your business. The right technology can be a gift that keeps giving all year long — improving performance, boosting productivity, and providing peace of mind.

This holiday season, remember to take care of those around you — and yourself. Whether through charitable giving or investing in the tools you need to grow, our IT experts are here to help you enter the new year with tech that’s stronger, safer, and ready for what’s next.

Read more in our latest article.

Happy Holidays from Your Local Ann Arbor Computer Service!

Ready to treat yourself and your business? Take a look at our Ann Arbor-based computer services, or call (877) 815-6974 to get a quote! If you prefer to reach out online, feel free to fill out our contact form.

Treat Yourself to a New IT Setup!

If you’ve been considering upgrading your IT setup, here are a few ways to set yourself up for success in the new year:

A Faster, More Reliable Computer

Outdated systems slow you down and hold your business back. A new computer can help you work more efficiently and reduce daily frustrations — the perfect gift for any busy professional.

Better Network Security

Protect what matters most with advanced cybersecurity solutions. From firewalls to managed antivirus protection, our network services keep your data and systems safe from online threats.

A Comprehensive Backup Plan

Ensure your critical files and business data are secure, no matter what happens. With our Backup and Disaster Recovery solutions, you can rest easy knowing your information is protected and recoverable.

Learn more in our latest article.

Happy Holidays from Your Local Ann Arbor Computer Service!

Ready to treat yourself and your business? Take a look at our Ann Arbor-based computer services, or call (877) 815-6974 to get a quote! If you prefer to reach out online, feel free to fill out our contact form.

Empowering Your Team with Security Awareness Training

Is your team informed about best cybersecurity practice?

Even the best technology can't fully protect against human error, which is why Huntress' Managed Security Awareness Training is a cornerstone of our partnership. This engaging, story-driven program transforms employees into your first line of defense by teaching them to recognize and respond to cyber threats.

Engaging and Memorable Content: Unlike traditional training programs, Huntress SAT uses relatable, episodic storytelling featuring characters like DeeDee, a mischievous "hacker" who challenges users with real-world scenarios. This approach keeps learners engaged and helps them retain critical security knowledge.

Realistic Phishing Simulations: Huntress designs phishing tests based on current, real-world threats, allowing employees to practice identifying suspicious emails in a safe environment. Automated reporting tracks progress, highlighting areas for improvement and celebrating successes.

Customizable and Hassle-Free: NSG and Huntress make it easy to deploy and manage SAT. Whether you prefer a fully managed experience or want to customize training with your branding, the platform is flexible and user-friendly, saving your team time and effort.

Building a Security Culture: By fostering a shared responsibility for cybersecurity, Huntress SAT helps create a vigilant workforce. Employees learn to spot phishing, social engineering, and other threats, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.

Learn more in our latest article.

If your business is near Ann Arbor, you can set up computer services with NSG and Huntress today!

Cybersecurity isn't just about technology—it's about empowering your people and staying ahead of threats. Through our partnership with Huntress, Network Services Group is proud to offer email monitoring and security awareness training that deliver measurable results. 

NSG is an Ann Arbor-based computer service, but we help businesses all over Southeast Michigan! Contact NSG today to learn how we can protect your business with Huntress' powerful solutions.

Call (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here.

Why Huntress? A Game-Changer for Cybersecurity

Are you familiar with the cybersecurity leader Huntress?

Email remains one of the most vulnerable entry points for cyberattacks, with phishing and malware posing constant risks. Huntress' Managed Detection and Response (MDR) for Microsoft 365 provides robust, 24/7 monitoring of your email environment, including platforms like Outlook, OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams. Paired with their Managed Security Awareness Training (SAT), this partnership equips NSG clients with a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity that addresses both technological and human vulnerabilities.

Key Benefits of Huntress Email Monitoring

Proactive Threat Detection: Huntress' MDR for Microsoft 365 continuously monitors your cloud environment for suspicious activity, such as phishing attempts, malware, or unauthorized access. By leveraging advanced threat detection and a 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC), Huntress identifies and responds to threats in real time, minimizing potential damage.

Rapid Incident Response: When a threat is detected, Huntress' SOC provides immediate alerts and actionable steps to contain and remediate the issue. This swift response helps prevent breaches from escalating, ensuring your business stays protected.

Seamless Integration: Huntress integrates effortlessly with your existing Microsoft 365 setup, working alongside NSG's comprehensive IT solutions. This ensures minimal disruption while enhancing your overall security posture.

Compliance Support: Robust email monitoring strengthens your cybersecurity framework, helping meet regulatory and insurance requirements. Huntress' detailed reporting provides clear documentation to demonstrate compliance during audits.

Learn more in our latest article.

If your business is near Ann Arbor, you can set up computer services with NSG and Huntress today!

Cybersecurity isn't just about technology—it's about empowering your people and staying ahead of threats. Through our partnership with Huntress, Network Services Group is proud to offer email monitoring and security awareness training that deliver measurable results. 

NSG is an Ann Arbor-based computer service, but we help businesses all over Southeast Michigan! Contact NSG today to learn how we can protect your business with Huntress' powerful solutions.

Call (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here.

Our Secret for Reliable Tech Support

Have you ever dealt with an unresponsive tech company?

Have you ever felt frustrated because a company you hired didn’t show up when they said they would?

We know that feeling all too well, so we make it our mission to avoid ever putting our customers in a position where they feel this way! 

Our Motto for Reliable Tech Support 

What sets us apart in our crowded field? It’s straightforward: we prioritize the basics that too often get overlooked. We believe in the power of simple yet crucial actions like returning phone calls promptly and always showing up for our scheduled appointments. 

But it doesn’t stop there! Our approach goes beyond just identifying problems. We focus on providing effective solutions, not just recommendations. 

Our team prioritizes staying up to date with the latest technological innovations. Our experience has shown us what works and what doesn’t, allowing us to tailor our services to meet your unique needs. 

Our true measure of success is how well everything functions for you, and we’re committed to making sure everything works seamlessly while providing you with excellent customer service along the way. 

Read our latest article here to learn more. 

NSG Provides Business Class Computer Service in Ann Arbor and around Ann Arbor 

In a world where reliability often feels like a rare commodity, we strive to be the dependable partner you can count on. We understand how aggravating it can be dealing with unresponsive tech support and broken promises, and we’re here to change that narrative. 

Our commitment to you is simple, yet strong: we will always be here when you need us, delivering not just solutions, but peace of mind. Don’t settle for less! Work with a computer service in Ann Arbor that you can trust. 

Contact us today to get started!

Our Best Practices for Risk Management

Did you hear about the CrowdStrike software malfunction in July?

This incident led to a widespread IT outage that disrupted systems all over the world. The chaos it caused was felt far and wide, affecting many different industries and causing cancelled flights, compromised access to emergency services, banking disruptions and more! 

This incident serves as an important reminder that no one is immune to the risk associated with not having reliable backup systems in place in the event of emergencies. 

The solution for a speedy recovery lies in having robust backup solutions, recovery plans, and a reliable IT support team that you can count on to restore your operations quickly, all of which we provide! 

We offer a range of services designed to make sure your systems are secure and resilient: 

Risk Management, Monitoring, and Maintenance Programs

Our top priority is the security of your data, so you can rely on the performance and reliability of your computer systems. 

We conduct thorough network audits to confirm that your defenses are strong enough to keep malicious threats, like viruses and hackers at bay. 

Here are some of the ways that we reduce risks and protect your business:

Virus and Spyware Removal and Protection

We keep your systems safe against viruses, making sure that any existing threats are quickly eliminated and future infections are prevented. 

Spyware can compromise your sensitive information and slow down your operations. When working with us, we take great care in removing and protecting your systems from spyware so your data stays safe. 

Backup Solutions 

Even in the event of a critical failure, the backup strategies we implement are strong, and will make it so your data is always recoverable. 

Business Class Tech Support 

We offer top-tier technical support that’s tailored to the specific needs of your business. This makes it so you have reliable, efficient systems in place, and that help will always be available when you need it. 

Read our latest article here to learn more. 

You Can Count on NSG – Providing Computer Service in and around Ann Arbor!  

By partnering with us, you can rest easy knowing that your computer systems are in safe and capable hands. When partnering with our computer service in Ann Arbor, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any challenges that come your way. 

Contact us today to learn more!

Update These Popular Software Brands Before 2025

Do you use Microsoft 10 or the desktop version of QuickBooks?

These popular software brands have announced that they’re going to either discontinue updates for their current versions, or will no longer allow new users to download desktop versions of their software. 

Here’s what you need to know: 

Microsoft is Ending Support for Windows 10 in Fall of 2025

According to Microsoft, Windows 10 will reach it’s end of support on October 14, 2025. The current version will be the final version, and all editions will remain in support with monthly security updates until then. 

How will this affect you?

With the risk of cybersecurity threats evolving faster and faster as time goes on, it’s not wise to run unsupported software that isn’t receiving timely security updates. There is still a good chunk of time before this deadline approaches, but it’s always a good idea to stay ahead of the curve.

It’s also important to keep in mind that many older computers are not compatible with Windows 11 so upgrading systems might involve purchasing a new computer. If you need help with these updates, or finding a new computer that will accommodate Windows 11, give us a call! 

Intuit Will Stop Selling New Licenses for QuickBooks by End of July 2024 

Intuit has announced that after July 31, 2024 they will no longer sell new subscriptions of the following products to U.S. subscribers: QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus, QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus, and QuickBooks Desktop Mac Plus. 

Instead, they’re encouraging old and new subscribers to switch to QuickBooks Online. Many users have shared that the online version is completely different and not nearly as user friendly as the desktop version.  

Existing customers will not be impacted by the change, which is why we strongly encourage you to purchase or update the desktop version before the end of the month. This will ensure that you are using an active, supported version so that you’ll continue receiving the latest security patches and updates. 

Our Computer Service in Ann Arbor Can Answer Your Questions On Updating Your Software!

With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 in 2025 and Intuit discontinuing new licenses for QuickBooks Professional Desktop version at the end of the month, now is the perfect time to start planning for these transitions. 

If you’re searching for a computer service in Ann Arbor to help you get ahead of the curve contact us today to get started!

The Impact of Unsupported Software

What did you do the last time you received a notification that it’s time to update your software? 

If you ignored it, you’re not alone. Many people don’t want to be bothered by taking the time to install these updates. However, many are not be aware of the negative impact this causes to the security, functionality, and online performance of their websites. 

Here are some reasons why you should update your unsupported software: 

Security Risks

One of the most important reasons to update your software is to keep your website safe from cybersecurity threats. When your system stops receiving security updates, it becomes vulnerable to new and evolving cyber threats like viruses, malware, and ransomware. Not only will this put your website at risk, but it can also cause your personal information to be compromised.

Functionality

Software updates aren’t just about security, they also address bugs and glitches that cause crashes, freezes, and slow performance. By updating your software, your software will run smoothly and efficiently, which will save you time and frustration later down the road. 

Online Presence

Outdated websites can deter viewers, harm search engine rankings, and fail to provide an efficient user experience. In addition to updating your website, if you’re interested in improving your online presence further, our sister company Michigan SEO Group specializes in improving search engine rankings.

Learn more in our latest article!

Call Our Computer Service in Ann Arbor and We’ll Update Your Security Software! 

Taking action by updating your software now will save you from running into security threats and user experience issues later down the road, allowing you to plan for a more efficient future. 

If you’re searching for a computer service in Ann Arbor to partner with, contact us today and we’ll help you get started.

Best Practices for Network Security for Small Businesses

Have your employees received adequate training on safeguarding your network security?

Unlike larger businesses who are equipped with IT departments and advanced security measures, most small businesses lack these resources rendering them vulnerable targets for cybercriminals.

We’d like to help you educate your team on effective network security practices. We provide a free Internet Security Guide available to download free here, designed to assist you in educating your team on cyber threats and what steps you can take to prevent future breaches to your network.

Here are some important measures to take to make sure you’re keeping your network safe:

Don’t Hit “Ignore”, Install Your Updates!

Small businesses often handle sensitive customer data like bank account information, credit card numbers, usernames, and passwords.

A data breach not only jeopardizes your customer’s trust, but it can also result in severe financial and legal consequences for your business. That’s why it’s important to make sure your technology is up to date with all security patches.

Even though it may feel inconvenient, when these programs prompt you to install updates, it’s crucial to do so because if you keep hitting “ignore” your technology will become outdated and an easy target for hackers.

Change Your Passwords on a Regular Basis

While the “forgot password” link is helpful in many cases when you lose an important password, it can also be harmful. If a hacker can successfully use this to access your email, then they can gain access to all your other passwords.

Never use the same password for anything and create strong passwords that you change on a regular basis. A strong password contains at least 8 characters with a mixture of upper- case and lower-case letters, numbers, and punctuation.

If your system supports it, turning on 2-factor authentication is another smart way to keep your passwords safe and avoid being hacked.

Learn more in our latest article! 

Follow Advice from a Computer Service in Ann Arbor to Keep Your Network Safe

Small business owners need to take network security training seriously to protect their computers, passwords, and sensitive data. Download our free guide here to use as a reference when training your employees on best practices for network security.

If you would like to work with a computer service in Ann Arbor to ensure your data always stays backed up and protected, contact us today and we’ll help get you started!

 

Scammer’s Most Effective Attack Vector is Tricking Small Businesses

Are you an entrepreneur managing a small business?

Scamming is becoming a big business and criminals are becoming better at it than ever before. It used to be easy to spot scams a mile away due to poor grammar and spelling but it’s no longer as obvious. This is why it’s important to be sure your employees know which signs to watch out for!

We’re dedicated to help you empower your employees with the best practices in business network security. We offer a complementary Internet Security Guide available to download here, created to assist you in navigating cybersecurity threats effectively to keep your businesses protected. 

Stay Vigilant

Yes, scammers can hack into your network through software bugs and viruses, however their most effective method of attack is to trick you and your employees. 

If your staff has a high turnover rate, new hires, or part-time employees, you must be careful and be sure that everyone on your team receives proper training to keep themselves and your business safe. 

Scammers can trick you or target your less experienced staff by “phishing.” This is a scam tactic where scammers send emails disguised as legitimate entities like the government, banks, or well-known companies to try and trick people into revealing sensitive information like passwords, financial information, or personal data. These emails often contain urgent requests using phrasing like, “this is your final notice,” or enticing offers to promote quick action by exploiting human curiosity or fear. 

Tips to Share with Your Staff: 

• Your financial institution will never ask for your login or personal information via email. 

• Be cautious clicking on links attached to emails. If it seems suspicious, visit the site by manually entering the URL instead of clicking the link.

• Never open attachments from unknown sources.

• If you receive a phone call that feels like a scam claiming to be a legitimate source, hang up and call them back on a known phone number to verify their identity.

• Never click on pop-ups on your computer telling you that you are infected. 

Read our latest article to learn more! 

Avoid Falling for Scams with the Help of a Computer Service in Ann Arbor 

Set your employees up for success by providing them with network security training to keep themselves, and your business safe. 

If you need help getting started, download our complementary internet security guide here, or contact our Computer Service in Ann Arbor to learn more about protecting your data.

Why Monitoring and Maintenance Programs Are Essential

How are you keeping your network secure?

Are you relying 100% on your free antivirus for your business’s safety?

Relying solely on free antivirus software or irregular manual checks is like leaving your doors unlocked in a high-crime area. To truly protect your data, you must have a plan. 

Our clients who opt out of enrolling in our monitoring and maintenance plans say things like, 

“I’ll do it myself” 

“It’s too expensive” 

“I don’t need backups” 

While they have good intentions, 99% of the time life gets busy and they’re focused on growing their business, and this task tends to slip their minds. Before they know it, a year has gone by without any updates to their site and then we receive a panicked call that they have been hacked. 

The Cost of Recovery Far Exceeds the Investment of Prevention

You may think to yourself, “what’s the worst that could happen?” 

Well, the aftermath of a ransomware attacks involves not just financial losses, but also reputational damage and operational disruptions. Suddenly, the upfront expense of monitoring and maintenance plans pales in comparison to the potential consequences of not taking the proper precautions. 

Another analogy for this is closing the stable door after your horse has already bolted. Monitoring and maintenance programs offer a proactive approach by continuously evaluating your systems, updating defenses, and ensuring your back-ups are effective so your data remains safe. 

Learn more in our latest article! 

Safeguard Your Business 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 network. 

Contact us today to get started.

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. 

Security, Backups, and Updates!

When was the last time you updated your business tech?

There are three major things you should do to set yourself up for technological success at the beginning of 2024: update security, enable backups, and replace outdated systems.

Security

It’s unfortunate, but cybersecurity is a huge concern in today’s world.  While technology does a lot to improve our lives, it also opens the door for unscrupulous actors to threaten our security.  We are seeing more and more organizations requiring companies to meet security standards to ensure customer data is protected.  This includes insurance companies, payment processing firms, and government entities. Here are a few basics of cybersecurity:

• Robust antivirus software that is monitored
• DNS filtering
• Advanced firewalls
• Security policies
• System updates and patching
• Backups

Don’t just think you’re backed up.  Know that you are.  This includes knowing where your data is stored, and ensuring a reliable backup solution is in place to back it up both locally and in the cloud.  Oh yeah, your backups should be encrypted too.

Replace Old, Outdated, and Unsupported Systems

We all want to get a good bang for our buck out of technology, but as technology ages it tends to slow down, become less secure, and develop problems.   For instance, did you know that Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14th of 2025?  Did you also know that a lot of older systems (2019 and before) are incompatible with Windows 11?  

Microsoft also ended support for Windows Server 2012 in October of 2023.  Aside from not having any support, any systems running Server 2012 will increasingly become a security risk as exploits are discovered but not patched by Microsoft.

If your systems are old, slow, or running unsupported software, maybe it’s time to consider an upgrade.  You’ll be amazed at how great it feels to have a new fast and responsive computer system.

Update Your Tech with an Ann Arbor Computer Service

It’s not too late to set yourself up for new year’s success! Network Services Group is an Ann Arbor-based Computer Service that can help you update and maintain your business technology. For smooth sailing in all IT matters, call (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping with all your tech needs!

Does Your Business Need New Tech for 2024?

Are you dreading a new year of IT difficulties for your business?

Happy New Year!  A lot of people take this time of year to start working on improving themselves – cleaning up their diet, working out, setting goals, and following a daily plan.  If this is you, then fantastic!  These are all great things to do.

However, you might also want to consider giving some of your attention and effort to improving your technology.  Do you really want to enter the new year being saddled with old and slow systems, security concerns, and nagging problems that never seem to go away?  No way!  It’s time to up your technology game, and NSG would love to help.

Why bring old problems into the new year?  Maybe your systems are slow, frequently crashing, or experiencing other problems that just keep lingering.  Let’s work on getting all of that stuff cleaned up so we can set you up for success in the new year.

It’s time to up your technology game for the new year and leave old problems behind.  Replace slow and outdated systems.  Increase your security.  Ensure your important data is safe and backed up.  At NSG, we want your technology to work for you, when you want it to, and the way you want it to.  Feel free to reach out if you’d like some help with improving your technology and security for the new year and beyond.

Set Yourself up for Success with an Ann Arbor Computer Service 

It’s not too late to set yourself up for new year’s success! Network Services Group is an Ann Arbor-based Computer Service that can help you update and maintain your business technology. For smooth sailing in all IT matters, call (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping with all your tech needs!

Antivirus and Backup Services

Are you up-to-date on cybersecurity threats?

Network Services Group offers the following backup and antivirus services:

Backups

• Reliable multi-generational backups
• All critical data stored in approved areas and backed up
• Offsite backups
• Backups are encrypted
• Periodic restore to test backups

Antivirus

• Business class antivirus software installed (centrally managed)
• Systems up to date with security patches (recurring)
• Regularly scheduled virus scans

Protect Your Business with Ann Arbor Computer Services

If you aren’t satisfied with the security, performance, or reliability of your network, please contact our computer support specialists at Network Services Group. We strive to make your experience with computers and technology a positive and productive one! To set your business up with Ann Arbor-based computer services, call (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here. 

Update Your Network and Servers

Do you know how your network is setup?

Network Services Group offers the following services for network infrastructure and servers:

Network Infrastructure

• Business Class Router and firewall
• External Port Scan / No Unnecessary Port Forwards
• Use VPN instead of port forwarding whenever possible
• External vulnerability scan
• Router Firmware Updated
• Router default password changed
• Switches / Other network devices – default password has been changed
• Business class Wi-Fi
• Wi-Fi admin password has been changed from default
• Wi-Fi uses WPA2 with reasonable password
• Wi-Fi guest access (if any) is isolated.

Servers

• Servers kept in secure location (physical security)
• Servers up to date with security patches (recurring)
• Administrator passwords are on a need-to-know basis
• Strong password for administrators
• Shared folders require authentication
• Restrict access to shared folders to those who require it
• Access to servers is restricted – do not use your server as a workstation, unless it is specifically configured as a terminal server.

Check Out More Computer Services from Ann Arbor

If you aren’t satisfied with the security, performance, or reliability of your network, please contact our computer support specialists at Network Services Group. We strive to make your experience with computers and technology a positive and productive one! To set your business up with Ann Arbor-based computer services, call (877) 815-6974 or submit a contact form here.

6 Steps for Backing Up Your Data

How often do you back up your data?

In terms of backups, you will want a reliable and comprehensive backup plan that meets the following metrics:

1. Identify all important data, and ensure it is stored in approved places that are included in your backups (e.g. shared network drive) as opposed to in your local “my documents” folder.
2. Business class backup software such as Veeam or Acronis that can make full system images, perform incremental backups, offer encryption, and feature granular restore capability (ability to restore the whole system or individual files).
3. Local backups are stored on separate network storage device that only your backup software knows about.  External drives plugged into your server or mapped network drives are just as likely to be encrypted as your server itself.
4. Off-site backups.  Make sure you have off-site backup capability, either to removable media that is regularly swapped and taken off-site, or cloud storage.
5. Off-line backups.  Sure, cloud backups are great and provide off-site capability.  But by definition, cloud backups mean “on-line,” and there is at least some possibility that anything that is online can be discovered and hacked.  Off-site backups (such as removable media that has been physically disconnected) cannot be hacked because they are physically unplugged and off-line.  This will save your day if all of your other backups get encrypted.
6. Make sure your IT support is competent and has experience backing up and restoring customer systems and data.  How does it work?  How long will it take?  Have you ever had to do it before?

Read more about protecting your data with backups here.

Reach Out to a Computer Service in Ann Arbor

If you miss even one of these, you are setting yourself up for a bad day.  But don’t despair – NSG can help.  If you aren’t 100% confident that you are fully protected, please reach out and let us know.  We’d be happy to review and discuss and come up with a plan to keep you safe and your data secure.

If you're ready for comprehensive computer service in Ann Arbor, contact NSG here!