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Epoch IT Solutions – Your Partner in Technology and Growth within the SHRM Community

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In today’s fast-moving business world, staying ahead means more than just having the right tools. It requires a skilled workforce, secure infrastructure, and access to reliable technology solutions. At Epoch IT, we proudly support Pennsylvania businesses through expert IT services and impactful workforce training. Working with the SHRM – Lehigh Valley community, we are excited to connect with professionals who are equally committed to growth, development, and innovation in the workplace.

Supporting the SHRM Community with Purpose

Our involvement with SHRM – Lehigh Valley reflects more than just attendance—it’s a shared commitment to advancing the region’s business community. HR professionals today navigate complex challenges, from digital transformation and cybersecurity to remote onboarding and workforce training. At Epoch IT, we bridge these gaps with holistic solutions that address both IT infrastructure and employee development.

Learn more about SHRM Lehigh Valley: www.shrmlv.org

We’re here to help your team thrive—not only with technology, but with the confidence and skills to use it effectively.

More Than Just an IT Provider

Epoch IT is a women-owned, Pennsylvania-based small business specializing in managed IT services and customized training programs. We offer a range of support, including:

  • Managed IT services for reliability and security
  • Cybersecurity solutions to protect sensitive data
  • Cloud services for flexible, scalable collaboration
  • Consulting and project support tailored to your business goals

And we don’t stop there. Our Learning Center, also known as Panurgy Training, is where technology meets people. Through live, instructor-led programs—both online and in person—we empower your team to build technical and interpersonal skills that drive real results.

IT business meeting with three people in office with computers

The Learning Center Difference

What sets our training apart?

  • Live, real-time instruction from expert educators
  • Interactive virtual classrooms—not pre-recorded modules
  • In-person training for teams who prefer face-to-face learning
  • Courses on leadership, software, communication, and more
  • Customized group training tailored to your organization’s needs

Whether your team needs to master Microsoft Excel, strengthen leadership, or improve communication, our programs are built to meet today’s demands.

“This was the first time I have taken a class like this and I enjoyed it very much. Lorraine was a great instructor who made me feel welcome and comfortable asking ‘dumb’ questions.” — Recent student

Credentials That Reflect Our Commitment

We are proud to be recognized for quality, inclusion, and professional development. Our certifications and affiliations include:

  • Certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBENC)
  • COSTARS-approved vendor for public sector partnerships
  • Act 48 certification for educator training in Pennsylvania
  • Accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
  • Affiliated with the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)
  • Member of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Our credentials reflect our broader commitment to excellence, diversity, and inclusion. These affiliations signify our dedication not only to delivering exceptional training but also to supporting fair access to education and professional advancement.

Empowering HR Teams with Tailored Training

Human Resources professionals are often the first to recognize the need for upskilling. We support HR teams with training in:

  • Data security and compliance
  • HRIS and payroll software
  • Team communication tools
  • Leadership development
  • Productivity platforms like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace

We also offer Act 48-approved training for educators and public institutions, ensuring that learning opportunities meet Pennsylvania standards.

Our private training options are ideal for organizations seeking tailored content, strategic alignment, and real business impact. Whether you’re building leadership pipelines or rolling out new tech tools, we design programs that work for you.

Ready to Get Started?

We believe that meaningful learning drives meaningful change. Whether you’re an individual looking to grow professionally or an organization looking to invest in your team’s success, our expert instructors and customized programs are here to help you meet your goals with confidence.

Whether you’re attending a SHRM event or looking for a trusted partner in IT and training, Epoch IT is ready to support your goals. From securing your systems to upskilling your staff, we bring the tools, expertise, and personalized service you need to succeed.

Contact Epoch IT today to learn more or request a course catalog: training@epochit.com

New Outlook vs Old Outlook

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New Outlook vs Old Outlook: What’s Changed and What You Need to Know

For years, Microsoft Outlook has been the go-to email and calendar app for professionals and casual users alike. In this Outlook feature comparison, we break down what changed in the newest release of Microsoft 365 Outlook and what still remains the same between the new Outlook and the classic version.

Microsoft recently rolled out a major Outlook update, often referred to as the Microsoft Outlook update, bringing a redesigned experience and new features.  Want the official breakdown? Visit Microsoft’s feature comparison page to learn more.

Let’s explore what Microsoft actually changed in the new Outlook vs old Outlook experience.  Is it time to switch, or should you stick with what you know? Let’s break it down.

Need help managing Microsoft 365 tools like Outlook? Explore our Managed IT Services to keep your systems running smoothly.

🔄 Interface Overhaul: Cleaner, Simpler Design

New Outlook vs Old Outlook comparison interface screenshot

Old Outlook had a familiar, feature-heavy ribbon interface filled with buttons—powerful but often cluttered.

New Outlook takes cues from the web and mobile apps. It introduces a minimalist, modern UI with clean lines, streamlined menus, and better use of space.

📌 Key takeaway: The new Outlook vs old Outlook interface is significantly cleaner, ideal for users who prefer simplicity.

⚙️ Comparing Performance and Speed

Many users know Old Outlook for its resource-heavy performance. Startup times can lag, especially with large mailboxes or many add-ins.

New Outlook, on the other hand, is built for speed. It uses web-based technology that syncs faster and loads more efficiently.

📌 Key takeaway: In the debate of new Outlook vs old Outlook, performance is one of the biggest improvements.

🧩 Add-ins & Compatibility: Pros and Cons

Old Outlook supports legacy COM add-ins that many businesses still rely on.

New Outlook supports modern web-based add-ins that are more secure but may not yet replace all legacy tools. The new Outlook may still limit some business-critical functions.

📌 Key takeaway: If your workflows depend on older integrations, the old Outlook still wins for now.

📊 Feature Set Changes You Should Know 

Here’s a quick look at where features still differ:

Feature Classic Outlook New Outlook
PST/OST File Support ✅ Yes ❌ No
Offline Access ✅ Yes ⚠️ Limited
Multiple Profiles ✅ Yes ❌ No
Shared Mailboxes ✅ Full Support ⚠️ Partial
Calendar Functionality 🟢 Advanced 🟡 Basic

This Outlook feature comparison helps illustrate why some power users may prefer sticking with the classic interface—at least for now.

📌 Key takeaway: The new Outlook vs old Outlook feature set still favors the classic version for power users.

These differences highlight some of the biggest changes seen in the latest Outlook version, compared to the classic one.

🌐 Cross-Platform Consistency: A Modern Outlook

One of the goals of the new Outlook is a seamless experience across devices—Windows, Mac, and the web.

📌 Key takeaway: If you switch between devices, the new Outlook vs old Outlook comparison leans toward the newer version.

Since the new Outlook relies more on cloud technologies, having the right cloud infrastructure is critical.
👉 Learn more about our Cloud Solutions to stay connected across all your devices.

🛠️ Settings & Customization Compared

Old Outlook offered tons of customization, but many settings hid deep in complex menus.

New Outlook simplifies access to common settings, though Microsoft hasn’t yet added full advanced customization options.

📌 Key takeaway: The old Outlook is still best for heavy customization.

📅 Should You Switch to the New Outlook?

You are… Try the new Outlook?
A casual user ✅ Yes
Prefer minimal, clean apps ✅ Yes
Depend on legacy tools ❌ Not yet
Nervous about learning a new interface ✅ It’s easy

🔚 Final Thoughts on the New Outlook vs Old Outlook

The new Outlook vs old Outlook debate comes down to this:
Microsoft built the new version with performance in mind, making it lighter and faster…

You can also visit the Microsoft 365 blog for updates on Outlook’s evolving features.

Whether you’re ready to embrace the Outlook 365 update or prefer sticking with the classic interface, the flexibility to choose remains in your hands.

Interested in mastering the new Outlook?
👉 Check out our Training and Development Services to boost your productivity.

Need help managing your Microsoft environment?
👉 Explore our Managed IT Services today.

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Why Patch Management is Crucial for your System’s Security

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What is Patch Management?

It’s important to take proactive measures that protect data and systems from security risks by identifying and applying necessary updates. That’s why patch management is crucial for a business’s cybersecurity strategy.

Patch management ensures that software vulnerabilities are quickly identified and addressed. Unpatched systems are prime targets for cyberattacks, as they often provide a gateway for malware, ransomware, and other malicious threats to exploit weaknesses. These risks can be easily minimized through regular patching. It ensures that all applications, operating systems, and network devices are up to date with the latest security fixes.

This proactive approach not only strengthens a company’s defenses but also helps maintain compliance with industry regulations. Some regular software updates are mandated to protect sensitive data.

In addition to enhancing security, patch management improves system performance and reliability. Unpatched software may experience bugs, performance issues, and compatibility problems that could negatively impact business operations. By keeping systems current, businesses can reduce downtime, increase efficiency, and ensure that their technology infrastructure is running smoothly. Furthermore, a robust patch management process also helps businesses avoid potential financial losses from data breaches or system outages, which can be costly in terms of both remediation efforts and reputational damage.

Key reasons why a business needs patch management:

  1. Security: Protects against vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cybercriminals.
  2. Regulatory Compliance: Helps meet industry standards and legal requirements for data protection.
  3. System Performance: Enhances the performance and stability of software by addressing bugs and compatibility issues.
  4. Risk Mitigation: Reduces the likelihood of expensive data breaches, system outages, and operational disruptions.
  5. Cost Efficiency: Prevents costly repairs and loss of productivity due to unaddressed security threats.

In fact, approx. 80% of businesses that experienced a breach or failed an audit could have prevented it with patch management or a configuration change. 

system hacked two people upset at computer

Do I need to do this myself?

You don’t have to do this alone. Managed service providers (MSPs) play a vital role in this process by monitoring new patches and deploying them systematically to all relevant devices. This consistent approach:

  • Minimizes disruption
  • Maintains security across the network
  • Are scheduled at optimal times to avoid interrupting business operations. 

Having an MSP also allows you to discuss the best software changes you might need, when to make them, and how to get your employees to adopt the latest changes positively. In a survey, 58% of business respondents said they run on legacy systems and software that no longer receive supported updates and security patches. If this sounds like you, then your business is at increased security risk. You are not alone, 72% also responded that, “security patching is hard because it could break stuff” which is why you need an expert MSP team by your side.

What if my business has specific laws and regulations to follow?

For businesses that must comply with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) or HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), patch management is essential to ensure both data security and regulatory compliance. These regulations mandate that businesses protect sensitive personal or health-related data from unauthorized access, breaches, or misuse. Unpatched software vulnerabilities can serve as entry points for cyberattacks, risking data breaches and non-compliance with the strict security requirements of GDPR and HIPAA. Regular patching helps mitigate these risks by addressing known vulnerabilities and ensuring that all systems meet the necessary security standards.

Additionally, both GDPR and HIPAA require organizations to demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding data through proactive security measures. A well-implemented patch management strategy provides a clear audit trail, showing that the business is taking appropriate actions to address potential threats and maintain a secure environment. Failing to stay up-to-date with patches could result in hefty fines, legal consequences, and reputational damage for the organization.  Therefore, patch management is an indispensable part of maintaining compliance with these regulations.

By working with an MSP to manage updates, businesses can ensure that their technology is not only secure but also aligned with best practices and regulatory requirements, enabling them to operate safely and efficiently. 

How do I asses my businesses patch management and security?

Reach out to us at Epoch today to learn how you and your company can benefit from our MSP services. Remember that patch management is crucial for a business’s cybersecurity. We can’t wait to support your growth and security! 

https://epochit.com/contact

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Choosing the Right Managed Service Provider (MSP) for Your Business 

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At Epoch IT, our IT managed services are designed with small businesses in mind—helping them streamline operations, stay secure, and reduce downtime.  Cybersecurity threats are rising at an unprecedented rate, with 90% of CISOs reporting at least one disruptive attack on their businesses in the last year. For companies seeking to protect their digital assets and ensure operational efficiency, selecting the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) for your business is more critical than ever. The right MSP can bolster your IT infrastructure, enhance security, and align technology solutions with your strategic goals. Here’s how to make an informed choice.

 

 1. Assess Your Business’s Needs

Before diving into the search for an MSP, start by evaluating your company’s unique IT requirements.

 

– Cybersecurity: Do you need advanced protection against ransomware and phishing attacks?

– Cloud Management: Are you transitioning to cloud-based solutions and require seamless integration?

– 24/7 Support: Does your business require around-the-clock monitoring to minimize downtime?

 

Look for MSPs with proven expertise in these areas and industry-specific experience. For instance, businesses in regulated industries like healthcare or finance should seek MSPs familiar with HIPAA or PCI DSS compliance.

 

Pro Tip: Review federal cybersecurity guidelines, such as those outlined by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), to understand baseline protections your MSP should provide.

 

 

 2. Evaluate Customer Service Standards

Customer service is a cornerstone of any successful MSP relationship. You need a partner who can quickly address issues and minimize disruption.

 

– Response Times: How quickly does the MSP promise to resolve critical issues?

– Escalation Procedures: Are there clear protocols for addressing more complex problems?

– Proactive Communication: Does the MSP provide regular updates, performance reports, and strategic consultations?

 

Choose an MSP that prioritizes transparency and keeps you informed about system performance and potential risks. Regular check-ins and reporting demonstrate a commitment to your success.

 

 3. Examine Security Practices and Compliance Expertise

In today’s threat landscape, security is non-negotiable. A strong MSP should offer:

 

– Multi-Layered Security: Firewalls, endpoint protection, and intrusion detection systems.

– Data Backup and Recovery: Ensure your data is protected against loss from cyberattacks or natural disasters.

– Employee Training: Insider threats are a leading cause of breaches. An effective MSP will provide cybersecurity awareness training for your staff.

 

For regulated industries, ensure your MSP has a deep understanding of compliance frameworks. For example, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides essential cybersecurity frameworks that MSPs should implement to protect critical assets and comply with regulations.

 

 4. Assess Scalability and Future Readiness

As your business grows, your IT needs will evolve. The right MSP should be able to scale their services to support your expansion, whether that involves onboarding more users, integrating new technologies, or enhancing security infrastructure.

 

Ask questions like:

– Can the MSP support a larger workforce or multiple office locations?

– Do they offer flexible packages to adjust services as needed?

– Are they proactive in adopting emerging technologies to keep your business competitive?

 

 5. Request References and Case Studies

A reputable MSP should be able to provide references or case studies demonstrating their expertise and reliability. Look for examples of businesses similar to yours that have benefited from their services.

 

Allentown PA, Managed Service Provider

Partnering with the Right MSP Brings Peace of Mind

 

With the right MSP, your business can benefit from reliable technology solutions, enhanced security, and a partner dedicated to your success.

 

Take Action Today

At Epoch, we specialize in delivering comprehensive IT Managed Services solutions tailored to your unique business needs. From robust cybersecurity measures to 24/7 support and scalable IT strategies, we’re here to support your growth and success.

 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business thrive in an ever-changing digital landscape.

 

By following these steps and utilizing federal resources like CISA and NIST for guidance, you’ll make a more informed decision when selecting an MSP, setting your business up for long-term security and efficiency.

Understanding Cybersecurity Threats: How Managed Services Protect Your Business

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Cybersecurity threats are evolving rapidly, with small and large businesses alike facing significant risks from malware, phishing, and ransomware attacks. Managed services play a crucial role in defending businesses from these threats by providing continuous monitoring, advanced threat detection, and rapid response capabilities. MSPs utilize the latest cybersecurity tools and techniques, allowing businesses to detect and respond to potential threats in real-time.

In addition to monitoring and threat detection, MSPs implement a range of security protocols to mitigate vulnerabilities across an organization’s systems and networks. Managed services help enforce robust firewalls, secure access points, and encryption protocols to ensure sensitive information is protected at all levels. Furthermore, they provide training for employees on best cybersecurity practices, helping to reduce human error, which remains a significant security vulnerability.

By working with a managed service provider, businesses gain access to a team of experts who stay up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity trends and technologies. MSPs continually assess and update security strategies, ensuring companies remain compliant with regulations and protected against emerging threats. This proactive approach to cybersecurity not only safeguards business data but also fosters trust among clients and partners who rely on data security.

Reach out to us at Epoch today to learn how you and your company can benefit from our MSP services. We can’t wait to support your growth! 

 

https://epochit.com/contact 

Successful IT Transformations Stories with Managed Services

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Boost your company's productivity

How Managed Services Can Improve Your Company’s Productivity

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Managed IT services can significantly enhance productivity by reducing downtime, streamlining IT processes, and allowing employees to focus on their core tasks. MSPs monitor systems around the clock, identifying and resolving issues before they escalate, which helps prevent downtime and interruptions. By proactively managing technology, MSPs ensure that employees have reliable, efficient access to the tools they need to perform their jobs effectively. Overall, the goal of managed IT services is to help you improve your company’s productivity.

In addition to minimizing disruptions, managed services simplify and standardize IT operations. MSPs handle routine maintenance tasks, such as software updates, system optimizations, and data backups, freeing up internal teams to focus on more strategic initiatives. With these tasks outsourced, companies benefit from smoother, faster technology operations and can better allocate their internal resources to areas that drive business growth.

Furthermore, MSPs offer specialized expertise that can lead to productivity gains across the organization. For example, an MSP can implement training, collaboration tools, secure remote access solutions, and advanced systems tailored to a company’s unique needs. By leveraging technology in these ways, MSPs enable employees to work more effectively, regardless of location, leading to improved collaboration, faster decision-making, and greater overall productivity.

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Your business can greatly benefit from Epoch IT’s top-notch solutions and cloud computing proficiency. From cost-effectiveness and access to our expertise and experience, to enhanced security, scalability and proactive maintenance, our managed services will increase your company’s productivity overall.

Reach out to us at Epoch today to learn how your company can benefit from MSP services. We can’t wait to support your growth!

https://epochit.com/contact

Managed IT Services Pennsylvania

Benefits of Managed IT Services for Small Businesses

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Benefits of Managed IT Services for Small Businesses

As technology becomes integral to business operations, small businesses are finding it essential to have reliable IT support to stay competitive. Managed IT services offer an efficient way to maintain technology infrastructure without the overhead and challenges of an in-house team. 

From network management to data backup and recovery, Managed IT Services give small businesses access to expert support, allowing them to focus on growth and profitability. Let’s explore the benefits of managed IT services, and why they are a valuable investment for small businesses.

Understanding Managed IT Services

Managed IT Services provide a comprehensive approach to maintaining and improving a company’s IT environment. Providers like Epoch IT offer a range of services, from security management and data backup to technical support and compliance auditing. 

With Managed IT Services, small businesses gain access to advanced technology, experienced technicians, and strategic insights to help them navigate IT challenges and align their technology with business goals.

Benefits of Managed IT Services for Small Businesses

For small businesses, the benefits of outsourcing IT management are numerous. Here’s a closer look at how managed IT services help small businesses streamline operations, improve security, and reduce costs.

1. Cost Savings and Predictable Budgeting

For many small businesses, maintaining a dedicated in-house IT team can be costly. Managed IT services allow businesses to pay for only what they need through predictable monthly fees, eliminating surprise expenses associated with hardware failures or emergency repairs.

  • Lower Operational Costs: Managed IT services reduce the need to hire and train in-house staff, and eliminate expenses related to on-premises infrastructure, such as power and maintenance costs.
  • Budgeting for Growth: With a fixed monthly fee, small businesses can plan IT expenses ahead of time, allowing them to allocate resources more effectively.

2. Improved Security and Data Protection

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, and small businesses are not immune to these risks. With managed IT services, small businesses can access a range of security solutions that protect their networks, data, and devices from cyber threats.

  • Comprehensive Security Management: From firewalls to antivirus software, managed IT services provide the tools needed to keep networks secure. Providers like Epoch IT implement robust security protocols to protect sensitive information and reduce the risk of data breaches.
  • Data Backup and Recovery: Managed IT services often include automated backup and disaster recovery plans. This ensures that in the event of an outage or cyberattack, small businesses can recover their data and resume operations quickly.

3. Access to the Latest Technology

Keeping up with the latest technology can be difficult and costly, especially for small businesses with limited IT budgets. Managed IT service providers have access to cutting-edge tools and resources, helping businesses stay current without needing to invest heavily in new technology.

  • Up-to-Date Systems and Software: Managed IT providers ensure that all software and systems are updated with the latest features and security patches. This not only keeps the business competitive but also reduces vulnerabilities in outdated systems.
  • Cloud Services for Flexibility: Providers like Epoch IT offer cloud services that allow businesses to store, manage, and access their data securely online. Cloud services also improve scalability, enabling businesses to expand their digital capabilities as they grow.

4. Enhanced Productivity and Efficiency

A well-managed IT environment allows employees to work efficiently without dealing with technical issues that slow them down. Managed IT services streamline workflows and keep systems running smoothly, allowing staff to focus on their core tasks.

  • Help Desk and Technical Support: Managed IT services include dedicated help desk support, providing employees with quick solutions to technical issues. This minimizes downtime and maximizes productivity.
  • Optimized Network Management: Providers monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and make necessary adjustments, ensuring reliable connectivity and reducing the risk of outages that can disrupt business operations.

5. Proactive IT Management

Managed IT services take a proactive approach to IT management by monitoring systems, identifying potential issues, and resolving them before they escalate. This approach reduces downtime and ensures that small businesses experience minimal disruptions.

  • Round-the-Clock Monitoring: Managed IT providers offer 24/7 monitoring of networks and systems, allowing them to detect and address problems as they arise. This proactive approach improves reliability and ensures continuous operation.
  • Scheduled Maintenance: Regular maintenance of hardware, software, and networks keeps systems running smoothly. Managed IT services include routine updates, checks, and optimizations, reducing the likelihood of unexpected issues.

6. Compliance and Regulatory Support

Small businesses must adhere to a range of regulations, from data protection laws to industry-specific requirements. Managed IT providers help ensure compliance by implementing necessary security measures and conducting audits.

  • Compliance Auditing: Managed IT services include compliance auditing to verify that all systems meet relevant industry standards. This minimizes the risk of penalties and enhances the company’s reputation for responsible data handling.
  • Data Protection and Privacy: Managed IT providers understand the importance of privacy and implement measures to protect customer data. This is particularly important for businesses in healthcare, finance, and other sectors that handle sensitive information.

7. Scalable Solutions to Support Growth

As a small business grows, so do its IT needs. Managed IT services offer scalable solutions that can be customized to meet the evolving requirements of the business.

  • Flexible Service Plans: Providers like Epoch IT offer flexible service plans, allowing businesses to scale their IT resources up or down based on demand. This ensures that businesses have the resources they need to support growth without overspending.
  • Infrastructure Services: Managed IT services include infrastructure management, which ensures that all hardware and software components are ready to handle increased demand as the business expands.

8. Access to Expert IT Guidance and Consulting

Managed IT service providers offer consulting services that help small businesses make informed decisions about their technology needs. This guidance ensures that technology investments align with business objectives.

  • IT Strategy Development: With access to IT experts, small businesses can create an IT strategy that supports their goals. Consulting services can help identify areas for improvement and recommend solutions that enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
  • Customized IT Solutions: Managed IT providers work with businesses to develop solutions tailored to their unique needs. Whether it’s selecting the right software or optimizing network infrastructure, Managed IT Services offer personalized support.

9. Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

Natural disasters, cyberattacks, or hardware failures can disrupt business operations. Managed IT services include business continuity and disaster recovery planning, ensuring that small businesses are prepared for unexpected events.

  • Data Backup Plans: Managed IT providers implement data backup solutions that ensure data is regularly copied and stored securely. This minimizes the impact of data loss due to hardware failure or cyberattacks.
  • Disaster Recovery Planning: In addition to backup services, providers develop disaster recovery plans that outline the steps needed to restore systems after a disruption. This ensures a faster return to normal operations and reduces the financial impact of downtime.

10. Focus on Core Business Goals

By outsourcing IT management, small businesses can focus on what they do best, without being distracted by technology issues. Managed IT services allow business owners and employees to concentrate on growing their business while leaving IT management to the experts.

  • Streamlined Operations: Managed IT providers handle day-to-day IT tasks, freeing up internal resources. This allows businesses to focus on customer service, product development, and other revenue-generating activities.
  • Competitive Advantage: With reliable IT support, small businesses can operate more efficiently, enhancing their ability to compete in the marketplace.

 

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Why Choose Epoch IT for Managed IT Services?

Epoch IT offers comprehensive managed IT services tailored to the unique needs of small businesses. From network management and data backup to compliance and consulting, Epoch IT delivers reliable support to help businesses optimize their technology and reach their goals. With a proactive approach and scalable solutions, Epoch IT ensures that small businesses can thrive in a technology-driven world.

If you’re looking for a trusted partner in Managed IT Services Pennsylvania or New Jersey, contact Epoch IT today to discover how our services can transform your business. Along with all of our services, we also offer training classes to learn more. Embrace the benefits of expert IT management, reduce costs, enhance security, and position your business for long-term success.

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12 Essential Cybersecurity Best Practices

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These days, with everything happening online, cybersecurity isn’t just important—it’s absolutely essential. Whether you’re running a small startup or managing a large company, protecting your data from cyber threats has to be a top priority. As a managed IT service provider, we are here to give you some cybersecurity best practices for your company to implement.

At Epoch IT, we work with businesses every day to help them stay secure. Here are 12 practical cybersecurity best practices you can start using right now to protect your company from common threats.

1. Implement Strong Password Policies

Passwords are the foundational layer of security. Strong password policies are neccessary for your organization to follow, as they can provide a defense against unauthorized access. Here are some cybersecurity best practices relating to passwords:

Robust password security necessitates a minimum length of 12 characters, incorporating a variety of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols to significantly hinder unauthorized access. Regular password updates, recommended every 60 to 90 days, further strengthen system security by limiting the timeframe for potential exploitation. To prevent risks associated with compromised past credentials, don’t allow the reuse of old passwords, ensuring ongoing uniqueness and reducing recurring vulnerabilities.

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) asks users to prove their identity in more than one way before they can access the system or data. This usually involves a mix of verification methods such as something you know – a password or pin; something you have – a code sent to your phone; and something you are – a biometric like fingerprints or facial recognition. By adding these extra steps, MFA makes it much, much harder for anyone who shouldn’t be there to get in, even if they somehow manage to figure out your username and password. So, just knowing those basic login details isn’t enough anymore – we’re adding those extra layers for better protection.

3. Keep Software and Systems Updated

Consistent application of updates and patches is essential for mitigating known vulnerabilities. This involves regularly updating all operating systems (such as Windows, macOS, and Linux) to incorporate the newest security enhancements. Similarly, all applications, including third-party software, should be kept current to address potential security weaknesses. Furthermore, timely firmware updates for network devices and hardware components are equally critical. To streamline this process and minimize the risk of exploitation, enabling automatic updates is a highly effective practice for ensuring systems remain protected with the latest security measures.

4. Conduct Regular Security Training

Another way to keep up with cybersecurity best practices is to maintain regular security trainings. Human error is often the weakest link in an organization’s cybersecurity, which is why training is essential. Employees need to be able to spot and respond to potential threats, including phishing attempts, social engineering tactics, and unsafe handling of sensitive data or company devices. Training should cover how to recognize these risks and what steps to take when they occur. By offering continuous education, organizations help their teams stay alert and up to date as cyber threats continue to evolve.

Epoch IT offers training and development services to help your employees constantly improve their skills. Learn more about our course options and class schedule.

5. Implement a Robust Backup Strategy

A strong data backup strategy is crucial for business continuity and recovery from incidents like ransomware, hardware failure, or data loss. Key elements include: regular backups based on data importance (daily/weekly), offsite storage (physical or cloud) to protect against local damage, and routine testing of recovery processes. A well-executed backup strategy is fundamental for organizational resilience against cyber incidents and data disruptions.

6. Deploy Advanced Threat Detection and Response Solutions

A proactive defense against today’s cyber threats relies on advanced detection and response solutions. We utilize Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) for network anomaly monitoring and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) for real-time threat blocking. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) platforms analyze security data for subtle patterns. This integrated approach enables swift threat identification, response, and containment, minimizing damage and enhancing your business’s security.

7. Secure Your Network Perimeter

A strong defense around your network’s edge is crucial for stopping unauthorized access to what’s inside. To achieve this, you should set up firewalls to control the traffic coming in and going out based on your security rules. For anyone connecting remotely, using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) is key to secure those connections and scramble the data sent over public Wi-Fi. It’s also a good idea to divide your network into separate sections; this limits who can get where and helps keep any security problems from spreading. By focusing on securing this outer boundary of your network, you’re really protecting your organization’s important information and systems.

8. Regularly Monitor and Audit Systems

For optimal cybersecurity best practices, continuous monitoring and auditing of IT systems are essential for proactive vulnerability and threat management. This involves: consistent log analysis to detect anomalies, regular vulnerability scanning for identifying weaknesses, and periodic compliance audits to ensure adherence to standards. This ongoing oversight provides critical visibility into the security posture, enabling a proactive and effective approach to maintaining robust cybersecurity.

9. Implement Access Controls

Implementing strong access controls is one of the key cybersecurity best practices for protecting sensitive systems and data. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) assigns permissions based on an employee’s job function, while the Principle of Least Privilege ensures users have only the access necessary to perform their tasks. Regularly reviewing and updating access as roles change is also essential. These measures work together to reduce the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches, reinforcing a secure and well-managed IT environment.

10. Develop an Incident Response Plan

A plan for responding to cyberattacks or breaches is crucial. It should detail how to spot and confirm incidents, limit their impact, remove threats and restore operations, and communicate effectively internally and externally. This structured approach ensures a coordinated and effective response, minimizing potential damage and downtime.

11. Secure Mobile Devices

As mobile devices become more prevalent in professional settings, ensuring their security is now a necessity. Following key cybersecurity best practices, organizations should utilize Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems for centralized control and protection of these devices. Enabling encryption is also crucial to safeguard data stored on them. Additionally, implementing remote wipe functionality offers a vital security measure for handling lost or stolen devices. These actions are fundamental to preserving sensitive information and maintaining data integrity within mobile environments.

12. Maintain Compliance with Industry Standards

Following established industry standards and regulations is essential to ensure your cybersecurity measures align with legal mandates and recommended best practices. Notable examples include GDPR for EU data privacy, HIPAA for safeguarding patient health information, and PCI DSS for securing payment card details. Demonstrating compliance with these frameworks underscores your organization’s dedication to cybersecurity and helps prevent potential legal repercussions and financial penalties.

Conclusion

Incorporating these 12 essential cybersecurity best practices is a vital step toward strengthening your company’s defenses against cyber threats. At Epoch IT, we’re dedicated to helping businesses like yours implement robust cybersecurity measures that are tailored to your specific needs. By staying proactive and vigilant, you can protect your data, ensure smooth operations, and foster trust with clients and partners.

If you’re ready to enhance your cybersecurity or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to guide you through the complexities of cybersecurity and keep your business secure.