Tag Archive for: cybersecurity

Celebrate National Technology Day with Epoch IT and learn how managed IT services prevent daily IT headaches.

Your IT Shouldn’t Be a Daily Headache: A National Technology Day Reminder

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On National Technology Day, it’s the perfect time to rethink whether your technology is supporting your business or holding it back. For small and medium businesses, unmanaged IT issues can quickly turn into daily headaches that impact productivity, security, and growth.

Slow computers before your first meeting, a system outage right before a deadline, or that sinking feeling when you’re not quite sure your data is secure — these problems are frustratingly common.

Over time, many businesses start to accept these disruptions as just part of the workday. You reboot, you wait, you work around the issue, and you move on until the next problem pops up. But the truth is, most IT headaches aren’t mysterious, and they’re definitely not inevitable.

At Epoch IT, we work with small and medium-sized businesses every day that believe technology problems are simply “part of doing business.” In reality, those challenges are usually preventable with proactive planning, consistent management, and the right IT partner.

The Hidden Costs of Inefficient IT Management

When IT issues happen regularly, they start to feel normal. But those small disruptions add up faster than most businesses realize.

  • Slow systems quietly drain productivity — every lag or freeze costs valuable time.
  • Random outages interrupt workflows — leaving employees frustrated and deadlines at risk.
  • Unclear security gaps create serious risks — a single vulnerability could lead to costly breaches.

Even when problems don’t fully shut you down, they cost time, momentum, and focus. Over time, they can impact customer experience, employee morale, and even revenue.

Managed IT isn’t about reacting faster when something breaks — it’s about reducing how often things break in the first place.

How Proactive IT Management Prevents Problems Before They Happen

When technology is managed proactively, it fades into the background — in a good way. With Epoch IT, small and medium businesses gain:

Systems That Actually Run

Your technology should support your work, not slow it down. Proactive maintenance, updates, and optimization keep systems running smoothly so your team can stay productive.

Fewer Surprise Outages

Downtime shouldn’t be a regular event. Monitoring and preventative maintenance help identify issues early before they turn into full-blown outages.

Security That’s Built In, Not Bolted On

Cybersecurity isn’t optional, even for smaller organizations. From endpoint protection to best practices and ongoing monitoring, managed IT helps protect your data, devices, and users without overwhelming your team.

How Managed IT Services Support Business Growth and Efficiency

Small and medium businesses are often targeted precisely because they assume they’re too small to attract attention. At the same time, many don’t have internal IT teams or the resources to manage complex technology environments alone.
Managed IT services help bridge that gap by providing:

  • Proactive monitoring and maintenance
  • Predictable monthly IT costs
  • Expert support when issues arise
  • Strategic guidance to align technology with business goals

Rather than constantly reacting to problems, you gain a technology roadmap that supports growth, reduces disruptions, and helps your team work smarter.

Transform Your Technology into a Strategic Business Asset

Technology should empower your business, not distract from it. When systems are reliable, secure, and aligned with your workflow, employees spend less time troubleshooting and more time on high-value work. That’s the difference between reactive IT and managed IT.

At Epoch IT, our goal is simple: make technology dependable, secure, and aligned with how your business operates. We handle the tech, so you don’t have to think about it every day.

A National Technology Day Reminder

National Technology Day isn’t just about celebrating innovation; it’s also a reminder to ask whether your technology is truly working for you.

If IT issues feel like a daily headache, it may be time for a better approach.

If you’re ready to move from constant IT frustrations to reliable, proactive support, contact Epoch IT today and start making technology an asset instead of a liability.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Protect Your Business and Data

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October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month — a good moment to ask yourself one simple question: If something went wrong with your systems today, how fast could your business recover?

Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls or fancy software. It’s about protecting the heart of your operations — your data, your tools, and your people. That includes everything from customer records and employee information to the systems you rely on every day to keep work moving.

No matter your size or industry, strong security and a solid recovery plan can mean the difference between a minor disruption and a serious setback.

Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever

A lot of businesses assume cybersecurity is something only the IT team needs to worry about. But the truth is, if one person clicks a bad link or uses a weak password, it can trigger a problem that affects the entire company.

Good security isn’t about living in fear, it’s about being ready. At Epoch, we build solutions that make recovery fast, minimize downtime, and keep your business moving even when things don’t go as planned.

The Risks of Being Unprepared

A cyberattack or system failure isn’t just an inconvenience. It can lock you out of your data, stall your work, and damage your reputation. Recovery can be long and expensive if you don’t have a plan in place.

With a strong cybersecurity and disaster recovery strategy, you can avoid:

  • Costly downtime
  • Data loss or exposure
  • Compliance issues (HIPAA, GDPR, and more)
  • Operational slowdowns
  • Customer trust problems that are hard to rebuild

Epoch’s Cybersecurity and Disaster Recovery Solutions

We don’t believe in scare tactics. We build real protection that fits how your business actually works. Our approach covers everything from prevention and monitoring to fast recovery if something does happen.

Our security and disaster recovery services include:

  • Risk assessments to uncover vulnerabilities before they become problems
  • Disaster recovery planning with clear recovery goals, timelines, and regular testing
  • Cloud and off-site backups that keep your data safe and easy to restore
  • Incident response plans so everyone knows what to do in a crisis
  • Access control and encryption to keep sensitive information secure
  • 24/7 security monitoring for suspicious activity and real-time alerts
  • Vulnerability scanning and patch management to close security gaps
  • Training and awareness programs to turn your employees into your first line of defense
  • Compliance support for HIPAA, GDPR, and other data protection regulations

Simple Steps to Improve Your Security Today

Not sure where to begin? A few simple changes can make a big difference:

  • Turn on multi-factor authentication for key accounts
  • Keep systems and software fully updated
  • Test your data backups to make sure they work
  • Review who has access to sensitive information
  • Monitor for unusual logins or system activity

These are small steps, but they can close common gaps that cybercriminals love to exploit.

Staying Compliant Without the Headache

Data protection laws can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to be. Our team helps businesses stay compliant with HIPAA, GDPR, and other key regulations by making sure your data handling, security, and recovery processes meet the required standards. You’ll be ready for audits — and avoid fines — with less stress.

Your Team Is Your First Line of Defense

Technology can’t do it all on its own. A strong security culture starts with your people. That’s why we offer hands-on employee training, phishing simulations, and clear incident response planning. The more your team understands the risks, the faster and smarter they can respond.

Making Cybersecurity Simple for Your Business

Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. At Epoch, we make it straightforward: protect your data, prepare for the unexpected, and build systems that bounce back fast.

This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take a few minutes to look at how your business would handle a worst-case scenario. A little preparation now can save you from a lot of chaos later.

Ready to strengthen your cybersecurity strategy? Contact us at 877-483-7624 or on our contact page.

 

Team members at a local business in Lehigh Valley, PA using managed IT services to stay connected and secure.

Why More Local Businesses Are Choosing IT Services in Lehigh Valley, PA

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In Lehigh Valley, PA, small businesses are the heartbeat of the community, from manufacturers in Allentown to family-run shops in Bethlehem. If you run or work for one, the last thing you need is a backup system that doesn’t back anything up or a network that cuts out at the worst possible time.

When tech problems strike, they can bring everything to a standstill. That’s why more businesses feel comfortable turning to local partners for support—people who know the area, understand the pace, and can step in quickly with real solutions.

At Epoch IT, we’re proud to be part of the Lehigh Valley and the kind of partner you can turn to for all your IT needs.

What Does “Managed IT” Actually Cover?

If you’re new to managed IT, here’s the short version: we keep things running behind the scenes so you can stay focused on your business.

We handle the systems that power your work—keeping them fast, secure, and up to date—so you can focus on what matters most.

Our IT services in the Lehigh Valley cover:

  • Network monitoring to catch issues before they slow you down
  • Cybersecurity to protect sensitive data and keep you compliant
  • Cloud migration and support to make your team more flexible
  • Data backups and disaster recovery (just in case)
  • On-call help desk support from people who know your business

We work with construction firms, healthcare clinics, law offices, retailers—you name it. And no matter what you do, we keep the support grounded, responsive, and human.

Why Local IT Support Makes a Difference for Lehigh Valley Businesses

Sure, some IT companies operate hundreds of miles away and handle everything remotely. And sometimes, that’s fine—until it’s not.

If you’ve ever had to wait three days for a ticket to get escalated, or been stuck on a call with someone reading from a script, you already know the downside.

At Epoch IT, we’re based right here in Lehigh Valley, PA. That means:

  • We show up when needed. Some issues just can’t be solved over Zoom.
  • We know the area. We’ve helped businesses across Allentown, Bethlehem, and beyond with setups big and small.
  • We build real relationships. We’re not just a vendor—we’re part of your extended team.

How Managed IT Services Support Your Business Growth

We’re here for the quick fixes, sure—but also for the long game. If you’re growing your company, moving to a new space, or hiring remote staff, we help you plan your tech around what’s coming next.

And if you’ve been getting by with break-fix support (a.k.a. calling someone only when something breaks), we can take a lot of that stress off your plate. With managed IT, we’re monitoring and maintaining things behind the scenes—so you don’t have to scramble when something goes sideways.

The Bottom Line: Reliable Local IT Support for Your Business

Your time should be spent on the work that matters—not restarting routers or worrying about ransomware. With the right local IT support, you gain more peace of mind, fewer disruptions, and a setup that scales with your needs.

So, if you’re looking for IT services in Lehigh Valley, PA that are responsive, honest, and built for the way you work, we’re here to help.

Let’s Talk About Your Setup

Whether you’re ready to upgrade or just want to ask a few questions, we’d love to connect.

Contact Epoch IT, and let’s get started!

managed IT services

Managed IT Services in Allentown, PA: What Local Businesses Need to Know

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managed IT services

If you’re running a business in Allentown—or anywhere in the Lehigh Valley—you know how fast things can move. Tech issues? They don’t wait. And they definitely don’t fix themselves. That’s where we come in. At Epoch, we provide Managed IT Services in Allentown, PA, built specifically for small and mid-sized businesses that need fast, reliable support—without the hassle.

Whether you’re based in Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, or just nearby, we’re already helping businesses like yours stay secure, stay online, and stay focused on the work that matters.

What It’s Like to Work With Us

We’re not just a remote helpdesk. We’re local, and we show up when it counts.

We don’t wait for something to break. We watch for early signs of trouble and handle issues before they get worse.

And we don’t make things more complicated than they need to be. If something’s wrong, we fix it—and we explain it clearly.

Already have an internal IT person? Great. We can take care of the day-to-day support, fill in the gaps, or handle the behind-the-scenes stuff they don’t have time for.

What Epoch IT Actually Does

Our Managed IT Services in Allentown, PA, cover everything a growing business needs to stay protected and productive:

  • Monitor and maintain your network
  • Set up backups and make sure they actually work
  • Keep your systems secure with real-time threat protection
  • Manage your cloud services and storage
  • Support your team with on-call troubleshooting
  • Keep your hardware and software updated and running
  • Help you stay compliant with industry regulations
  • And step in fast when something unexpected happens

What Sets Us Apart from Other IT Services Companies

We bring more than just tools—we bring real experience and proven results. With 70+ years of combined IT and training expertise, we know what it takes to keep your business running. Our clients seem to agree: with over 96% positive reviews on Google, we’ve become a go-to IT partner for businesses throughout Pennsylvania.

We also work with top technology providers to make sure you’re always getting the best resources and solutions. And if you want to take your team’s skills to the next level, we’ve got you covered there too. Our training services go beyond the basics, offering live online or on-site classes in everything from PC applications and technical skills to leadership development, web and graphic design, and security awareness.

Serving Allentown and Beyond

Even though we’re based here, we work with businesses across the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas. Our IT solution is built to scale with you—whether you’re a five-person office or a growing company with more complex needs.

Let’s Chat

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own—and you don’t have to overpay for support that doesn’t really fit. We’ll meet you where you are and help you build a tech setup that works. Simple as that.

Either fill out this form on our contact page or call 877-483-7624.

Old vs new Outlook interface comparison screenshot

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

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Microsoft Outlook has long been the go-to email and calendar app for both pros and casual users. In this post, we compare the new Outlook with the classic version, so you can see what’s changed and what stayed the same.

Microsoft just released a big Microsoft Outlook update in Microsoft 365. If you want every detail straight from the source, check out Microsoft’s feature-comparison page. Here, we’ll highlight the key points:

  • What’s new in the new Outlook vs old Outlook experience
  • Which version might be right for you
  • How our Managed IT Services can keep Outlook running smoothly

Cleaner Design & UI: Modern Microsoft 365 Email Interface

New Outlook vs Old Outlook comparison interface screenshot

 

Old Outlook had a ribbon full of buttons—powerful, but busy and sometimes overwhelming. The new Outlook looks more like the web or mobile version. It has clean lines, fewer menus, and more white space.

Why it matters: If you like a simple layout, the new Outlook feels lighter and less cluttered.

Faster Performance with Cloud Infrastructure & IT Support

Old Outlook can feel slow. It takes longer to start up if you have a large mailbox or many add-ins. The new Outlook is a web-based app. It uses cloud computing to sync mail faster and load pages quickly.

Why it matters: If performance frustrates you, the new version is noticeably snappier.

Add-ins & Compatibility: Expert IT Consulting Tips

Old Outlook: Supports legacy COM add-ins that many businesses still need. The new Outlook uses modern web-based add-ins. These are more secure but don’t cover every old tool yet.

Why it matters: If your team relies on older add-ins, stick with the classic version for now.

Feature Comparison for Power Users: IT Helpdesk Insights

Below is a quick comparison of key features. Classic Outlook still wins in some areas:

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

Why it matters: Power users—especially those who work offline or with multiple profiles—may want to stay on the classic version a bit longer. If you need help, our IT helpdesk and tech support can guide you through the pros and cons.

Reliable Cross-Device Sync: Leveraging Cloud Services

One goal of the new version is a consistent feel on Windows, Mac, and the web. Because it’s cloud-based:

  • Your inbox and calendar stay in sync on every device.
  • You won’t miss an important email if you switch from desktop to phone.

Why it matters: If you hop between devices often, the new Outlook saves time and headaches.

Learn more about our Cloud Services and Managed Cloud Services to stay connected and secure across every platform.

Settings & Customization: Business IT Support Guide

Old Outlook buried tons of settings in deep menus. You could tweak almost anything, but it took time to find the right option. New Outlook offers easier access to the most-used settings, though not all advanced options have made the move yet.

Why it matters: If you love custom layouts, rules, or multiple profiles, classic Outlook still has the edge. Our Managed IT Services can help set up your preferences in either version and ensure your team stays productive.

Should You Switch? IT Outsourcing & Managed IT Advice

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


Final Thoughts: Managed IT, Remote Support & Your Email Environment

The new Outlook vs old Outlook debate boils down to this: Microsoft built the new version with performance and accessibility in mind, but not every feature has made the transition.

If you’re managing VPN issues, cloud access, or remote workers, having an experienced MSP (Managed Services Provider) can make the switch easier and help you avoid disruptions.

Whether you’re ready to embrace the latest Microsoft 365 experience or prefer the comfort of the classic version, Epoch is here to support you with expert computer support, proactive cybersecurity, and reliable remote support—wherever you work. Contact us today!

Cybersecurity concept image representing data protection and regulatory compliance

Why Patch Management is Crucial for your System’s Security

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Staying one step ahead of security risks means consistently identifying and implementing necessary updates. For this reason, patch management is vital to a strong cybersecurity strategy in any business.

So, What is Patch Management?

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, approximately 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
  • Is 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!