Microsoft Office 2016 and Office 2019 support ends: What to do next
Are you still using an older version of Microsoft Office, specifically 2016 or 2019? If so, Microsoft has important news for you. Support for these products officially ended in October 2025. While your applications will still run, they are now vulnerable. Microsoft is no longer fixing bugs or, most importantly, patching security holes. Why this is a big deal for your business “End of support” isn’t just a sales pitch to get you to upgrade. It’s a serious security warning. Your software will keep working, but it’s now a sitting duck. Losing support means you’ve lost three key things: No more security updates: Hackers and viruses love finding old, unprotected software. Without new security updates, your business is exposed. It’s like knowing criminals have a copy of your office key but deciding not to change the locks. No more bug fixes: If PowerPoint crashes during a big presentation or an Excel glitch corrupts your file, there will be no fix. Think of it as your car’s manufacturer deciding to stop making spare parts. When something breaks, it stays broken. No more help: Are you having problems? Microsoft’s technical support team can no longer help you with Office 2016 or 2019 issues. Your product’s warranty has expired, so you’ll need to find other support options. What are your options? Fortunately, you have clear choices to protect your business. Continuing to use the old software shouldn’t be one of them. Option 1: Move to Microsoft 365 Microsoft 365 is the subscription version of Office, where you pay a monthly or yearly fee to access various apps. It’s best for businesses that want to “set it and forget it” and always have the latest, most secure tools. Pros You are always up to date and always secure. You get new features as soon as they are released. It often includes other tools such as cloud storage (OneDrive) and communication (Teams). Option 2: Buy Office 2024 If you prefer the “old” way, you can buy Office 2024 once and own it. Keep in mind that this version will be supported until 2029, so you’ll need to plan for another upgrade after that. Pros It’s a single, one-time cost. You get the classic apps you know (Word, Excel, Outlook). It’s perfect if you don’t want or need cloud features. Option 3: Get Office LTSC 2024 You might also hear about a version called Office LTSC 2024. LTSC stands for long-term servicing channel, which is a special, one-time purchase version of Office built purely for stability. It’s designed not to get new feature updates over time, only essential security fixes. It’s made for specific commercial or government situations. Think of computers that run medical equipment, control machinery on a factory floor, or operate in a lab — devices that need to stay exactly the same for years and often aren’t connected to the internet. Like the regular Office 2024, it’s supported until 2029. However, it is typically sold through volume licensing and won’t get any of the new tools or features that Microsoft 365 or even the standard Office 2024 might get. For nearly all small businesses, Option 1 (Microsoft 365) or Option 2 (Office 2024) is the simpler and better choice. It’s not just Office — check these apps too This end-of-support announcement also affects other related Microsoft programs. It’s a great time to do a quick check-up on all your software. Make sure you have a plan to upgrade these if you use them: Project (2016 and 2019) Visio (2016 and 2019) Skype for Business (2016 and 2019) The same thinking also applies to other major products such as Windows 10 and Exchange Server 2016/2019, which are also at or near their end of support. Don’t wait for a problem, and make a plan today Your old Office software will keep working, but the risk of a security breach, data loss, or a major glitch is now very high. Switching systems can take time, so we recommend starting your upgrade plan now. Whether you choose the flexibility of Microsoft 365 or the simplicity of Office 2024, upgrading is a small step that protects your business from big problems. Contact our experts today for help.
AI-powered browsers: Useful features you should take advantage of
A web browser used to be little more than a portal to websites. Fast forward to today, and web browsers have evolved into intelligent digital platforms. Thanks to AI (artificial intelligence), they’re now packed with smart tools that assist, protect, and even think alongside you as you browse. Let’s take a closer look at the AI-powered features that are improving browsing experiences. Content summarization Content summarization tools now built into browsers or available as native features can scan an entire page and distill it down to the key takeaways. And they don’t just highlight a paragraph or two. These summaries use language models to understand the structure of the content, so you get a coherent digest that saves you from skimming endlessly. Real-time translation Modern browsers can automatically detect a website’s language and translate it on the spot using AI-powered engines. Unlike older translation tools that often misinterpreted grammar and context, newer systems provide more accurate, natural translations. They adeptly capture the original tone and nuance, making it easier to access foreign content, explore new cultures online, and collaborate across language barriers. Built-in AI assistants AI assistants in web browsers such as Gemini in Chrome are becoming more widespread. These assistants integrate directly into the browser, allowing users to ask questions, summarize content, generate text, or search more effectively, all without switching tabs or opening new tools. Because they’re built into the browsing experience, they can tailor their responses based on the current page, offering more relevant and contextual support. What’s more, unlike static assistants that just respond to prompts, these AI assistants have more agency and can take actions on behalf of the user. That means they can click on links, navigate websites, extract data, or fill out forms automatically. These features make complex online tasks such as comparing product specs, booking services, or managing workflows much faster by automating repetitive steps. Smarter tab management AI-enhanced tab managers categorize open tabs based on content, suggest which ones to close, and automatically group similar tabs together. Some also decrease memory usage by suspending inactive tabs to help users stay organized, reduce browser lag, and make multitasking far less chaotic. Contextual links and in-page discovery Sometimes, you come across a term you don’t know but don’t want to leave the page to look it up. Modern browsers use AI to provide real-time contextual information. Just hover over a link or highlight a phrase, and sidebars or pop-ups appear with related insights, definitions, or videos. You can then quickly grasp and explore new topics without interrupting your browsing experience. Natural language search Instead of relying on exact keywords, modern browsers now allow users to type queries in everyday language. AI interprets the meaning behind the question, such as timeframes, comparisons, or intent, and delivers more accurate and relevant results. Enhanced visual search In newer web browsers, users are now able to right-click an image or upload one to perform an AI-powered search. The browser then identifies what’s in the image — be it a product, landmark, or text — and returns with useful information, such as the source, related images, and shopping options. By taking advantage of this feature, users no longer have to manually search for information about an image, saving them time and effort. Improved browsing protection Staying safe online requires more than a pop-up blocker. AI-powered protection in browsers now spots malicious websites, phishing attempts, and sneaky trackers with greater precision. These tools can analyze patterns and behaviors, not just URLs, to detect threats or privacy risks that traditional methods might miss. Some browsers even warn you before you click, saving you from potential harm. If you’re still thinking of your browser as just a place to check email or scroll social media, you’re missing out on powerful tools already at your fingertips. Contact us now to discover new AI features and useful productivity hacks that can improve your online experience.
Is your business continuity plan built to fail? Watch for these pitfalls
Unexpected events such as natural disasters, hardware failures, or cyberattacks can quickly upend your operations. While a well-built business continuity plan (BCP) can minimize those risks, that’s only if it’s properly developed and maintained. But too often, businesses forget crucial details that can undercut their crisis response. Below are the top pitfalls businesses face when crafting their continuity strategies, along with practical ways to avoid them: Skipping a thorough risk review Business owners tend to zero in on one or two risks, such as cyberattacks, while overlooking others, including severe weather, supply chain disruptions, or staffing shortages. These oversights can leave their BCPs unprepared, making their operations vulnerable. To prevent this, conduct a comprehensive risk assessment that identifies all potential threats and their impact on your business. Failing to prepare the team Your business continuity plan is only effective if employees know how to carry it out. That said, a smooth response during a crisis depends on everyone understanding their roles. Through regular training sessions, walkthroughs, and drills, you can reinforce that understanding and build the confidence to act under pressure. Not testing the plan in realistic scenarios Businesses often create a BCP and set it aside, assuming it will work as intended during a disruption. However, unless you test it with realistic simulations or mock incidents, there’s no way to know how well it will actually hold up. That’s why routine testing is vital; it helps reveal gaps, refine processes, and confirm the plan’s feasibility. Underestimating your tech reliance Technology drives nearly every part of modern business, from internal communication and sales to logistics and customer service. However, many organizations overlook just how dependent they are on specific systems, software, or data. Failing to account for this reliance can leave you unprepared when an important platform goes down. You can avoid this by identifying your mission-critical systems and putting clear contingency plans in place. Whether it’s a data backup platform, a manual workaround, or a preconfigured recovery setup, document your measures in your BCP. Poor communication planning In the event of an emergency, effective communication is key to executing a strong response. Without a clear strategy for keeping staff, vendors, customers, and stakeholders informed, confusion can spread quickly. Thus, to keep everyone on the same page, define a communication chain and prepare reliable channels, such as group messaging platforms, SMS alerts, automated call trees, or dedicated emergency apps. Ignoring your supply chain Suppliers and vendors are vital to your operations, yet they’re often left out of business continuity planning. This oversight can have serious financial consequences. Consider a manufacturer that relies on a single supplier for a critical part. If that supplier goes offline, that production line grinds to a halt, resulting in missed deadlines and lost revenue. You can reduce such risks by including suppliers in your continuity strategy. That means establishing clear communication protocols for disruptions, understanding each partner’s recovery timeline, and lining up backup vendors if necessary. Relying too heavily on insurance Insurance can support recovery after a disaster, but it won’t prevent operational disruptions or financial losses. Even more concerning, many businesses assume they’re fully covered, only to realize too late that their policies don’t cover key risks. To avoid surprises, review your policies regularly to ensure coverage aligns with how your business actually operates and the risks it faces. Making the plan too complicated When every second counts, simplicity matters. A business continuity plan full of jargon and complex flowcharts might seem comprehensive, but it’s useless if your team can’t understand it. Focus on clarity and ease of execution to ensure the plan works when it’s needed most. Letting the plan get outdated A business continuity plan that worked last year may no longer be effective. As your business evolves — with new systems, additional users, or expanded services — its needs change. On top of that, new threats can emerge at any time. Therefore, it’s important to revisit your BCP, especially after major organizational or environmental changes, to make sure it still addresses your new risks and priorities. A business continuity plan is your company’s lifeline during uncertain times, but even small mistakes can weaken it. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you create a plan that’s not only comprehensive but truly reliable when it matters most. If you’re unsure where to start or how to strengthen your business continuity plan, our experts are here to help.
Beyond passwords: Smarter ways to protect your online accounts
Passwords have been a staple of online security for decades, but relying on them alone is no longer enough. Cybersecurity experts now emphasize the importance of adding layers of protection to defend against today’s more advanced threats. Why your security strategy must go beyond passwords Cybersecurity experts at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) now warn that passwords are fundamentally vulnerable and should be avoided whenever possible. Even the strongest password can be compromised in two common ways: Phishing: Cybercriminals deploy deceptive tactics, luring users into revealing their credentials through fake login links designed to mimic legitimate sites. Once a user enters their information, the attacker captures it, rendering the password’s strength irrelevant. Offline attacks: These attacks involve cybercriminals stealing encrypted password databases during a data breach. They then leverage powerful computers to run automated password-cracking programs offline. A modern PC can attempt up to 100 billion guesses per second, meaning an eight-character password with a capital letter, a number, and a symbol can be deciphered almost instantly. Given these threats, your focus must shift from creating better passwords to implementing additional security measures. Your new security hierarchy for 2025 and beyond To truly secure your accounts, follow this modern hierarchy of defense recommended by cybersecurity experts. Priority #1: Activate passkeys (the password replacement) The biggest change in digital security is the move to passkeys, a safer alternative to passwords. Passkeys store a private digital key on your phone or laptop. You can log in to your accounts by verifying your device with a PIN or fingerprint. Passkeys are phishing-resistant; you can’t be tricked into typing a passkey on a fake website. They’re also unique to every site, so a data breach at one company won’t expose your other accounts. Action step: Check your account settings for “Security” or “Login Options” and select Create a Passkey wherever available. Priority #2: Enable multifactor authentication (MFA) For any account that doesn’t support passkeys, enabling MFA is a critical step you can take to secure it. MFA adds another layer of protection beyond just your password. It asks for another verification factor, which can be something you have (e.g., your phone) or something you are (e.g., your fingerprint). That way, even if a cybercriminal gets your password, they still can’t access your account without completing the extra authentication step. While many services use SMS codes for MFA, security experts at NIST warn that these can be intercepted. For better security, prioritize more robust methods, such as: Authenticator apps (e.g., Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator) Physical security keys (e.g., USB dongles) Push notifications sent from a trusted app on your device Action step: Review the security settings of your key accounts (e.g., email, banking, and social media), and turn on MFA wherever possible. Priority #3: Use a password manager Many accounts still require traditional passwords. Since it’s impossible to remember a long, unique password for each one, use a password manager. This application generates and securely stores all your unique credentials, simplifying digital security by requiring you to remember only one master password to access them. Action step: Install a reputable password manager, and let it create strong, unique passwords for your nonpasskey accounts. What to do if you must create a password If you need to create a password, NIST’s 2025 guidance is clear: length matters most. Aim for at least 15 characters. NIST no longer recommends mandating special characters, numbers, or uppercase letters for password requirements. Although complexity contributes to password strength, length is far more effective. A 10-character complex password (e.g., Tr@ub4d0r!) is far weaker than a simple 20-character password. The easiest way to create a long, memorable password is to string together several unrelated words. A passphrase such as “cassettelavababyriver” is 21 characters long, which is easy for you to remember but would take a long time for a computer to crack. To keep up with the latest cybersecurity practices and IT trends, connect with our IT professionals today.
5 Simple fixes to renew your Android phone
Your Android phone isn’t broken — it just needs a quick clean. Learn how to delete junk, tweak settings, and refresh your home screen to make your slow phone feel fast and responsive again with this quick cleanup guide. 1. Uninstall unused apps Old apps often continue running quietly in the background and slow your phone down. Go through your app drawer and uninstall anything you haven’t touched in the last month or two. If you don’t recognize the app or forgot you had it, it’s time for it to go. For many phone operating systems and models, long-pressing an app icon gives you the option to uninstall it directly. If not, jump into your settings or check your app manager to fully remove the software from your system. 2. Clean out those forgotten downloads Your storage can fill up fast with leftover downloads, such as PDFs, memes, screenshots, or that random flyer you saved six months ago. Use your phone’s file manager (it might be called Files, My Files, File Manager, etc.) and check the Downloads folder. From there, you can simply delete any unnecessary files, and back up anything you might want to keep to the cloud via Google Drive. Most file manager apps also show you the largest files taking space, and these are often the biggest culprits slowing things down. 3. Refresh your home screen A few visual tweaks can re-energize your phone and make it feel new again. Try changing your app grid size (for example, from 4×5 to 5×5), hide app labels, or adjust what happens when you swipe down. Long-press any blank space on the home screen, tap “Home settings” (or something similar), and start experimenting. A few tweaks can make your setup cleaner and easier to use. 4. Tune up your settings Sometimes, performance issues could be due to misconfigured settings. Try enabling battery-saving options such as dark mode or reducing screen brightness. You can also limit background processes and disable animations to speed things up. Scroll through your Settings app and see how you can make it work for you, not against you. Even small tweaks such as stopping new app icons from automatically appearing on your home screen can make your phone feel less cluttered. 5. Review your privacy permissions Access your phone’s Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager to look through the list of apps that are allowed to access your location, camera, microphone, and other sensitive data. If something seems unnecessary — such as a flashlight app that wants your location — deny access immediately. Fewer background processes mean a faster, more secure phone. Don’t assume that lag equals death. Most of the time, a few cleanup tasks are all you need to restore your phone’s performance. Take 15 minutes to clear the clutter, revisit your settings, and get your Android running smoothly again. If you need more assistance figuring out your Android device, give us a call.
The new M5 MacBook Pro wows with faster performance and next-level capabilities
Apple has taken the wraps off its latest 14-inch MacBook Pro, and if you thought the previous model was impressive, this one is here to up the game significantly. Thanks to the brand-new M5 chip, Apple’s new pro laptop isn’t just faster — it’s smarter too, with AI performance at the heart of its evolution. M5: A chip built for the AI age At the core of the newest release is the M5 chip, which delivers a huge boost in processing power, graphics performance, and machine learning capabilities. It’s up to 3.5 times faster for AI tasks compared to its M4 predecessor and features a next-generation Neural Engine and graphics processing unit. This enables users to run advanced AI models directly on their Mac, even without a cloud connection. Whether you’re a videographer editing 8K videos, a student using AI apps to take notes, or a developer running thousands of lines of code, the M5 can handle it all. A serious boost for everyday performance The M5 chip isn’t just about AI. Compared to the M4, it boasts graphics that are up to 1.6 times faster, a more responsive CPU, and double the SSD writing and reading speed. Apple says you’ll notice the difference whether you’re importing massive Apple ProRes lossless video files, building apps in Xcode, or gaming with graphics-heavy titles. Gamers will appreciate up to 3.2 times higher frame rates, while video editors get up to 7.7 times faster AI video enhancements. And with support for up to 4 TB of storage, you’ll have plenty of room for high-res projects and local AI models. All-day power, anywhere Battery life remains one of the MacBook Pro’s standout features, and this new model doesn’t disappoint. Apple claims up to 24 hours of usage on a single charge — that’s four more hours than the M1-based MacBook Pro and 14 more than Intel versions. Even better? You get the same performance whether the device is plugged into an outlet or running on its battery. Designed for today’s workflows This laptop features Apple’s stunning 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, a 12MP Center Stage camera for video calls that automatically adjust lighting and focus, and an immersive sound system with six speakers and Spatial Audio support. It includes a full suite of ports and ships out with macOS Tahoe already installed, which introduces Live Activities, a redesigned Control Center, and tight integration with Apple Intelligence. Sustainable and future-ready For eco-conscious buyers, the new MacBook Pro checks all the right boxes. Crafted with sustainability in mind, the machine itself incorporates 45% recycled materials. Its packaging goes a step further, being entirely composed of recyclable, plant-derived materials such as paper, cardboard, and molded pulp. Plus, the device is designed to last for years with long-term software support and energy-efficient engineering. The world of IT is rapidly evolving. If you want to keep pace with it, reach out to our team. We’re here to provide expert insights, device recommendations, and updates on the latest technology, including how AI-powered tools like the new MacBook Pro can improve your workflow.
9 VoIP security measures every business owner should know
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems make business communication easier, cheaper, and more flexible than traditional phone lines. But with those benefits come risks, from data theft to call hijacking. The good news is that protecting your system doesn’t require deep technical knowledge. These VoIP security measures can help you keep your business safe and connected. 1. Use strong, unique passwords (and add a second layer) Weak or reused passwords are still one of the biggest security gaps. Every account linked to your phone system, such as user logins, admin panels, and provider dashboards, should have its own strong password. Adding two-factor authentication (2FA) gives you a second layer of protection, making it much harder for attackers to get in, even if they guess or steal a password. 2. Confirm your provider encrypts calls and data Encryption turns your calls and messages into unreadable data, keeping prying eyes and ears out. Ask your VoIP provider whether they encrypt both your call traffic and account information. If they do, your conversations are safe from interception. If not, it’s time to look at other providers who take security seriously. 3. Turn off unused phone features, like the web interface Many VoIP phones include web-based setup tools that you might never use. While convenient, they can also be an open door for hackers. Turning off unused features reduces the number of ways unauthorized parties can access your system. The fewer doors you leave unlocked, the better. 4. Work with an IT partner who watches your systems 24/7 Cyberattacks don’t stick to office hours. Having an IT team or managed IT services provider that monitors your systems around the clock means threats can be spotted and stopped before they cause damage. Continuous monitoring also helps detect unusual behavior, such as sudden spikes in call activity or login attempts, so issues can be fixed fast. 5. Use a VPN for remote workers and sensitive links If your team works remotely, a virtual private network (VPN) can protect their connections. A VPN creates a private “tunnel” for data between devices and your phone system, keeping calls and credentials safe from snooping. It’s especially useful for employees connecting through public Wi-Fi or home networks. 6. Protect VoIP traffic with a suitable firewall Not every firewall is built for VoIP. Look for one that’s designed to recognize and manage phone traffic, block suspicious call activity, and prevent unauthorized access. A good VoIP-aware firewall helps maintain call quality while reducing the chance of attacks or downtime. 7. Use AI-powered monitoring and analytics Modern AI-powered tools can make your security smarter. They can automatically detect unusual call patterns, alert you to potential fraud, and even stop suspicious activity in real time. For example, AI can flag if someone is making hundreds of international calls at once — a common sign of compromise. These systems don’t replace humans, but they do help catch problems faster and more accurately. 8. Prepare your VoIP system for 5G As 5G networks continue to roll out, they bring faster speeds and better reliability, but also new security considerations. With more devices connected and more data moving at once, it’s important to ensure your VoIP setup uses secure connections and up-to-date hardware. Work with your provider to confirm that your phones and routers are 5G-ready and have the latest firmware and encryption protocols in place. 9. Secure your UCaaS and CPaaS integrations If your business uses Unified-Communications-as-a-Service (UCaaS) or Communications-Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS), make sure all connected apps follow the same security standards. Limit who can access integrations, review app permissions regularly, and verify that your provider applies end-to-end encryption across all communication channels. The more unified your communication tools are, the more consistent your security should be. You don’t need to be an IT expert to protect your phone system. Just take smart, practical steps that make sense for your business. By following these VoIP security measures, you’ll keep your calls private, your data protected, and your business communications running smoothly no matter how technology evolves.
New platform, new requirements: Virtualization and storage after VMware
When VMware, a leading virtualization provider, changed hands and its licensing model grew more complex, many IT teams began asking the same question: What are the alternatives? But switching to a new virtualization platform isn’t as simple as choosing different software. Your current storage setup helps determine which options can seamlessly integrate with your existing infrastructure. In this article, we’ll explore the most popular VMware alternatives, highlighting their key features, potential limitations, and storage requirements. Microsoft Hyper-V If your business already uses Windows, Hyper‑V feels like the most natural next step. It’s built into Windows Server and works with tools many IT teams already know, such as PowerShell and Event Viewer. Additionally, Hyper‑V can run multiple virtual machines at once and lets you move them between servers without turning them off, which keeps operations running smoothly. That said, Hyper‑V is designed mainly for Windows systems, so it may not be the best fit for teams that mostly use Linux or open-source software. While it does support Linux, getting everything to work properly often requires extra setup. Furthermore, many Linux-based tools don’t integrate as smoothly with Hyper‑V, which can slow down teams that depend on them. Storage needs Hyper‑V needs a shared storage setup that all your servers can access. This could be a network drive or hard drives connected across different servers via software. Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) KVM is a widely used open-source platform built into many Linux systems. It enables machines to create and run virtual machines efficiently. Trusted by businesses of every size, KVM offers strong performance without licensing fees. Its flexibility makes it easy to adapt to different IT infrastructures. The downside is that KVM is not beginner-friendly. It typically requires working with text-based commands and extensive knowledge of Linux. For that reason, it’s best for IT teams that already have experience with Linux systems. Storage needs KVM supports a wide range of storage configurations, including hard drives and more advanced systems that distribute data across multiple machines for added protection. Proxmox Virtual Environment (VE) Proxmox VE is a free, open-source virtualization platform that’s simple to manage, even for small teams. It runs in a web browser and by default supports both virtual machines and lightweight applications called containers. Containers start up faster and use fewer system resources than traditional virtual machines, making them ideal for running simple applications. With this versatility, users can choose to run a full operating system in a virtual machine or isolate a single app in a container, depending on their needs. The downside is that Proxmox isn’t widely supported by major software vendors, so if you use commercial business tools, you may need to check compatibility. Storage needs Similar to KVM, Proxmox works seamlessly with different types of storage, including local hard drives and shared network storage. Nutanix AHV Nutanix AHV is a virtualization platform that includes its own built-in storage system, so there’s no need to manage separate storage hardware. Instead, it automatically distributes data across all Nutanix cloud servers in your setup, helping maintain speed and reliability. Thanks to its user-friendly, web-based dashboard and ability to scale easily, AHV is a strong choice for businesses looking for a streamlined, all-in-one solution. Unfortunately, Nutanix AHV is a closed system. It only runs on Nutanix software and approved hardware. That means you’re tied into their ecosystem, which limits flexibility. Choosing a VMware alternative isn’t just about replacing one tool with another. Each platform has its own strengths and its own expectations when it comes to storage. Whether you’re moving on from VMware or just need virtualization advice, feel free to reach out.
Why AI is the new weapon of choice for cybercriminals
Cybersecurity isn’t what it used to be. With artificial intelligence (AI) entering the battlefield, cybercriminals are automating threats and customizing scams like never before. Discover how AI is transforming cybercrime, and how defenders can prepare for this escalating digital arms race. We now face smarter threats that require less effort to deploy In the past, hacking required technical know-how, patience, and time. Today, with generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, even inexperienced attackers can craft convincing phishing emails or write malware code tailored to specific victims with minimal effort. Cybercriminals are also using AI to scan for system vulnerabilities, automate their attacks, and refine their methods based on real-time responses. These aren’t just mass, scattershot threats anymore; they’re targeted, efficient, and eerily personalized. Attackers are going above and beyond email scams Phishing is still a go-to tactic, but now, it’s far more convincing. AI-generated messages can be tailored to mimic the writing tone of a CEO, coworker, or vendor with uncanny accuracy. That makes it easier to trick employees into clicking links or handing over sensitive data. Alarmingly, AI can be trained to mimic human voices, opening the door for high-stakes phone scams (also called vishing), or even create deepfake videos that appear genuine. Cybercriminals are starting to use these techniques to bypass security measures, manipulate behavior, or impersonate individuals with stunning realism. An AI arms race between cybersecurity defenders and cybercriminals As AI-driven threats evolve at an alarming rate, cybersecurity professionals are racing to keep up. Just as attackers are using AI to scale and sharpen their tactics, defenders are deploying AI to spot patterns, flag unusual behavior, and respond to incidents more quickly. But it’s not a fair fight; cybercriminals only need to find one weak point, while defenders have to protect the entire system. Some cybersecurity experts believe we’re already seeing the early signs of an AI-driven cyberwar. For instance, state-sponsored actors and organized crime groups are likely leveraging AI to target critical infrastructure and global supply chains, with consequences that could ripple far beyond a single business or region. How to balance innovation with responsibility The dual-use nature of AI presents a fundamental challenge. The same technology that helps companies streamline operations or write marketing copy can just as easily be twisted for harm. That’s forcing businesses and governments alike to rethink their approach to AI governance, cybersecurity investment, and digital ethics. The best modern defense is layered, combining technology, training, and vigilance. That includes educating employees about new threats, investing in AI-powered threat detection, and keeping software and systems updated. What’s next? As AI continues to evolve, so will the threats. Cybercrime will likely become even more autonomous, scalable, and convincing. Raising awareness remains our primary defense against this shifting landscape. By understanding how AI is reshaping the cybersecurity landscape, we can begin to prepare for — and push back against — the new generation of digital threats. Reach out to us for a robust cybersecurity system. Don’t take any chances; boost your protection today.
The 2025 laptop buyer’s guide for remote workers
Whether you’re at a coffee shop or your home office, your laptop should seamlessly keep pace with your workflow. Here’s an updated look at what makes a laptop remote-work ready in 2025, without drowning you in tech jargon. Performance A laptop’s processor (CPU) and memory (RAM) determine how effectively a machine handles tasks. To get the best performance, choose a CPU and RAM setup that can handle your specific workload. For light users: If your day mainly involves checking emails, browsing, and working on documents, a laptop with an Intel Core Ultra 3 or Ultra 5, or an AMD Ryzen 3/Ryzen 5, is more than enough. These chips are built for efficiency, offering solid performance and excellent battery life for routine tasks. On the macOS side, the Apple M3 base chip — found in the MacBook Air — delivers outstanding speed and longevity for everyday computing without unnecessary cost or power drain. For general productivity: For those who juggle video calls, spreadsheets, and multiple browser tabs throughout the day, mid-range processors such as the Intel Core Ultra 5/Ultra 7 or AMD Ryzen 5/Ryzen 7 hit the sweet spot. They balance speed, power efficiency, and thermal control for smooth multitasking. Apple users will find similar reliability in laptops powered by the M3 Pro or M4 base chips, ideal for professionals who want more headroom for heavier workloads. For power users: Does your work involve video editing, software development, design, or data-heavy applications? Then aim for high-end chips such as Intel Core Ultra 7/Ultra 9 or AMD Ryzen 7/Ryzen 9/Ryzen AI Max/X3D. These processors deliver exceptional multi-core performance and often pair with discrete GPUs for demanding workflows. For macOS users, the M4 Pro or the M4 Max are the go-to choices for creatives and developers who need powerhouse performance with top-tier efficiency. When it comes to RAM, 8 GB is the minimum today, but most remote professionals will benefit from 16 GB, especially when multitasking. Creative professionals, data analysts, and engineers working with heavy applications should consider 32 GB or more. Battery life A reliable laptop for remote work should provide at least eight hours of battery life to support a full day of productivity away from your desk. In 2025, some ultra-efficient models are surpassing 12 hours of usage, particularly those powered by advanced ARM-based or Apple silicon chips, offering exceptional performance and energy optimization. Portability Weight also matters, especially if you’re frequently on the move. Aim for a laptop under 3.5 lb (1.6 kg) if portability is a priority. Devices in this range often offer a great balance between power and convenience. Slim laptops with durable builds, such as those with an aluminum chassis, are both lightweight and sturdy. Storage In 2025, solid-state drives (SSDs) are the gold standard for fast, quiet, and energy-efficient performance. They significantly reduce boot-up and app loading times. A 256 GB SSD is enough for most users, but consider 512 GB or 1 TB if you store large files such as videos, images, or databases. Some laptops come with a dual-drive configuration, which combines a speedy SSD with a larger hard disk drive. This setup offers the best of both worlds: fast performance for everyday tasks and plenty of room for all your files. However, if you primarily use cloud storage services like Google Drive or OneDrive, you might find that a smaller SSD on its own is all you need. Connectivity Remote workers rely on smooth communication and uninterrupted internet. Here’s what your laptop should include: A 1080p or higher-resolution webcam is now the baseline for sharp video calls. A dual-array microphone or one with background noise cancellation can vastly improve meeting quality. For connectivity, look for Wi-Fi 6/6E or Wi-Fi 7 support. These offer faster speeds and better reliability, even in crowded networks (like coworking spaces). Don’t forget physical ports. A mix of USB-C, USB-A, and HDMI ports ensures you can connect to external monitors, accessories, or a wired mouse. Many newer laptops also support Thunderbolt 4, which offers lightning-fast data transfer and display output. Display quality A good display is crucial, especially when you’re staring at it for more than eight hours a day. Look for a Full HD (1920×1080) display at a minimum, though many users benefit from a QHD (2560×1440) screen for sharper text and visuals. 4K screens are beautiful, but can be overkill unless you’re working in design, photography, or video. Also check: Brightness: Three hundred nits or higher is best, especially for outdoor work. Color accuracy: Go for screens that display color vividly and accurately if you work with graphics or video. Matte finish vs. glossy: Both deliver great visuals, but matte screens offer a more comfortable viewing experience in bright light. Meanwhile, screen size comes down to preference: 13″–14″ for ultimate portability 15″–16″ for a balanced experience 17″ for a desktop-like workspace, though it sacrifices mobility Choosing a laptop in 2025 is less about chasing the latest model and more about understanding your daily needs. If you’re purchasing laptops for your team — or just unsure which specs match your workload — don’t hesitate to contact our team. We can evaluate your business needs, recommend compatible models, and even handle setup, security, and software installation for you.