What we can expect from iOS 14
Apple’s continuous improvement of its operating systems will give us iOS 14 and other OS updates this September. These will be previewed and tested by developers come Apple’s WWDC on June 22, but here’s a quick peek at some of the new apps and features. Nifty app tweaks Apple is developing new features for some of its prominent apps, and these tweaks may just make the cut come September. Messages Mention will let users tag people with the @ symbol, just like in Slack. This will also allow users to mute conversations but receive push notifications whenever they are directly mentioned. Mark as unread will allow users to highlight messages so they would not forget requests or tasks and get back to these at a later time. Retract will enable users to delete messages they’ve sent, with the deletion action visible to both sender and recipient. Activity Kids mode on the watchOS 7 will track movement time instead of calories burned. This is because the first metric is deemed healthier to track (from a mental health perspective) for children. Health Sleep tracking will grant users the ability to set sleep goals and receive tips for improving slumber. Find My A new notification feature will let users receive alerts when someone does not arrive at an expected place and time. For example, parents would be notified if their child does not make it home on time. New features CarKey This will let users pair their iPhone and/or Apple Watch with their NFC-enabled vehicles. They can then lock, unlock, and start their ride with their Apple device instead of the car’s physical key. The electronic keys will be kept in the Wallet app, and “duplicates” can be shared with friends and family via the Messages app. Based on the leaked screenshots and code of the feature in development, BMW might be the first brand that CarKey works with. iCloud Keychain features In development are: A way to store two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, which would purportedly allow the Keychain to generate its own codes and let the user forgo the need to use a separate 2FA app Password reuse warnings that remind users to create different passwords for different accounts Clips Codenamed “Clips,” this feature will let users interact with certain content in third-party apps without having to download those apps. By scanning a QR code that’s linked to an app, the user opens a floating card that contains the interactive content. The card gives users the option to download the app, or open the app if it’s already installed. New apps Fitness app This new app, which is expected to be named “Fit” or “Fitness” once released, will allow users to download from a wide library of fitness videos and receive help for completing workout activities. Activities include core exercises, strength training, stretching, yoga, dance, and running, among others. This standalone app will coexist with the Activity app and will be available on iOS 14, tvOS 14, and watchOS 7. This means that you can sync your fitness routines across many Apple devices — i.e., you can watch workout videos on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV, and track your progress on your Apple Watch. As of this writing, it appears that Apple won’t charge users anything for workout routines, though whether the app and its functionalities would end up on the final versions of the OSs remains to be seen this September. Augmented reality app This app would grant users access to information and experiences by triggering QR code tags or iBeacon transmitters (i.e., IoT devices that activate apps in nearby mobile devices) that are placed in specific spots or items in a certain location. For instance, if a user is in an Apple Store, they can check the QR code tag of a particular device to receive information about that device. New tech is amazing! To take advantage of the latest that IT has to offer, schedule a consultation with our experts today. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
Give your home Wi-Fi a boost with wireless repeaters and access points
More and more people are working from home these days, which means a fast, reliable home Wi-Fi connection is more important than ever. If all the Wi-Fi boosting tips you’ve seen on the internet have been to no avail, it’s probably time to take a look at the hardware you’re using. It might be that you need wireless repeaters and additional access points. Both wireless repeaters and access points are simple and inexpensive, and getting either or both of these devices can improve your home Wi-Fi. Wireless repeaters are devices that extend the limited reach that Wi-Fi routers tend to have, especially in structures with thick walls and multiple floors. They receive a signal from a Wi-Fi router and rebroadcast it as a new network. This new network is an extension of the main network, enabling the signal from your router to be transmitted over long distances or to the other side of obstructions, such as a wall, post, or ductwork. On the other hand, access points are devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a network. Your router at home is actually an access point, and while most access points have built-in routers, others have to be connected to a router. Access points are usually hardwired to network switches or modems. Getting started But before you go out and buy these devices, conduct a survey of the Wi-Fi signal throughout your home first. This will help you map out where to place repeaters and access points to maximize your Wi-Fi connection. This involves: Determining the reach of your router. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app such as NetSpot, Wifi Analyzer, or OpenSignal. Locating dead zones, or areas that don’t get a Wi-Fi signal, in your house. This can usually be solved by moving your router or modem to an area where the signal is better. Checking for obstructions (walls, furniture, plastics, water, etc.) and sources of interference (baby monitors, microwave ovens, radios, etc.). Any of these may be blocking or slowing down your Wi-Fi connection. Based on your analysis, identify the best places to put the repeater and access point. For instance, if your router is in the living room and you can’t get a good signal in your bedroom down the hall, place the access point outside the living room and the repeater in the bedroom. The signal will be extended by the access point and picked up by the repeater, which will then broadcast it to nearby devices. Note that wireless repeaters must be set up in areas where the signal is poor, not in dead zones. Setting up wireless repeaters and access points Most brands and models of wireless repeaters and access points follow the same setup process. Wireless repeaters Choose a location free from obstructions that can block signals from your Wi-Fi router. Plug the repeater into a power outlet. Using an Ethernet cable, connect the repeater directly to a computer. You can also connect the computer to the repeater’s wireless network. On your computer, enter your Wi-Fi network’s password. Any other steps to setting up your wireless repeater should be in the manufacturer’s instructions. Access points Choose a location free from obstructions that can block signals from your Wi-Fi router. Turn off your router or modem and computer. Connect your access point to your router or modem and to your computer using an Ethernet cable. Turn on your router or modem, and plug the access point into an electrical outlet. Turn on your computer, and start enjoying better Wi-Fi performance. Any other steps to setting up your access point should be in the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also change optional and advanced router settings by connecting to your router using the IP address provided in the manual, or either 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. If you need more information about setting up and getting the most out of your wireless network, whether at home or in the office, get in touch with our experts today. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
VoLTE: What is it, and how different is it from VoIP?
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a must for today’s businesses. Compared to the old analog phone system, VoIP is a more effective communication tool. Aside from making voice calls, you can also do conference calls, send instant messaging, queue calls, have music on hold, and record calls with VoIP. But now there’s a new technology called Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE). How different are the two from each other, and is VoLTE poised to take over VoIP? To know the difference between VoIP and VoLTE, let’s first examine the older of the two technologies. What is VoIP? Unlike analog telephones that use phone cables, VoIP uses the internet to transmit voice calls. VoIP calls can be made using laptops, desktop computers, smartphones, tablets, and even old handsets fitted with appropriate converters. VoIP also supports a range of call features such as voice messaging, call forwarding, SMS text messaging, fax transmission, voicemail, and a host of other services. For businesses, VoIP is a convenient one-stop solution for all their communication needs that will not cost them an arm and a leg. However, VoIP was introduced at a time when the world was still using 2G and 3G networks for mobile devices. The years since then saw major improvements in network connectivity. The arrival of 4G or Long-Term Evolution (LTE) meant faster and better connectivity. What is VoLTE? Unlike VoIP, VoLTE uses 4G LTE network to transmit voice calls. And there’s a difference to how VoLTE transmits voice calls. To illustrate, here’s a very simplified analogy: VoIP is a steam train data carrier chugging along on a steel-and-wood railway that’s your 2G/3G internet connection. The train is loaded with various data: voice, email and text, photo, video, music, and many more. VoLTE is a Japanese Maglev bullet train data carrier that uses magnetic forces to levitate (thus “maglev”) the train a few inches off the electromagnetic track that’s your 4G internet connection. With zero friction, the train moves at astonishing speeds. What’s more, VoLTE does not pack all data into one train. Instead, each kind of data has a dedicated train all to itself — voice calls on one train, email on another, video packets on another, and so forth. This means faster transmission and better quality voice calls and video chats. However, don’t think that VoLTE is merely a pumped-up version of VoIP. Instead, think of VoLTE as building on the gains of VoIP technology. What is the difference between VoIP and VoLTE? VoLTE is a recent standard for wireless, high-speed communication; in fact, as of this writing, VoLTE is available for mobile devices only. The following enumerates how VoLTE is different from VoIP, and why it’s an improvement over the latter. #1 VoLTE uses a different network than VoIP VoIP uses a web-based network such as 3G or Wi-Fi to transmit voice data. On the other hand, VoLTE uses 4G LTE network to transmit voice data. 4G LTE has a broader bandwidth and faster speeds, which means… #2 VoLTE offers better quality of voice calls VoLTE first gained prominence because of its superior voice calls. Its high-definition (HD) audio quality is excellent, with lags, drops, jitters and disturbances mostly eliminated. However, there is a catch: caller and receiver must both be using VoLTE phones and transmitting in an area with 4G LTE to experience HD calls. #3 VoLTE allows simultaneous voice calls and data usage In the case of some smartphones, it’s not possible to make a call while browsing the web. You need to drop one in order to perform the other. With VoLTE, you can talk and run data apps concurrently. #4 VoLTE prioritizes voice calls Both VoIP and VoLTE send voice data packets over the internet along with other data usage transmissions. But while VoIP sends packets on a first come, first served basis, VoLTE prioritizes voice data. #5 VoLTE eliminates per-minute billing of voice calls Voice calls used to be charged per minute, but with VoLTE, voice calls are the same as any data transmission. Plus, because it’s difficult to figure out how much data you use for a voice call than it is to count the number of minutes in a call, then the days of voice-minutes billings are numbered. #6 VoLTE allows for longer battery life, more efficient consumption With VoLTE, phones need not switch between 2G, 3G, and 4G networks during calls. This extends the battery life, so users need not recharge often. #7 VoLTE currently has limited support For now, not all smartphone brands and models support VoLTE technology. And there are still places in the United States where LTE is unavailable. But experts believe that this will rapidly change soon. Want to learn more about VoLTE and how it can boost your business’s productivity? Call our IT experts today. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
Microsoft 365 update channels: What you need to know
Many businesses using Microsoft 365 prefer to have the latest versions of the productivity suite’s applications. Some businesses prefer to get updates as soon as they become available, while others prefer to update their systems on a predictable schedule. Fortunately, Microsoft’s update channels enable businesses to customize when they receive apps’ new features. New update channel: Microsoft Enterprise Channel The new Microsoft Enterprise Channel is for organizations that prefer to get updates on a predictable schedule. With this update channel, users can receive new features and patches on the second Tuesday of every month, which Microsoft famously calls Patch Tuesdays. This update channel is ideal for companies with IT departments that want to reduce the burden of updating systems at irregular intervals. This will allow them to have a fixed schedule of downloading the latest productivity features, system improvements, and essential security patches. Recommended update channel: Current Channel Current Channel is great for companies that want to receive feature updates as soon as they become available. New Office features are released at least two or three times a month, so those that choose Current Channel will get them immediately. The same applies to non-security updates such as reliability and performance improvements, which are also released two to three times a month. As standard, security updates will be released on Patch Tuesdays, and are therefore released on a fixed schedule. Those who are only about to install Microsoft 365 apps will be on Current Channel by default. That means they’ll get feature updates, security updates, quality updates, and bug fixes whenever they’re ready, and can expect to receive two to three updates every month. Option for less frequent updates: Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel This option is for organizations that require a longer period to receive new features. This especially applies to those that use devices that must undergo extensive testing before receiving new features, perhaps to comply with governmental and regulatory authorities or for other unique reasons. Under this update channel, organizations receive feature updates twice annually: in January and July, on the second Tuesday of the month. Security updates are still sent once a month, on Patch Tuesdays, similar to Microsoft Enterprise Channel and Current Channel. Updates to existing update channels Another important change is the new names of the Microsoft 365 update channels. Organizations can choose from the following options: Current, Monthly, or Semi-Annual (formerly Insider, Monthly, and Semi-Annual). In addition, testing channels previously labeled Targeted have been renamed Preview. It’s important to select the right update channel for your organization to keep system updates streamlined and IT workflows uninterrupted. Choosing an update channel also depends on the user preferences of your business — whether they’d rather use the latest versions of their apps or would be fine to wait — as well as your business’s rules on compliance. To learn more about Microsoft’s update channels, specifically, how to know which one’s best for your company and how to optimize your productivity apps, call our IT and software experts today. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
Why you need the cloud in the middle of COVID-19
With the COVID-19 lockdowns forcing most economic sectors to slow down, cloud technology can help your business survive and remain competitive. More specifically, you can cut costs and increase operational efficiency using the cloud. Ensuring continuity and efficiency with the cloud The need to stay at home and practice social distancing have changed the way many businesses operate. With their employees unable to come to the office, organizations are forced to function with a remote team whose members are often miles away from each other. This is where cloud technology helps. When you migrate your data to the cloud, your files are stored in a centralized server that can be accessed via the internet. So as long as a user has an internet-connected device (like a smartphone or laptop) and has the right login credentials, they can access these files from any location. The cloud also allows multiple users to work on a single file at the same time. Any change to the file is seen in real-time, which makes it feel like team members are collaborating in the same room. Moreover, with cloud-based communication tools like Slack, your team can communicate with each other through chat, voice calls, and video conferencing. By incorporating these technologies into your processes, your organization can function efficiently while following social distancing protocols. Saving money with the cloud Suddenly adopting a remote work setup after years of strictly on-site operations can take a lot of getting used to. One of the most difficult parts of transitioning is making sure you and your staff have the right hardware and software to perform work-related tasks. Instead of buying hardware with company funds and issuing these machines to your staff, you can have them use their personal laptop computers and mobile devices instead. With this tactic, however, you’re not sure if your employees’ devices have the appropriate specifications to handle their workload. If you use special software, you may also have to buy and install them on your staff’s personal devices. In short, whether you issue computers or adopt a bring your own device approach, you’re bound to spend a lot of money to facilitate remote work. But with cloud computing, you won’t need to buy new hardware. You can host your applications on the cloud, enabling a user to run them through a web browser even if they are not installed in his or her device. And because hosted applications use the cloud provider’s resources, they don’t strain user’s devices and can be used even with older or lower-end computers. Furthermore, hosting applications on the cloud eliminates the need to install programs in each of your staff’s devices. This is particularly helpful if the software you use has a limit on the number of devices it can be installed on. This way, you save money by not having to invest in newer devices for your staff and wasting time locally downloading the software. Should you migrate to the cloud now? The short answer is yes. Thanks to the COVID-19 lockdowns, the ability to work remotely has now become essential to a business’s survival. And the cloud easily facilitates a remote work environment. See for yourself how the cloud lets you continue doing business even in the middle of a pandemic. Contact us today to get started! Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
Why your SMB needs a business continuity plan (BCP)
Multiple things can disrupt the operations of small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), such as natural disasters or cyberattacks. This can lead to lost revenue, or in some extreme cases, business closure. But having a concrete business continuity plan (BCP) in place will help your business recover quickly after a disaster. What is a BCP? A BCP is a predefined set of protocols on how your business should respond in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. It contains contingency plans for every aspect of your organization, including human resources, assets, and business processes. Key threats to business continuity Various types of threats can affect SMBs such as: Natural disasters – These are natural phenomena such as storms, earthquakes, and wildfires. Man-made disasters – These include cyberattacks, intentional sabotage, and human negligence. Equipment and utility failures – These include unexpected power failure, internet downtime, and disruption of communication services. How to build an effective BCP If your organization does not have a BCP in place, now is a good time to put one together. These steps will help you formulate an effective BCP that will ensure your company keeps running even during a major crisis. #1 Business impact analysis (BIA) A BIA will help you determine how a disruption can affect your company’s current functions and processes, such as personnel, equipment, technology, and physical infrastructure. This step will help you calculate the potential financial and operational loss from each function and process affected. #2 Recovery options This step will help you identify key resources essential to returning your business to minimum operational levels. Some recovery options you can take include letting employees work from home or operating from a secondary location. #3 Plan development This step involves assembling your company’s continuity team, which will be responsible for developing and implementing your BCP. #4 Testing and training Once your BCP is in place, your continuity team needs to perform regular tests to identify gaps and make necessary changes to ensure the plan’s effectiveness. They also need to conduct regular training for your employees so everyone knows their respective roles when a disaster strikes. Having a foolproof BCP is a great way to ensure your business can quickly bounce back after a major disaster. If you’re thinking about creating a BCP for your company but don’t know where to start, give us a call today. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
New Windows 10 update: Things you need to know
The Windows 10 update will roll out on May 26–28, 2020 and will bring about a fresher look for the world’s most popular operating system. Aside from updates to Windows 10’s interface, here are some functionality improvements you can expect. The update — named Windows 10 20H1/Windows 10 version 2004 — will feature some performance-enhancing upgrades and an initial rollout of new designs. These are aimed to unify Windows applications with those used on mobile devices and the like. Fluent Design Fluent Design is an open-source, cross-platform design system that developers can use to craft multiple-device software and applications. Basically, it helps developers keep their application designs unified across several platforms while enhancing overall aesthetic and user experience. In the upcoming OS update, users will experience some of the first native releases of Fluent Design-optimized applications, specifically Microsoft Office applications, Microsoft Store, Paint, and more. Expect to see refreshed icons and interfaces of your favorite Microsoft apps. Users will also notice that the new designs will stay uniform from platform to platform, whether they use it on a PC, Mac, or other operating systems. Cortana migration Users will also notice changes to the Start Menu — Cortana will no longer be docked to the start button, and the new design will feature new ways to interact with Microsoft’s digital assistant. Text-based chat interaction will now be available as well. Microsoft is in the process of making Cortana into a personal productivity assistant for Microsoft 365 applications, so most of its new processing powers will revolve around improving the 365 experience for users. The update also brings about improved smart prompts that let the virtual assistant type out and send emails, adjust computer settings, open apps, and schedule events via voice commands. Windows Search Microsoft is constantly finding ways to improve its Search tool for Windows 10. In this update, users will experience improved indexing and search speeds, as well as a smart indexing feature that limits activity to off-peak hours so that it doesn’t disrupt daily use. This will result in faster performance for laptops of all levels, especially those that still utilize HDD storage. Where to download Users can download the feature update via Windows Update, a built-in tool in existing Windows 10 systems. You can access this by clicking Start > Settings > Windows Update. You can also type Windows Update on the search bar (beside the Windows button on the lower-left corner of the screen) and follow the easy instructions. If you opted for automatic updates, all you’ll have to do is sit back and wait. For manual updates, you’ll need to click on Check for Updates. Users can also get it through the Windows Insider Program. Simply go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Program and click on Get Started. Call us today for all your Office 365 needs. We’ll help you get set up in no time. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
How to protect your business printers from hackers
Organizations spend resources on keeping their technology and devices secure, but they often overlook one crucial piece of hardware: printers. Printers, just like computers and Wi-Fi networks, can be an entry point for hackers and a gateway to your business’s sensitive information. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your printers secure. What makes business printers vulnerable to cyberattacks? When assessing network security threats, companies primarily focus on servers and computers not only because they are the most exposed to external threats, but also because they get the bulk of cyberattacks. Printers are often at the bottom of the list since they are not prime targets. What’s more, their functions seem to be internal at first glance, as they don’t interact with external systems. But it’s exactly because of their primary functions, namely printing and scanning, that make print devices perfect cybercriminal targets. Businesses run important documents such as tax forms, employee information, medical records, and financial statements through print devices, and hackers would definitely love to get their hands on them. And they can — easily. Network printers store previous print jobs in their hard drive, sometimes including those that have been canceled. If anyone accesses the printer — even remotely — they may be able to see those documents by hacking into the printer using a specialized tool. Files can also be intercepted during wireless transmission, as modern printers can now be connected to the web. Not only can hackers exploit printers’ open network ports to view data, but they can also take over vulnerable printers and transmit their own data through the machine. What can you do to protect your business printers? Business printers should not be disregarded when planning a cybersecurity strategy. Keep your print devices secure by following these best practices: Monitor your network continuously and promptly install printer software updates and patches. Printer manufacturers often release software support or updates, so regularly check for those. Change the default password and administrator login credentials of printers with web management capabilities. Only allow company-owned devices to connect to your printers. Always connect to your printers using secure connections. Conversely, avoid accessing your printers through a public internet connection. Restrict printer access by using a firewall. If your wireless printer has the feature that requires users to enter a PIN before they can print documents, enable it to prevent unauthorized access. If you don’t use your printer for fax and email, isolate your printer from your main company network and disable out-of-network printing. If you handle classified data, do not connect your printer to any network. Instead, connect it directly to your computer using data cables, or print from a thumb drive. Secure your printouts by enabling manual feed. This setting requires a user to manually input paper (or any material to be printed on), so there are reduced risks of the printed document getting stolen or being left in the printing area. Another way to secure your printers is by partnering with an IT company that can take care of your printer-related worries. From thwarting attacks to reducing management costs to keeping your printer at optimal functionality, our experts can help. Are you interested in learning more about cybersecurity? Call us today and discover how our wide array of tech services can safeguard your business. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
How to troubleshoot common printer problems
Printers are one of the most frustrating computer hardware to fix. They will often display an error message that tells you little about how to solve the issue. But by being aware of some of the most common printer problems and how to troubleshoot them, you can fix the issues and stay productive. Paper jams Paper jams are a common printer problem caused by misaligned paper in the printer tray. Usually, removing the jammed paper and ensuring that the paper is lined up correctly will fix the problem. Check your printer’s loading capacity as well. The loading capacity typically depends on the material to be printed on. For instance, a printer can print on 100 sheets of plain paper, but can only accommodate 10 envelopes at a time. To avoid jams, make sure to use only the paper sizes and materials prescribed by the printer company. Lastly, if your printer says there’s a paper jam but no paper is stuck inside, shredded paper residues from the last paper jam could be stuck inside the printer’s gears. Remove them before trying to print again. Driver problems The printer driver is responsible for communicating with your computer. Drivers often become outdated or incompatible with your system after an upgrade. Sometimes, you may install an incorrect driver, which can cause the printer to misbehave. To fix the problem, try uninstalling the faulty driver and replacing it with the appropriate one. You can usually find printer driver information on your printer manufacturer’s support website. Avoid downloading drivers from a third party, as they may be loaded with malware that can cause your computer to malfunction. Overloaded print queue There are some instances where your printer fails to clear its queue. If you encounter a paper jam, for instance, the system will not consider the print job done. And if the user attempts to print again, the previous job will not make way for the new request. The worst part? Deleting the print jobs doesn’t do anything most of the time. To clear the print queue, follow these steps: Turn off and unplug your printer from the power source. Click the Start button on your computer and type in services to open Windows Services. Right-click on Print Spooler and select Stop from the menu that appears. This will halt any stuck print jobs in the queue. Open File Explorer on your computer, and type in C:WindowsSystem32SpoolPRINTERS in the address bar. Delete all the existing files inside the folder. Restart your computer and printer. Try printing again. Clogged printheads Printhead ink will dry up if you don’t regularly use your printer. This may lead to clogging, which then prevents proper printing. To make sure this issue doesn’t happen, unclog your printheads often. The printhead is located at the end of the cartridge where the ink comes out. To clean it, take a damp paper towel and blot the ink cartridge with the printhead side down. After blotting it a couple of times, you should see ink on the paper towel. Hold the cartridge against a dry paper towel for one minute to dry out any excess ink. Slide the cartridge back into the printer and try to print again. For printers using individual color cartridges, running a printhead cleaning job can get rid of clogs. While the setup may differ per brand, this is a typical function built into most printers’ software. Consult your user guide to know the best cleaning options for your printer. Slow printing speed Slow print jobs are usually caused by outdated software or an intermittent connection. Fix the problem by ensuring that printer drivers and software are updated. If your printer requires an internet connection, you can also try moving your printer closer to your router for a stronger connection. Check your printer settings as well. For instance, you may be printing at best quality, which takes more time than a draft or normal print because it uses more ink. If all else fails, check your connections to see if a cable or a power outlet is malfunctioning. These are just some common problems that you may encounter with your printer. If you have further issues, give us a call today. We’d be happy to assist you. Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
Why you should consider softphones over desk phones
Desk phones that sit in the office are quickly becoming obsolete as many employees work off-site. Instead of traditional telephony systems, forward-thinking businesses are using softphones for most, if not all, of their communications. If your company hasn’t already done so, here are five compelling reasons why you need to start using softphones. Anytime, anywhere business phone Softphones are essentially a type of application that you can run on internet-enabled devices like a smartphone or laptop. This removes the need for a physical handset, allowing you to make and receive calls from any location with an internet connection. Even if your workers are homebound, softphones give them a lot of flexibility. They don’t have to waste time setting up lines for a traditional phone unit in their home office — they can simply turn their personal smartphone into a business-level communication tool. Employees also get to enjoy hands-free calls, provided their device has a decent headset or microphone. Reduced costs The best aspect of softphones is that they significantly cut costs. For one, instead of spending a lot of money installing and maintaining office phone equipment, you only have to pay a small subscription fee to get powerful softphone features on your mobile device and computer. All the expenses associated with server expenses and system maintenance are taken care of by the softphone provider. More importantly, softphones transmit communication data over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. This means you won’t have to deal with expensive local and long-distance rates. In fact, some softphone providers offer a reduced rate for international calls, while others allow you to make calls for free. User-friendly interface Softphones come with an interactive user interface that’s easy to learn. If you want to transfer a call to a colleague, you just have to drag and drop the call to their name — there’s no need to dial an extension on your phone. If you need to call someone, all you have to do is search for their profile via a search bar and just click on their name to initiate a call. Want to tell everyone that you’re too busy? Softphones let you enable do not disturb mode for specific time frames in which incoming calls are either sent straight to voicemail or forwarded to the next available person. What’s more, softphones provide incoming call notifications with caller ID and profile information so you know exactly who you’re talking to. High-quality video conferencing If you need something more engaging than a simple phone call, softphones allow you to host multiparty video conferences. These make it easy to conduct team and company-wide meetings even if people are miles apart from each other. Participants can also see important visual cues through body language, so conversations with clients and colleagues are clearer and more personal. The best softphone services even let you share your screen so you can better coordinate with your remote workers. Tight integration with enterprise software Another benefit of softphones is that they can complement your existing systems. When softphones are integrated with your customer relationship management (CRM) software, for instance, you’ll be able to compile previous call logs and relevant client information before making a call. This is particularly useful for customer service and sales staff who need contextual information to better serve their clients. All in all, softphones are perfect for any business that wants to operate at peak performance. They’re intuitive, feature-rich, and cost-effective, so if your business doesn’t have this essential communication tool, get an upgrade today. Call us now to enhance your communication systems! Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.