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Ransomware vs Malware

Ransomware vs Malware

by | Oct 21, 2021 | IT Services, IT Solutions, IT Support

Each year, cyber security risks like ransomware, malware, and phishing scams cost businesses billions of dollars. That is why knowing about what you are dealing with and taking the extra protections for cyber security is crucial for every business. Using a trusted network management company will help keep your business safe, but there are steps that you can also take as a business owner. 

To offer more protection to your business and keep away from harm in the digital space, you need to know about all the attacks that you could be facing. Keeping that in mind, today we have come to you with a simple guide on Ransomware vs Malware. We will discuss the key differences between them and how they can affect your business. 

Malware

Malicious software or popularly known as malware is one kind of software program that is coded to damage your computer or cloud system. The main goal of this software is to infiltrate your system and download a program that will have unauthorized access to your overall system.

Depending on the type of attack and the malicious code, malware is usually divided into various categories. Below is the most common malware you should watch out for.

Spambots

Spambots are designed to take repetitive actions for an infinite amount of time before your system crashes. They are mainly used to perform DDoS attacks on websites or servers. With an overwhelming amount of traffic coming to your website, your system or server will soon be unable to handle it all and crash down.

Trojan horse

Trojan horses are files that act like legitimate software but are actually malware.

Spyware

Spyware is a common type of malware that will take in all of your information without your consent and send it back to the hacker.

Crypto-jacking

Crypto-jacking is a new form of malware that uses your hardware to mine crypto coins for third-party users.

Ransomware

Ransomware has similar functionalities as malware. That is why it is classified as a special category of malware.

The goal of ransomware is to encrypt your files and system and asking for payment in exchange for the decryption code. One of the most common ways of being affected by ransomware is through phishing links or websites.

These links or attachments download the ransomware onto your system and block you from any kind of access to the files. For a business, this can be very alarming. So make sure to always double-check before going to any websites or clicking on any links.

How ANAX Can Help 

Both malware and ransomware can do massive damage to any business. Although common sense is the best practice for the defense, as a business owner you always should keep all of your data backed up and save it to another off-site storage. Want to keep your business best protected? Contact ANAX today. 

 

 

 

 

Preventing Extensive Data Loss

Preventing Extensive Data Loss

by | Oct 14, 2021 | IT Services, IT Solutions, IT Support

Accidents do not come knocking at the door. That is why you should always be prepared for the worst. As a business or a user in the digital space, nothing can be worse than extensive data loss.

In today’s world, data is one of the most crucial parts of any business. So, whether you lose your data due to self-mistake or cyber-attack, it can cause serious damage to your business. Keeping that in mind, we have come to you with a list of ways to go about preventing extensive data loss. 

Keep Your Data Backed Up

We can not emphasize enough how important it is for you to keep your data backed up. With so many security threats in the world, you never know when or how you will face data loss. So keeping a scheduled back routine for all your data is crucial. We advise people to back up their data at least once a week.

Have Multiple Backups

One single backup is always not enough. What about that one rare occasion when one of your backups and your current system crashes at the same time.

The best rule of thumb is to have

  • 3 backups of all the data that are vital for your business.
  • 2 forms of backup, which means both physical and on the cloud.
  • 1 single backup off-site, just in case your physical office sustains any form of damage.

Encryption

When it comes to preventing extensive data loss, encryption is the key. Make sure your backed-up data are fully encrypted so they are safe and completely secure from any form of cyber attack.

Utilizing Antivirus

This might sound simple, but many people all around the world do not invest in antivirus. The best way to keep yourself from harm’s way is to invest in internet security.

As businesses have to deal with emails every day, they are the biggest target of phishing and ransomware. A full-on antivirus system will prevent the malware in the emails to affect your company and provide extensive email security in return.

Invest in a DLP Solution

A DLP solution will address all the issues that revolve around data loss and do much more than traditional data protection for your business. DLP tools are designed to offer several layers of protection for your sensitive data and block unauthorized transfer of data.

Consequences of Not Taking These Precautions

If you do not take this prevention measure, you can suffer from extensive loss of customer data. Hackers can get hands-on the financial data, social security number, name, address, phone number of your loyal customers. You can also lose rights to your intellectual property which is arguably one of the biggest assets for any business. Take the measures stated above and enjoy a worry-free business experience for the years to come. Contact ANAX for assistance today. 

When Disaster Strikes: How ANAX Can Help

When Disaster Strikes: How ANAX Can Help

by | Sep 20, 2021 | IT Services, IT Solutions, IT Support

Do you know what to do when disaster strikes? Do you know how ANAX can help? Let’s say you have a big presentation at work. You get everything all set up and ready to go, aaand nothing happens. No presentation shows up on the screens and there’s no fix in sight. Time to call in the backup. Most network support is done virtually, as some tech companies only offer troubleshooting over the phone, or via an online chat session. On top of being frustrated with your presentation falling through, you now have to figure out how to explain your problem to someone who might not even reside in the same time zone as you. 

Maybe you don’t know the terminology, or you don’t know quite how to put the issue you’re experiencing into words. Regardless, it can be excruciating trying to work through solutions with someone who isn’t even there. Often this kind of troubleshooting requires you to fix the problem yourself as well. At ANAX, we believe in providing hands-on support directly on site, and we believe in the many benefits that come along with it. 

Saving You Time

Whether it is via chat session or phone call, virtual support can be time consuming. It can take a while to even establish what the issue is, since the technician is unable to see what is going on and get their hands on the source of the problem. 

After initially figuring out what is causing your troubles, the technician then has to spend even more time working through a solution, all while explaining to you various things to look for or try. This step can take time as well, as you are most likely unfamiliar with your office equipment and network servers, etc. 

There is always the possibility of the solution not working as well. If this is the case, then it has to be determined if it didn’t work because it wasn’t the right solution, or if there was a misstep along the way. After all, you are only receiving directions virtually and it is to be expected that you are not as familiar with the process as the tech is. If all else fails, then these virtual troubleshooters will send finally send out an on-site technician. 

We like to avoid all of this going back and forth and potential problems that come with it. From the very beginning, we send out a hands-on tech to assess the problems you are having. The allows for less communication errors and also doesn’t require you to fix it yourself! 

Saving You Stress

Since you no longer have to try to figure out the issue and fix it yourself with the “help” of a virtual troubleshooter, you end up having less on your plate. Go give that presentation a few more practice run throughs while we sort everything out. When everything is up and running again, you’ll definitely nail it this time around. Our goal is to make the process as stress free as possible for you. 

Saving You Money

Since less time is required, chances are, it’ll cost you less too. On top of that, if you are in charge of fixing it yourself, and a mistake gets made, it may cost you even more to fix that additional issue. However, if you aren’t in charge of fixing it, and have experienced techs handling the problem from the beginning, you won’t have to pay to fix it again. 

Overall, at ANAX we believe in helping your business run as smoothly as possible, and we provide the quality service to get you there. When problems arise, our experienced technicians are ready and willing to show up on site and get the job done. Want network and office equipment support that’s actually supportive? Contact us!

Managed IT Services & The Remote Work World

Managed IT Services & The Remote Work World

by | Sep 5, 2021 | IT Services, IT Solutions, IT Support

By now, you’re probably familiar with what managed IT services are, but do you know the benefits they can provide to the remote work world? Whether you have a small business or a mid-size one, whether you are working in person or remotely, chances are that you should look into managed IT services. Let’s dive right in! 

Managed IT Services Remote Benefits

Obviously, before you make a big decision that impacts the operation of your facility, especially when it is being operated remotely, you want to know what you stand to gain in the process. That’s why we figured we would go over the benefits that managed IT services offer your business. 

Experienced IT Experts

One of the most important out of all the benefits that managed IT services offer your business is that you are dealing with the best of the best. MSP technicians have experience handling many different kinds of IT problems. They are fast and flexible and knowledgeable and dedicated to ensuring that all of your business tech issues are being addressed quickly, efficiently, and effectively. 

These are not just techies with a weekend job at the local electronics store. The technicians that you will have access to through a managed IT services provider are professionals who are passionate about handling your IT and doing it well so you don’t have to. 

Take Back Your Time

Another of the benefits that managed IT services offer your business is the ability to take back your time. With an MSP, you will never have to spend hours vetting possible IT technicians or companies every time a problem arises. You won’t have to troubleshoot issues yourself. You won’t have to re-explain the background information over and over, because you will be working with the same managed IT services provider. 

All of this means that you will have more of your own time back. Whether this means that you can take a night off or you just have more time to oversee the office and handle the rest of the day-to-day operations, your time will be yours to do what you would like. When you have someone else managing your IT, you can free up a lot of calendar space previously dedicated to troubleshooting. 

Financially Frugal 

When you have a dedicated team handling your tech needs, one of the other benefits that managed IT services offer your business is the ability to save some money. With technicians who already know your business, are aware of what IT services you utilize, and are familiar with problems you have had in the past, you will not have to throw money out the window every time an issue comes up, trying to find another tech that you can explain everything to. 

When you do not have a dedicated team handling your tech needs, you may end up having to hire technicians with who you do not have a history. This could lead to miscommunications, differences in pricing, and unfamiliarity with your business and the typical tech problems that happen there. In addition, there is no guarantee that you will get the same level of service every time. 

No HR Headaches

Last but not least, another one of the other benefits that managed IT services offer your business is the freedom from HR headaches. There is no need to recruit, hire, train, manage, and fire when necessary. You simply deal with the MSP, and they handle the rest. You can sit back, relax, and know that you are getting the best of the best without having to hire them full-time.

Partnership

In addition to managed IT service technicians having the necessary experience, there is another level of care and familiarity that comes with always having the same crew handling your concerns. You will not get bounced around to different people in different departments, trying to explain what your problem is to people who obviously do not want to take care of it. When you partner with a company that provides managed IT services, there is more of a relationship that stems from the business arrangement. With managed IT services, you can have faith that when you need assistance, the technicians are already at least somewhat familiar with your company, they know the work that has been done already, and they are ready and willing to get you back in action as soon as possible, boosting your productivity. 

Why ANAX for Managed IT Services in the Remote Work World? 

As you can see, there are multiple benefits to having Managed IT Services. Managing and maintaining your IT network can be a complex and demanding process. Using ANAX as your IT manager will take the pressure away so you can focus your time and energy on your business and its growth. Learn more about why ANAX is the right choice here. 

5 Ways to Tell That Your Computer Has Malware

5 Ways to Tell That Your Computer Has Malware

by | Aug 16, 2021 | IT Services, IT Solutions, IT Support, Software

Do you know how to tell if your computer has malware? As business owners and as individuals, we all want to avoid the dreaded malware attacks and computer viruses. However, even if we are careful and cautious, phishing scams and loaded links still have the potential of tricking us. 

While installing malware protection on your computer yourself offers you a bit of protection, there is no guarantee that it will block all attempted attacks. There are settings that you may have missed, hidden stipulations in the fine print, or it may just not be updated enough to handle the ever-changing and adapting world that is malware. It is important to stay vigilant and keep an eye out for these top 5 ways to tell that your computer has malware, and if you suspect that it does, call in the experts at ANAX to make your computer safe again! 

Constant Popups 

One of the easiest ways to tell that something may be amiss with your computer is the presence of incessant popup advertisements. This type of malware attack was certainly more prominent in earlier years when browsing the web on your desktop was a fun thing to do on a Friday night instead of a COVID-induced habit. While cybersecurity has certainly upped its game in the past decade, there is still a potential to fall victim to a malware attack, and a potential that this malware will rear its head in the form of popup ads. 

Constant Redirections

Another common red flag that your computer has succumbed to malware is an annoying and nearly constant battle with web browser redirections. This means that if you type in a website URL in an attempt to access that content, instead of going to the desired page, your browser gets redirected to a different webpage entirely. Often, this is disregarded as a user error or just a weird coincidence that happened, but when it is a regular occurrence, it can raise some warnings. 

Constant Warnings

Speaking of warnings, if you start seeing an increasing number of them, this could be another sign that you have malware. Warnings that pop up frequently, especially ones that convey urgency and want you to act quickly, can appear to be legit at first glance. However, inspecting them for a split second longer might make all the difference in the protection of your computer. 

There is a reason that warnings like these are designed with a prominent call to action, such as CLICK HERE NOW or FIX IT FAST. It is the same reason that they are designed with red and yellow and action phrases like ATTENTION! and URGENT! and CRITICAL ERROR! The goal is to get you to react quickly enough to miss any clues regarding its legitimacy. 

Constant Demands

Similar to the constant warnings we talked about above, you may also receive constant demands if your computer is affected by malware. These demands use the same principles of design, such as attention-grabbing colors and urgent action words. Instead of displaying a warning about a problem, however, they typically are more forthcoming and demand payment or ransom in order to rid your computer of the malware. 

Constant Fraudulent Posts

Lastly, a warning sign pointing to malware’s presence on your computer that has grown tremendously with the rising popularity of social media: fraudulent posts and direct messages. These utilize click-bait text that might say something along the lines of “is it you in this video? or “check out this amazing deal on Ray-Bans” or “I can’t believe you got THIS drunk last night.” Finding the right phrasing and a curious audience leads people down the malware rabbit hole, and if these kinds of posts and messages are coming from your account, it’s likely that you have already been affected. 

ANAX Can Address Your Malware Problems 

ANAX can help establish malware protection for your network and all the devices operating on it, ensuring maximum security for your business and your employees. We also offer several malware solutions, as well as maintenance and emergency support right when you need it. Contact us today! 

The Benefits That Managed IT Services Offer Your Business

The Benefits That Managed IT Services Offer Your Business

by | Aug 1, 2021 | Business Advice, IT Services, IT Solutions

Do you know the benefits that managed IT services offer your business? Approximately 64% of businesses utilize Managed IT Services, and most small to midsize businesses can benefit from an MSP. 

If your business falls within the realm of not wanting or needing to hire your own full-time IT staff, but you want something a little more long-term and trustworthy than a Geek Squad or Nerd Herd, Managed IT Services might just be the ideal solution. Let’s take a look at the benefits that managed IT services offer your business and why ANAX is the right MSP for your business. 

Managed IT Services Benefits

Obviously, before you make a big decision that impacts the operation of your facility, you want to know what you stand to gain in the process. That’s why we figured we would go over the benefits that managed IT services offer your business. 

Experienced Experts

One of the most important out of all the benefits that managed IT services offer your business is that you are dealing with the best of the best. MSP technicians have experience handling many different kinds of IT problems. They are fast and flexible and knowledgeable and dedicated to ensuring that all of your business tech issues are being addressed quickly, efficiently, and effectively. 

These are not just techies with a weekend job at the local electronics store. The technicians that you will have access to through a managed IT services provider are professionals who are passionate about handling your IT and doing it well so you don’t have to. 

Take Back Your Time

Another of the benefits that managed IT services offer your business is the ability to take back your time. With an MSP, you will never have to spend hours vetting possible IT technicians or companies every time a problem arises. You won’t have to troubleshoot issues yourself. You won’t have to re-explain the background information over and over, because you will be working with the same managed IT services provider. 

All of this means that you will have more of your own time back. Whether this means that you can take a night off or you just have more time to oversee the office and handle the rest of the day-to-day operations, your time will be yours to do what you would like. When you have someone else managing your IT, you can free up a lot of calendar space previously dedicated to troubleshooting. 

Financially Frugal 

When you have a dedicated team handling your tech needs, one of the other benefits that managed IT services offer your business is the ability to save some money. With technicians who already know your business, are aware of what IT services you utilize, and are familiar with problems you have had in the past, you will not have to throw money out the window every time an issue comes up, trying to find another tech that you can explain everything to. 

When you do not have a dedicated team handling your tech needs, you may end up having to hire technicians with who you do not have a history. This could lead to miscommunications, differences in pricing, and unfamiliarity with your business and the typical tech problems that happen there. In addition, there is no guarantee that you will get the same level of service every time. 

No HR Headaches

Last but not least, another one of the other benefits that managed IT services offer your business is the freedom from HR headaches. There is no need to recruit, hire, train, manage, and fire when necessary. You simply deal with the MSP, and they handle the rest. You can sit back, relax, and know that you are getting the best of the best without having to hire them full-time.

Why ANAX for Managed IT Services? 

As you can see, there are multiple benefits to having Managed IT Services. Managing and maintaining your IT network can be a complex and demanding process. Using ANAX as your IT manager will take the pressure away so you can focus your time and energy on your business and its growth. We know your options are vast for this, so we wanted to highlight why ANAX is the right choice. 

ANAX is locally-owned, Las Vegas-based. That means our team is dedicated to the community and wants to see your business succeed and thrive. ANAX is committed to building relationships with our customers. We have developed an extremely loyal client base over the years and thanks to them, the bulk of our growth is the result of the referrals from many of our satisfied clients.

We have years in the business, over a decade to be exact, and we put that experience and knowledge to good use for your company. We are well-rounded in our offered services, and pride ourselves on being able to take care of all your tech needs. Today, our time-tested experience translates into technology initiatives that can be delivered in a convenient amount of time and within a reasonable budget. 

Our goal at ANAX is to continuously surprise you as we exceed your expectations as a managed IT services provider! Reach out today with any further questions, or to hire ANAX as your business’s MSP!