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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! 

 

The Impact of Human Error On Your Business

The Impact of Human Error On Your Business

by | Jul 16, 2021 | IT Services, IT Solutions, IT Support

One thing to keep in mind when searching for IT solutions, is how adept the IT services provider is at predicting human error, attempting to prevent it, and managing it when it does occur. It is a given that humans are going to make mistakes, even at their jobs at your business. Not addressing the impact of human error on your business could be catastrophic, so it is essential to have a gameplan. When you expect the unexpected, you are much more prepared to handle any situation that arises. So what are some of the most common human errors that you may encounter at your company? Let’s take a look! 

Knowledge-Based

One kind of human errors that is fairly common falls into the knowledge-based category. This refers to when an employee does not have the adequate amount of working knowledge about a situation that arises. It could be that there is no set protocol in place at your company or no standard operating procedures in reference to that specific situation. Conversely, it could also be that there is a protocol, however, the employee in question is not aware of it, or has not been properly trained on it. When your business lacks structure, or your employees lack training, there is no communication about potential problems, and if there is, it does not accurately convey the issue. This often leads to the employee reaching a conclusion or solution on their own, with limited relevant experience and next to no resources, which results in incorrect approaches and unhappy customers. Instilling a protocol, especially with your business’ technology procedures, can help to prevent this human error for happening. 

Lapses in Memory

Even with the most efficient methods of remembering tasks, sometimes humans simply forget. It could be forgetting to complete something important or forgetting where you saved a file. It could be failing to complete a step in security protocol or forgetting to communicate about a project. While sometimes there simply is no solution for this human error, at other times, technology can help. We can help ensure that backups are being regularly performed, so at least if something gets lost, there are previous versions available to restore. 

Slip Error

This kind of human error occurs when the employee is dealing with fatigue or having trouble concentrating and they slip up performing their job duties. Often this happens when they are being overloaded with work, or having to rush at faster-than-human speeds to get projects completed. Incorporating some technology or some form of automation into your business workplace can help alleviate some of this pressure to perform, and will help reduce the amount of slip errors that occur. 

Rule-Based

Similar to knowledge-based, this human error can happen when an employee is ill-informed of what the protocols are. However, instead of simply being unaware of what the rule is, it implies that a change in rules has been made, and the employee is still doing things the old way. This can lead to unclear communication and misinterpretations, which leads to inconsistency in solutions, and confused customers. Automation and digitizing your standard operating procedures can help prevent any mishaps in this regard. 

How ANAX Can Help

ANAX provides managed IT services and other technological support that your business can benefit from. Unlike so many other business technology companies who are only interested in numbers, ANAX is committed to building relationships with our customers. When other IT companies dismiss you and your small business because their IT support team isn’t up to par, contact ANAX for your IT services solutions instead. We have developed an exceptionally loyal client base over the years. Thanks to them, the bulk of our growth is the result of the referrals from many of our satisfied clients. Our consistent accountability has given our customers the peace of mind and the preparedness to combat human error that they need for their business, especially when it comes to IT management and services. Our goal at ANAX is to continuously surprise you as we exceed your expectations each time you contact us!

How Managed IT Services Increases Your Productivity

How Managed IT Services Increases Your Productivity

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

Every business wants to operate more efficiently, right? When you operate more efficiently, you increase your productivity, and ultimately, you increase your profits as well. Whether you are in a services-based industry or you sell products, the concept is the same. When you increase the speed at which you sell products or services, you can sell more in the same amount of time. If all of this sounds ideal to you, you may be wondering how exactly you can achieve this. Well, managed IT services are one way. Let’s take a look at how managed IT services increases your productivity! 

Experienced IT Support

One of the main ways that managed IT services can increase your productivity is due to the experienced IT technicians who are completing the work, rather than you attempting to figure it out yourself. When you go with someone who is experienced, you can rest assured that the work will be done right the first time. Experience equals a lessened chance of mistakes happening, and generally equals excellence as well. Managed IT services employ technicians who handle multiple accounts, and have the experience to do so well. When you have technicians who know what they are doing, your IT issues can be addressed quicker, and you can focus on your own work, leading to increased productivity. 

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 provinces 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. 

Money Saved

When you utilize managed IT services, you no longer have to employ your own IT department. You also do not have the expenses of holding space for this department in your office. This can trim your IT expenses drastically, and that extra money can go towards hiring more help or investing in more efficient processes, which increases your productivity. 

Speedy Solutions

With managed IT services, many solutions can be provided the same day you request them, because of the vast array of resources employed by these companies. When you have a technician at your business as soon as possible, your IT issues are addressed that much faster. When your downtime is limited, you are able to spend more time actually getting work done. A speedy solution in record time increases your productivity. 

How ANAX Can Help

Alright, so you can see how managed IT services increases your company’s productivity. Where does ANAX come into the picture? We’re the experts in managed IT services, support, and security and offer managed cloud and onsite VoIP services to businesses in Las Vegas.

Our experienced team of technicians provides skills and reliability that can be hard to find through other Las Vegas IT support companies. Our technical team sets the highest of standards and is dedicated to providing the best IT services to our clients. ANAX recognizes that your company is unique and we are prepared to accommodate to your needs and boost your productivity. If you’re looking for the best IT services for your small business, contact ANAX and see the difference for yourself!

Email Set Up and Spam Filters

Email Set Up and Spam Filters

by | Jun 16, 2021 | Business Advice, IT Services, IT Solutions

Junk mail, spam email, different methods of delivery but it’s the same concept. Often, it receives the same reaction from those it is sent to as well. Eye rolls and groans and the potential to fall victim to a scam, oh my! Nothing good ever comes from either of these, but we endlessly continue to receive them, repeat our reactions, and make no attempt to cease their incessant attempts to reach us. If there was a way to stop this interaction, would you? Most of us answer “YES” with no hesitation. While there may not be a solution that blocks 100% of all spam ever sent to your email, we have good news. There are solutions that effectively filter out the majority of these sketchy emails. Even better news, we can help you get it all set up. Before we talk about our solution to this prominent problem, however, let’s take a closer look at what exactly spam is, how it can endanger your business, and then dive into how we can help keep you protected. 

What is Spam? 

No, we aren’t talking about the canned, processed meat. We are talking about the emails you receive from businesses or merchants attempting to sell you products or services that you may not have ever intended to buy or possibly didn’t even know existed. If you aren’t interested in these products or services, have never visited the company’s website or shown any attention to similar markets, why are you receiving these emails? How do they know how to reach you? In reality, there are many ways that companies can get a hold of your contact information. If your email has not been harvested organically somehow, chances are that it was purchased as a part of a hacked email list. Some companies have tools or bots that sift through all the available information on the internet and collect any emails they come across. 

In addition to simply offering products or services and hoping that you will bite and buy in, some spam emails contain malware or malicious attachments. When these files are downloaded, or the links are clicked, your computer can be affected. There are many dangers that can catch a free ride on spam emails, and it’s important to understand how clicking the wrong thing can be devastating to you as an individual, or to your business, which brings us to our next point. 

What Does Spam Mean for My Business? 

Spam emails are bad news for business for many reasons. Even if there is no malicious content included in them, clearing out the spam clutter can eat up a lot of time that could be better spent actually working. If the spam is not cleared out, it results in a lot of inbox and server space being used up. If your hosting limits how much storage space you have available, it could even result in your emails being capped and unable to accept any new mail, or being charged excess storage fees. 

In many circumstances, however, spam emails are not just harmless annoyances. Often, they contain malicious files, malware, or links that route you to sites that attempt to collect personal information. Malware presents a big problem for your company, as it can affect an entire computer network fairly easily. One employee falling victim to this kind of scam can put the entire business at risk. Similarly, when sensitive information is collected as a successful scam, personal details or client data can fall into the wrong hands. This can be disastrous for company reputation, and can even result in identity theft or access to company funds or accounts. 

How ANAX Can Help 

At ANAX, we have years of experience implementing successful spam filtering solutions. We take the time to get to know your company and its unique needs when it comes to digital security. Then we assist you with deciding what spam filter approach will be most effective for what you hope to achieve. As mentioned previously, these filters do not guarantee that no spam emails will ever make it into your inbox, however, they will cut down on the amount you receive tremendously. ANAX can help you set up spam filters for all your company email accounts and computers. The first step to protecting your business in the digital realm is as simple as getting these spam filters set up. Don’t wait, secure your company emails today.

Going Green by Going Digital

Going Green by Going Digital

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

Going digital can also mean going green. Becoming environmentally friendly in this day and age is increasingly popular within the business world. In fact, offices that are run with paper records and filing systems are now considered out-of-touch and outdated. Technology is forever advancing at a rapid pace, and in order to stay relevant to your customer base, you must keep up. One way to accomplish this is by prioritizing the same things that your customers do, for instance, being eco-friendly. 

Benefits of Going Green

Taking Care of Earth

Environmentally friendly businesses and those who operate sustainably stand to benefit immensely in many different ways. The most glaringly obvious benefit is the fact that you are assisting in taking care of the earth, and even if you are not able to diminish your footprint completely, you can reduce the effects that your business has. From industrial pollution to trash and waste that will never decompose, companies often leave many traces of their existence in the environment. By operating more consciously and actively seeking ways to reduce the negative environmental consequences of your business, you can move forward with the knowledge that you are doing your part. 

Money Made

Another benefit to going green is the devoted clientele this eco-friendly choice brings with it. Those who are concerned about the earth actively make decisions to do business only with companies who are dedicated to environmental protection. If your business goes green, and shares the measures you are taking, as well as the positive results, there is guaranteed to be public support of this effort. In fact, one study has shown that 86% of Americans believe that a business should be involved in a corporate social responsibility or some form of activism. Going green shows your business shares the same priorities as the consumers, resulting in increased support. More support means more sales, and although making more money should not be the only reason you make changes for the environment, it certainly is a convincing one! 

Money Saved

In addition to making more money, your business has the potential to save more money when you switch to operating more sustainably. Eco-friendly businesses often produce far less waste than standard operations. A mindset of reduce, reuse, recycle also shifts perspective on how goods can be manufactured or how services can be provided more effectively. It also can result in less energy consumption due to lowered utility usage, digital files replacing paper ones which reduces the impact on forests, and more.

Happy and Healthy

Last, but not least, a business that adopts greener measures for operations also results in a happier and healthier work environment. Less waste and less harsh chemicals around the office can greatly improve respiratory functions of employees, and knowing that the business cares for the earth improves mood and morale. This pleasant environment can have many physiological benefits for those who work for the company, and has even been shown to reduce the number of sick days taken over a certain period of time as well. Healthier and happier employees are more productive and take more enjoyment in their job. 

How to Go Green

Now that you understand the many benefits of a business taking steps towards greener operations, you may be wondering how you can achieve this in your company. One of the easiest and most impactful ways to make your business more environmentally friendly is to go digital. Going paperless and transferring all of your files and operations to a digital platform can reduce the company’s waste by up to 90%. Since technology is ever-changing, there are solutions that exist for every business in operation. If you are wondering how to securely transfer information, store files and documents, communicate with staff or clients, or anything else digitally, ANAX is here to help. We offer managed IT services for mid-size businesses and can assist you with finding the ideal solution for your needs. If you are ready to take the next step in going green with your business, contact our team of experts today!