Posts

Keeping Your Wireless Network Secure

/in , /by

Wireless networking means the improved access and availability of data, leading to an overall increase in your team’s productivity. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come without cost. When a wireless network is installed, there are added security risks that come along with it. It’s important to understand and take the appropriate steps to safeguard your data and infrastructure. As your network-integration partner, BCS takes security seriously, guiding you in keeping your wireless network secure. Here are a few wireless networking security basics to start with:

Change default settings. With a new wireless network, we recommend creating unique usernames and passwords, just as in your personal life. Change the default router network name and password promptly. Often, the default router name contains information about the type of router you have, which hackers use to access network passwords. To further protect your data, make it a habit to update passwords regularly. 

Limit access to authorized users. Keep your wireless network safe by only allowing employees or other approved individuals access. Give visitors and the public a guest wireless network to prevent them from infecting your network with a virus. Consider limiting your wireless signal strength as well, setting it to cover only the areas that need access to your network.

Utilize wireless encryption. Wireless encryption secures your data by requiring users to authenticate themselves when connecting to your network. Multiple encryption protocols are available, so be sure to choose one that works with your router and provides the level of protection you need.

Don’t overlook physical security. Keeping the hardware and equipment of your system safe is just as important as protecting your wireless data. Place all network equipment, including routers, access points, adapters and range extenders out of sight and secured from the public and visitors. For extra security, lock equipment in a cabinet or consider video surveillance options.

As a full service wireless networking provider, BCS provides uncompromised security of your data and infrastructure. Call us at (800) 365-8067 to learn how we can assist you with your wireless networking needs. 

Common Cybersecurity Myths Busted

/in , , , /by

It’s easy to say “it won’t happen to us,” but cybersecurity is something that every business, large or small, needs to take seriously. It’s easy to underestimate cyber dangers if you believe certain myths that surround them. So, let’s take a look at some cybersecurity lore and why it isn’t always correct. 

Myth: We’re too small; no one will hack us. 

Small does not mean safe. No matter what it’s size, your company is a target for hackers. In fact, many hackers will purposely search for small businesses, correctly betting that they don’t have a secure network in place. Unfortunately, small does mean your company is hurt more significantly. As reported in Forbes, the average cost of an attack is more than $200,000!  That puts 60 percent of small companies out of business within six months of a cyberattack.

Myth: Anti-virus software and a firewall is enough security.

Cybercriminals are increasingly sophisticated. That makes it important to have multi-layered security protecting your data. In addition to the traditional end-point security of firewalls and anti-virus software, consider other measures like two-factor authentication, data monitoring and encryption software. While there is no perfect cybersecurity solution, make it your goal to have systems in place that allow for a quick reaction and comprehensive damage control.

Myth: You know right away if your computer is infected.

Gone are the days when slow loading times and non-stop pop-up ads were the obvious indicators of a virus. Today’s malware is stealthy and  hard to detect as hackers control webcams, access sensitive information or use an infected computer to attack other targets.

Myth: Cybersecurity is a technology issue only.

While your IT department or contractor plays a large role in keeping your data safe, employee education is critical when it comes to cybersecurity. Employees, rather than technology, are the most common entry point for hackers. Make sure internal cybersecurity training occurs at least once a year and covers topics such as phishing scams, password best practices and the ins and outs of wireless networks. 

 BCS Voice & Data Solutions works with its customers to provide guidance and support for implementing the most up-to-date cybersecurity practices. Call us today at (757) 497-3100 to discuss how we can assist you in creating a cybersecurity plan that is right for you. 

Build Better Client Relationships With Tech

/in , , , , , , /by

February is the month of love! If you’re looking for ways to improve the relationship between your business and clients, take the seasonal opportunity to do so! Show clients and partners that you appreciate them with new technologies that improve their experience with your company.

Wondering how BCS can help? Here are some easily integratable tools that quickly show your clients how much you care:

1. Free WiFi

The need for visitors to connect is unavoidable. Granting unlimited access to everyone can introduce security issues, so many companies don’t offer up their private connection.

Unfortunately, that creates a negative experience for the visitor. That’s why you should consider establishing a convenient guest WiFi, instead. A dedicated guest network lets visitors quickly connect with a simple password and no red tape. It’s a thoughtful and appreciated convenience that all clients and guests will enjoy, and it protects your business systems.

2. Professional Conference Calling

Do you have regular in-person meetings with  customers? Whether they come to you or you go to them, someone adds minutes and sometimes hours onto their workday just getting to the meeting. One easy way to streamline communication with clients and improve your overall relationship is to integrate video conferencing. Professional video conferencing, like our StarLeaf technology, allows you and your client to get that face-to-face contact without the burden of travel, something your everyone will thank you for.

3. Eliminate Wait Times

Being able to talk with a real person when you need help is an important demand for clients and customers across all industries. If your phone system is too complicated or employees can’t connect quickly, communication falls apart. Show your clients that you understand their needs. Upgrading to a seamless and easy to use business phone system with BCS.

BCS Voice and Data is here to make you and your clients happier! Call us at (800) 365-8067 to learn how we can eliminate the barriers to building great relationships and set your business apart.

Achieve Active Growth with BCS Voice and Data

/in , , , , , , /by

What are your business goals for 2020? If you’re like most companies, they likely involve expansion. Whether growth for your company means a larger physical space, more employees or increased sales flowing into your processes one thing is for sure–you need backend systems ready to handle more volume in place before you start scaling. 

That’s where BCS Voice and Data comes in. We are an amazing partner for growing companies. Not only because we know what’s needed to allow for easy growth, we know scalability too, so you don’t outgrow a new solution quickly. If you’re on the path to bigger and better this year, here are some ways BCS Voice and Data can help: 

Virtualization: 

For any business seeking growth in 2020, new tech will keep you competitive, especially when it comes to Virtualization. Our virtualization services allow you to keep up with adding more employees and contractors as you scale, by increasing the speed of your data sharing and allowing everyone to have the access they need, when they need it. All while keeping costs manageable and data safe.  

Improved Communication Systems: 

One thing is for sure in this day and age–customer service is key. Don’t expect to grow if you can’t communicate well with your customers, clients or partners. If you plan to increase communication with clients or remote employees, ask about our telephone and video conferencing system options. Our options are easy to use with no interruptions and best of all, your entire team can be easily reached. Customers have high expectations for good, consistent and reliable communication, no matter what industry.

Structured Cabling: 

Structured Cabling is an underrated but extremely important consideration in any physical space. If your network suffers from aging infrastructure or lacks organization, it will show as you grow. Position your company for growth by having our engineers and systems specialists create an organized framework that is easy to configure as your business expands, meaning you’ll be able to adapt quickly, without ongoing additional investments.

BCS Voice and Data not only makes the growth of your company easier, we create the systems that encourage expansion. Call us at (800) 365-8067 to learn how we can help you achieve your business goals this year.