IT BLOG

Ransomware: Latest Threats and Best Prevention Strategies for Your Business

As an IT expert, it's my job to keep up with the latest threats facing businesses today. One of the biggest threats we're seeing right now is ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a victim's computer, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. It's a growing problem that can cause significant damage to businesses of all sizes. In this post, I'll discuss some of the latest threats for ransomware and the best solutions to prevent it. Threats One of the latest threats for ransomware is the rise of double extortion attacks. In a double extortion attack, cybercriminals not only encrypt a victim's files but also steal sensitive data and threaten to release it publicly unless a ransom is paid. This type of attack can be particularly damaging for businesses that store confidential information. Another threat is the use of social engineering tactics to trick users into...

The Top 5 Residential Wireless Routers for 2023

As an IT expert, I've spent countless hours testing and analyzing various residential wireless routers to find the best options for my clients. In this blog post, I'll be discussing the top 5 wireless routers that I highly recommend for residential use. I'll also be providing a comprehensive review of each router's features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision. ASUS RT-AC88U The ASUS RT-AC88U is a highly popular wireless router among consumers due to its excellent performance and comprehensive feature set. This router is ideal for homes with multiple devices, as it has a powerful processor that can handle heavy traffic with ease. It also features advanced QoS settings, which can help prioritize bandwidth for your most important applications. The router's 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports are a great feature for users who need a wired connection. Pros: Excellent performance Comprehensive feature set Great for homes with multiple...

Expert Recommendations: Top Laptops for Purchase in 2023

The release of Windows 11 and a renewed focus on IT security has reignited the demand for high-end laptops in 2023. There are many laptops available on the market, each with their own unique designs, features, and configurations. The laptop you choose is a difficult decision that will impact your productivity and comfort for the entirety of its life. To help with this, I've compiled a list of the top laptops available in 2023 based on feedback I've received from customers at Express Computer Service. Dell XPS 13: The Dell XPS 13 is one of the most popular laptops on the market, and for good reason. It features a sleek design, long battery life, and a stunning display. The 11th-generation Intel Core processors power the device, making it suitable for heavy usage. Additionally, the XPS 13 has a thin bezel display, making it perfect for people who want a...

Expert Tips: How to Extend the Life of Your IT Hardware and Avoid Common Mistakes

As an IT expert, I have seen firsthand how heat can impact the lifespan of technology. The half-life rule is an essential concept to understand. It states that the lifespan of technology is cut in half for every 10°C increase in temperature past room temperature. In other words, a piece of technology with an expected lifespan of 10 years may fail within 5 years if left regularly running in a warm room. Heat can cause a range of problems for technology, including component degradation, thermal stress, and performance limiting. These are conditions that can lead to device failure. According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, high temperatures cause up to 50% of electronic failures. To extend the life of IT hardware, it's important to take steps to manage heat and prevent damage. Here are six ways to use temperature to extend the life of your devices: Keep it...

What to look for when choosing an IT Solution for your business in Syracuse

As technology continues to play an increasingly important role in the day-to-day operations of businesses of all sizes, having a reliable managed IT solution has become more critical than ever. Choosing the right managed IT solutions provider, however, can be a challenging task, as there are many factors to consider. In this article, we will take a look at what to look for when choosing a managed IT solutions provider, and why Express Computer Service in Syracuse is the best solution for your business's managed IT needs. Technical expertise: When choosing a managed IT solutions provider, it is important to look for a company with a team of highly skilled and experienced IT professionals. You want a provider that has a deep understanding of the latest technology and can help you implement the right solutions to meet your specific business needs. Responsiveness and reliability: Your managed IT solutions provider...

What to do if you have lost data and need to recover it

As an IT data recovery specialist, I have seen many cases of data loss, but the good news is that with the right tools and techniques, it is often possible to recover lost data. In this blog post, I would like to share some important facts about data recovery, as well as some of the best tools and techniques for recovering lost data. Data recovery is not always possible: While it is possible to recover lost data in many cases, it is important to understand that data recovery is not always possible. The chances of successful data recovery depend on various factors, such as the cause of the data loss, the age of the storage device, and the length of time that has passed since the data was lost. Data recovery should be attempted as soon as possible: The sooner you attempt to recover lost data, the better your...

How to automate your business – 5 areas of focus

As a small business owner, it can be difficult to keep up with the demands of running a successful enterprise. You may find yourself constantly juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities, from managing finances to handling customer inquiries and everything in between. That's where automation comes in. By leveraging technology and IT solutions, you can streamline many of your daily operations and free up valuable time to focus on other important aspects of your business. For local small businesses in Syracuse, New York, Express Computer Service is a leading provider of IT services and solutions. We understand the unique challenges faced by small businesses and can help you automate various processes to increase efficiency and reduce the workload. Here are a few ways small businesses can take advantage of IT automation: Invoicing and payment processing: Invoicing and payment processing can be time-consuming tasks, especially for small businesses with a high volume...

7 Things to Consider When Building a Custom Computer in Syracuse

  Building a custom computer can be a thrilling experience, especially for those who want to get the most out of their technology. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to decide what type of computer to build. If you're in the Syracuse area and looking to build a custom computer, here are seven things to consider. Purpose - The first thing to consider when building a custom computer is what you'll be using it for. If you're a gamer, you'll want to focus on graphics and processing power. If you're a video editor, you'll want a computer with a fast processor and plenty of storage. Budget - Your budget is a crucial factor in deciding what type of computer to build. You can build a powerful computer without breaking the bank, but it's important to know your limits and find the right balance between cost and...

5 Tech Upgrades Every Small Business in Syracuse Should Make in 2023 to Stay Ahead During a Possible Recession

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on small businesses in Syracuse, and the threat of another recession is always looming. As a small business owner, you need to be proactive in preparing your company for any economic downturn. One way to do this is by upgrading your technology, which can not only improve efficiency and productivity but also provide a competitive edge. In this blog post, we will discuss five crucial IT upgrades that small businesses in Syracuse should make in 2023 to stay ahead during a possible recession. Cloud Computing - Cloud computing provides small businesses with access to enterprise-level technology and services without having to invest in expensive hardware or infrastructure. With cloud computing, small businesses in Syracuse can store and access their data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection. This allows for remote work and collaboration, which is essential in today's world. ...

Boost Your Small Business’s IT in Syracuse: 5 Simple Steps to Follow in 2023

Invest in a reliable and secure network infrastructure: One of the most important things a business in Syracuse and Central New York can do to improve its IT infrastructure is to invest in a reliable and secure network. This includes both the hardware and software components that make up the network, as well as the policies and procedures that govern its use. A strong network infrastructure is essential for supporting business operations, enabling employees to access the resources they need, and protecting sensitive data. Implement robust cybersecurity measures: Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, and it is critical for businesses to take steps to protect themselves and their customers. This includes implementing measures such as antivirus software, firewalls, and two-factor authentication, as well as training employees on best practices for keeping data safe. Upgrade outdated hardware and software: Outdated hardware and software can be a major hindrance to a business's IT...