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Many businesses have begun reaping the advantages of the move to the cloud while others are still contemplating the shift. For those who are hesitant, the concerns are real and valid. However, understanding how cloud computing works and making an informed choice can boost your business greatly. In the following paragraphs we outline the services and models offered by cloud service providers (CSP) and provide guidelines on how to choose the right one for you.

Service Models

Different CSPs offer different types of services. Some only offer their hardware (infrastructure) on rent while others offer software packages. Yet others offer the OS and some commercial software like Oracle for use. There are also some CSPs who specialize in database services. How the services are provided or deployed to the user also differs although most CSPs offer all models of deployment. The three main ways in which CSPs deploy their services are the private cloud, the public cloud, and the hybrid cloud.

Making your Choice

Choice of a CSP must be made on several levels including the service, the deployment model, the charges for service, and the support provided. The first consideration is of course your own requirement. Are you looking to dump all your software on the cloud? Or are you looking for some specific services like database hosting? Do you have professionals who will write your apps for you or do you want to rent the apps provided by the CSP?

These are some of the questions you should be asking yourself when selecting the services. Choice of the deployment model will depend on how sensitive your data is and how willing you are to share it with others. Whatever the claims made by CSPs, your data is exposed on public clouds. So if you do not wish to share your information, then private clouds are the best option. However monetary investment in private clouds is considerably high. You can also opt for a hybrid model which is a mix of private and public clouds.

Once you have decided upon the type of services you require, you should consider other aspects like payment, support, and above all, security. It is a good idea to research the provider to gauge the quality of his services. You can also ask probing questions regarding scaling to other providers, location of your data storage and retrieval time. Questions about checks and controls within the cloud are also important.

Conclusion
Before signing on the dotted line, it is wise to consider carefully what services you will be provided, the costs of these services, and whether the services will be provided as expected. Above all you should ensure that your data is safe and available when you need it and where you need it. Asking the right questions can help you make the right choice.

GEEX can provide cloud solutions to your business. Why not give us a call or email to find out more: info@localhost / 0121 285 0098

References:  Dummies, Entrepreneur

All of us install antivirus programs on our computers to protect them from spyware, malware and other viruses. However, there have been instances of the computers getting infected by these antivirus programs instead! This is because you just exposed your computer to harmful programs, courtesy of fake antivirus programs.

How do harmful antivirus programs enter your computer?

A large number of these fake security programs are introduced via a plug-in found on a website, from illegal links on social networking sites like Facebook or simply when accessing a link in a spam email.

There are many others that trick you by asking you to share computer data due to slow speed. Once the virus is introduced, it can wipe all data from your system as well as spy on any data entered into the system.

If you have been a victim, you are not alone. So what can you do to avoid this situation?

1)  Always install trusted software: Beware of those free programs or free patches found on unfamiliar sites. If in case your computer has already been infected, get yourself genuine antivirus software – we always advice our clients base on their needs. This will safeguard your system every time you download something off the internet. Always remember that free software may not always be a genuine one. So only download from trusted sites and especially after installing a genuine copy of an antivirus software.

2)  Once installed, an antivirus program doesn’t guarantee protection forever. Says Nehan Shaikh of eScan Blog, you should regularly update your antivirus program. You can set your computer or device to automatically update software or you can manually update it. You can also configure your device to let you know when an update is available. That way you can decide whether you need the update and when to update the software.

3)  In case you are not very well versed with the World Wide Web, seek assistance from a professional who can help you download the software and configure the updates.

4)  On any web page you will see many links to other pages. You will also see smaller square shape windows called pop-up windows. Avoid clicking on these links or windows unless you are sure where they lead and you really need the information. These links and pop-ups often lead to malware that may get installed on your device without your knowledge.

What should you do if your computer gets infected?

In case your system does get infected, immediately delete the program manually. You may have to navigate to system folder to delete the program permanently. If you are not sure what you should do then seek advice from a professional.

GEEX can provide managed anti-virus on all our support and leased products. The anti-virus software is continuously monitored to make sure it is up to date and if you do get infected then our support team are notified and they can deal with any infection immediately.

Why not give us a call or email to find out more.

info@localhost / 0121 285 0098

We all know that even with the increasing sizes of hard disk capacity, there is a limit to the amount of data that can be stored on a computer. Yet cloud computing is said to have unlimited storage. This may seem to be somewhat oxymoronic. The seemingly unlimited storage on clouds is achieved by a combination of two techniques called scaling and virtualization. Anyone remotely connected with the field of IT understands that virtualization is the creation of functionalities that do not exist. Scalability is a relatively new concept. In this blog we explain the concept of scalability and how it is used in cloud computing.

Cloud Service Providers (CSP) use two types of scaling – vertical and horizontal scaling.

Vertical Scaling

Vertical scaling refers to improving the hardware components of a single server such as adding CPUs, faster and larger hard disks, and additional memory. Improving the hardware components helps retrieve data quickly. This is advantageous in single thread applications where data has to be served up to a single client. However vertical scaling is helpful up to a certain point beyond which it does not add any value to the system and soon becomes a liability. CSPs then resort to horizontal scaling.

Horizontal Scaling

Horizontal scaling refers to utilization of multiple servers to serve multiple clients. Says John Ellis of BlueLock, it is simply the math of doubling your resources to provide double the amount of services. For example if one server can process 10 web pages per second, then two servers can process 20 pages. Of course, this is a bit more complex, but the basic principle remains the same.

How it Works

When users sign up with a CSP they seemingly work on a single server. However, the data, programs, and apps they use, are stored on several servers located at different locations. When a user connects to the cloud, he taps a single server that is usually closest in location. This server then makes requests to other servers to provide the data and processing requested by the client. These servers work in sync to serve the users. What gets stored on each of these servers depends on the networking model adopted by the CSP. Some CSPs contract with other CSPs to rent their hardware. The distribution of data and software then depends on the agreement between the two CSPs. All these interactions take place without the users being aware of them.

Conclusion

Cloud computing is attracting more and more business with its advantages of huge storage capacity, service on demand, and flexibility. These advantages are achieved by the use of networking techniques. Scalability and virtualization are the names given to the techniques adopted by cloud service providers to meet the increasing demands of their clients.

GEEX are able to provide various cloud solutions depending on size of your business. To learn more, please give us a call or drop us an email.

References: VMware

Buying a new laptop for your business may require some in-depth planning and considerations. If you refer to shopping advice and buying guides they may complicate your search by breaking down your specifications into categories and nested subcategories.

Read on to simplify your search for that perfect laptop for your business!

Hybrid, Budget Laptop and Touch Screen Laptops
Earlier, the business laptops in the price range of $1000 were labeled budget priced laptops. Today, with testing economic times they are labeled as premium. You will easily find slim laptops starting from $700-$800 and above. You will get slim touch screens empowered with the 128GB SSD drive and Intel Core i5 CPUs in that price range – which is perfect for your business unless and until you plan to do lots of image or video editing. In recent years, the prices of business-friendly touch screen devices and hybrid laptops have moved to $999.

User-Friendly Design
You should envisage the laptop as an extension of your personal self. You may use the laptop to build your brand in front of clients or store reports, competitor data or send emails from it. You may use it for video conferencing or setting up a virtual office or getting in touch with your office. You should find a laptop that synchronizes well with your requirement and is equipped with best user interface features. This is the area where Apple scores really well. The design of MacBook may not be different from various other hybrid laptops of the modern day, but it possesses great interface tools that people find ideal and perfect for a business laptop.

How Often Do You Travel
How often do you travel with a laptop? Your answer will help you to determine the appropriate model. For frequent commuting 13 inch MacBook Air, Windows tablets and ultra portable laptops with 11.6 inch screens are considered the best. If it is for pure office use, you can stick to 15 inch screens or larger 17 inch screen laptops or even desktops.

A laptop is definitely a long-term, and the most logical, business investment you can make. If you have to choose between design and requirements, we would say that most laptops today can help you with the computing tasks necessary for your business.

However, if you want to stay away from large laptop investments, it is better to lease your laptops and Macs from a trusted laptop and computer leasing experts like MyGeex. You can avail several benefits such as 100% tax efficiency, experienced support team, three year warranty and more.

iPad apps stay true to their commitment and make life better for iPad users. Today, there is an iPad app for every function you can think about – gaming, photography, food, traveling, productivity, health monitoring, emailing and more. The productivity apps are the most popular of all. Here are some productivity apps that may benefit you and other professionals alike.

Microsoft Word
This app is designed for iPad users and it has the same look and feel as Microsoft Office. You can create, view and edit documents in it. You can unlock the upgraded features with a subscription to office 365. It allows you the convenience to choose from easy-to-read layout and real document layout.

You can access word documents from OneDrive for Business, iCloud, Dropbox or SharePoint. You can pick the writing and the editing from where you left and continue working on the document.

In short, it has similar functionalities that you have come to expect from a Microsoft Word application.

Mint App
This is the free application that allows you to plan your finances in an efficient way. It allows you to connect your credit card and debit card accounts, outline a budget, set bill reminders, review investments in one place and track your expenses.

In short, it helps you to keep tabs on your budget, expenditure and offer you tips for savings. You can check your credit score for free and also learn how to improve it.

You can set up financial goals such as saving for your wedding, buying a car, paying debt, etc.

Your data is secured through your own 4-digit PIN, so that no one else has an access to it. If your iPad or iPhone is stolen, you can delete all data from a remote device.

Dropbox for iPad
If you are looking for a simple and smart way to sync between your desktop, iPad and phone, Dropbox is the best option. It is simple to use and you can edit your documents in Word and other file formats.

eFax
This iPad app helps you to send and receive business faxes while away from the office. You can unlock the full potential of faxing freedom by upgrading to Pro or Plus.

If you don’t have an iPad, you can lease your iPads from trusted computer leasing experts in UK – MyGeex. You can get your product delivered the very next day and benefit from 3 years warranty and support.

(See part 2 here)

With the increasing number of digital gadgets in the market, there are just as many or probably more applications available to manage these devices. When you use your smart phone or iPod or any other device, you often get messages or warnings telling you your security is at risk and that there is a virus on our device.

This probably sends a chill up your spine thinking of all the money you spent purchasing the device and you will most likely download the app that will ostensibly protect your device. But how do you know that your device is really at risk? How do you know that you really have a virus or malware? And what exactly is Malware?

What is a Virus?

You will recall from the days of the desktop, a virus is nothing but a computer program that keeps duplicating itself so that your space gets clogged up and your computer malfunctions. Taken from the traditional meaning of the word, a virus infiltrates your system and simply jams it up. Malware (MALicious softWARE) on the other hand is software that can actually harm your PC.

Do Android Viruses Exist?

No, says Lookout while Walter Glenn of Lifehacker says “Viruses may be a more limited problem on smartphones and tablets, but they do exist.” Glenn substantiates his claim with the knowledge that applications on Android run sandboxed and have very little or no interaction with either the OS or other apps. Therefore even if you have a virus it cannot do much harm. So is there any real cause to worry?

What Sort of Malware can an Android Phone have?

Malware can enter phones through SMS or by downloading apps. Either way your system is at risk although as mentioned earlier, the risk is lesser than that for a PC that has malware.

SMS threat

The threat via SMS is through SMS Trojan. An SMS Trojan works behind the scenes and sends SMS from your phone to high priced numbers. The user account is debited each time an SMS is sent without the user being aware of it. By the time the user realizes that a Trojan has entered his phone he is already paid (or is being charged!) a pretty penny.

Downloaded Malware

Most of the downloaded malware is spyware that gains access to your data and sends it to the hacker. These apps are disguised as genuine apps like the Netflix app that appeared in 2011. The spyware could easily be mistaken for the real software and many guileless users were duped.

Conclusion

The lesson to be learned from Netflix is that you should be extremely cautious when downloading apps into your phone. Any which way, downloading too many apps may clog your system and if you download a spyware then Be Ware!

Sources: Lookout, Lifehacker, Securityweek

Microsoft, in an annual SMB Cloud Adoption Study 2011, found that nearly 50% of the small sized businesses plan to adopt cloud service in the next three years.

Businesses that have moved or are considering a shift to cloud computing are often concerned about the security of their data.

This concern is not unfounded. Jeff Beckham of Cisco lists the top five security risks of cloud computing. These relate to transfer of data, software interfaces, data storage, user accounts, and data separation.

Data Transfer

When businesses use cloud computing there is a great deal of data travelling over the internet, often from unsecure networks.

This means that data can be hacked while it is being transferred to and from the cloud. The first precaution therefore is to ensure that your data travels over a secure network.

Using (IPsec) Internet Protocol Security can also mitigate this risk to a great extent. IPsec is any internet protocol that uses encryption and decryption while transferring data over the internet.

What this means is that your data will be coded when it is despatched and decoded when received. In other words while your data travels over the intricate network it is coded and only the decoder stored in your computer and that of your provider can decode it.

User Interface

A user interface is a program or API that interacts with the database to store, retrieve, or update data.  The (CSA) Cloud Security Alliance recommends that you learn how your service provider keeps your data secure. This includes learning about the user interfaces the provider uses. A weak interface – one that does not include nor has checks and controls – can put your data at risk. Therefore it is important to discuss security issues with your provider before you sign the agreement.

Data Storage

Although your service provider may use encryption while transferring data between his server and your computer, few providers use encryption within their own network. Hyun-Suk Yu, Yvette E. Gelogo, & Kyung Jung Kim advise that ensuring data security within the cloud is one of the necessary factors to be considered before accepting the cloud computing package.

Conclusion

The security concerns discussed here are the three major concerns regarding data security. Organizations must keep in mind that employees of the CSP can always access their accounts and data. Therefore it is advisable to consider the sensitivity of the data before deciding to put it on cloud storage. In fact one must be extremely cautious when migrating to cloud computing and consider all aspects carefully before signing the dotted line.

Sources: Cloud Security Alliance, Wikipedia, Microsoft, IETF Tools, Science & Engineering Research Support Society 

One of the many concerns being voiced by businessmen with respect to cloud computing is loss of control. This concern stems from the fact that many organizations have their in-house programmers write applications specific to their needs. These applications are written to integrate with the software of the current cloud service provider.

When the organization decides to change the provider, many of the applications have to be rewritten resulting in additional costs in terms of time and resources.

The obvious solution to this problem is that organizations should use the applications written by the new service provider.

So how should businesses approach the private versus the public application problem?

Public or Private Applications – a matter of control

When writing applications for cloud computing, the approach would depend on the model the company has opted to deploy.

Whether the cloud is a public cloud or a private cloud would also be a factor in deciding the approach to development.

The problem of control would be minimal where the organization only rents the infrastructure since the data and applications would be built and owned by the organization.

Under the SaaS model where the organization rents the provider’s software along with the infrastructure, the problem with control would be the greatest.

Writing Applications for Cloud Computing

From a programmer or developer’s perspective, one major factor when considering private applications over public ones is that applications do not generally stand alone. Every application interacts with other applications, databases, and other objects. If most of these objects or frameworks are provided by the service provider, then using a public application may be a better option since it would be better integrated.

If on the other hand the database is stored locally, private applications may work better because they can then be tested locally to a great extent and only their integration with other applications stored on the cloud will have to be tested real time. Says Barney Beal of  Techtarget, “There are, of course some applications that simply aren’t made for the public cloud. For example, a retail bank’s demand deposit account program.”

Conclusion

Given the various factors on which the decision of whether to write private applications or use the ones provided by the service provider is based, one cannot advocate for one or the other. The needs of the client with regard to the volume of data, the number of applications he needs, the level of security required, and the sensitivity of data will all combine to form the basis for deciding on a solution.

Nor can the decision stand alone. The decision for development must be taken in conjunction with the decision about the deployment model. Since cloud computing is a relatively new concept, there are still a lot of teething troubles with developing software for cloud platform. With time and experience, will come the knowledge to take better decisions, and write better code.

Sources: UNH, Tech Target