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Machine Learning Terms You Should Know

It is no secret that understanding technology and their terms can be difficult. Especially with it always changing and evolving, it is hard to keep up with all the lingo. Knowing the basic machine learning terms will help you have a better understanding of the technology. Here are the top terms you should know: 

 

Unsupervised Learning 

Unsupervised learning refers to systems that rely on clustering algorithms. The main goal of this is to allow big systems or computers to a wide variety of information so they can learn and adapt to it. The downside to this is that each system needs to be programmed in order to use the information.  

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) 

This type of automation is simply using bots to carry out certain tasks. RPA’s work best in an environment that repeats certain tasks. 

Linear Regression

Linear regression is a statistical algorithm that uses variables to predict values of dependent variables. The main idea of linear regression is being able to use independent and dependent variables to plot data on a line. 

Deep Learning

Artificial intelligence is becoming more popular in the technology industry, and deep learning is a new approach to AI. Deep learning groups learning algorithms based on hierarchy. For example, the first layer of deep learning can consist of an algorithm based on color and as the layers go up, the level of the algorithm increases due to how important it is to the full algorithm. 

Classification

Classification is grouping objects, ideas or information into categories. This can be useful for any type of algorithm or machine learning. It keeps track of data and allows the user to select certain information or objects to send out or edit. 

Struggling to understand machine learning terms Minimize the downtime spent searching for solutions and outsource IT support with WesTec Services! Interested in learning more? Contact us today! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn!

Benefits of Managed Services

 

When it comes to your business’ IT, it can be overwhelming and often confusing. Having a managing service run all your IT, it can eliminate any stress associated with it. Many benefits include cost, time, effectiveness and less overall stress. 

Cost

 

Most managing service providers work directly with the client to ensure the best pricing options for your IT department. This may include a better way of securing data, sharing documents, communications and more. 

Time

One of the biggest benefits of a managed service is that it will give you and your business more time for other things. Handling IT services on your own can take up lots of time, leaving you scrambling to finish projects. A managing service can take everything IT off your hands and ultimately free up some time. 

Effectiveness

IT can be difficult to understand, so when businesses try to handle all their IT items, they can do things incorrectly. This will decrease your efficiency and often prolong tasks. When you let a service handle everything IT, they will ensure that everything will be correct and allow you and your business to work effectively. 

Company Improvements 

When companies are growing and hiring more employees, they tend to depend on their technology department to be able to provide all necessary information and items needed. When a managing service is in control of IT, they can be ready for your company to continuously grow and change without having to worry about when things will be prepared. 

Stress

IT itself can be incredibly stressful. This high amount of stress can harm work efficiency and be detrimental to the company. Hiring an IT managing service team will take all the stress off of you and your employees. They will do their job, to ensure that you can do your job. 

WesTec Services is your one-stop-source for all things IT support & consulting in Houston! Does your business require network installation, backup & disaster recovery, managed services, consulting, and more? We’ve got you covered! Contact us today.

 

VPNs vs Proxies

 

In the new age of technology, everyone is wanting to protect their data, especially for their business. VPNs and Proxies can both be used as a barrier to protect vital information from being stolen or hacked. But which one is better for you and your business? Here is a breakdown of VPNs vs Proxies:

 

VPNs

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network is an established private service that is used when connected to a public internet network. It provides a user with a different IP address before connecting to the service. It creates a secure connection of different destinations that ensures the privacy of data and information. When using a VPN, it will encrypt any information being sent so it can further be protected. People can easily install a VPN through their computer or an app. Not only that, but certain VPNs give the user the ability to change their location of the IP address. 

Pros and Cons of VPNs

Pros of VPNs include:

  • Encryption of all data
  • Filter everything on the website 
  • Higher security coverage

Cons of VPNs include:

  • Can make connection speed slower
  • Some VPN softwares are expensive

Pros and Cons of Proxies

Pros of proxies include:

  • Cheaper than VPNs
  • Can balance traffic loads without slowing down the connection 
  • Can be used with big companies and servers

Cons of Proxies Include:

  • Less secure than VPNs
  • Some proxies can track certain information including passwords

Proxies

Proxies are simply a barrier between the user and the internet. The proxy acts as a filter when entering data on a website, securing any data that may be at risk. There are many different types of proxies including, forward proxy, reverse proxy, transparent proxy and anonymous proxy. All do the same thing but act upon it in a different way.

 

Which One is Better? 

When it comes to which one is better for you, there is no definitive answer. They both successfully protect user identity and information. They both have pros and cons and it is important to do research in order to find the perfect option for you. 

WesTec services can assist you with any IT questions or services. We offer skilled expertise in all technologies and are ready to help. Contact us for any further information on data security and how to protect yourself. 

How to Develop a Hardware Refresh Cycle

A hardware refresh cycle is when you upgrade you or your company’s hardware and software as needed. Benefits include saving information, increasing efficiency, and improving safety. Here’s how to develop a hardware refresh cycle:

 

1. Assess Your Hardware Needs 

Any hardware refresh should start with a closer look at your systems. This means knowing what kind of hardware it is, how old it is, and how much storage is used. This will better prepare you for the updates. 

2. Future Needs

After knowing what hardware you have or what it is lacking, you will want to conduct some research and decide what routine updates will be required of your hardware in the future. This is also a good time to locate receipts, and know purchase dates and any warranties you may have. 

3. Disposal of Old Hardware

After assessing your current hardware, you may need to upgrade the system completely. In order to do this, you will want to make sure the hardware company has a warranty program. If they do, you may be able to get it replaced at a lower price. If not, this is when you will want to wipe your system and properly dispose of it. 

4. Different Types of Hardware

You may not know that there are many different types of hardware including, personal computers, central processing units, random access memory, hard disks, internal hard drives, mobile devices, and servers. It is important to choose the right one for you or your business. 

5. Purchase

 

Once you have an idea of what software you want, you can choose to either purchase it or lease it. Both have their pros and cons. For more information on buying vs leasing IT equipment, read here

Keeping your hardware up-to-date will not only increase productivity, but it will also improve your business’ safety. It is important to conduct a hardware refresh cycle regularly. 

Not sure what technology is better for your business? Westec Services can help! Feel free to contact us for more information or questions you may have.

 

Cyber Security for Startups

Are you interested in creating your own startup? Are you afraid of any cyber risks? Any business, especially startups, are at risk for cyber attacks. These attacks can be detrimental to a business or online presence. It is vital to know what these attackers are looking for and how to protect yourself. Here are some tips to secure you and your startup from cyber attacks:

Account Admin 

Depending on how big your startup is and how many accounts will be online, it is a good idea to have one admin account. This means the one admin account will have the authority to grant access to fellow accounts and ability to download data and software. This will cut back on online vulnerability as only one person will have access to important data. Along with an admin account, you can also unlock certain data and access to different accounts within the startup. For example, you can grant access to the financial department of bank account statements and billing information. Not only will this limit the risk of cyber threats, it will also cut back on time that the admin would have to grant access every time. 

Strong Passwords

Having strong passwords isn’t a surprise when it comes to cybersecurity. But, the top way hackers get into systems is going through weak passwords. In order to stop this, it is recommended that every password should have a capital letter, special characters and numbers. It is also important to never share passwords. 

Multi-Factor Authentication

No matter how strong passwords can be, hackers can still find a way in. Thankfully, more systems are requiring a multi-factor authentication process when logging into an account. This means that even if someone has your password, it can require a phone number or email to fully login. Most online softwares offer this level of security, you just have to authorize it. 

Knowing how to protect you and your startup from cyber attacks is crucial. With selecting admin accounts, strong passwords and multi-factor authentication process, hackers will have a harder time logging into your accounts.

 

Cyber threats can be irritating and hard to effectively prevent them. WesTec services can help you in any way. We offer skilled expertise in all technologies and are ready to help. Contact us for any further information on phishing and how to protect yourself. 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Centers: Cloud-Based vs On-Premises

 

Technology is constantly evolving and with that comes the differences between contact centers. More specifically, the difference between cloud based and on-premises contact centers. Both have their pros and cons, but which one is best for your business? Here out the main differences between contact centers: 

 

Cloud Based

Cloud based contact centers are a way for businesses to be in direct contact with customers, anywhere and everywhere. With it being all linked to the cloud, all data and software can be accessed anywhere. This makes communication with clients more effective. More businesses are making the switch to cloud based technology. 

Pros 

The pros of cloud based contact centers include but not limited to:

  • Easier to Scale
  • Speed
  • Better Integration
  • Reliable 
  • Easy Access

On-Premises

More traditionally, on-premises contact centers use hardware-based settings. This means everything including data, software, and infrastructure stays onsite. Although it is more user friendly, this requires lots of maintenance that can become expensive fast. 

Pros 

Even though some might argue that on-site contact centers are outdated or old fashioned, they still have pros that not even cloud based technology can offer. Pros include: 

  • Maximum Control
  • Data is stored Securely 
  • Only Buy Equipment you Need
  • No Monthly Payments 

Differences  

Both options have their advantages, but which one is better for your business? Both cloud based and on-premises contact centers have the potential to grow your business. On-premises centers have the access to create wait music, transfers and call logging. Cloud based can do the same thing, but in a more advanced way such as live call monitoring and click to transfer. 

Setting up the equipment is another main difference between the two. On-premises locations require time to get licensing, wire the hardware and find supporting items to link the equipment to. Cloud based works directly from the data box or even app. 

 

When it comes to cost, on-premises has a one time cost of all equipment needed. This can be expensive, but it is only one payment. It is also important to know that this technology might need more maintenance and upgrades as you go. Cloud based is cheaper at the beginning, but you will need to enroll in a subscription plan. Depending on what company, you could be paying every time a call comes through the line. 



Not sure what technology is better for your business? Westec Services can help! Feel free to contact us for more information or questions you may have.

Virtual Collaboration: How to Improve Remote Work Processes

Due to the recent pandemic, more people are choosing to work remotely. In fact, studies have shown that by the year 2025 more businesses will go fully remote. Although this is good for some businesses, people are voicing their concerns about the decrease of productivity from working from home. Here are some tips to increase productivity by using virtual collaboration when working remotely: 

 

What is Virtual Collaboration?

Virtual collaboration is any effort to collaborate or communicate with others who are not physically present. This includes different applications, instant messaging software, and video calls or conferencing platforms. 

 

Collaboration Software

Collaboration software is one of the most effective tools you can use when working remotely. This allows you to work with one another on different projects in real time. This also helps connect the workplace and builds internal relationships. Popular softwares that help with collaboration are: 

  • Video Chat services such as Zoom or Skype 
  • Instant Messaging
  • Productivity Apps that track tasks or time 

When these softwares are used, workers will have more motivation and remain productive. 

 

Centralize Communication 

Communication is a big part of working remotely, but one issue many people have is finding information for their work or projects. One way to resolve this issue is to invest in a centralized information system that allows for workers to find all the information necessary for their work. Popular systems include Google Drive and RingCentral. This will keep all information secured and accessible for remote workers. 

 

Leadership 

It is no surprise that leaders of businesses or companies are always watched. Workers will usually follow the footsteps of their leaders in many situations, including working remotely. It is a good idea to have leaders also work remotely and do all of their tasks efficiently to motivate employees to do the same. It gives employees the opportunity to work alongside superiors and give them a sense of normalcy. This is also a good time to place employee incentives. By implementing this, employees will have the right motivation to complete their tasks. 

 



Have any questions about the right technology services for you or your business? WesTec services can help. Contact us with any questions you may have and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter

 

Upgrading your Telecom System: Making the Switch to Switchvox

As your business grows, your technology should be growing with it. Some technologies, including phone systems should be upgraded to ensure better service that you and your employees deserve. It is time to upgrade your telecom system into a newer, fast and more efficient system such as Switchvox. Here is why you should make the switch: 

Features

Old fashion telecom systems can be confusing, especially when it comes to all the features, or lack of. When businesses get more clients or traffic, they will need to make calls, take messages and transfer clients. Outdated telecom systems will not be able to perform properly. Switchvox systems on the other hand, make it easier for the user to complete all these tasks without being stressed about pre-existing features. 

 

Save Time and Money

Time is money, especially when dealing with equipment that is essential to your business. Old telecom systems take time to do simple tasks, thus decreasing the time and money you have to grow your business. Switchvox systems work at a fast pace and have a larger capacity to perform basic functions. Not only that but older systems could require recurring maintenance unlike newer systems like the Switchvox that grows as your business grows and allows for more flexibility. 

 

Professional Image

Success is what every business wants and in order to do that, they must act the part. When people look for a company to work for, ideally they want someone that is professional and can get a job done. What says professional about a slow, outdated telecom system? Having a Switchvox system improves communication with potential clients and gives them a sense of professionalism. 

 

Have any questions about the right technology services for you or your business? WesTec services can help. Contact us with any questions you may have and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter

 

Quantum Computing

 

Quantum mechanics are more powerful than ever. Different from the average computer, quantum computing offers an advanced level of algorithms and benefits that continue to develop and transform. Due to their advancements, they are continuing to grow in popularity and change the way we use technology.  

 

 

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing can be described as a unique set of equations and algorithms that are based on quantum mechanics and physics. They have collective properties including interference, superposition and entanglement that perform tasks such as completing calculations. These unique systems are then introduced to computing making it possible to solve many problems and aid in traditional programming methods. 

 

How does it work?

To understand how quantum computing works, it is important to know the certain elements used including qubits. Qubits are the unit measurement for quantum computing. They have potential to do things differently and can hold lots of information. The quantum system has a house or a storage facility that keeps the qubits and keeps them at a temperature above absolute zero. This is to prevent interference that might happen with the signals. Some systems also use a vacuum chamber to stop internal vibrations.  In order to use them in this type of computing, the system must have a method for transferring signals. This is embedded in quantum systems. More common systems include lasers, microwaves and voltage. Then from the transfer stage, it gets sent to a classic computer that can then read and run the desired program. 

 

Benefits

There are multiple benefits when it comes to this specialized hardware. One being optimization. With the help of quantum computing, researchers can use a specific algorithm that cannot be used with average computers. Not only that but it can then create even more complex systems and equations that aid in online traffic within the system, deliveries and energy storage. Another benefit is searching online. With the help of this computing, it can sort through lots of data and present the desired results that classic commuters and algorithms can’t do. 

 

Have any questions about the right technology services for you or your business? WesTec services can help. Contact us with any questions you may have and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter

Phishing Scams During the Holiday Season

With holiday’s right around the corner, this makes for a scammer’s perfect opportunity to conduct phishing scams. Researchers have stated that this year, phishing scams are going to increase significantly. More phishing scams are done via mobile devices, making it easier than ever to have your information stolen. But how do we protect ourselves during this vulnerable time? 

 

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are intensified during the holiday season due to the high traffic of online shoppers and the urge for people to look for deals. One popular way scammers do this is by sending emails or text messages about an offer that is too good to be passed up. For example, they list a popular technology device for cheap. Most people would just look at the price and proceed with the scam. Another scam is when they mimic bigger companies online to get credit card information or being able to log onto the device when a certain URL is clicked. These mainly happen through emails. They might send an email about a recent fake purchase to get you to click on the URL. These scams are going unnoticed and can do lots of harm. It is important to know how to prevent these scams and protect your information. 

 

Prevention 

It is inevitable that these scams will make their way to you. One way to identify a scam is to check the grammar of the message. Usually scams will be misspelled or the message came from a third party source. This is the easiest way to quickly identify the scam. 

 

Be cautious about providing personal information such as phone numbers or credit card numbers. Make sure before you provide information that it is a reliable and trustworthy source. 

 

If a phishing scam is sent to you, it is best to not respond. A response to these scams lets the scammer know you are a ‘real’ person and will likely be targeted again. If this does happen, there is an option to report the scam to the Spam Reporting Service. 

 

Holidays make for a great time to buy gifts for loved ones, but this also means it is more likely to come across a phishing scam. It is important to know how to identify the scam and how to prevent and protect yourself. 

 

Scams can be irritating and hard to effectively prevent them. WesTec services can help you in any way. We offer skilled expertise in all technologies and are ready to help. Contact us for any further information on phishing and how to protect yourself. 

Mission: WesTec will be a “turn-key” solution for all of its clients’ business connectivity needs. It will offer efficient and effective solutions, directly and with strategic partners, that create tangible value for its clients at every point of contact. Westec will serve all people and entities with a servant’s heart.

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Houston, TX 77018


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