Backing up data is essential to seamless business operations if the unfortunate event of a cyberattack occurs or computer systems fail. Technology can be unpredictable, so having data stored gives your business peace of mind that sensitive data won’t be lost. Read on to learn more about WesTec’s data backup services.
The Cost of Not Investing in Data Backup Services
While there are many options for backing up important data, many businesses fail to understand the importance until it’s too late. Losing data can cost a business time, money, and trust of customers if their data is compromised.
Losing data through system failure or a cyberattack costs businesses time and money as they have to communicate with IT companies to attempt to recover the data and pay for more services than they otherwise would have if they had data backup options in place. Having a disaster recovery plan for an event like this also aids companies in a smooth recovery from data loss. By paying monthly or annually for IT services and data backup services, businesses can save money and prevent downtime that may occur as a result of losing data.
Partner with WesTec Services
WesTec understands that each company is different and requires IT solutions that are tailored to their company. Our team works to find a solution that fits each business’ needs and budget, ensuring that they have a seamless and smooth experience working with us. Interested in learning more about data backup solutions or our other services? Contact us on our website and one of our team members will be happy to assist you. To read more tips and information about us, check out our other articles and follow us on Facebook!
Access control systems are essential for ensuring the security of office buildings. Whether for specific areas within a building or securing the exterior, access control systems are a key component to making sure that only authorized personnel are in specific areas. Read on to learn more about the importance of access control systems in Houston office buildings.
Safe and Secure for Visitors and Occupants
Office buildings tend to have multiple businesses under one roof, so what works for one business may not work for all. Access control systems are heavily customizable. A common practice for allowing visitors to access a building is issuing key cards or visitor passes to those that regularly visit such as patients or clients of the occupying businesses. Additionally, setting passcodes for visitors is an option.
By issuing key cards and passcodes, building owners are able to easily keep track of those that enter and exit the building, ensuring that no unauthorized visitors are entering.
What Does an Access Control System Consist Of?
Access control systems can have many components, including ID-badge scanners, fingerprint scanners, keypads, or video monitoring. By combining some of these components, WesTec will build a system that truly suits your business’ needs.
Benefits of Partnering with WesTec
WesTec Services offers top-of-the-line services with equipment and components from reputable manufacturers. Our personnel are highly trained and experienced to help you get the most out of your access control system. We will make recommendations that suit your building and your budget to ensure proper security measures are met or exceeded.
We not only design an efficient access control system for you, but we also train you on how to use it. Systems may not be able to operate as effectively if the owner is not properly trained in how to operate it. We’ll teach the ins and outs of your system and be able to answer any questions that you may have following installation.
Interested in learning more about access control systems? Contact us today!
Due to the holidays, online shopping shoots through the roof and e-commerce websites often experience a surge in traffic. While this influx is great for sales, it also presents more risks to your website’s security. Understanding these risks and preparing your defenses is crucial to protect both your business and your customers.
Increased Vulnerability to Cyber Threats
The spike in traffic during the holidays makes websites a prime target for cybercriminals. Hackers often exploit this period by launching Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, which can overwhelm your site and cause downtime. Additionally, phishing scams and malware distribution tend to rise, preying on customer’s urgency to complete purchases quickly. During the holidays, consumers depend on reliable businesses to complete their transactions without the threat of cyber threats. Be sure to monitor your current software carefully during the peak of the season.
Data Breaches
The holidays often see an increase in online transactions, which means more sensitive customer data is being processed. This increase in data exchange can attract attackers looking to steal credit card information or personal details. A data breach during the holiday season can not only result in financial losses but also irreparably damage your brand’s reputation. Your website will appear unstable and you will see a significant decrease in traffic if your site is deemed unsafe.
Steps to Strengthen Your Security
To strengthen your security, start by upgrading your infrastructure to ensure your website can handle high traffic without crashing, and choose a reliable hosting provider with robust DDoS protection. Implement SSL certificates to encrypt data transfers and protect sensitive information from interception. Utilize advanced monitoring tools to detect suspicious activities in real time and respond promptly. Educate your team by training employees to recognize phishing attempts and maintain strong cybersecurity practices. Finally, regularly update all platforms, plugins, and software to mitigate vulnerabilities and ensure optimal protection.
Partnering with Westec
For comprehensive protection, consider working with a cybersecurity company like Westec. We can provide advanced threat detection, vulnerability assessments, and incident response plans tailored to your needs.
By proactively addressing these risks, you can ensure a safe and seamless shopping experience for your customers. For more tips and professional cybersecurity solutions, visit our website or contact us today. Stay safe and cyber-secure this holiday season!
The holiday season often brings opportunities to travel, whether visiting family or exploring new destinations. Unfortunately, this time of year can also be a prime opportunity for cybercriminals to target travelers. Protecting sensitive information while on the move is essential, especially in today’s digital age. At Westec, we prioritize your cybersecurity, so here are some practical tips to keep your data safe during your holiday travels.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks, like those in airports, hotels, and cafes, are convenient but often unsecured. Hackers can intercept your data over these networks. Instead, use your mobile hotspot or a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and safeguard your information.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Before traveling, enable 2FA on all important accounts, including email, banking, and social media. This extra layer of security ensures that even if someone obtains your password, they cannot access your accounts without the second verification step.
Be Cautious with Devices
Keep your devices like laptops, phones, tablets, and USB drives secure at all times. Use strong passwords and, where possible, biometric locks (like fingerprint or facial recognition) to prevent unauthorized access if your device is lost or stolen.
Avoid Oversharing on Social Media
While it’s tempting to post about your holiday adventures in real time, sharing details like your travel dates or location can make you a target for both online and physical theft. Wait until you return home to share your vacation photos.
Update Your Software
Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Ensure all your devices are running the latest operating systems and security patches before you leave.
At Westec, we believe proactive measures are the best defense against cyber threats. By staying vigilant and prepared, you can enjoy your holiday travels with peace of mind, knowing your sensitive information is protected.
For more tips and professional cybersecurity solutions, visit our website or contact us today. Stay safe and cyber-secure this holiday season!
An IT consultant assists businesses with a variety of technology related problems. They understand that it can be difficult to figure out what computer systems could work best for a business. WesTec offers expert IT consulting to help businesses find a customized solution for their unique needs. Read on to learn more about the benefits of working with an IT consultant.
Expert Knowledge
In a world where technology is always changing and there are constantly new trends, it can be difficult to decide what devices will be beneficial to a business. IT consultants have expert knowledge and are able to give detailed explanations about why each piece of technology recommended would be a good fit. WesTec’s years of experience and specialization in business technology assists any business with finding the right systems to elevate their success.
Customization for a Business’ Needs
No two businesses are exactly alike and their technology systems should reflect that. Different businesses need access to different programs or some may need access to a larger amount of data storage than others. By working with an IT consultant, businesses can take the guesswork out of their technology solutions and be recommended a customized solution for their needs. WesTec’s experts outline solutions in an easy to understand format.
Cost Effective Solutions
If a business isn’t familiar with technology, it can get expensive fast. IT consultants assist in finding a solution that stays on budget and works best for a business. WesTec’s consultants operate with the goal of ensuring each business is running smoothly and successfully. We ensure that we’re using each business’ vision, goals, and strategic plans as an outline to their success.
Enhancing Customer Experience with Technology
Outdated technology can lead to computers being slow or a point-of-sale system not being user friendly for both employees and customers. IT consultants can ensure that a business’ overall system is up-to-date and allows businesses to give their customers the best experience possible.
The world of IT is evolving at an unprecedented pace and being driven by the rise of emerging technologies. Businesses that embrace these trends stand to gain a competitive edge, unlocking new possibilities and efficiencies. As we navigate the future of IT, staying informed and adapting to these transformative technologies will be crucial for organizations and individuals alike. Learn about which of our IT services may suit your business’s needs the best. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
Using the proper surveillance system is an essential component of protecting your business. At WesTec, we offer a range of surveillance systems to fit any business. Read on to learn some factors to consider when choosing a surveillance system that suits your business’ needs.
Budget
Identifying your budget is the first step in deciding how to design a surveillance system. Cameras can range from $50 to $50,000 so there is a combination of equipment that will suit any business. If buying a system to prevent theft, it’s important to consider the potential cost of theft. How much money could be lost is an important factor to consider when deciding how much to invest in a surveillance system.
Area
Some cameras cover a wider range than others, so this is an important factor to consider. Some cameras can cover more than one hundred feet of area while others may only cover around thirty feet, so whether you want to record a whole room or just an entrance and exit door is something to think about.
The environment of the area is also important. Cameras can often withstand the elements but buying the proper equipment to protect them is vital. Additionally, buying a camera with night vision is usually needed for recording after hours.
Storage
While cameras are the main equipment, a storage system is also important for retaining records and identifying perpetrators if a theft does occur. The length of time that you want to retain records factors into the cost of a storage solution. Additionally, having 24/7 access to cameras or having access remotely may increase the cost of the system. Deciding how much storage to buy and how long you want to retain footage is important when deciding on equipment.
CCTV vs. IP Cameras
A CCTV system is often more secure as it features a “closed” video signal. However, the tradeoff is that they usually have lower video quality. An IP system is generally more expensive, but it is able to cover more area and can connect to an already existing network, making it easy to check these cameras online.
There are many factors to consider when designing a surveillance system, but WesTec is here to help in choosing the best equipment to suit your business’ needs. Contact us today to chat with our experts.
The world of IT is evolving at an unprecedented pace and being driven by the rise of emerging technologies. Businesses that embrace these trends stand to gain a competitive edge, unlocking new possibilities and efficiencies. As we navigate the future of IT, staying informed and adapting to these transformative technologies will be crucial for organizations and individuals alike. Learn about which of our IT services may suit your business’s needs the best. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
Cybersecurity threats are a concern of everyone in a business, which is why it’s important to ensure everyone on a team is trained to recognize common threats. Read on to learn common tactics and benefits of training your team.
Regularly Scheduled Trainings
While there’s no certain amount of time when each company should hold training sessions, quarterly or semi-annually is generally a fair amount of time. Regular training ensures that the tactics learned are top of mind if employees receive a spam email. Doing training sessions too often could produce fatigue for employees, but not doing them often enough could result in employees not being able to recognize attacks. Threats to important data are always there, so teaching employees how to spot phishing emails or malware is important.
Precise Trainings
Training sessions can be held either in person or virtually, as long as the information provided is clear and concise. Not everyone in a team may be familiar with technology, so ensuring that instructions are clear and easy to follow in a training session is vital. Employees in an organization may be a variety of ages and in different roles in the company so having to-the-point training will be beneficial in the long run. Providing instructions in a manner that is not loaded with technical jargon is essential in ensuring everyone understands.
Simulated Exercises
Many companies prefer to simulate attacks with exercises. This hands-on tactic helps employees physically see what an attack could look like and how realistic they often are. Attackers often send emails with links in an attempt to steal company information, so providing employees with examples of this helps identify them. If an employee is not able to recognize a simulated email, it is important to provide more information to help them identify the red flags.
All in all, employee training is essential in ensuring the security of company information. It is everyone in an organization’s job to familiarize themselves with common cybersecurity threats.
The world of IT is evolving at an unprecedented pace and being driven by the rise of emerging technologies. Businesses that embrace these trends stand to gain a competitive edge, unlocking new possibilities and efficiencies. As we navigate the future of IT, staying informed and adapting to these transformative technologies will be crucial for organizations and individuals alike. Learn about which of our IT services may suit your business’s needs the best. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
The purpose of VPN security is to protect and encrypt sensitive data by masking IP addresses. VPN stands for “virtual private network”, and they are used to conceal browsing activity, personal identity, and current location. VPN’s make users typically feel safer and more secure, but are they capable of posing potential threats? Learn how and why VPNs can strengthen your company’s security and how to avoid a potential breach.
Why Use a VPN?
The benefits of using a VPN can apply to anyone wishing to protect their digital privacy from cyber attackers. It adds an extra layer of security when using public Wi-Fi, which can be dangerous if making online purchases or answering emails. A VPN will hide your banking information and confidential passwords from those who prey on such information. Working remotely has become a popular method of employment, but it can increase the risks of cyber threats when working outside of the designated office. When you are not under the protection of your employer’s provided Wi-Fi or protected network, it can put your company’s data at risk. The use of a VPN can help secure your work-related material when utilizing work devices outside of the office.
VPN Risks
While VPN’s are known to help keep data safer, there are also security risks to consider when choosing to use one. The idea that using a basic consumer VPN will retain complete anonymity is a huge misconception that will make you a more vulnerable user. With a VPN or not, no one is likely completely anonymous when using the internet. It’s important to bring this to the attention of your employees to deter them from using social media on work devices or accepting cookies on flimsy websites. Make this known to avoid cyber breaches from occurring and harmful malware from being downloaded. Investing in a secure and specialized VPN can improve security among your company, so avoid using basic consumer VPNs that might feel safe, but are not enough for business level security.
Using a VPN can help protect your users from base-line threats, but it’s crucial to understand that the internet is a dangerous place. Suspicious activity will continue to arise no matter how secure we feel. Awareness is key to limiting harmful threats and keeping your sensitive information safe. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
While in office, cyber safety should always remain a huge priority. With the summer months quickly approaching, more people will clock out of the office for a vacation. Though you won’t be working for the time being, it doesn’t mean that you should take a vacation from protecting your sensitive data. Here are some ways to maintain strong cyber security when on vacation.
Beware Of Free Wi-Fi
You might think you’re not at risk while away from the desk, but this is not the case. If you decide to bring along a work laptop or work phone, pay attention to a few helpful tips to avoid a cyber attack. Starting off, make sure to not use free Wi-Fi. Having the option to connect to free Wi-Fi can seem great, but it can also expose your devices and any personal information that resides within them. A good way to avoid hackers accessing your data is to use a strong VPN or use your phone as a hotspot. Sometimes our devices connect automatically, so be sure to disable this feature before traveling.
Keep Track Of Your Devices
It is important to never leave your devices unattended for a number of reasons, but especially if your device holds important data. Make sure to keep track of items such as USB drives or tablets, even if it’s your toddler’s ipad. Any device you own will possess some kind of valuable information such as saved passwords and banking information. This is what hackers are looking for and will not hesitate to steal your devices if they are not held closely.
Refrain From Using Community Computers
Depending on your trip and where you plan to stay, refrain from using shared computers of any kind. Some hotels or vacation rentals will provide computers for guest’s use, but should never be trusted for remote assignments. Purchases, checking emails, or social media can also lead to cyberthreats if not careful. To protect you or your company, it is best to work on your own personal computer to avoid risk.
People go on vacation to enjoy time away from the office and with their families, so be prepared before clocking out. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
Passwords are used to protect your devices, finances, health records, and so much more. We rely on them to prevent unauthorized users from accessing devices and accounts, which is crucial for most companies. Passwords are meant to change frequently to properly fulfill their purpose, as no password is unbreakable. Alas, World Password Day was born to act as a reminder to everyone that maintenance is required to retain account security.
Why It’s Celebrated
It is imperative that everyone has a strong password to ensure privacy. Before the internet and all of its glory, passwords were used as a method of entry for secret societies and clubs. Today, passwords are used a little less loosely to avoid cyber hacking. As the world becomes more advanced, cyber threats evolve as well. This means it is crucial to maintain the security of your passwords by updating them regularly. Falling on the first Thursday of May every year, World Password Day serves to encourage users to protect their data by maintaining their authentication methods.
Password Mistakes
Many people see their passwords as a way to get into their accounts rather than a way to keep others out. With this, many people try to make their passwords short, easy to remember, and personally relatable. Hackers are well aware of this, and will likely guess a password based on this criteria. Users have a habit of using the name of a pet, child, hobby, or profession when creating a password. A way to make passwords more difficult to guess is to use one that is irrelevant to the user. People also commonly use the same passwords across different platforms. This makes it easier for a hacker to access all accounts with one successful attempt.
With data being as precious as it is, it is up to you as the user to pay mind to your level of security. Celebrate this World Password Day by updating all your passwords for any account that holds value.
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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2916 West TC Jester Blvd.,
Suite 104
Houston, TX 77018
2916 West TC Jester Blvd.,
Suite 104