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Around 2,200 attacks each day, according to a report published by the Security Magazine. Another report suggests that there were over 114 publicly disclosed security incidents in October 2023 alone. Cybersecurity experts believe that these numbers will continue to increase unless businesses tread cautiously when it comes to data sharing. But how could one ensure they are using a secure file-sharing solution that protects their business and data from cyber-attacks?

What Is A Cyber Attack? And How To Protect Your Company?

A cyberattack, as the name suggests is a malicious attempt by hackers to disrupt the functioning of a website. This could be done with numerous intentions ranging from an attempt at stealing data to demanding a ransom to restore access, to creating havoc. Whatever the intention, every year thousands of businesses are subject to these attacks that cost them a fortune. According to recent research, data breaches (between March 2022 and March 2023) cost businesses over 4.45 million dollars globally.

The key is to pick the right cybersecurity partner. If you are in Minneapolis, Minnesota you can trust your cybersecurity in the hands of Point North Networks. PNN is an organization that prides itself on providing secure file-sharing solutions to businesses of all scales, sizes, and industries. If you are still unsure of how to pick the perfect managed cybersecurity services in Minneapolis here are a few key aspects to look for, while picking your cybersecurity partner.

How to Protect Your Company From Cyberattacks?

• Training: According to a report published by Security Intelligence, the cost of cyber threats caused by internal sources amounts to over 11.45 million dollars. The only way for organizations to prevent this is by training the employees on the best practices, phishing, etc.
• Strong Passwords: Did you know that most employees use a part of their employer’s name as a password? Using complex passwords is essential to secure your accounts and systems.
• Firewalls and Security Software: Using firewalls and security software helps you monitor network traffic and block malicious activity.
• Managed Security Services: Partnering with a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP) will help you monitor, detect, and prevent cyber attacks on your business.

How to Find the Right Managed Cybersecurity Services in Minneapolis?

Industry Knowledge

Finding a managed security services provider (MSSP) could be challenging as there are so many providers. The key is to find one that has relevant industry experience. This would ensure that they understand all the key complaince requirements of your industry, have all the certifications, and have a deep understanding of the cyber security threats.

Experience

The cybersecurity landscape constantly changes. Look for an MSSP that demonstrates experience handling recent and relevant cyber threats. This way, you can be sure they aren’t basking in the success of an outdated cyberattack, leaving your business vulnerable to new-age scams. It would also help if your MSSP could share a detailed security report/case study on how they managed to protect a client from security threats, which would help you understand their experience, and approach to problem-solving, and provide you an insight about various cyber threats and vulnerabilities.

Transparency and Communication

Your Managed Cybersecurity Services Provider in Minneapolis should communicates threats, vulnerabilities, and security measures to help you take appropriate measures. Besides that, having a transparent communication channel allows for quicker identification and resolution of security incidents, minimize damage, and restore normalcy.

Training and Customer Service

According to a report published by Goldstein, in 2020, over 60 percent of data breaches are caused by insider threats. This means that it is important to ensure that your team is fully aware of the cyber security best practices, and complaince laws, and understands how to use the secure file-sharing systems in place. Your cyber security solutions provider should offer round-the-clock support in terms of a data breach besides offering training to your employees.

Flexibility

Every business is unique and so are their challenges. You would need a MSSP who not just understands the challeges and complainces needed by your industry, but also understands the unique challenges of your business. Their service offering should be customizable to your unique business needs. When your service provider adjusts monitoring priorities, adds new security services, or integrats with existing business applications it becomes possible to adapt the security solutions to your changing business needs.

Cybersecurity is no longer an afterthought. You cannot wait until there is an attack to hire a cyber security partner. The right MSSP would be the diffrentiator between a well-protected organization and a vulnerable one. But picking the right partner could be challenging. If you are unsure about finding the right Managed Cybersecurity Services in Minneapolis see if they have ample

• Industry Knowledge
• Experience
• Transparency and Communication
• Training and Customer Service
• Flexibility

When you carefully consider these factors and pick a cyber security partner, you can protect your data and build a secure digital environment. Don’t wait for a cyberattack to highlight your vulnerabilities – take action today and invest in a secure future!

Are you ready to propel your business into the future of technology while ensuring it thrives in the dynamic landscape of Minneapolis? Managed IT Services might just be the answer.
This article will explore the essential aspects of Managed IT Services in Minneapolis. We will provide insights, expert comparisons, and a glimpse into the future, empowering you to make informed decisions that redefine your business’s success.

What are Managed IT Services?

Managed IT Services refer to outsourcing various IT tasks and responsibilities to specialized service providers. These services encompass everything from network monitoring and data security to software updates and technical support.
By entrusting these critical IT functions to experts, businesses can enhance operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve overall IT performance while focusing on their core activities. Managed IT Services are a strategic solution for organizations seeking cost-effective and reliable IT management, offering scalability and a proactive approach to technology maintenance and support.

Benefits of Managed IT Services Minneapolis, MN

Managed IT services in Minneapolis offer many advantages for businesses seeking to optimize their technology infrastructure and streamline operations. Here are some key benefits:

1 – Cost Savings

Managed IT services help minimize IT-related expenses. With predictable, subscription-based pricing, businesses can budget effectively, eliminating the need for substantial upfront investments in hardware and software.

2 – Enhanced Security

Managed IT services in Minneapolis prioritize cybersecurity, implementing robust measures to safeguard your data. They perform regular threat assessments, update security, and maintain strong firewalls to protect your business from cyber threats.

3 – Improved Efficiency

By outsourcing routine IT tasks, your in-house team can focus on strategic initiatives and core business functions. This efficiency leads to higher productivity and faster problem resolution.

4 – Scalability

Managed IT services can adapt to your business’s changing needs. Whether expanding or downsizing, these services are flexible and can accommodate your requirements, ensuring that your IT solutions grow with you.

5 – 24/7 Monitoring

Managed IT providers in Minneapolis offer around-the-clock real-time monitoring, detecting and addressing issues. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and ensures the uninterrupted operation of your technology systems.

6 – Regulatory Compliance

Managed IT services help businesses in Minneapolis adhere to industry-specific regulations and compliance standards, reducing the risk of fines and legal complications.

7 – Disaster Recovery

Providers offer comprehensive backup and disaster recovery solutions, safeguarding your critical data and ensuring rapid recovery in unexpected events.

Managed Data Center Services in Minneapolis: Data Center Management Simplified

Managing data centers is a complex and critical task, and effectively administrating these facilities is essential for organizations to maintain their IT infrastructure efficiently. A well-organized and simplified approach to data center management is paramount to ensure the smooth operation of data centers.

Infrastructure Monitoring

Utilizing advanced monitoring tools to keep track of server and network performance is crucial. This includes real-time status updates, system health checks, and predictive analysis to proactively identify issues before they impact operations.

Capacity Planning

Regularly assessing and optimizing data center capacity ensures that resources are efficiently allocated, preventing underutilization and overuse. Detailed capacity planning helps in scaling infrastructure to meet growing demands.

Regular Maintenance

Preventative maintenance and scheduled updates are necessary to extend the life of hardware and minimize unexpected downtime. This includes firmware updates, hardware replacements, and general cleaning.

Disaster Recovery Planning

A well-defined disaster recovery plan is essential to mitigate potential data loss or extended downtime. Regular testing and evaluation of the recovery plan are essential to maintain its effectiveness.

Documentation and Compliance

Keeping meticulous records of equipment, configurations, and compliance-related data is crucial for audits and compliance with industry standards.

Secure Private Cloud Hosting

Let’s explore why secure private cloud hosting is a cornerstone of modern IT solutions in this thriving tech hub:

Enhanced Data Security

Private cloud hosting, an essential component of Managed IT Services, provides a dedicated and isolated environment for your data. This isolation ensures enhanced data security, guarding against potential breaches and unauthorized access.

Scalability without Compromising Security

One of the key advantages of private cloud hosting is its scalability. Managed IT Services providers offer the flexibility to accommodate your business’s growth without compromising on security. As your business expands, your data remains safeguarded within the private cloud environment.

Tailored Solutions

Private cloud hosting allows for a high degree of customization. Managed IT Services providers in Minneapolis can create private cloud environments precisely tailored to match your unique business objectives. This customized approach ensures that your IT infrastructure is optimized to your specific needs.

Remote Work Enablement

The rise of remote work has made private cloud hosting indispensable. Managed IT Services providers use private cloud solutions to empower your team to work securely from anywhere. This capability has become paramount in today’s business landscape.

Reliability and Uptime

Private cloud hosting typically provides higher reliability and uptime compared to public cloud solutions. Managed IT Services providers ensure that your IT infrastructure is consistently available when you need it, enhancing business continuity.

Cost-Efficiency

Contrary to the misconception that private cloud hosting is expensive, Managed IT Services providers often offer cost-effective solutions. They strike a balance between a high level of security and budget considerations, ensuring that private cloud hosting remains accessible and practical.

The Role of Cybersecurity Solutions in Managed IT Services

Holistic Protection

Managed IT Services providers in Minneapolis offer robust cybersecurity solutions as an integral component of their service packages. These solutions encompass everything from threat monitoring and intrusion detection to firewall management and regular security updates.

Compliance Adherence

Given the increasing stringency of data protection regulations, Managed IT Services providers in Minneapolis are well-versed in ensuring their clients’ compliance with data privacy laws. They offer expert guidance on adhering to industry-specific regulations, such as HIPAA for healthcare businesses.

Proactive Threat Mitigation

Cybersecurity solutions provided by Managed IT Services are not just reactive; they are proactive. They leverage advanced technologies like AI and machine learning to identify and mitigate threats before they can harm your business.

Third-Party Risk Assessment

Managed IT Services providers often conduct assessments of third-party vendors and suppliers to ensure they do not pose a cybersecurity risk to your business. This helps in preventing supply chain-related cyber threats.

Disaster Recovery and Backup

Cybersecurity solutions include robust disaster recovery and backup strategies. In the event of a cyber incident, data can be swiftly restored, minimizing downtime and potential data loss.

Customized Security Policies

Minneapolis businesses receive security policies tailored to their specific needs. Managed IT Services providers consider the unique requirements and potential threats of each business, crafting a personalized security strategy.

Data-Driven Decision Making: Why Invest in Managed IT Services in Minneapolis?

Investing in managed IT services in Minneapolis is a data-driven decision. Here’s why:

1 – Cost-Efficiency

According to a study, businesses that smartly invest in managed IT services experience an 80% reduction in IT operational costs. This statistic showcases the substantial cost savings that can be achieved by outsourcing IT management.

2 – Reduced Downtime

Downtime can be costly for businesses. Managed IT services help minimize this risk. On average, companies using managed IT services report a 40% reduction in downtime, ensuring uninterrupted operations and improved productivity.

3 – Enhanced Cybersecurity

Cyber threats are a growing concern for businesses. Managed IT services offer comprehensive cybersecurity solutions, and as a result, businesses experience a 37.8% reduction in security breaches and incidents.

4 – Scalability and Flexibility

Minneapolis-managed IT services are designed to scale with your business. This flexibility enables adaptation to changing market conditions and seizing new opportunities. As a result, businesses that utilize managed IT services often achieve higher growth rates than those without such services.

Summary: A Comparison Table, DIY vs. Managed IT Services

Key Considerations for Selecting a Provider

Choosing the right Managed IT Services provider in Minneapolis is a critical decision. It can  impact your business’s efficiency and security. Here are some key considerations:

1 – Experience

Look for a provider with a substantial track record of serving businesses in Minneapolis. Experience matters because it demonstrates the provider’s ability to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities in the local IT landscape.

2 – Service Offerings

Ensure the provider offers comprehensive services. From cybersecurity and data management to cloud solutions and 24/7 technical support, the more services they offer, the better equipped they are to meet your diverse IT needs.

3 – Pricing Structure

Understand the provider’s pricing structure. Different providers may have varied pricing models, such as flat fees, per-user pricing, or customized packages. Choose one that aligns with your budget while offering a good return on investment.

4 – Client Reviews and References

Seek out client reviews and references. Hearing from businesses that have worked with the provider can provide valuable insights into their reliability, responsiveness, and the quality of their services.

5 – Technical Support

Evaluate the provider’s technical support capabilities. IT issues can arise anytime, and quick response and resolution are crucial for minimizing downtime. Ensure the provider offers robust technical support, preferably 24/7, to address your needs promptly.

6 – Scalability

Consider your business’s growth potential. Can the provider accommodate your evolving IT requirements as your business expands? A provider that can scale its services to match your growth is a valuable asset.

7 – Security Measures

Inquire about the provider’s cybersecurity measures. Security is paramount in today’s digital landscape. Ensure the provider offers robust cybersecurity solutions, including threat monitoring, regular updates, and incident response plans.

8 – Industry Expertise

Depending on your business’s sector, you may benefit from a provider with industry-specific expertise. Some Managed IT Services providers specialize in serving specific industries like healthcare, finance, or manufacturing. Their knowledge of your sector’s unique IT needs can be a significant advantage.

9 – Customizability

Determine whether the provider can customize their services to meet your requirements. Tailored solutions can ensure that the services you receive are precisely aligned with your business goals.

Minneapolis Managed IT Services: Summing Up

Throughout this article, we have navigated the landscape of Managed IT Services in Minneapolis, from the considerations for selecting a provider to the promising future trends. It is time to take decisive action based on the insights and information provided.

Here’s the deal: Managed IT Services in Minneapolis are not a luxury but an essential tool for business success. 

So, what’s the bottom line? Minneapolis is not just a city; it’s a burgeoning tech hub, and Managed IT Services are the key to unlocking its full potential for your business. You might be wondering: why wait when you can start realizing the benefits of Managed IT Services today?

It gets better with the right Managed IT Services provider, you can navigate the complex IT landscape with ease, ensuring your business remains secure, efficient, and primed for growth. 

This is crazy, the endless possibilities, and your success is not a distant dream but a tangible reality on the horizon.

The road ahead is exciting, and the journey begins with the right IT solution. Don’t hesitate; the time for action is now. Embrace the future with Managed IT Services in Minneapolis by Point North Networks and pave the way for your business to thrive in the digital era!

FAQs about Managed IT Services in Minneapolis

Q1 – What types of businesses benefit from managed IT services in Minneapolis?

Managed IT services are beneficial for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses can access advanced IT resources, while larger enterprises can reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Q2 – How do I choose the right IT service provider in Minneapolis?

Research and compare providers based on their expertise, customer reviews, and the specific services they offer. It’s essential to find a provider that aligns with your business needs.

Q3 – Can managed IT services in Minneapolis help with data recovery?

Many providers offer data backup and recovery services as part of their package. It’s crucial to discuss your data recovery needs with your chosen provider.

Q4 – Are there industry-specific managed IT solutions in Minneapolis?

Absolutely. Many IT providers tailor their services to specific industries like healthcare, finance, or manufacturing.

Q5 – What’s the average cost of managed IT services in Minneapolis?

Costs vary based on the services and scale of your business. On average, you can expect to pay between $99 to $350 per month for comprehensive managed IT services.

Q6 – How do managed data center services in Minneapolis handle security?

Security is a top priority for data center management. Service providers implement robust security measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls.

Q7 – Can I combine managed IT services with my existing in-house IT team?

Many businesses opt for a hybrid approach, where the managed IT services complement their in-house team’s efforts.

Come Join Point North Networks at our 2023 Client Appreciation Event!

Where: Mississippi Pub Pavilion – 4455 66th St E, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
When: Tuesday, June 20 – 4pm – 6pm

Employee-caused security breaches happen daily. In fact, 92% of data breaches are caused by human error. If you own a company or oversee a technology department, you should fully expect these things to happen and have a plan to both prevent these incidents and solve them quickly when they happen.

Point North Networks is the trusted IT partner for businesses that embrace technology. We’ll leave it up to your HR department to handle employees, but we can step in to solve security breaches if things go wrong, as well as help to stop them from happening. Here are some ways we help to handle employee-caused security breaches:

#1 Training that empowers

What if your employees knew how to mitigate errors that could harm their personal data and the company’s data? Point North Networks has employee cybersecurity training programs that empower them to stay safe from threats.

#2 Contain the breach

When a breach occurs, moving quickly is essential. Contain the situation by shutting down systems, changing passwords, and isolating affected devices. This can help limit the impact of the problem.

#3 Notify management

This is not the time to prioritize the fear of getting in trouble. A good IT department knows these things happen and it benefits everyone to know as soon as possible what happened so they can make informed decisions.

#4 Communicate with affected parties

Whether it’s your customers or partners, or businesses you share data spaces with, you need to be transparent and tell them all the information they need to know, including how you’re solving the problem.

Having a plan for security breaches doesn’t mean the situation is perfect, but it puts you in a significantly better position than you would be without a plan. Work with a team like Point North Networks to be prepared for these incidents in the best way possible.

As one of Minnesota’s top MSPs, we have helped a lot of companies migrate to Microsoft 365. It provides a plethora of benefits for employees and has top security features that businesses need. However, technology department leaders often begin this process with hesitation, mostly because the task seems incredibly daunting and they naturally worry how much of a chore this will turn out to be for themselves. That’s when Point North Networks comes in.

Here are the five reasons technology leaders should work with an MSP to facilitate Microsoft 365 migration for their organization.

1. To minimize disruption – A good MSP will try to minimize the amount of downtime for your business as much as possible. They often can perform the migration outside of your business hours so that your team can continue on without interruption.
2. To stay secure – An MSP will use the latest security protocols to make sure your data is protected during the migration process. A DIY method can leave your data extremely vulnerable.
3. To save you the research and learning time – Find an experienced MSP who understands the complexities of Microsoft 365 migration so that you don’t have to study it all right away. A helpful MSP will do its part to guide you through the process so that you gain the understanding you need as you go.
4. To save money – MSPs try to find you the most cost-effective solutions so that you don’t end up making costly mistakes.
5. To have someone to lean on – At Point North Networks, we offer ongoing support when we perform Microsoft 365 migration so that we can answer your team’s questions, troubleshoot issues, and keep your environment up-to-date.

Contact Point North Networks today to make the transition to Microsoft 365 in a streamlined and safe way. 

Introduction

Digital transformation has its pros and cons, with the major con being increased vulnerability to cyber-attacks. Many businesses fail to realize that cybersecurity is something that affects your entire supply chain, as well as the people and processes that make up their whole operation.

The supply chain, a global marketplace worth $15.85 billion is the blood that keeps the manufacturing and retail industries running. Almost 57% of companies are said to believe that supply chain management increases their competitive edge, while 70% believe that it increases their productivity.

A supply chain disruption can bring these industries to a standstill and break the commercial world down. This is why it is important to handle supply chain risk management to minimize supply chain disruption and supply chain risks. Trish Regan, an American TV presenter summed it perfectly saying, “Anytime there’s a disruption in the supply chain, any time people cut back on spending, there will be a recession.”

Proper supply chain risk management helps business, both small and large, utilize the tried and tested strategic steps that mitigate supply chain risks and result in business continuity.

Adopting that mindset and taking these measures can help your technology company manage supply chain risks and stay ahead of the curve. As Hendrith Vanlon Smith Jr, CEO of Mayflower-Plymouth puts it, “Global supply chains have many constituents and responsible parties. Everyone in the supply chain has a responsibility to act in a way that promotes effeciency in the supply chain.”

1 – Enforce Supply Chain Security

Your employees cannot simply address supply chain risks as they come, or else chaos will ensue. Apply daily security policies so that employees know how to both mitigate and respond to risks.

This can look like a security checklist, daily measurements of performance, and defining responsibilities for holding all parties accountable. Point North Networks offers employee cybersecurity training to create and develop better supply chain resilience.

2 – Adopt International Standards of Supply Chain 

For those who exchange and store vast amounts of data like medical records, financial data, and more, regulated access is a must. International IT standards like GDPR and HIPAA ensure organizations manage this data securely and document it.

When selecting a SaaS vendor, find out if they are SOC 2 or ISO27001 compliant to meet security standards.

3 – Have a Layered Security System

Managing multiple third-party vendors makes it a little harder to predict threats. Layered security protects each level of your infrastructure with a unique solution. That means if one fails, others can step in to help.

“If the global supply chains are too fragmented, they’re more vulnerable to shock. And that presents a threat to businesses everywhere,” says Hendrith Vanlon Smith Jr, CEO of Mayflower-Plymouth. Having a layered security system will require your employees to be trained and tested regularly to identify the threats at each level.

4 – Implement PPRR Risk Management

This is a popular supply chain risk management technique used globally to ensure that minimum supply chain risks are faced by businesses. It includes prevention, preparedness, response and recovery for managing supply chain risk.

It is all about taking the right precautionary measures, having a contingency plan, executing it properly and resuming operations and bringing things back to normalcy as soon as possible.

5 – Managing Environmental Risks

Managing environmental risks or natural disasters came to the fore after the global supply chain was majorly disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, a large number of retailers depended on China for supplies. Once the pandemic hit, the entire global market and the global supply chains saw a dwindling of potential risks that the pandemic brought.

With limited workforce and supplies, several retailers were forced to relook at their strategy of depending on a single supplier. A multiple suppliers system evolved during this time that gave the retailers multiple options for getting their supplies and enhancing their delivery processes and supply chain management.

Retailers across the globe follow newly developed strategies to ensure that their supply chain risk exposure is involved in supply chain risk management. Multisource, nearshore, implementing stress tests, building inventory buffers and increased capacity, and investing in product and plant harmonization have emerged as the go-to risk management steps for retailers to handle such situations.

Today, risk management is an important part of global supply chains. It helps companies maintain supply chain efficiency and develop a risk aware culture to be prepared for all sorts of potential risks.

6 – Having a Robust Cyber Supply Chain Risk Management

Today, the Internet of Things and other similar technologies have become an integral part of maximizing supply chain operations. However, it also brings along the element of online threats, exposure to ransomware, malware, phishing and even hacking.

Such threats can, however, be minimized by implementing a robust cybersecurity system. You must have a compliance system for all third party vendors. Establish a controlled access system where only authorized or limited number of users can access the system.

Vendor risk assessment, implementing data stewardship, and installing software that reflects all user activities in your systems can also provide a strong protective covering from threats, further cementing your risk management.

You must provide comprehensive training to all employees about all kinds of cybersecurity protocols and work with vendors from your network for a unified disaster recovery plan. Establishing backup controls and regularly updating safety walls and antivirus systems are also good options for minimizing risk factors and supply chain disruptions.

7 – Enhance Your Supply Chain Visibility

Research show that only 6% report complete visibility on their supply chain. Knowing everything about your supply chain partners can help mitigate risks and help you take better decisions and enhance risk management. Factors like the financial stability of the suppliers will help you choose the best ones.

There are several credit rating agencies that predict the financial report of a supplier from a list of suppliers, helping you reduce the risk of choosing the wrong partner. This can reduce your vulnerability and supply chain risk.

Investing in technology that will provide higher product and shipment visibility will help you give your customers more accurate delivery time or develop a contingency plan in case of delays. Such technological support comes in handy in risk management in last-mile situations where third parties take charge and risk factors like losing sight of your shipment can arise.

8 – Track the Carrier Metrics

Irrespective of where you are in the supply chain, you must keep a track of where your freight carrier is and when the delivery will be made. Any delay in the delivery processes, even if it means a delay of a single item delivered late can disrupt the supply chain, increasing the supply chain risk.

So, you must keep a tab on your freight carrier by evaluating its efficiency if you are embarking on a new collaboration. However, regular evaluation of the ones that you have been already working with is also a good idea. Following are the metrics you must track:

Keep a tab on the transit time, that is the total amount of time it takes for a freight carrier to reach its destination. Taking the number of stops a carrier takes on the way is also something to be accounted for. The higher the stops, the longer will be the transit time. Even if it stops only once, if it’s a long halt, it can delay the assignment.

The average loading time is another aspect that you must account for. This includes the amount of time for loading the carrier and completing the paperwork. Also, ensure that the carrier is maintained regularly so that there are no unwarranted breakdowns.

Route optimization is another important factor. A well-optimized route will save time and fuel, two very important factors in supply chain risk management.

9 – Have a Contingency Plan for Supply Chain Risk Management

Business continuity is imperative for any company and having a contingency plan is an important step in supply chain risk management. Risk assessment, accounting for known and unknown risks and risk mitigation, etc. are important factors to look at.

Additionally, map your supply chain to know the key component that might be vulnerable. Take account of your primary supplier and your secondary suppliers and develop mitigation strategies around them. A good way of doing this is by diversifying your suppliers.

Regularly audit your suppliers and what contingency plans they have. Establish a crisis management team to come into action during emergencies. Keep all communication channels seamlessly integrated. Document all processes and develop a single source of information.

Stay updated with the global scenario and keep your contingency plan open so that it can be redeveloped according to the changing global scenario. Have alternate contingency plans.

10 – Train Your Staff – Risk Awareness Training

One sure way of having a competitive advantage over others is to keep your staff well trained. Providing risk awareness training will keep them agile and aware of what kind of risks can impact the supply chain and what actions are required to mitigate risks.

Your training module must include risks and challenges involved in supply chain management, best practices of supply chain risk management, and improving cybersecurity awareness by providing computer and internet training. Risk assessment software training should also be included in the module. Case studies show that supply chain attacks have increased by 78% since 2017 and almost 58% of such attacks happen on small businesses.

11 – Risk Monitoring 

Supply chain risk will present itself at one point or the other. It is one thing that you are prepared for risk mitigation and it is a completely different thing to monitor risks and adopt a proactive approach. There are internal supply chain risks and external supply chain risks, and monitoring risks can create a risk aware culture and keep the entire company better prepared to manage things.

Most companies assume that their process is risk free, but that is never the case. Things can change for the worse at any time. That is why regular monitoring is important.

To Conclude

The best way of doing it so implement a digital retail solution that can be scaled as your business grows. Such a system will automate the monitoring of different aspects of the supply chain. This will help streamline your business operations while providing you with peace of mind.

Need solid supply chain risk management support? Contact Point North Networks today to work with a partner who will identify all the ways you can mitigate supply chain risks to your business.

Downloading files is simply a part of life. We all have to do it, but not everyone knows how to do it safely. Cybercriminals have taken advantage of this and now it is too easy to download a virus straight onto your computer. Here are some tips for staying vigilant.

Understand what personal data is being collected

Did the site ask you to submit any information before accessing the file? Many websites require an email opt-in in order to receive a download and that is pretty common practice. However, if you’re noticing extra steps that need to be taken, you may start to question its legitimacy. There should be no reason to submit other personal information to get a simple file.

If the file is sent via email, consider the source. Is the email address it sent to you a jumbled mess of letters and not attached to a standard .com website? Many email platforms also have virus scanners within them that can tell you if the file is safe.

If the download is something you have to pay for, then it should be from a trusted website that you have set up an account with. Setting up an account with a website will allow the site to collect more personal data about you over time, however, trusted e-commerce sites should have the correct measures in place to protect their customers’ data. Many are required by law, after all.

Consider the source the download is coming from

With that said, how do you know the website you’re downloading from is a trusted source? There are a few things you can look at to decide. 

• Does the website have an SSL certificate?
• Does the website have a privacy policy?
• Check website reviews.
• Search for the Official Sources.
• Check domain age.

Again, if the file comes from an email, be sure you trust the sender and check the address it is coming from.

Use a scanner

Your email platform should be able to scan files and will give you a warning message or an option to do this when you click on the file. We recommend using it as often as you can.

For a file from a website, there are many online scanner tools which you can copy the file download link into to check its safety.

At Point North Networks, we make it a goal to empower and educate employees about how to protect themselves from cybersecurity threats. Just contact us to learn more about our training and to add a trusted partner to your team that will protect your company from cybercriminals.

We’ve seen a lot of technology leaders appear hesitant to hosted desktop solutions because they want to keep their team close and committed to their workspace. But we’ve also seen that when workers are given the freedom to take their work elsewhere, productivity often increases. Hosted desktop solutions, also known as Desktop as a Service, or Daas, is essentially a cloud-based service designed to enable the functioning of a desktop environment on a virtual machine hosted in a local, private data center. Point North Networks provides this to a number of local businesses and these are the top things we like our customers to know about this solution:

They can reduce your cost

Many assume that implementing a hosted desktop solution is an extra expense, but the investment can save your business in the long run. When your workspace goes remote, you’re eliminating the need to spend thousands of dollars on high-end desktops and laptops. We just charge a low monthly fee for the computation.

You’re extra protected

Putting your data in someone else’s hands can be scary but security is our top priority, especially these days. Point North Networks’ hosted desktop environments are backed up several times daily to off-site encrypted storage with 90 days of retention. Customers can restore lost or deleted files within minutes. Additionally, our environments are built with controls for physical, network, and application security such as multi-factor authentication and a dedicated security engineering team.

Your team will thank you

A hosted desktop service allows your employees access from anywhere: home, office, coffee shop, etc. The whole Microsoft Office Full Suite is installed so they can still use Word, Excel, and all their favorite products they’ve grown accustomed to. Life has its demands and when an employee isn’t tied to their physical workspace in order to complete their job, they have a lot less to stress about. On top of that, the access is truly hassle-free.

Contact Point North Networks today to explore expanding your office to the cloud and opening up more possibilities.