Posted by: TAZ Networks on November 1, 2019 at 4:00 pm
Time to start computer network project planning for 2020.
Quarter Four is prime time for business planning. Here are four computer network projects to consider during your project planning for 2020:
Compliance
Do you view compliance as a burden or an opportunity? Sure, meeting the requirements can be tough. But adhering to these standards can help your business get — or keep — government supply-chain contracts. Many of these standards, such as HIPAA, PCI, and NIST 800‑53, have been in effect for several years. Others, including GDPR and NIST 800‑171, are relatively new. Ignoring these standards can result in fines and lost contracts. We have been pushing hard on compliance initiatives in 2019, and will continue to do so in 2020.
Security Policies and Training
No doubt, just coming off of Cybersecurity Month, computer network security measures are high on your to-do list. Do your staff members know how to create a secure password? What is your company policy on gift card and money transfer requests? What about emailing secure employee information such as W2 data? Train your staff in security measures that everyone needs to know. Develop and implement internal policies that require a verbal confirmation to transfer funds or sensitive data.
Windows 10
Did you know that Windows 7 and Windows 8 are both out of mainstream support? If you have computers using Windows 7, they will no longer receive security updates after January 14, 2020. If your business is allowing Windows 7 computers access to the internet, your business will be open to viruses, ransomware, and other security risks. Have you upgraded your business computers to Windows 10? If not, you must budget for this upgrade in early 2020. Also, if you have computers running Windows 7, it’s probably time to replace those devices altogether. Limited budget? Talk to your TAZ Networks account manager about financing options.
Office 365
Many companies are moving to the cloud for its flexibility and increased productivity on the road. Microsoft Office 365 provides one of the easiest entries to cloud-based computing.
TAZ Networks develops and implements IT projects for businesses all over Metro Detroit. Contact us today if you need help with your computer network 2020 project planning.