Category Archives: Uncategorized

Hardware Firewalls

A WatchGuard Firewall device.
A WatchGuard Firewall device.

Last week we covered the topic on software firewalls, this week we will continue on with hardware firewalls.

Traditional routers used at home and in corporate environments have some level of security built in to them. For home users the basic firewall built into the router is usually plenty. However, third party firewall devices can be purchased, they will add complexity to the network, but they also add security.

The difference between a third party firewall and the firewall already in a router is the processing power. As data comes through the Internet, the firewall scans each transmission, looking for malicious items and to see if the data has been maliciously altered or forged.

The larger the amount of Internet activity to an organization, the harder it is for a firewall to scan through each transmission. For a company with 100 users, a traditional router with a built-in firewall would not be enough. There would be a noticeable bottleneck.

Most firewalls are very customizable and allow the network administrators to block and allow certain computers, websites, and even specific Internet traffic.

Hardware firewalls also add possibilities to allow VPN connectivity. A VPN is a virtual private network, which typically remote users use to access work data from a remote location. VPN’s are very popular amongst remote workers and are sometimes used for security purposes.

A hardware firewall can be quite expensive, easily a couple hundred of dollars and up. The difference in price are the features supplied by the firewall, the hardware specifications, as well as the amount of support the user would get, from the manufacturer.

Some firewall brands are Cisco, SonicWALL, WatchGuard and NetGear.

 

Should you want more information on hardware-based firewalls, feel free to contact Group 4 Networks.

 

About Group 4 Networks – IT Consulting

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.

Read more: http://www.g4ns.com/itblog/#ixzz34AsrOW5f

 

Dental IT Support

Are You Searching Online For An Dental IT Support Toronto ?

Because Your Dental Office Network Is Running Slow And Causing Problems But You Don’t Know Who You Can Trust To Fix It Fast. dental-it-support

If so, give us a call and let us show you what fast, friendly and highly-responsive Dental IT Support helpdesk services should be for your small to medium business:

416-623-9677

DO YOU CONSTANTLY STRESS OVER FINDING THE RIGHT SOLUTION FOR DENTAL IT SUPPORT IN TORONTO, RICHMOND HILL AND THROUGHOUT GTA?

Group 4 Networks helps DENTAL OFFICES like yours get reliable Computer Support they can count on. “Why is dependable Dental IT Network Services so difficult to find?”

Sound familiar?

WE’RE always there for you, with IT Consulting to make running your dental practice using Abeldent or Dentrix in Toronto and GTA worry-free.

Software Firewalls

 

A firewall is one of the most important pieces to a computer network, no matter how big or small. Everyone should have a firewall.

In this post we will be talking about software firewalls, later in the future we will talk about hardware firewalls.

A software firewall is a program, which runs in the background on a client’s computer. Some are very basic and easy to use. Some are complex and more powerful. For home users we absolutely recommend a yearly subscription based Internet security suite. Some names to look out for are Kaspersky, ESET and Avira.

Most software firewall companies also make enterprise editions of their software, which allow IT personnel to manage firewall rules and configurations from one computer, taking the configuration and management responsibility away from the user.

The software firewall operates by inspecting the network data that is incoming to the computer, as well as outgoing from the computer. If the firewall detects the data has been altered or if appears malicious, the software blocks it, effectively preventing any form of an attack.

Firewalls operate from a set of rules. The administrator can make a specific rule in the firewall to block a specific website, a specific application or to prevent two computers on the same network from communicating with each other, for whatever reason. Just as one can block certain actions, one can specifically allow a certain action. Sometimes when connecting to a printer with advanced features, the administrator may need to alter the firewall rules to allow certain data through, to access the printer’s features.

Home user based software firewalls have become very easy to use and to configure over the past few years. Not only can they prevent malicious items and websites from infecting your computer, but they now come bundled with more tools to prevent phishing scam websites from opening, as well as some encryption tools to safe guard your sensitive data.

Should you want more information on software-based firewalls, feel free to contact Group 4 Networks.

 

About Group 4 Networks – eBay Compromised, IT Consulting

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.

Read more: http://virtual-desktop.co#ixzz33Vxc8EUs

Software Firewalls

 

A firewall is one of the most important pieces to a computer network, no matter how big or small. Everyone should have a firewall.

In this post we will be talking about software firewalls, later in the future we will talk about hardware firewalls.

A software firewall is a program, which runs in the background on a client’s computer. Some are very basic and easy to use. Some are complex and more powerful. For home users we absolutely recommend a yearly subscription based Internet security suite. Some names to look out for are Kaspersky, ESET and Avira.

Most software firewall companies also make enterprise editions of their software, which allow IT personnel to manage firewall rules and configurations from one computer, taking the configuration and management responsibility away from the user.

The software firewall operates by inspecting the network data that is incoming to the computer, as well as outgoing from the computer. If the firewall detects the data has been altered or if appears malicious, the software blocks it, effectively preventing any form of an attack.

Firewalls operate from a set of rules. The administrator can make a specific rule in the firewall to block a specific website, a specific application or to prevent two computers on the same network from communicating with each other, for whatever reason. Just as one can block certain actions, one can specifically allow a certain action. Sometimes when connecting to a printer with advanced features, the administrator may need to alter the firewall rules to allow certain data through, to access the printer’s features.

Home user based software firewalls have become very easy to use and to configure over the past few years. Not only can they prevent malicious items and websites from infecting your computer, but they now come bundled with more tools to prevent phishing scam websites from opening, as well as some encryption tools to safe guard your sensitive data.

Should you want more information on software-based firewalls, feel free to contact Group 4 Networks.

 

About Group 4 Networks – eBay Compromised, IT Consulting

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.

Read more: http://virtual-desktop.co#ixzz33Vxc8EUs

Software Firewalls

 

A firewall is one of the most important pieces to a computer network, no matter how big or small. Everyone should have a firewall.

In this post we will be talking about software firewalls, later in the future we will talk about hardware firewalls.

A software firewall is a program, which runs in the background on a client’s computer. Some are very basic and easy to use. Some are complex and more powerful. For home users we absolutely recommend a yearly subscription based Internet security suite. Some names to look out for are Kaspersky, ESET and Avira.

Most software firewall companies also make enterprise editions of their software, which allow IT personnel to manage firewall rules and configurations from one computer, taking the configuration and management responsibility away from the user.

The software firewall operates by inspecting the network data that is incoming to the computer, as well as outgoing from the computer. If the firewall detects the data has been altered or if appears malicious, the software blocks it, effectively preventing any form of an attack.

Firewalls operate from a set of rules. The administrator can make a specific rule in the firewall to block a specific website, a specific application or to prevent two computers on the same network from communicating with each other, for whatever reason. Just as one can block certain actions, one can specifically allow a certain action. Sometimes when connecting to a printer with advanced features, the administrator may need to alter the firewall rules to allow certain data through, to access the printer’s features.

Home user based software firewalls have become very easy to use and to configure over the past few years. Not only can they prevent malicious items and websites from infecting your computer, but they now come bundled with more tools to prevent phishing scam websites from opening, as well as some encryption tools to safe guard your sensitive data.

Should you want more information on software-based firewalls, feel free to contact Group 4 Networks.

 

About Group 4 Networks – eBay Compromised, IT Consulting

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.

Read more: http://virtual-desktop.co#ixzz33Vxc8EUs

Software Firewalls

 

A firewall is one of the most important pieces to a computer network, no matter how big or small. Everyone should have a firewall.

In this post we will be talking about software firewalls, later in the future we will talk about hardware firewalls.

A software firewall is a program, which runs in the background on a client’s computer. Some are very basic and easy to use. Some are complex and more powerful. For home users we absolutely recommend a yearly subscription based Internet security suite. Some names to look out for are Kaspersky, ESET and Avira.

Most software firewall companies also make enterprise editions of their software, which allow IT personnel to manage firewall rules and configurations from one computer, taking the configuration and management responsibility away from the user.

The software firewall operates by inspecting the network data that is incoming to the computer, as well as outgoing from the computer. If the firewall detects the data has been altered or if appears malicious, the software blocks it, effectively preventing any form of an attack.

Firewalls operate from a set of rules. The administrator can make a specific rule in the firewall to block a specific website, a specific application or to prevent two computers on the same network from communicating with each other, for whatever reason. Just as one can block certain actions, one can specifically allow a certain action. Sometimes when connecting to a printer with advanced features, the administrator may need to alter the firewall rules to allow certain data through, to access the printer’s features.

Home user based software firewalls have become very easy to use and to configure over the past few years. Not only can they prevent malicious items and websites from infecting your computer, but they now come bundled with more tools to prevent phishing scam websites from opening, as well as some encryption tools to safe guard your sensitive data.

Should you want more information on software-based firewalls, feel free to contact Group 4 Networks.

 

About Group 4 Networks – eBay Compromised, IT Consulting

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.

Read more: http://virtual-desktop.co#ixzz33Vxc8EUs

BlackShades Info

Broken Internet Security
Broken Internet Security

As we have mentioned before, lately Internet security issues are on the rise and malicious hackers are making it very difficult to keep people on Internet safe from web attacks.

The latest in cyber security news brings a piece of malware that could potentially ruin lives. This malware is called “BlackShades”. BlackShades is a tool used by hackers to take complete control of your computer, just as if they were sitting in front it. The difference with BlackShades is that it can actually be bought, for a low price of $40!

BlackShades is similar to other remote desktop support applications which IT department’s use. However, BlackShades can do more than traditional remote desktop applications, for example it access devices on the victims computer, such as their webcam. This is a definite invasion of ones privacy. At the same time BlackShades can also track keystrokes as the victim is typing on the computer. With this, the attacker could gain easy access to personal information, because the victim’s password was recorded, as they were typing it.

How does one get infected with BlackShades? The same way as with any other virus.

The victims email account might have an email from someone with an attachment in the email message. Most of the time the attachment is a .zip file – a compressed file. However, inside the .zip file is a Windows program, an executable. The victim would open the file, and then it happens, the computer gets infected. However the victim will not see anything happening on the screen. The backdoor is a hidden application, running in the background. Once the computer is affected, the victim may not even suspect the infection, as BlackShades is hard to detect.

Some symptoms of BlackShades are,

  • Your cursor moves erratically without you touching it or your monitor turns off during use
  • The webcam “in use” light turns on when the camera is not in use by the user. If a Skype call is not in progress the webcam light should remain turned off.
  • Usernames and passwords for online accounts have been compromised
  • Computer files become encrypted without warning and ask for a password when attempting to open the file

To prevent infection from the BlackShades info backdoor – avoid opening emails from known and unknown people if they have .zip or .exe attachments in the message. Avoid links from suspicious accounts on social media as well, such as Twitter and Facebook. It is very easy to disguise a link and to direct it to download the virus. Finally, make sure your antivirus is updated and ensure the antivirus subscription is paid for, if you use applications such as Kaspersky or ESET.

If you need more information about BlackShades and Internet security in general, feel free to contact Group 4 Networks.

 

About Group 4 Networks

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.

Business Contact Manager

BCM or Business Contact Manager is a tool designed by Microsoft which makes it very easy for organization to keep track of contacts, leads, accounts and etc.

BCM can be setup in two methods. The first method is to keep a local database only on one computer. The second method is more complex however it’s beneficial to everyone within the company, as the BCM database would sit on a server. The BCM database can be accessed from within Outlook using a small plugin. At the same time, if the BCM is setup to be accessible from the internet, one could access their records from anywhere.

Business Contact Manager can help you stay on top of the sales cycle. For example, you can configure your own set of rules as to how a lead should be pursued and BCM will prioritize them for you, thus saving time in a busy work day. You can also arrange your customers and products, letting you focus your attention to top customers and top-selling products. Screenshot of BCM

If you’d like to find out more abotu Business Contact Manager and how it could help you and your business, feel free to contact Group 4 Networks.

About Group 4 Networks

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.

Read more: http://www.g4ns.com/itblog/#ixzz338dtOyV8

IT Services

[cta id=”1653″]

Group 4 Networks IT Services is central information technology organization, providing infrastructure, applications, and services that support our clients business activities.

Service Catalog

•  On Site Support

•  Managed SSL VPN Networks

•  Network Monitoring

•  Managed IT Services

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.

 

Help Desk

[contact-form 2 “HelpDesk”]

Help Desk from Group 4 Networks

Help Desk

We provide Toronto and GTA businesses with IT SupportIT Consulting and Managed IT Services at a fraction of the cost that they would pay a low-level full time IT Manager. Our team eliminates the hassle of dealing with the single knowledge and abilities of a lone “computer guy.”  What makes us unique is that we proactively manage our customer’s computer networks to eliminate many of the headaches and hassles of using computers to run a business.

We guarantee our customers a response within 60 minutes or less and are the only IT service provider in the region that offers a 60-Day 100% no hassle money back guarantee on our flat rate all inclusive service plans.