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Choosing The Right VPN For Your Business In 2022

Did you know that public networks expose you to security threats? This means that cyber thieves can track your online activity and can even intercept it and steal confidential usernames and passwords!

This is where a Virtual Private Network, or VPN, comes in. A VPN encrypts the data you send and receive while online, thereby making it difficult for cybercriminals to track you. Whether you’re in a coffee shop, the library, or even the airport, you need a VPN to protect your data.

Another place you should consider using a VPN is the office. Many companies rely on public networks for communication and data sharing. It allows them to cut costs and allocate their funds elsewhere, but it also raises several security issues.

For starters, the network provider might be monitoring the activity, which gives them access to customer details, emails, and confidential files. As a result, sensitive information can end up in the wrong hands, compromising the organisation’s reputation.

To eliminate these security threats, you need to switch to a VPN, which offers online anonymity and privacy, allowing you to conduct your daily operations privately.

However, you can’t go with just any VPN. Here are the 5 factors you should consider before choosing a reliable VPN.

The location of the VPN servers.

Ensure that the VPN has servers that are close to your business location. Connecting to a far server will result in latency issues (slow internet).

Price

While choosing a free VPN may seem tempting, they don’t deliver a great experience. They are often full of ads. Free VPNs usually track your online activity and then sell the data they collect to advertisers. You’re better off using a paid VPN.

Device compatibility.

Can the VPN be used on all the devices that you use? This is an especially important question to ask if you have cross-platform work.

Availability of a kill switch.

VPNs aren’t failproof. Overloaded platforms can trigger IP leaks, interrupting your private connection and exposing your true address when online.

To avoid this scenario, look for platforms with a built-in kill switch. It disrupts your devices’ access to the internet in case of IP leaks. The kill switch stops transfers of unencrypted information and can help prevent cybercriminals from obtaining your data.

Customer support.

Customer support might be the most important factor. Your provider should be easy to contact through different portals, such as telephone, live chat, and email.

Easy accessibility lets you inform the VPN developer of possible issues. For example, they can help restore your network if it goes down and prevent unwanted exposure.

Most client support teams are highly accessible, but make sure to verify this by reading customer reviews.

The digital world is filled with challenges, especially if your business uses public networks. Loss of data can happen at any time, which can give your competitors the upper hand and tarnish your reputation. That’s why switching to a VPN is one of the wisest investments you can make.

Contact us today to discuss your cybersecurity and find out where you might have any potential risks!

Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions.

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

What are Solid-State Drives and Do I Need It?You Should Care

Have you ever gone hard-drive shopping and seen something like “16GB RAM and 256GB SSD + 1TB HDD Storage” and had no idea what it means? We know that reading device specifications can be tricky, but it’s important to be knowledgeable on these things especially in this day and age.

The focus of this blog post is the part of the description that says “SSD”. SSD stands for Solid-State Drive, which is a new-generation storage device used in computers. Contrary to the traditional HDD (Hard-Disk Drive), an SSD can withstand harsher conditions like being dropped or extreme temperatures.

They are also faster than conventional hard disk drives (HDDs), more compact, and have no moving parts! This makes them good for gaming, video editing, and running other heavy applications. Sounds good, right?

Well, there are some downsides to it as well. For one, they’re much more expensive than an HDD, though buying one would be a good investment. SSDs have their own share of advantages and disadvantages, which we listed below:

Advantages

Durability

SSDs don’t have any moving parts; therefore, it can keep your data safe if you accidentally drop it or leave it in extreme temperatures. It is also lighter in weight than an HDD.

Better computing performance

Booting is the process of starting up a computer. SSDs allow faster boosting of computers, thereby improving the computer’s performance.

Generates less heat

Unlike HDDs, SSDs generate less heat, which means that you can use your laptop more comfortably on your lap without having to worry about burns.

Disadvantages

Price

As discussed before, the pricing of SSDs continues to be its biggest con. A 120GB SSD can cost anywhere from R500 and upwards, while a 120GB HDD would cost around R300.

Storage size

Because SSDs are generally expensive, they are mostly sold in smaller storage sizes as this is more affordable. An SSD’s storage capacity is usually under 160GB.

High power consumption

SSDs consume more power than an HDD especially when the computer boots.

Despite its disadvantages, SSDs trump HDDs in performance and speed. It’s a great replacement to make, especially with its recent advancements in the tech space.

Contact us today to purchase your SSD!

Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions.

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

Wi-Fi Frequencies, Wi-Fi Security, and Why You Should Care

Okay, so there’s been some talk about 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, but what exactly are those? And why should you care? Not to worry! We’re here to help you weigh your options so you can choose the best IT set-up for your lifestyle.

Wi-Fi Frequency Bands

2.4 GHz and 5 GHz are Wi-Fi frequency bands that refer to the rate of data transmission and the signal range. The higher the frequency, the faster the data transmission and the shorter the signal range.

With this in mind, we can say that the 2.4 GHz band transmits data at a lower speed but has more coverage, while the 5 GHz band provides less coverage but transmits data at faster speeds.

How are 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and 5 GHz Wi-Fi different?

Now that we know what Wi-Fi frequency bands are, we can dive into the main differences between them.

2.4 GHz

5 GHz

Longer signal range

Shorter signal range

Slower data transmission rate

Faster data transmission rate

Used for low-bandwidth activities

Used for high-bandwidth activities

Susceptible to Wi-Fi interference

Can avoid Wi-Fi interference

You Should Choose 2.4 GHz if…

Your home is spacious. 2.4 GHz has more signal coverage. While it has a slower transmission rate, 2.4 GHz will ensure that you get a good signal throughout your home.

You mostly do low-bandwidth activities, such as browsing the internet.

You don’t have many 2.4 GHz devices, such as garage openers or baby monitors.

You Should Choose 5 GHz if…

You have a smaller house, or your PC is close to your router since the 5 GHz band has low signal coverage.

You engage in high-bandwidth activities, such as gaming or videoconferencing.

You have many devices that use the 2.4 GHz band. The 5 GHz band can help avoid wireless congestion.

We hope we’ve helped make your choice easier. However, ensuring your internet set-up is optimal doesn’t end there. Another big factor to take into consideration is your internet security.

Now that you have access to the internet, you are prone to cyberattacks and breaches. As hackers get smarter, the need to protect your digital assets and network devices is even greater.

Internet security, in essence, prevents unwanted access and ensures your data remains accessible to those who you authorize. Sounds good? Great! Let’s walk through the different types of security options and see which is the best fit for your business!

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)

WEP is a security algorithm introduced to provide data confidentiality for wireless networks. It aims to add a layer of security to the wireless network by offering strong encryption to the data. Though it has become obsolete, it is still used in modern times with older devices. WEP is the least secure network type.

Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)

WPA was developed to fill the gaps found within the WEP protocol. It aims to provide more sophisticated data encryption and better user authentication.

Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2)

WPA2 has stronger security and is easier to configure than the prior options. It uses the Advanced Encryption Standard, which is able to secure top-secret government information, which makes it a brilliant option.

WPA2-PSK

WPA2-PSK (Pre-Shared Key) requires a single password to get on the wireless network. This makes it as safe as the people you entrust your password to. There could be major repercussions should the password fall into the wrong hands, which is why WPA2-PSK is used mainly for residential or open networks.

WPA2-Enterprise

WPA2-Enterprise is different from the other protocols in that it requires each user to have a password unique to them. Because each device is authenticated before it connects, a personal, encrypted tunnel is effectively created between the device and the network. The security benefits of a properly configured WPA2-Enterprise grant a near-impenetrable network.

Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3)

WPA3 offers greater protection for passwords, individualised encryption for personal and open networks, and more security for enterprise networks.

WPA3-PSK

WPA3-PSK trumps WPA2 in that it offers greater protection for simple passwords, individualised encryption for personal and open networks, and even more secure encryption for enterprise networks.

It is essential that you choose a security option that is the most useful to you as a business. The last thing we want is for you to fret about the nitty-gritties of Wi-Fi frequencies and security options. Contact us today to see how we can help you set up your internet!

Contact us for IT Services today!

Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions.

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

The New Microsoft 11 Is Here!

Since its release in 2015 Microsoft Windows 10 has been replaced with the latest version of the operating system, Microsoft Windows 11. The need for better home and business technology is a growing demand as we are now in a time when computers and technology play a more central role in human lives.

However, before you jump in and upgrade to the new operating system, we think we have some answers to the questions, you may have about the new Windows 11.

Question #1: What is new and improved in Microsoft 11?

Besides a significant boost in performance, functionality, and style there are other featured upgrades that we will cover that Microsoft has made.

Microsoft Teams

With work now being a mixture between home and in the office, Microsoft Teams became a new spotlight for effective internal communication for the office and between colleagues. As a result, it’s no surprise that Teams is now integrated into the operating system of Windows 11, which makes communicating with family, friends, and colleagues easier.

            Productivity

The streamlined productivity functions are small, but Windows 11 will now remember the last layout of your choice when docking. When using virtual desktops, you can choose between different backgrounds and the new Windows 11 features a Snap Layout function that allows users to choose from a variety of layout options at the click of a button.

            Gaming Experience

If you are an avid gamer, the new Windows 11 offers better gaming experience. Gamers can look forward to playing their games on Windows, with the Xbox Game pass and Cloud gaming supported by the Xbox app of the new Windows 11.

            Overall Look

The new Microsoft 11 has changed the overall look and design of Windows from Microsoft 10. Some may see a similarity to macOS or those that have used Apple before, as the icons in the taskbar are now permanently centred and the icons have a more tightly rounded corners than to their square design before.

Question #2: Is my hardware compatible for the new Windows 11?

If you are unsure about whether your computer is compatible, speak to us at Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions and we can have a look at your hardware to ensure that Windows 11 can run smoothly on your laptop.

Some compatibility elements are:

4 GB of RAM

At least 64 GB of storage

At least a 1GHZ dual-core processor

A graphics card compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver.

Not all computers are compatible to the new Microsoft operating system upgrade and, if you are feeling hesitant about the upgrade, contact us at Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions and we can assist you!

If your computer is not compatible or you have found that you can’t run the Windows 11 upgrade, don’t worry, Windows 10 will stay compatible with Microsoft until 2025!

There is nothing wrong with staying with Windows 10, you still have enough time to think about changing and upgrading your operating system.

Question #3: Is the Microsoft Office Suite available on the new Windows 11?

Microsoft Office Suite is not available to the new and upgraded Microsoft 11, you would have to pay for a Microsoft Office subscription first.

If you have an existing Microsoft Office subscription to Microsoft 365, then you are set!

The next step you would need to do is the installation of the Office suite on to your device after you have upgraded to Windows 11. It is important to keep in mind that the Microsoft Office 2010 version is older and has been discontinued as of last year, 2020. This means that if you are still wanting to use this version, you would have to make changes that would help in avoiding making yourself vulnerable to security risks or formatting risks to the operating system.

Overall, Microsoft have had a look at the pain points of their users and have made their efforts to upgrade the OS to increase their user’s experiences. Windows 11 is the new era of Windows and Microsoft have made a clear point in showing how technology is just a tool used to increase our everyday productivity and efficiency.

However, this doesn’t mean that you must upgrade to Windows 11 immediately, if you find that you’ve become a wizard and master of Windows 10, then the change is not as urgent.

If you are thinking of making the change to Windows 11 and want to find out more about the compatibility, security updates and if your laptop is well-suited for the new OS, then an IT Service provider, like Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions is willing to talk you through it.

Contact us for IT Services today!

Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions.

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

Anti-virus and Cybersecurity: What you need to know.

Given the status of the Covid-19 pandemic, one can see that now more than ever before, people are more connected and reliant on the internet and they continue to remain so. Through mobiles, tablets, computers and laptops, people are looking to get connected and stay connected. However, with cyberthreats, like ransomware, malware, and viruses, people and even businesses can’t afford the risk of leaving their networks and their data unsecured and unprotected.

One of the most misunderstood occurrences with a computer is a virus.

If you’ve shared the thought that maybe your devices should have some type of antivirus protection, the short answer is yes. Make no mistake, viruses and cyberthreats are real, and every computer is vulnerable to attacks. To put it simply, a virus has the capability to make copies of itself that can spread to other computers, of which in this part, can make further copies of itself. Viruses differ to each other in that each virus can attack in a different way to the other. One can be created to send an email to everyone in your address book, wipe out all your data on your computer, or even send messages on your social media platforms.

Common types of cyber threats can be found not only in computers, but mobile phones and any other internet connected devices.

Malware: Malicious Software (Malware) is an umbrella term that refers to a wide range of damaging software that is designed to be harmful or carry out malicious and unwanted actions to a computer, or computer network. This is commonly known as a virus as well as spyware and trojan horses. Malware has the capability to destroy, delete and crash your device and the files on it.

A type of malware known is spyware which attaches and hides itself within your computer and without your permission can make changes to your device. This can affect how you use your device and the overall productivity. As it says in its name it can quite simply ‘spy’ on your activity and generate unwanted advertisements and browser displays on your online web activity. It has the ability to encourage your browser to display certain websites and search results.

Typically, a virus masquerades itself as something else.

This can be an unprotected email with an interesting email attachment such as instructions to win R 1 000 000 or even a bright and jumpy link on your web browser encouraging you to download pictures or “never before seen” photos of your favourite celebrities. Once these links are opened/ downloaded, the virus springs to life and copies itself onto the user’s computer. Once on the device, the virus can figure out how to spread itself across the computer and even shared networks.

This kind of masqueraded virus or scam can also be known as phishing. It is mostly linked to fraudulent websites and emails that can trick you into giving your personal or financial information. As a result, money can be stolen, or a personal account can be compromised. This type of scam is seen when an email or message is received claiming errors in your account, trouble with your payment options or that suspicious activity has been noticed on your account. A link will be provided where your personal information will be uploaded, and this is where users can fall for the trick.

Therefore, one must ensure that they have the correct and most suited infrastructure protection on their computers, networks, and devices.

Caution and common sense can only go so far in keeping your computer and devices safe, there is much more that is needed to keep them protected. There is always room for human error which is why antivirus programmes and software are essential. A proper antivirus solution and infrastructure protection will give you peace of mind that there is a defence line.

Using an IT Company, such as Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions can help protect your data, devices and networks from malware and viruses. Having a proper cybersecurity infrastructure on your device can help prevent any threatening and destructive attacks. Avoid the risks of ransomware, at Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions through the deployment and management of antiviruses such as Bitdefender, ESET and AVG, we will protect your infrastructure!

Contact us for IT Services today!

Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions.

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

So, you need a new laptop?

While shopping for a laptop can and may be overwhelming at times, don’t let it ruin the fun in the fact that you’re out shopping (or shopping online) for a new laptop! Although you will be faced with numerous choices, many brands and prices that will vary, this laptop buying guide will help you navigate between all the models, styles, and functioning systems.

Buying a laptop is not a simple decision, but we will show you the basic steps you need to have in mind to ensure that you’re buying the best laptop for you!

The deciding factors for a laptop begin with the pre-planning. It essentially comes down to three simple things that you need to keep in mind.

Determine your price range. This is important, as this will allow you to know what to look for and stay within your budget.

What are you going to use your laptop for? Will it be used for work, school, gaming, or university etc? The laptop that will be the best for you, will be the one that does exactly what you need it to do.

Where will you use it? Are you using your laptop at your desk for majority of the day, or are you a busy professional moving from meeting to meeting? Establishing the use of the laptop will determine the portability of your laptop.

Once these steps have been decided, you can start looking at the next set of functions that will make your laptop custom to you!

First, you need to pick and figure out which operating system you would like, and which would work best for you. A laptop’s operating system determines the way that the interface will look, how it operates and the types of software that you can use. Taking the time to think what type of software you want to run on your laptop and on which system will help in your decision on choosing the hardware that you need.

Most laptops come with one of three operating systems: MacOS, Chrome OS or Windows. Deciding on which is the right one is a personal preference. Each system has their own strengths and weakness, make sure you are well researched on each system beforehand so that you choose a laptop that runs well with the system.

MacOS

PROS

CONS

MacOS comes with free productivity apps that are preinstalled in the Mac devices, or which can be downloaded from the App store.

MacOS is exclusive to MacBook laptops and iMac desktops, which are very expensive compared to other operating systems and hardware.

Clean and user-friendly interface. Those who are familiar with the IOS in Apple products will notice the similarity of MacOS to that found within the iPads and iPhones.

The operating system is not compatible for those who are interested in and currently in the gaming market. MacOs has limited game titles and there are restrictions on the options for hardware upgrades and customisation.

Chrome OS

PROS

CONS

Due to the compact design of Chrome OS, the operating system is the most affordable out of all the other operating systems. Chrome OS is most compatible with a Chromebook.

Chrome OS constantly needs internet access to edit and have full access to documents. This means that if a Chromebook is offline, then you can’t access to documents or your Google drive.

Chrome OS has an expected battery life of between 9-11 hours. This means that a Chromebook is good for if you are on the go or travelling due to the expected long battery life.

The storage on Chrome OS is only 32GB which means that your storage is limited. However, you can save to your Google Drive and Google Docs, but only if you have an internet connection.

Windows

PROS

CONS

Windows has great software support. The system is best suited for any game and software developers and since Windows has a large audience, developers prefer to make utilities, games, and software for Windows operating system.

There is a high amount of hacker attacks on Windows operating systems. The security of Windows is vulnerable to hacking and so Windows users must constantly update their anti-virus software, and, in some cases, they may have to pay monthly charges for improved protection.

Windows is made for both touch screen devices and desktop computers and the interface is user-friendly.

On Windows you may have to constantly reboot your system. If your system is running slow or you have too many programs open at the same time, this can create a delay and hangs up. The solution is too reboot.

These are just some of the features, functions, and systems that you need to keep in mind for when you are choosing your new laptop. Deciding on the brand of your laptop may be overwhelming we encourage doing some extensive research, read reviews and even browse through brand’s social media pages to get an accurate overview on what products they have to offer.

Memory (Ram)

This is random-access memory (RAM) which is an important specification in your decision for a well performing laptop. RAM stores the processor computing tasks where the processor picks up these tasks and makes them happen. When a laptop or computer has more RAM, then the overall general performance of your laptop will be improved. If you have demanding software, then RAM will allow the processor to take on more tasks at once.

Using the Internet

Updating social media

Watching and streaming video clips

4 GB and over

Studying (researching and writing essays)

Creating spreadsheets and documents

Creating and working on presentations and office admin

6 GB and over

Streaming HD films and tv series

Gaming

Editing programmes for amateur photos and videos

8 GB and over

Graphic design

Editing programmes for professional photography, videography, and music production.

CAD Design

16 GB and over

Storage

When it comes to the storage of your laptop, there are four types that refer to the amount of space available on your laptop. The space will be able to store anything from documents, images, software, and everything else. When choosing the right storage, you will have to make a choice between eMMC, SSHD, HDD and SSD drives. Each will be specific to your type of storing option tailored to you and/ or your profession such as if you are a professional photographer or videographer, you would want to look at getting a laptop with a large enough storage to safely keep your images and videos.

Battery Life

If you are planning to use your laptop at home or the office, you will want to make sure that your laptop has a battery that will be able to last for at least 7/8 hours. If you are a young university student, moving from lectures to lectures, you would need to have a laptop with a battery life that would sufficiently last you for majority of your schedule. Make sure your laptop comes with an easily accessible charger, so that should you need too, you can have a quick access to keep your laptop’s battery alive.

Connectivity

Connectivity is an essential need for any laptop, this refers to how well your laptop connects to the devices around it. This includes the internet, external storage, and screens. When looking at the connectivity of your laptop, there are several factors to keep in mind.

            WiFi: This is the fastest way to connect to the internet. A laptop that has WiFi can connect with any fibre optic broadband which can give you the fastest internet connection possible. This is perfect for those who need the internet for school or work, streaming videos and even gaming online.

            USB Port: Laptops with an USB ports allows for your laptop to connect to multiple devices and laptop accessories. This includes if you need an external mouse, a printer, your mobile phone and even your camera.

            HDMI: An HDMI connection is an easy addition to any laptop that allows you to connect your laptop to any modern TV or a monitor. This means that the HDMI cable allows to transmit full HD video signals, so you can enjoy what’s on your laptop, including video and audio, on any TV or HD monitor.

Make sure to get in contact with us, Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions, if you need more assistance in choosing the right laptop for you. Once you have chosen your laptop, we can assist you with all your infrastructure needs under one roof, as Oasis offers hardware, software, consumables, stationery, and support.

Contact us for IT Services today!

Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions.

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

Zoom vs Microsoft Teams

The amazing growth and development of technology, worldwide, can be recognised in the opportunities that many businesses have had in making changes to their daily systems in trying to become more digital. Having said, companies and organisations around the world have been faced with the reality of a worldwide pandemic and how working from home has played a crucial role in helping reduce the spread of Covid-19. The year, 2020, has resulted in businesses, schools, universities and similar people-orientated organisations to reshape how people could still collaborate and communicate. Throughout the pandemic, the use of video conferencing has grown, so that companies and organisations can remain functioning and profitable.

As of last year, some people may have not been aware of what Zoom or Microsoft Teams were, however, as of now, both are staples in many households, schools, and businesses. But is one better than the other and if so, what are the differences between the two platforms that provide efficient productivity and communication?

To begin, let’s have a look at what Teams and Zoom are.

The Microsoft Teams app can be thought of as the physical office space of which your employees and colleagues would be working in, the ability to have instant chats (send messages), have meetings and break off into departments, gives the app a likeness to that of an office space. The app allows for many different communication channels across connected e-mail addresses, that allows for a main chat, private chats, and the chance to create groups specific to a department or project. Effectively, on Teams, people can use the message platform to chat to colleagues and employees rather than e-mail. Communication can happen through set up video-calls and Wi-Fi calls, almost instantly from chat, groups, and an invitation via e-mail. Microsoft is great for small to medium businesses as you can chat, ‘meet’, call and collaborate from anywhere.

As of last year, many people were unaware of what Zoom was until it became a popular platform to get connected with friends, family, and businesses, during a time when we were not allowed to see each other. Zoom is primarily a video app that allows you to connect and talk to multiple people from within and outside your business. In difference, Zoom is more focused on being a video and online chat communication platform. With the ability to download Zoom on your phone as an app, the convenience is found in that you can connect with people on Zoom no matter what device.

So, what exactly is the difference between the two platforms?

Zoom

Microsoft Teams

You can easily video chat with people from outside your organisation, they don’t need to be a part of your company account.

Much like an office space, Teams allows employees and colleagues to remain connected in a shared space and platform.

The video layout allows that everyone in the meeting can be seen at once.

Use instant messaging to chat rather than exchanged emails.

No matter, your location or device, you can join a Zoom meeting from anywhere.

Works well with Office 365 and you can securely edit and share files at the same time between chats.

The video quality is great with HD video and audio. Including customised settings with the options to enable and disable video and audio during a meeting.

It is mobile friendly and can allow for connectivity with people outside your organisation through an easy setup.

Zoom has 3 paid options as well as a basic free option

Teams can be installed for free if you don’t have Office 365.

Zooms vs Teams: The Verdict

Zoom is a good platform for a business to use when searching for HD quality videos, and for the purpose of connecting and setting up meetings, rather than collaborating. Zoom is a functional platform for businesses who are looking to get in touch with external users rather than communicate between colleagues and employees.

Having said, Microsoft Teams is a popular choice for a business as it provides an overall office function and productivity as it is a collaborative platform that provides more than just video and call functions, but merely the option to chat, share files and it syncs up well with other Office 365 and Microsoft technology. Teams is a workplace productivity hub that can assist you in achieving your everyday tasks.

Ensure that your business remains connected during these unprecedented times with Covid-19 and the third lockdown in South Africa. Make use of communicative platforms that will benefit your business’s communication and overall productivity, so that you can remain relevant, up to date and profitable.

At Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions, we can assist you in ensuring your business stays connected, by connecting you to the Internet through, and are able to troubleshoot any issues with: ADSL, WI-FI, 3G, Fibre and VPN (Virtual Personal Network). Our remote management services include managed services from Oasis in both a reactive (responding as and when necessary) and pro-active response.

For the smooth running of any business, the services of an IT services company can assist in continually improving workplace efficiency and productivity. Contact Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions for professional, personalised, and affordable IT solutions

Contact Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions:

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

Managed IT services – The benefits of having IT Support in the smooth running of your business

As of the past year, we can see that technology is continually changing with a rapid emergence of new technological services and offerings. Having a rapid change in technology, in turn, has had businesses and organisations modifying the way in which they operate and handle IT maintenance, support and services daily. Every business, whether big or small, needs some type of IT support structure and service to ensure well-organised productivity.

Utilising and outsourcing a managed IT services company, such as Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions, is beneficial to the smooth running of an organisation. When a business has an IT services company, it is important that the IT company know and understand the role which computers and information systems play in a business environment. As an IT services company they can offer a variety of IT support, provide solutions and effective productivity to any business.

Exactly how and why does your business benefit from managed IT Services and IT support?

As mentioned, the size of your business should not be a determining factor of whether you should implement IT support services. As of the ever-changing year, with a worldwide pandemic, almost all businesses (regardless of their size) have relied on the support from their IT services company. Having a managed IT service within your business, creates a consistent relationship between your company and your IT network.

The responsibility of your IT company is primarily to ensure that the correct infrastructure is being implemented and maintained for the successful utilisation of your business’ networks and operating systems. This means that you will have a more hands on approach in ensuring that your business network runs properly. Information Technologies can boost the growth of your company by improving your profitability and reduce costs by keeping up to date and choosing the right information systems and communications technologies.

Information systems within a business are recognized as equipment that helps store, use, exchange or create information. This can include equipment such as computers, servers, internet connectivity equipment and phone systems that can form the integral part of most modern businesses.

A business who has a managed IT services company benefits to overall communication through the implementation of electronically based communication systems such as chat services, email servers, and routers. These routes of communication can be used for successful internal messaging in an effective and professional manner. This type of IT equipment, within a business, can be used to send out business reports, daily e-mails, update employees as well as connect with colleagues and employees in the business as well as customers.

Moreover, an advantage of having IT support is that IT can enhance a company’s strategic thinking and increase knowledge transfer. Through a successful IT structure within a business, accessing databases given businesses the ability to interpret and transfer certain information. Companies have a been given the access to information about their customers and clients whereby they can work on enhancing and delivering new products or services to their target markets. Managed IT services such as infrastructure protection, cloud services and network infrastructure are strategic investments by any company or organisation to properly assess their business and implement the correct strategies to remain modern and relevant.

For the smooth running of any business, the services of a managed IT services company can assist in continually improving workplace efficiency and productivity. Contact Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions for professional, personalised and affordable IT solutions. Fitting into your budget, Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions will design the most practical and advanced solutions, tailored to your specific needs.

Contact Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions:

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

The Importance of a Data Backup in 2021

The years of 2020 and 2021 can arguably be recognised as a period in history where people and technology have become more independent on one another, because of the Covid-19 pandemic. However dependent on one another, there are still a few people trying to understand the basics of technology in this modern day setting: connecting up the internet, finding the most well lit room for video calls, and the importance of constantly saving and backing up data.

The result of the South African lockdown has had people discussing the reliance that they have formed on their phones, tablets, computers, and laptops more than ever, since working from home became a reality. However, the productivity of some in continuing their weekly business life has been disrupted because of inactive backing and storage systems. The result– an unproductive workday due to lost data and important information.

The hindering of productivity, as of Covid-19, has been viewed in the way in which some South African businesses have been left vulnerable to cybercrime. Accessing unknown URLs, opening spams, and becoming victims to impersonation attacks has businesses vulnerable to being hacked. Not only that, the clients who hand over personal data or information to a business are equally at risk of when a cyberattack occurs. The company, employees and their clients have quickly fallen ‘victim’ to the hackers.

To prevent lost and/ or stolen data, backing up your data is an important step in any technological relationship. Backing your data up to the cloud or any type of data backup storage system is essential. The concept of backing up your data is a process of making a copy of information, images, videos, or important documents, personal or business related, from any device. This copied form of data is then stored in a separate and secure location that can be accessed anytime should the data need to be restored.

As a preventative measure or solution, some people may have heard about or recommended to use the cloud or similar data storing solutions. Often, people have heard of the cloud, but are not aware of what it entails, what the functionality of the cloud is or how simple it is to use in our everyday technological experiences. To put it simply, the cloud is the internet and what you can access remotely via the internet. When your data is stored on an internet server instead of your device’s hard drive, it means that the data is stored in the cloud. It is like having an extra hard drive you can access anytime that you are connected to the internet.

Alternatively, the cloud is not the only storage system accessible for data backups. The cloud is specifically focused via the internet, however, there are other backup solutions, such as removable media. This includes a USB stick, an external hard drive and external backup solutions such as services from an Information Technology company such as Oasis Intelligent It Solutions. Oasis Intelligent It Solutions offer services focused on information backups and infrastructure prevention that can help with storing data as well as restoring last information.

It is therefore crucial for business owners to invest in decent data backup solutions as lost data or information that cannot be retrieved will impact their business environments negatively – it can result in a loss of clients and money.

In July 2021, South Africa will launch a new data protection law, the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). The purpose of the act is to protect people from data harm and loss, protect personal information and safekeep their privacy. POPIA will be a suitable strategy solution for any cyber-criminal activity and the act will be an effective strategy in place as a restorative solution should loss of data, hacking or similar actions occur.

As 2021 continues to be affected by Covid-19 in South Africa and many businesses are still working from home, data backups, for private or business, should be as essential as any sanitiser or face mask. To prevent data loss, as a suggestion, we encourage you to try this simple 3-2-1 rule that can aid as a preventative measure to avoid data loss and information.

Avoid the loss of your data and information with a simple 3-2-1 rule!

Create 3 copies of your data/information,

Save copies on at least 2 storage solutions,

And 1 storage in a remote location!

At Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions, we are aware of the dangers and risks of unlawful cyber-activity. We are conscious of the importance of having a data backing system and safeguarding your information is something we take seriously. Contact us today to assist with infrastructure protecting and information backups through offsite, remote means, onsite measures, and managed services, we will ensure your information is backed up and kept secure.

Contact Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions:

Telephone: 011 784 9167

E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za

Contact Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions:

Contact Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions:

Contact Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions:

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