CyberSecuritiesUK

More big news from Microsoft: The Beta Channel for Windows 10 is shutting down. If you’re wondering what that means, let me explain… The Beta Channel is where Microsoft lets testers try out new features (like Copilot and other new tools) before they’re rolled out to everyone. But with Windows 10’s end-of-life creeping closer (14th October next year), Microsoft are winding things down. They’re now focusing on the Release Preview Channel instead, which will likely just offer stability updates as we approach the final stretch. If you’re still using Windows 10 in your business, it’s a reminder that time is almost up. While you’ll still get security updates for now, Microsoft are shifting their attention to Windows 11. It’s packed with key upgrades, modern features and improved security. Are you thinking about upgrading? Now’s the time to future-proof your business tech. If you’re not sure where to start, my team and I can help. Get in touch. https://lnkd.in/gr3Ku66r #Windows10 #BetaChannel #Upgrade

Today we celebrate a huge milestone in tech history – the anniversary of the Altair 8800 going on sale back in 1974. I’m going to take a wild guess that you might not have heard of the Altair 8800. But it’s an important one to know about! Why? It was the machine that sparked the personal computer (PC) revolution. This early computer laid the groundwork for the tech we now use every day in our businesses. It became a hit after being featured in Popular Electronics magazine, which led to more than 5,000 units being sold in less than a year. The Altair 8800 wasn’t much by today’s standards. It was a big box that used toggle switches for input and LEDs for output. But it ignited the imagination of a generation of tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. Among its fans were Microsoft co-founders Bill Gates and Paul Allen. Inspired by the Altair, the pair developed the BASIC programming language for it; eventually using this software to build Microsoft. It also inspired the legendary Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, who started Apple after seeing the Altair’s potential. This simple machine shows us what's possible when innovation meets passion. For business owners, it’s a reminder that small beginnings can lead to breakthroughs that change entire industries. Had you heard of the Altair 8800 before today? #TechHistory #Altair8800 #Inspiration

Using WordPress for your business’s website? Listen up… A major flaw has been discovered in a popular WordPress plugin called Really Simple Security (formerly Really Simple SSL), which could let cyber criminals take full control of your website. Let’s break this down. WordPress is a platform that powers millions of websites. It’s popular with businesses, because it’s easy to use and customisable. Plugins are add-ons that extend your site’s functionality – think adding a contact form or extra security features. Really Simple Security is a plugin that’s designed to protect websites, offering tools like login protection and two-factor authentication (2FA). So, what’s the issue? A vulnerability in this plugin’s 2FA feature allows scammers to get around the authentication process. This could give them admin access to your site. Which could lead to a massive security breach, like your site being taken over or sensitive business data being stolen. Thankfully, the plugin developer has released a fix (version 9.1.2), and WordPress is pushing updates. Many websites still run older versions though, and that leaves them exposed. If you use the Really Simple Security plugin on your website, please make sure you’re running the latest version immediately. While we’re on the subject, when did you last check all your apps and systems? If you need help making sure everything’s up to date, get in touch. https://lnkd.in/gr3Ku66r #UpdateTime #WordPress #SecurityAlert

Here's some news about Microsoft Edge that could be really useful for businesses. A new feature is rolling out next month, called Usage Data Sync Capability (I know, Microsoft needs to work on the catchiness of feature names, but stick with me). The Edge update will let you keep your browser data in sync across all your devices. So, your browsing experience will stay consistent whether you’re on your laptop, desktop, or phone. Now you won’t have to try to remember what site you were browsing at home when you get back to the office. The update will also introduce a new category called Feature Usage, which tracks how you use Edge’s features. If you’re using Edge in your business, you’ll be able to gain insights into how your employees interact with browser features. This can help you find ways to streamline your team’s workflow and boost productivity. The update should be coming in January, so it’s one to keep an eye out for. Looking forward to this one? I know I am. #Edge #Microsoft #ProductivityBoost

Are you seeing a pop-up saying your version of Windows is outdated? Don’t panic – if you’re using the latest version of Windows 11 in your business, it’s just a glitch. The message has been appearing for some people after downloading the Windows 11 update KB5046633. It claims your system has “reached the service” and says that you need to upgrade to stay up to date. Confused? Not surprising. The message isn’t meant for people using Windows 11. If you and your team are running the latest version, it’s likely that you’re fully updated. Clicking the "Learn more" link on the pop-up takes you to an article about Windows 10 support. So, it looks like the warning was accidentally applied to the wrong update. And while Microsoft haven’t officially commented on the glitch yet, I expect they’ll roll out a fix. If your business is still using Windows 10, it’s a good idea to start planning your upgrade before the end-of-life deadline arrives next October. If you need help with this, get in touch. https://lnkd.in/gr3Ku66r #Windows11 #UpdateGlitch #Windows10

Microsoft Teams is a great tool for keeping track of everything that’s happening in your business. But when there’s a lot going on, there can be lots of information flying around too. Keeping on top of it all can be… challenging. Thankfully, Teams is getting a makeover that will make it much easier. Here’s how it can help you and your team… #Microsoft #Teams #MoreOrganised

Microsoft Teams is a fantastic tool for businesses – but do you ever find yourself a bit lost, trying to find an important message or notification? An upcoming Teams makeover is about to change all that… #Microsoft #Teams #Organised

If you use PCs in your business, I’ll take a guess and bet that you’ve heard of the Blue Screen of Death… It was first introduced to Windows in 1993, and now it’s become one of the most feared symbols of computer trouble. When you see the blue screen, you know something has gone seriously wrong. What causes the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)? Most of the time, it happens due to a driver error. This means there’s a problem with the software that should be helping your hardware communicate with Windows. Occasionally, though, the BSOD can be due to a hardware issue. Although pretty much everyone dreads the blue screen appearing, it’s actually a useful safety feature. The blue screen forces your computer to shut down, protecting your system from further damage. But for businesses, seeing the BSOD can be more than just frustrating. Repeated crashes interrupt productivity and can put your data at risk. It could even mean there are deeper issues in your IT setup, which need to be fixed. If your team often encounters the Blue Screen of Death, it might be time to update your software. It might be worth looking at upgrading your PCs, too. You should also get your setup reviewed to make sure everything’s working as it should be. Need help figuring out what’s behind the crashes? Get in touch, we can help. https://lnkd.in/gr3Ku66r #BSOD #Microsoft #TechTrouble

Today marks the 44th anniversary of Apple’s historic Initial Public Offering (IPO), with the tech giant selling shares of its stock to the public for the first time. Apple sold 4.6 million shares at $22 (£17.60) each, and stock closed at $29 (£23.20). This resulted in Apple being valued at an impressive $1.778 billion (£1.42 billion), and it made millionaires out of more than 40 employees and investors. The Apple co-founders also saw their own stock values go up, with Steve Jobs's shares reaching $217 million (£173.8 million), and Steve Wozniak's shares hitting $116 million (£92.9 million). This was the largest IPO since Ford’s in 1956, and it highlighted the huge potential to create wealth and redefine markets through the tech industry. Apple’s IPO was only the beginning. It sparked a tech revolution that inspired innovation across businesses all over the globe. Today, it reminds us how investment in technology can change everything – not just in terms of value, but also in terms of impact. It’s a great lesson for businesses. Where do you think technology will take us next? #Apple #TechHistory #IPO

Do you know what your team thinks of your CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software? According to a recent survey, employees are feeling stuck with outdated CRM systems that are failing to get the job done. The report showed that more than half (62%) of employees want a new CRM system, but they’re also concerned about the cost, disruption, and complexity involved in upgrading. And while a CRM is an important tool for sales and marketing, only around 31% of leaders say they’re satisfied with their current platform. For businesses, these results are worth paying attention to. If your CRM system is clunky, it can be a drain on productivity and negatively impact your business. While switching CRMs might seem overwhelming, there are real benefits to upgrading. A high-quality CRM helps you achieve much better lead generation, as well as better management of your sales pipeline. Does your CRM feel outdated? If so, it might be time to explore new systems that are easy to use, cost-effective, and focused on strong customer support. If you’d like to explore your options, we can help. Get in touch. https://lnkd.in/gr3Ku66r #CRM #BusinessProductivity #BetterSystems