Hardware monitoring is a feature of the motherboard, sometimes as a separate chip on the motherboard, that monitors different aspects of the system. for potential issues. It can measure variables such as the output voltage of the power supply, the speed of the fans that are connected directly to the … Read More
What are Managed IT Services?
What are Managed IT Services? The Technology Services Industry Association (TSIA) defines managed services as “the practice of outsourcing day-to-day technology management responsibilities to a third party as a strategic method for improving operations and accelerating a return on their technology … Read More
Why is Patch Management Important For Cyber Security?
Before we jump into why patch management is important, we should define what patches are and what patch management is. What are patches? Patches are software code fixes that repair broken functionality, add new functionality, or fixes security holes in software. Patches have been around a long … Read More
Do I still need endpoint Malware protection?
If you've used a computer anytime over the past 20 years, you've probably been infected by a virus, malware, or some other malicious piece of software. You may have been lucky and been able to get it cleaned off without much trouble or maybe you weren't so lucky and lost data. Think about today, … Read More
What is Security as a Service (SECaaS)?
What is SECaaS? Security as a Service (SECaaS) describes an offering in which a technology solution provider manages both hardware and software on a monthly or annual subscription basis, with the goal being to provide an externally managed, comprehensive, and affordable IT security solution for … Read More
SandStorm IT Response to the COVID-19 / Coronavirus Pandemic
To All Customers and Friends, In response to the COVID-19 / Coronavirus pandemic and the nationally and state-declared state of emergency, SandStorm IT wants to share the plans and precautions we are taking. We remain committed to continuing to provide the necessary services and support … Read More
What are the best ways to combat computer infections?
The best way to combat computer infections is to NEVER connect to the internet. Of course, this is not a desired or viable option for most people. But unfortunately, the internet is the most common way of receiving or transmitting infections. Luckily, a mix of the right software and knowledge can go … Read More
Got a popup on your Windows 7 PC? Here’s what it means and what you can do.
So, you have the "Your Windows 7 PC is out of support" popup? Rest assured, it's not some kind of malware or false warning, it's legitimately from Microsoft. Around 29.7% of the PC's in the world still use Windows 7. The message that pops up on boot is pretty ominous but it's exactly what will … Read More
What makes a strong password?
With all the data breaches we see on the news these days, it can sometimes be scary to trust companies with your sensitive information. However, in many cases, sensitive data is gained by an attacker taking advantage of users implementing weak passwords. Today, we will look at some examples of … Read More
What is Two Factor Authentication?
Two Factor Authentication, commonly abbreviated 2FA, is a second layer of authentication in addition to your password used to keep your accounts safe. Typically, a code is sent to your phone (by text or application) every time you sign into your account. You enter this code after you receive it to … Read More