What if You’ll Need Service? A Reliable IT Help Desk Can Help.
Posted on February 6, 2015
What does an Information Technology (IT) help desk actually do? Many business owners require the assistance of an IT help desk when dealing with technology needs or services. But, is it always clear what can be expected from help-desk technicians?
An IT help desk is usually a department inside an organization that is responsible for answering the technical questions of its users and customers. Most IT companies have help desks to respond to questions from their customers. The questions and their answers are usually transferred using e-mail, telephone, website, or online chat. Essentially, a help desk is a resource designed for users to contact when they are having problems with their IT services.
A help desk can allow a business to work more efficiently, multitask in smarter ways, provide one-stop assistance and guidance, group company purchase requests, prioritize tasks, provide standardized help for common issues, and customize business service needs.
A help desk can assist in enabling a business to meet their strategic, operational, and business goals. A help desk is an important consideration when a business is looking at choosing to enlist the services of an IT company.
How can Essential Data Services help?
Essential Data Services puts all of your applications, programs, files and data on the cloud, and takes responsibility for all of your information technology (IT) needs.
We configure all of the software to work on the cloud (during set-up, and along the way). We provide administration, IT help desk, and client support. We check for viruses, and if an application is not working, we fix it. We do backups, and we upgrade software when an upgrade is needed and available. We use encryption methods that exceed the industry standards. We continue to consult with you, our customer. We focus on providing comprehensive service with the aim of making your business successful, rather than only on selling a product.
Therefore, Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage our cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and to provide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at https://essentialdata.ca.
Did we answer your questions about IT Help Desks? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
What is Server Hosting?
Posted on February 6, 2015
Server hosting refers to offsite management and upkeep of hardware resources that are designated for a company’s use. By enlisting the help of a server-hosting service, businesses remove the financial and operational needs for keeping server resources onsite.
A server-hosting service should have some of the following qualities to be valuable to a business. Support services are important. The offsite nature of the server host requires that a business should look for server-hosting providers that deliver 24/7 free phone support with customer service personnel who understand what the business needs and picks up the phone when the business requires.
The server-hosting provider should offer scalability. For example, while a business may be shopping for a hosting service for their current needs, they should consider partnering with a service that can scale and grow, as their company gets bigger.
The server-hosting provider should offer backup and accessibility. The business should make sure that the web-hosting service provides adequate backup, and that they do not make it difficult to make changes to the business website. The server hosts that a business chooses should give access, for example, to the server so that new email accounts can be created and changes to server settings can be made.
How can Essential Data Services help?
Essential Data Services puts all of your applications, programs, files and data on the cloud, and takes responsibility for all of your information technology (IT) needs.
We configure all of the software to work on the cloud (during set-up, and along the way). We provide administration and client support. We check for viruses, and if an application is not working, we fix it. We do backups, and we upgrade software when an upgrade is needed and available. We continue to consult with you, our customer.
We focus on providing comprehensive service with the aim of making your business successful, rather than only on selling a product.
Therefore, Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage their cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and to provide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at https://essentialdata.ca.
Did we answer your questions about Server Hosting? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
What is Essential Data’s Application Sharing Service?
Posted on January 26, 2015
Application sharing is a component of remote access that allows users to access applications, files, programs, or documents from their own computers simultaneously in real time. The shared applicationsor documents run on a host which is a high-end secured server.
Dropbox, Google Drive, and GoToMeeting are all simple examples of application or file-sharing programs. A user can upload documents to these programs via the Internet for download or sharing by another person. This process saves both users time and money in terms of travel to physical locations.
Application sharingprovided by Essential Datarelies on screen-sharing technology, which uses the Internet to allow users to remotely view and control software applications on a central host which is asecured server. The best part of using application sharing technology is that remote users can easily run software not installed on their systems, and can even use software that is not compatible with their operating system. This situation happens because remote users are literally viewing and controlling applications installed on secured servers.
Application sharing is the foundation of online training and demonstrations, and is often used by businesses to reduce the amount of travel for employees. This kind of sharing saves businesses time, travel, money, and a host of other expenses that would be incurred without it.
How can Essential Data Services help?
Essential Data Services puts all of your applications, programs, files and data on the cloud, and takes responsibility for all of your information technology(IT) needs.
We configure all of the software to work on the cloud (during set-up, and along the way). We provide administration and client support. We check for viruses, and if an application is not working, we fix it. We do backups, and we upgrade software when an upgrade is needed and available. We use encryption methods that exceed the industry standards. We continue to consult with you, our customer. We focus on providing comprehensive service with the aim of making your business successful, rather than only on selling a product.
Therefore, Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage their cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and to provide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at https://essentialdata.ca/.
Did we answer your questions about Application Sharing? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
What is Online Backup? Why is it better than Tape Backup?
Posted on January 10, 2015
Many businesses today are using a form of backup for their company information. Tape backup, as a means to backing up important data, is one of the first and longest-running types of backups. But, is tape backup still the best choice?
Today, tape backup can be more labour intensive, and can require more manual efforts. To store data, tape backups can become a long and tedious process to implement and to use. Tape backups are susceptible to human errors and to security violations because of their physical nature, and their need for transport to offsite locations. Tape backups feature a higher risk of loss because the tapes are physical rather than online. These types of losses can cost businesses both extra time and money.
Many businesses are looking to move toward online backup. Online backups are more reliable, and reliability is the key to ensuring business longevity and success. Data, applications, files, and programs are more secure because they are held in online servers, and are not physical in nature.The data is also encrypted before it is uploaded online.The transfer and storage of information happens in the online environment, so there is no need to transport physical tapes offsite. These features save businesses both time and money, and reduce costs associated with hardware and software, information technology (IT) maintenance, and more.
How can Essential Data Services help?
Essential Data Services puts all of your applications, programs, files and data on the cloud, and takes responsibility for all of your information technology(IT) needs.
We configure all of the software to work on the cloud (during set-up, and along the way). We provide administration and client support. We check for viruses, and if an application is not working, we fix it. We do backups, and we upgrade software when an upgrade is needed and available. We use encryption methods that exceed the industry standards. We continue to consult with you, our customer. We focus on providing comprehensive service with the aim of making your business successful, rather than only on selling a product.
Therefore, Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage their cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and to provide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at https://essentialdata.ca/.
Did we answer your questions about Online and Tape Backups? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
Career Opportunity
Posted on December 2, 2014
Network Engineer
Infinity Network Solutions Inc is expanding its client support team and looking to add an experienced Network Engineer. Infinity Network Solutions Inc, along with our sister company Essential Data Services Inc, is a unique provider of application sharing (Cloud Computing) and off site data backup services, and computer network consulting company, providing high level, industry leading service to a select group of businesses.
Experience with Windows networks platform and PC environments. You should have experience dealing with business users and selecting effective solutions.
Experience in Citrix XenApps and XenServer is a definite plus.
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
• Bonuses
• Medical and Dental Insurance
• Prescription Drug Coverage
• Disability and Life Insurance
• Mileage and business expense reimbursement
• Business Casual dress
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Administration, maintenance and troubleshooting of Windows Server
• Knowledge with Active Directory and Windows Access Rights
• Implement data, software, and hardware security procedures
• Advance Networking, experience with Firewalls
• VLANs, DMZ, network redundancy
• Analyzing problems, troubleshooting, coordinating and implementing solutions.
• Provide telephone/remote support and onsite service (requires travel within the GTA)
• Candidate will be required to develop Citrix XenApps servers skills and knowledge.
Required Skills
Computer and technical knowledge
Experience with Windows servers systems (2003, 2008, 2012), Exchange (2003, 2007, 2010, 2013), switches (VLAN), routers and firewalls. The desire to learn new technologies such as Citrix Platforms and Remote Backup Technology.
Citrix, MCSE and A+ certifications are an asset
Soft skills – organized, detail oriented, time management, multi‐tasking, self‐motivated, work
with limited supervision, professional manner, friendly demeanour, strong verbal and written communication skills, and willingness to learn continuously.
Must have own vehicle, valid license and be willing to travel within the GTA.
Education:
• High school graduate ‐ University education and/or industry specific training is preferred
• Minimum 4 years industry experience
Successful Candidate will:
• Be quick thinking with out‐of‐the‐box problem solving skills
• Enjoy customer service and multi‐tasking
• Want to be part of a team and contribute to the growth and development of a rapidly expanding company
We offer salary and bonuses commensurate with experience and ability.
While we thank all candidates for their interest, only those that successfully meet our criteria will be considered.
email: [email protected]
Is Cloud Computing a Good Solution for Small Businesses?
Posted on December 1, 2014
Small businesses pride themselves on providing personal services, and experiences, to their customers. Many small businesses are able to keep technological requirements down to simple and basic needs because of smaller staffing and budgets. So, how does a business manage the security and protection of their information? And, how does a small business promote and utilize online and off-site access for employees?
Cloud computing is a good solution for small businesses. But, small businesses must ask themselves many of the questions that follow to better know their next steps:
1. Does the business find it difficult to budget for technology purchases?
2. Is the business struggling to manage individual computers and network infrastructure?
3. Is it difficult for the business to keep up with current trends such as mobility, or implement changes to infrastructure?
4. Does the business wish for more time to focus on its growth and development?
5. Does the business need to protect its digital assets?
The benefits of cloud computing for small businesses are endless and easy to understand. Cloud computing is cost effective, and reduces hardware, software, maintenance, and management costs. Cloud computing offers convenience, and more efficient use of a limited information technology (IT) staff. And, cloud computing is simple to use and leads to increased employee productivity.
In fact, a newer small business ismore likely to start off with a cloud model thanwith traditional on-premises computing and data storage. This choice is often made because cloud hosting, and online backup services, requires far less expenditure, and provides rapid deployment of everything from servers to applications. In addition, cloud computing is less dependent on the need for on-site IT staffing, which makes cloud-hosted services attractive. As more small businesses realize the benefits of low-cost, highly available cloud services, existing businesses with in-house IT systems will need to adapt to remain competitive. And, staying competitive can already be a difficult challengefor a small business when the business doesn’t have access to technical experts and to the same level of finances afforded to a larger business. Cloud computing now makes this goal a viable possibility. A good cloud computing vendor (i.e. Essential Data)deals with the technical issues, which saves businesses a great deal of money and time to focus on other areas to gain competitive advantage. Cloud computing saves businesses time and money by boosting productivity, improving collaboration and promoting innovation.
Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage their cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and toprovide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at https://essentialdata.ca/.
Did we answer your questions about cloud computing and small businesses? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
Is Your Business Cloud Ready?
Posted on November 15, 2014
Small-, medium-, and large-scale businesses can benefit from moving toward cloud services. But, businesses can face challenges when determining if they are cloud ready to proceed. What are some ofthe key factors to consider for a cloud-ready business?What makes businesses sure that today is the right time to move forward?
While reliable systems are key, some of the areas to look at when deciding if a business is cloud ready are company culture, cost of cloud computing, and network and computing infrastructure.
Company Culture:
The business will need to identify if they have a company culture that is open to technological adaptation. Cloud computing requires a rapid pace of change. The business must ask if they can handle and prepare for technological transformations. Will it require extensive training and relearning for employees? Will it cause potential turnover in staffing? Do the advantages currently outweigh the disadvantages? The business might need to modernize many processes and systems before a cloud computing solution can be developed and maintained. However, if the goal is to move toward a cloud computing solution, the business can work with a cloud vendor to determine appropriate next steps.
Cost of Cloud Computing:
Some businesses plan for the costs of technology changes roughly every 3-5 years. Some businesses are slower to adapt to technology change. Many cloud computing vendors offer pay-as-you-go options, whichimprovesthe ability to make smooth technological advancements. Technology changes are easier to make with pay-as-you-go options.
Network and Computing Infrastructure:
Businesses that use cloud services need good Internet access, and up-to-date computing infrastructures. Smartphones, laptops, and other mobile devices will be required. If a business only uses desktop PCs, they will miss out on most of the flexibility that cloud computing provides.
Some additional questions to ask when considering cloud computing for a business include the following, but are not limited to these choices:
• Has your technology budget become unmanageable?
• Is your IT support staff overworked?
• Do you struggle to adapt to new trends?
• Are you spending too much time dealing with IT issues?
• Are your digital assets vulnerable?
Therefore, a strong relationship between information technology (IT) and other business units and a skill for understanding new technologies to fit business needs are critical in order to make the best move towards cloud computing.Lowering costs and adapting to rapid implementations are also top advantages to help determine if your business is cloud ready.
Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage their cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and toprovide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at https://essentialdata.ca/
Did we answer your questions about your business and cloud readiness? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
Top Five Reasons to Use Cloud Computing for your Business
Posted on November 10, 2014
Cloud computing, and cloud storage, has many benefits for your business. The top five reasons to use cloud computing prove that cloud services are a simple choice for many businesses.
1) Cloud computing allows you to access files, data, and programs from anywhere in the world at anytime
Geographic location and time zones become obsolete. You can work anywhere in the world, and at any time of day. Your files, application, data and programs travel with you, and become accessible from any device. A smartphone, a laptop, or a desktop can receive and transmit information with the power of the cloud.
2) Cloud computing is easy to use
Cloud computing requires a computing device, Internet access, and a login/password combination. Once set up, with the assistance of the company’s cloud vendor, it is extremely easy and efficient to operate and to use. Cloud computing streamlines processes and reduces training needs to make it straightforward to run your business.
3) Cloud computing is cost-effective
Traditional desktop software can cost companies a lot of money in terms of the company’s overall budget. These costs could include computer and software repairs, upgrades, licenses, and more. Many of these costs can become ongoing with annual or monthly payments.Cloud computing allows for one-time-payments, pay-as-you-go, or other customizable options. These choices reduce overall costs and improve flexibility of services.
4) Cloud computing is secure
Storing information directly onto your device – for example, a desktop or a laptop – presents the risk that information could be damaged, lost, or stolen. If your laptop is stolen with all of your company information on it, this situation presents a large risk to the security of that information. If your desktop is sitting in your office, and a fire breaks out, this situation too presents a company with many difficulties. Storing in the cloud, and offsite, means that your information is always secure. Your information is always retrievable.
5) Cloud computing provides hosted online backup services and cloud storage
Online backup, and cloud storage, is important. Your information, documents, files, and programs are backed up to the cloud and saved or synchronized for use on several devices. The main purpose of online backup and cloud storage, however, is to prevent the loss of data and information, and to improve access and flexibility.
Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage their cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and to provide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at www.essentialdata.ca.
Did we answer your questions on the top five reasons to use cloud computing for your business? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
Cloud Computing’s Environmental Impact: Another great reason to use cloud computing for your business.
Posted on November 4, 2014
Cloud computing uses much less energy, and is a greener alternative, to traditional methods of information technology and computer use.
By consolidating pictures, videos, e-mails and documents on remote backup servers, businesses save more energy than by keeping them on personal computers. Cloud computing’s efficiency and customizability reduces the use of energy.
Using cloud computing and remote backup servers can also cut carbon emissions.Accenture.com, in their 2010 study titled – Cloud Computing and Sustainability: The Environmental Benefits of Moving to the Cloud (http://www.accenture.com/sitecollectiondocuments/pdf/accenture_sustainability_cloud_computing_theenvironmentalbenefitsofmovingtothecloud.pdf)–
pointed to these factors that enable cloud computing to lower energy use and carbon emissions:
Dynamic Provisioning: Reducing wasted computing resources through better matching of server capacity with actual demand.
Multi-Tenancy: Flattening relative peak loads by serving large numbers of organizations and users on shared infrastructure.
Server Utilization: Operating servers at higher utilization rates.
Data Center Efficiency: Utilizing advanced data center infrastructure designs that reduce power loss through improved cooling, power conditioning, and more.
Published in early 2014, Fujitsu and The Economist Intelligence Unitalso statethat “cloud computing derives its energy efficiency gains from four key elements: reduced carbon generation, improved infrastructure, efficient computing, and resource management.”- https://www.fujitsu.com/es/Images/wp-eiu-impact-of-cloud.pdf
A cloud vendor should be able to relay an understanding of their use of greener technologies to business owners. Energy consumption is a concern for most business owners, forboth environmental and economic reasons as business costs continue to rise. When a business stores its own data on their premises using their own computers, a surprising amount of energy is wasted. The computers are constantly running, yet the computers do not use their full potential for storage and software use. Thus, energy is consumed that is not beneficial to the business.With cloud computing, and remote backup servers, various businesses can share the hardware, thus allowing more energy efficient use of the machines. Businesses that use cloud services instead of purchasing multiple copies of their software also help the environment by limiting waste. These advantages allow for lower costs, as less hardware, software, and support are required.
Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage their cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and toprovide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at essentialdata.ca.
Did we answer your questions about cloud computing and its environmental impact? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
What is private, public, and hybrid cloud computing?
Posted on October 7, 2014
When a business owner is looking to move towards a cloud-computing environment, the owner will need to consider the types of cloud computing that exist and the best solution or fit for their current and future business practices.
Cloud computing is usually defined in the following three ways:
A public cloud is a cloud service where the computing infrastructure is hosted by a cloud vendor at the vendor’s premises, and the infrastructure is shared between other organizations. Essentially, a public cloud is one in which the services and infrastructure are provided offsite over the Internet. A public cloud is a good choice to use for your business when many people use a standard application (such as email) for a certain workload, when you only need the ability to add computer capacity at peak times, or when you’re doing collaboration projects.
A private cloud is a cloud service where the computing infrastructure is dedicated to a particular organization, and not shared with other organizations. Private clouds are more expensive and more secure when compared to public clouds. These clouds offer the greatest level of security and control, but they require the company to still purchase and maintain all the software and infrastructure.Private clouds are of two types: on-premise private clouds and externally hosted private clouds. A private cloud is an obvious choice when your business is your data and your applications, when your business is part of an industry that must conform to strict security and data privacy issues, or when your business is large enough to run a cloud-data center efficiently and effectively on its own.
A hybrid cloud is a cloud service where organizations may host critical applications on a private cloud, and other applications with relatively less security concerns on the public cloud. It is a mix of both the public cloud and the private cloud environments. Hybrid cloud computing is a good choice, for example, when your company offers services that are tailored for different markets. You can use a public cloud to interact with clients by email, but keep their confidential data secured within a private cloud.
Essential Data Services uses state-of-the-art IBM software to manage their cloud services, to ensure access to applications and data are available to customers 24x7x365, and to provide a cloud platform with endless possibilities. We have the technology to “cloud” a client’s entire network of applications, databases, files, and programs. Essential’s shared cloud allows customers to have any application hosted as a private cloud. This feature distinguishes our services from Microsoft and Google. We can provide cloud services for our clients for any application – even applications that the client develops.
We can help you and your business. Read our company’s bi-weekly blog, or find out more at http://torontoeaves.ca/.
Did we answer your questions about private, public, and hybrid cloud computing? Leave a comment to let us know how we can further help you.
