Everything You Need To Know About Windows 10 End-of-Life

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Microsoft is officially planning to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, which can introduce serious security, compliance, and productivity risks for organizations that choose not to upgrade.

Here’s a story that demonstrates the risks of not upgrading after Windows 10 End-of-Life:

Travelex, a global foreign exchange company, suffered a ransomware attack on New Year’s Eve 2019 that crippled its operations. The company had been using Windows XP and other outdated systems in critical areas of its infrastructure, despite Windows XP being officially unsupported by Microsoft since 2014.

This ransomware attack resulted in a temporary shutdown of their services that disrupted operations in airports, banks and financial institutions worldwide. They were also forced to pay a ransom to the attackers (reportedly $2.3 million), and it faced significant costs in system recovery, legal fees, and rebuilding operations.

Moral of the story: Upgrade your systems—it’s usually free unless it requires hardware upgrades, and it can save you a lot of potential grief down the road.

CONTENTS


What Does Windows 10 End-of-Life Actually Mean

Loss of Security Updates and Patches

No Bug Fixes or Functionality Updates

Heightened Risk of Downtime and Disruptions

Why Organizations Need to Take Action BEFORE Windows 10 EOL

The Benefits of Upgrading to a Supported OS

Common Misconceptions About Windows 10 End-of-Life

“We Have Plenty of Time to Upgrade”

“We Don’t Use Windows 10 for Anything Critical”

“We Don’t Need the New Features, There’s No Urgency to Upgrade”

Need Help Upgrading Your Systems?

What Does Windows 10 End-of-Life Actually Mean?

When Microsoft declares an OS as end-of-life, they stop providing security updates, patches, and technical support. Although Windows 10 will still function, it will be highly vulnerable to new cybersecurity threats without these critical updates. Here’s a closer look at what EOL means and how it impacts organizations:

Loss of Security Updates and Patches

Once Windows 10 reaches EOL, Microsoft will stop issuing security updates. Security patches are essential for fixing vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit to infiltrate systems, steal data, or disrupt operations. Without these patches, outdated systems become significantly more vulnerable to cyberattacks.

The absence of security updates means that any new vulnerability discovered in Windows 10 after its EOL date will remain unaddressed, leaving systems permanently exposed.

No Bug Fixes or Functionality Updates

Over time, organizations may encounter performance issues, software bugs, and compatibility problems as applications continue to evolve and no longer optimize for the outdated OS. This can lead to slower processing times, crashes, and frequent software issues that disrupt productivity.

For organizations relying on Windows 10, this could mean that everyday tasks take longer to complete or that employees face disruptions due to system slowdowns. Without support, any bugs that arise will be permanent, and resolving them will often require costly third-party workarounds.

Heightened Risk of Downtime and Disruptions

Outdated software can be more prone to crashes, conflicts, and errors, all of which contribute to unplanned downtime. For organizations, these disruptions can translate to lost productivity, delayed projects, and increased IT maintenance costs.

In some cases, running an unsupported OS may require IT teams to spend more time fixing issues, which distracts from other important IT tasks. Over time, these cumulative disruptions can slow down operational efficiency and drive up costs due to the need for constant troubleshooting and maintenance.

Why Organizations Need to Take Action BEFORE Windows 10 EOL

Outdated operating systems not only lack ongoing security support, but they also become significantly more vulnerable to various forms of cyber threats. Here are some specific risks organizations face if they continue using Windows 10 after EOL:

  • Increased Vulnerability to Ransomware Attacks: Without the latest security patches, older systems become highly susceptible to new ransomware strains that exploit unpatched vulnerabilities, leading to potential financial and data losses.
  • Compromised Networks: Once a hacker gains access to one outdated machine, they can potentially move laterally within the network to access other connected devices and systems. This makes the entire network vulnerable, not just the devices running an unsupported OS.
  • Reduced Transition Stress: By starting early, IT teams have the time to test compatibility with existing applications and devices. This helps prevent last-minute surprises that could disrupt business such as unforseen crashes and software compatibility issues with the incoming OS.

The Benefits of Upgrading to a Supported OS

Upgrading an operating system offers significant benefits for productivity and user experience. These improvements result from advancements in design, functionality, performance, and security, which all contribute to a smoother, more efficient work environment. Here’s a closer look at how a modern OS can drive better productivity and a more satisfying user experience:

  • Faster Performance and Responsiveness: Modern operating systems are built to manage system resources more efficiently where they’re most needed. Windows 11, for example, has been optimized for improved responsiveness, resulting in faster app launches and smoother task switching.
  • Protection for Sensitive Information: Many modern OS updates support advanced data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and biometric security, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. These features help keep sensitive data secure, giving users peace of mind and allowing them to focus on their work.
  • Faster File Access: File Explorer improvements and system indexing ensure that files are accessed and loaded faster. Whether users are searching for a document or opening a folder, the process is more efficient, saving valuable time and processing power in daily tasks.

Common Misconceptions About Windows 10 End-of-Life

“We Have Plenty of Time to Upgrade”

With the EOL deadline set for October 14, 2025, some organizations may procrastinate, assuming they have plenty of time to deal with the upgrade. However, delaying the upgrade process can lead to a rushed and stressful transition as the deadline nears, making it difficult to complete the process in a timely and efficient manner.

The Reality: Waiting until the last minute to upgrade is risky. IT teams will face a more complex and expensive upgrade process due to potential hardware incompatibilities, software adjustments, and workforce training needs. Delays could result in disruptions to day-to-day operations, and organizations may experience extended downtime as systems are transitioned.

It’s always better to begin the upgrade process well in advance to ensure everything is thoroughly tested and compatible with new systems.

“We Don’t Use Windows 10 for Anything Critical”

Some organizations believe that because they don’t rely heavily on Windows 10 for “critical” operations, they can continue using the OS after its EOL without facing serious consequences.

Travelex’s story is not unique. Every day, small businesses face similar cyberattacks and operational disruptions due to outdated systems, but their incidents often go unreported because they aren’t large enough to make the news.

The Reality: Even if your organization doesn’t rely on Windows 10 for the most sensitive operations, any connected system that uses an unsupported OS is at risk. Outdated systems can serve as entry points for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities and gain access to your network. A breach in one area can quickly spread to other systems, leading to much more significant consequences. No system is too “insignificant” to be targeted, so organizations should schedule their upgrades well in advance to ensure every device is secure.

“We Don’t Need the New Features, There’s No Urgency to Upgrade”

Some organizations believe that the new features in more up-to-date operating systems (Windows 11 at the time of writing) aren’t crucial to their day-to-day operations, so they might feel there’s no pressing reason to upgrade.

The Reality: Even if specific features in Windows 11 don’t seem immediately useful, the upgrade is essential for overall security, performance, and compatibility. Newer OS versions are designed to enhance long-term productivity, optimize system performance, and integrate with modern technologies. Additionally, as third-party software updates move toward supporting the latest OS versions, older systems may face increasing compatibility issues that hinder your organization’s efficiency.

Need Help Upgrading Your Systems?

Don’t wait until the last minute to upgrade your systems—acting now ensures your business remains secure, compliant, and ready for the future. As your trusted local Montreal IT company, we specialize in seamless IT transitions and can help you plan and execute your Windows 10 upgrade with minimal disruption. From assessing your current systems to ensuring compatibility and training your staff on new features, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning your Windows 10 upgrade. We’ll help you ensure a smooth, secure, and efficient transition—protecting your organization from evolving cybersecurity threats and maximizing productivity.

CONTACT US

6 Awesome Microsoft 365 Apps You Didn’t Know You Had

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If you’re paying for extra apps on top of your Microsoft 365 subscription, it’s time to consider the tools you may not even realize you have. Here are some of the best-kept secrets within Microsoft 365 apps that can help you save money and work smarter.

Microsoft 365 is packed with powerful tools that can drive productivity, streamline workflows, and keep teams connected. Yet, many users only scratch the surface, sticking to familiar apps like Outlook, Word, and Teams.

If you’re paying for extra apps on top of your Microsoft 365 subscription (we’re looking at you, Calendly 👀), it’s time to consider the tools you may not even realize you have. All discussed apps are included in the Microsoft Business Basic subscription, so chances are you already have it!

As an extra bonus, for each app, we even threw in a “little-known trick” that highlight extra features to help improve your user experience.

Contents

The Microsoft 365 Apps You Didn’t Know You Needed

1. Personal Task Management: Microsoft To-Do

2. Project and Team Task Management: Microsoft Planner

3. Cloud Storage and File Sharing: Microsoft OneDrive

4. Survey and Data Collection: Microsoft Forms

5. Personal Productivity and Wellbeing: Microsoft Viva Insights

6. Appointment Scheduling: Microsoft Bookings

Stay In The Know With Our Weekly Tech Tips

Final Thoughts & How We Can Help


The Microsoft 365 Apps You Didn’t Know You Needed

Personal Task Management: Microsoft To-Do

What It Is: Microsoft To-Do is a simple yet powerful app for organizing daily tasks, setting priorities, and keeping on top of personal to-dos.

Key Features:

  • Organize tasks by due date, priority, or project.
  • “My Day” feature to set daily goals and maintain focus.
  • Seamless integration with Outlook for task management.

Use Cases: Great for individual team members managing daily tasks and organizing personal workload without needing external task management software.

Little-Known Trick: Despite being designed primarily for individual task tracking, you can share lists with others in To-Do, allowing for collaborative task management. Great for shared projects or planning with colleagues or family members.

Where to Access: https://to-do.office.com or through the desktop app.

Project and Team Task Management: Microsoft Planner

What It Is: A lightweight project management tool, perfect for task delegation and tracking within small to medium-sized teams.

Key Features:

  • Kanban-style boards for visual task tracking.
  • Integration with Teams for collaboration.
  • Color-coded task labels for easy organization.

Use Cases: Great for teams that need a simple tool to manage workflows without the complexity of traditional project management software.

Little-Known Trick: You can add comments on tasks in Planner, and team members receive notifications in Teams and/or via email. It’s ideal for quick feedback without needing a separate chat.

Where to Access: https://planner.cloud.microsoft.com

Cloud Storage and File Sharing: Microsoft OneDrive

What It Is: Microsoft’s cloud storage solution for secure file storage, sharing, and collaboration.

Key Features:

  • Automatic syncing across devices for seamless access.
  • Integration with Office apps for real-time collaboration.
  • Advanced security features, including file recovery and version history.

Use Cases: Essential for teams needing a centralized location for document storage and collaboration, especially for remote work.

Little-Known Trick: You can view and restore previous versions of files, which is especially helpful when working collaboratively and needing to revert changes.

Where to Access: https://onedrive.live.com or in your File Explorer if you already set it up.

Survey and Data Collection: Microsoft Forms

What It Is: An intuitive tool for creating surveys, quizzes, and polls. It’s designed with a simple drag-and-drop interface, allowing users to create professional forms in just minutes. The data collected is available in real-time, with options to export results to Excel for deeper analysis. Microsoft Forms integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft 365 apps, allowing you to embed forms in Teams, SharePoint, or Outlook, making it ideal for both internal feedback and customer engagement.

Key Features:

  • Simple drag-and-drop interface to create forms quickly.
  • Real-time response tracking and reporting.
  • Integration with Excel for easy data analysis.

Use Cases: Perfect for gathering customer feedback, conducting employee engagement surveys, or collecting RSVPs for events.

Little-Known Trick: Forms offers branching or “conditional” logic, allowing you to create surveys and forms that adapt based on responses. It’s great for crafting custom survey flows or collecting segmented data.

Where to Access: https://forms.microsoft.com

Personal Productivity and Wellbeing: Microsoft Viva Insights

What It Is: It provides users with valuable insights into their work patterns, helping you identify ways to enhance focus, well-being, and productivity. It provides data-driven recommendations on how to manage work-life balance, allocate focus time, and reduce time spent in unproductive meetings. With weekly and monthly reports, users gain a clear picture of their productivity habits and receive actionable suggestions to optimize their workday and avoid burnout.

Key Features:

  • Weekly reports on productivity patterns, including focus time and meeting hours.
  • Recommendations for improving work-life balance.
  • Goal-setting options for minimizing distractions.

Use Cases: Ideal for professionals who want to enhance their work habits, reduce stress, and better manage their time.

Little-Known Trick: Schedule focus time directly from Viva Insights, which will turn on “Do Not Disturb” in Teams, helping you work uninterrupted.

Where to Access: https://insights.cloud.microsoft

Appointment Scheduling: Microsoft Bookings

What It Is: An online scheduling tool that enables clients, customers, or team members to book appointments with you easily. It offers a customizable booking page where users can select available time slots, book services, and receive automated confirmation and reminder emails. Designed to integrate with Outlook and Teams, Bookings helps keep your calendar organized, reducing the risk of double-booking or missed meetings, making it an excellent alternative to external scheduling software (that’s right Calendly 👀).

Key Features:

  • Customizable booking page for easy appointment scheduling.
  • Automated reminders and confirmations to reduce no-shows.
  • Syncs with Outlook and Teams for efficient calendar management.

Use Cases: Excellent for businesses that need to set client appointments or manage team meetings, from customer support calls to service consultations.

Little-Known Trick: Bookings allows you to set up group appointments, making it easy to schedule sessions for multiple people, such as classes or team meetings.

Where to Access: https://outlook.office.com/bookings

Stay in the Know with Our Weekly Tech Tips

Love discovering new ways to make the most of your Microsoft 365 tools?

Join our tech tip email list, where we share practical, easy-to-apply tech tips like these every week! From hidden features to productivity hacks, our tips are designed to help you work smarter and make the most of your tech.

Final Thoughts and How We Can Help

We hope we’ve shown you a few extra apps in Microsoft 365 that you didn’t even know you had! Exploring these tools can save you time, improve collaboration, and cut back on extra software costs.

If you’re curious about making the most of your Microsoft 365 apps or just have questions, feel free to contact us—we’re here to help.

If you’re looking for a deeper dive, we also offer more practical training to help you use your Microsoft 365 subscription at its full potential. You can read more about it at the following link.

LEARN MORE

What Are Co-Managed IT Services, and Are They Right for Your Business?

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As a small or medium-sized business owner, you know that a good IT infrastructure and a qualified team are essential to your day-to-day operations and business development. However, managing and training your staff, keeping your infrastructure up to date, and ensuring that it is protected and grows in line with your needs all require investments in both time and money. What if I told you that you could reduce your costs while maintaining and even improving your IT services?

Let me introduce you to co-managed IT services. Flexible and cost-effective, these services enable in-house IT teams to collaborate with external managed IT services providers to ensure optimal running and protection of IT infrastructures. As an entrepreneur, this allows you to focus on growing your business while reducing some of your costs and risks. In this article, I explain in more detail what co-managed IT services are and why they could potentially be right for your business.

Contents

What Are Co-Managed IT Services?

Differences Between Co-Managed IT, Fully Managed IT and In-House IT

What are the Benefits of Co-Managed IT Services?

Is Co-Managed IT Right for Your Business?

Final Thoughts

What Are Co-Managed IT Services?

Co-managed IT services are a hybrid approach in which companies retain an in-house IT team while partnering with an external IT service provider. This model is particularly attractive to small and medium-sized businesses looking to optimize their IT operations.

With this arrangement, companies can retain control of their core IT functions while outsourcing specific tasks such as cloud solutions, server management or cybersecurity. The in-house IT team and the external service provider then work in collaboration, combining forces to improve overall network security and performance.

This balanced approach enables companies to reduce costs while gaining access to specialized expertise and advanced technology. The company’s own IT staff continues to oversee essential operations, while the external supplier provides additional support and specialized IT services that can evolve the company’s needs.

Perhaps you’re wondering how the tasks are divided between the two parties. Well, you decide!

For example, your in-house IT team may be responsible for day-to-day IT operations, such as configuring user accounts, troubleshooting, and maintaining hardware and network connectivity. They may also be responsible for strategic IT planning and controlling your core systems and sensitive data.

As for your Managed Service Provider (MSP), they can handle more specialized IT tasks. They can carry out proactive monitoring and maintenance to detect potential problems early and manage advanced security, cybersecurity threats, and the overall safety of your data.

With collaborative IT management, your internal team focuses on the core activities you’ve defined, while the MSP provides the support and expertise to manage more complex IT challenges and ensures round-the-clock monitoring of your technology, even while your IT team is on vacation.

Differences Between Co-Managed IT, Fully Managed IT and In-House IT

When deciding on the best IT management option for your business, you have three choices – Co-Managed IT, Fully Managed IT, and In-House IT. Your benefits will depend on your business size, budget, and IT needs.

Let’s look at how they compare.

Responsibilities

  • Co-Managed IT: Your internal IT team handles the day-to-day operations, while the Managed Service Provider (MSP) manages more complex or specialized tasks. Examples are IT security services, remote monitoring and management, or business continuity and disaster recovery.
  • Fully Managed IT: All IT functions are outsourced to an external MSP. The MSP is responsible for everything.
  • In-house IT: All IT responsibilities, including support, maintenance, and strategic planning, are by your internal team.

Flexibility

  • Co-Managed IT: Co-managed IT allows for the greatest flexibility, allowing you to scale IT support up or down as needed.
  • Fully Managed IT: This model is convenient but less flexible. Most IT functions are outsourced, with only a few (if any) basic functions are maintained in-house, often by one or two people.
  • In-House IT: The internal team has complete control, but scalability can be challenging if they lack the resources or expertise to manage everything

Control & Oversight

  • Co-Managed IT: Your internal IT team retains control over critical operations while the MSP supports specific areas. This approach balances internal oversight with external expertise.
  • Fully Managed IT: The MSP handles most of the IT control, and your business has limited direct oversight over daily operations.
  • In-House IT: The business keeps complete control of its IT. It can oversee every aspect of its IT infrastructure.

Cost Structure

  • Co-managed IT: Co-managed IT is typically more cost-effective than hiring more full-time staff. It provides external support where needed and avoids the cost of a fully managed solution.
  • Fully Managed IT: This can represent a significant investment since the MSP manages all aspects of your organization’s IT infrastructure but is typically still more cost-efficient than hiring additional in-house staff.
  • In-House IT: Costs can vary depending on the size of the internal team and the resources needed. In-house can require significant investment in staffing, equipment, and training.

Summary of Differences Between Co-Managed IT, Fully Managed IT and In-House IT

Criteria Co-Managed IT Fully Managed IT In-House IT
Responsibilities Shared between internal team and MSP Fully outsourced to MSP Handled entirely by internal team
Flexibility High, can scale services as needed Less flexible, majority of services managed by MSP Limited flexibility, reliant on internal resources
Control & Oversight Internal team retains control over core systems MSP has most control, limited oversight Full control by internal team
Cost Structure Cost-effective, paying only for specific services Higher costs for fully managed services Can be costly with full-time staff and resources

What are the Benefits of Co-Managed IT Services?

More and more SMBs are finding it harder to keep IT technology up-to-date and efficient, especially with how fast technology evolves. That is why it makes perfect sense for many businesses to consider collaborative IT management as a solution. When you don’t have a dedicated IT team, you gain multiple benefits from shared IT services, which I share below.

  • Flexibility and Scalability: Co-Managed IT allows you to scale your IT resources up or down based on your needs. This ensures you only pay for your required services as your business grows.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Instead of hiring additional staff, co-managed IT services offer specialized services at a fraction of the cost, helping you manage expenses more efficiently.
  • Access to Expertise: An MSP has experienced IT professionals who have the latest tools and expertise you may not have, providing you with the most up-to-date methods and knowledge.
  • Enhanced Security and Compliance: Co-managed IT can reassure you with advanced security protocols. This will enable you to comply with industry regulations and protect your business from cyber threats.
  • Improved Focus on Core Business – By offloading IT responsibilities to a trusted partner, your team can stay focused on growing your business without getting distracted by technical challenges.

Learn more about co-managed IT for your business

Is Co-Managed IT Right for Your Business?

To determine whether co-managed IT services are right for your business, it’s first important to analyze your current situation. Once you’ve made this assessment, you’ll be in a better position to choose the appropriate services required to meet your company’s immediate and future needs. Here are three key elements I suggest you analyze to find out which types of IT management services are best suited to your business. If you need help, Info-Tech Montreal offers free IT assessments and  IT consulting services for SMBs.

Assessing Your IT Needs

The first step is to conduct an IT needs assessment. This will allow you to analyze the current state of your IT infrastructure and identify any gaps or areas needing improvement. You’ll want to evaluate hardware, software, networks, cybersecurity measures, and your IT team’s current workload and expertise.

For example, if your internal team is overwhelmed by routine maintenance or your security measures aren’t keeping current according to industry standards, those may be signs that external support is needed. Aligning IT resources with your overall business objectives is critical to ensure your IT strategy supports growth.

Considering Your Business Size and Industry

Co-managed IT is ideally suited for SMBs with a limited internal team that still want to maintain control over their IT operations. For example, collaborative IT management is ideal if you are in an industry where cybersecurity is non-negotiable, or compliance measures are strict, such as healthcare, finance, or manufacturing.

By partnering with a managed service provider, you can benefit from specialized expertise in regulatory standards such as Law 25 in Quebec and the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) in Canada, and better protect sensitive data.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

The final step you should take is a cost-benefit analysis. A cost-benefit analysis (CBA) compares the advantages (benefits) and disadvantages (costs) that are associated with a particular decision, project, or policy. In this case, you would compare the costs of hiring a managed IT service provider to what you would pay to do everything in-house.

While co-managed IT might have an upfront investment, the long-term benefits usually outweigh these expenses. Reduced downtime, improved security, and access to the latest technology updates can produce substantial long-term cost savings. An even greater benefit is that your in-house team will no longer be consumed by mundane day-to-day tasks, leaving them more time to focus on your company’s growth and strategic initiatives.

Ultimately, deciding whether co-managed IT services are right for your business comes down to your specific needs and goals. This collaborative approach offers the best of both worlds for SMBs looking to scale, reduce costs, and maintain control over IT operations. Only after a thorough assessment of your current situation and future needs will you be able to decide whether co-managed IT is right for your business.

Final Thoughts

As a business owner, you know that to stay competitive, you need to make smart, strategic decisions about your resources. Co-managed IT services offer a flexible solution that combines the best of both worlds: you retain control through your in-house team while having access to specialized expertise and cutting-edge technology when you need it.

If you’re struggling to keep up with rapid technological change, looking to strengthen your cybersecurity, or reducing your IT costs without sacrificing quality, co-managed IT services can help. The idea is not to replace your current IT team but rather to provide them with additional support and expertise to drive your business growth.

If, after reading this article, you are seriously considering the option of co-managed IT services for your business, Info-Tech Montreal would be pleased to discuss your unique needs and the solutions we can offer to help you. We offer IT managed services to small and medium-sized businesses in the Greater Montreal area, as well as IT consulting and IT security services, among other things.

A Beginner’s Guide to Cyber Insurance in Montreal

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Cyber insurance helps protect your organization financially if you’re hit by a cyber incident.

Picture this: a hacker targets your organization, or sensitive customer data is compromised. The costs of getting back to business as usual can be staggering. Cyber insurance steps in to cover those recovery costs and possible legal fees. It’s a way to keep your organization moving forward, even when things go sideways.

CONTENTS

Key Benefits of Cyber Insurance

What to Look for in a Cyber Insurance Policy

Scope of Coverage

Policy Limits and Deductibles

Risk Assessment Support

Steps to Take Before You Apply For Cyber Insurance

1. Implement Basic Cybersecurity Controls

2. Enforce Strong Passwords & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

3. Establish a Data Backup Plan

4. Train Your Employees on Cybersecurity

5. Create an Incident Response Plan

How We Can Help

Final Thoughts

KEY BENEFITS OF CYBER INSURANCE

Beyond covering immediate expenses like recovery and legal fees, cyber insurance also supports organizations in managing public relations and customer communications, protecting both reputation and client trust. Especially in regions with strict data privacy laws like Quebec, with Law 25 now in full effect, cyber insurance helps organizations stay compliant and better prepared to respond to incidents without taking on the full financial burden alone.

Financial Protection

Cyber incidents can hit hard on the finances. From restoring systems to handling legal fees and fines, the expenses can add up fast. A good cyber insurance policy can help absorb these costs and keep your organization stable during recovery.

Business Continuity

If a cyber incident causes downtime, you could lose sales, frustrate customers, and set back your operations. Cyber insurance can provide support to keep things running, even if it’s just temporary solutions to stay operational while you’re working through the issue.

Reputation Support

A data breach or cyber attack doesn’t just affect your bottom line; it can harm the trust you’ve built with clients. Many cyber insurance policies offer crisis management and PR support, helping you communicate with customers and protect your brand.

 

What to Look for in a Cyber Insurance Policy

Choosing a cyber insurance policy can feel overwhelming, especially without a highly technical background, so here are some key things to keep in mind:

Scope of Coverage

Make sure the policy covers the types of incidents your organization is most at risk for—things like data breaches, ransomware, or system outages. Understand what’s included and what isn’t, so you’re not caught off guard later.

Policy Limits and Deductibles

Take a close look at the maximum amount the policy will cover and the deductible amount you’d pay out-of-pocket. These will impact how much protection you actually get and what it might cost if you do have to file a claim.

Risk Assessment Support

Some policies offer added resources like cybersecurity assessments or even training for your team. These proactive measures can help strengthen your defenses and may reduce your premium too.

Steps to Take Before You Apply For Cyber Insurance

Before applying for cyber insurance, it’s essential to have some foundational cybersecurity practices in place. Not only will these help protect your business day-to-day, but insurers will often look for evidence of solid security measures when assessing your policy.

You can also contact us to help you perform a full cyber insurance assessment to make sure you check all the necessary boxes before applying.

Here are some key steps to take before you request cyber insurance:

1. Implement Basic Cybersecurity Controls

Start by securing your systems with essentials like firewalls, antivirus software, and regular updates for your software and hardware. Insurers want to see that your business has a baseline level of security in place. See our cybersecurity checklist for a complete list of cybersecurity controls to help you get approved for a cyber insurance policy.

2. Enforce Strong Password Policies and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Password management and MFA are crucial in preventing unauthorized access. Ensure all staff use strong, unique passwords and enable MFA, especially for sensitive accounts and systems.

3. Establish a Data Backup Plan

Regular backups are essential in case of data loss or ransomware attacks. A solid backup strategy, ideally with off-site storage or cloud backups (see the 3-2-1 backup strategy), shows insurers that you’re prepared to recover quickly from data loss.

4. Train Your Employees on Cybersecurity

Human error is one of the biggest risks in cybersecurity. Regularly training employees on phishing, social engineering, and safe online practices demonstrates a proactive approach to minimizing risks.

5. Create an Incident Response Plan

Having a documented and tested response plan for potential cyber incidents is a big plus for insurers. It shows that you have a clear process for containing and managing breaches, which can reduce the impact and cost of incidents.

How We Can Help

As an managed service provider, we play a crucial role in helping our clients obtain and maintain cyber insurance coverage:

We Assess Your IT Readiness

We conduct thorough IT security assessments to determine your current security posture and identify any gaps that need to be addressed before applying for cyber insurance:

This may include:

  • Evaluating existing security controls and policies
  • Identifying vulnerabilities in networks and systems
  • Assessing data backup and recovery capabilities
  • Reviewing incident response plans

We Implement Required Security Measures

Many insurers now require specific security controls to be in place before providing coverage. As an MSP, we can help you implement critical measures like:

  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
  • Regular security awareness training
  • Robust backup and disaster recovery solutions

Ongoing Compliance Support

Once you obtain cyber insurance, we can provide you with ongoing support to ensure your remain compliant with policy requirements. This may involve:

  • Continuous monitoring for new vulnerabilities
  • Updating security policies and procedures as needed
  • Providing documentation of security controls to insurers

Final Thoughts

Cyber insurance is quickly becoming a must-have for organizations looking to stay resilient in today’s world of constantly evolving digital threats. For Quebec businesses, cyber insurance also helps in meeting compliance requirements like those in Law 25, which can otherwise lead to significant fines and liabilities.

If you’d like us to guide you through the process of acquiring cyber insurance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you ensure your organization is well-protected!

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The Law 25 Compliance Checklist for Montreal Businesses

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We compiled this Law 25 compliance checklist as a simple, easy-to-follow reference to ensure your organization remains fully compliant. You can read more about Law 25’s compliance requirements on the Gouvernment du Québec website.

As a local Montreal IT company, we see firsthand the common mistakes organizations make and the corners they try to cut in an effort to stay compliant with Law 25.

Though quick fixes might seem tempting, achieving true compliance requires a thorough approach that protects sensitive information and avoids common pitfalls, like relying on simple password protection for sensitive documents rather than implementing full encryption and access controls. If you’re ready to gain a complete understanding of what it actually takes to remain compliant, keep reading for a clear breakdown of the essential steps.

Keep in mind that while we cover a comprehensive list of steps, not all may be essential for your organization. Feel free to skip ahead to any sections in this article that seem most relevant to your situation—we’ve organized everything to make it easy for you to find exactly what you need in this easy-to-navigate Law 25 compliance checklist.

Contents

Why Should You Care About Compliance

The 7-Step Law 25 Compliance Checklist

1. Conduct a Data Inventory and Mapping

2. Implement Privacy and Security Policies

3. Appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO)

4. Obtain Informed Consent

5. Ensure Data Minimization and Purpose Limitation

6. Employee Training and Awareness

7. Conduct Regular Audits and Risk Assessments

How We Can Help

Final Thoughts

Why Should You Care About Compliance?


Compliance with Law 25 isn’t optional. Not following it could lead to hefty fines and legal headaches.

Non-compliance with Law 25 can lead to penalties ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 for individuals, and up to $25 million CAD or 4% of global revenue for organizations, with severe cases incurring court-imposed fines and potential claims for damages from affected individuals.

Not a good time, we know.

Beyond the legal risks, non-compliance can hurt your reputation. If you have a data breach or violation, it can shake customer trust. Nobody wants to see their business go down because of data mismanagement!

The 7-Step Law 25 Compliance Checklist

1. Conduct a Data Inventory and Mapping

Start by identifying what data you have, where it’s stored, and who can access it. Knowing your data landscape is the first step to managing it responsibly.

I. Identify Data Sources

Identify all potential data sources within the organization, such as:

  • CRM System: Contains client contact information and communication history.
  • Email Marketing Tool: Stores subscriber lists and marketing preferences (think SalesForce, HubSpot, ActiveCampaign, Zoho. etc).
  • Social Media Platforms: Collects engagement metrics and demographic information from followers.
  • Website Forms: Gathers data from contact forms, surveys, and lead generation forms.
  • Accounting Software: Maintains billing information and payment details for clients.

II. Collect Data Details

For each identified data source, make note of:

  • Type of Data: What specific personal data is collected (e.g., names, email addresses, phone numbers)?
  • Purpose of Collection: Why the data is being collected (e.g., for marketing campaigns, client communication)?
  • Storage Location: Where the data is stored (e.g., cloud services, local servers)?
  • Access Permissions: Who has access to this data (e.g., sales team, marketing team)?

2. Implement Privacy and Security Policies

Create tailored policies that reflect the requirements of Law 25. These policies serve as a framework for how data should be managed, and protect sensitive information from potential breaches.

I. Develop a Privacy Policy

Start by creating a comprehensive privacy policy that outlines how the organization collects, uses, stores, and shares personal data. This policy should include:

  • Purpose of Data Collection: Clearly articulate the reasons for collecting specific data, whether for operational needs, customer service, marketing, or regulatory compliance.
  • User Rights: Inform individuals about their rights regarding their personal data, such as the right to access, correct, or request the deletion of their information.
  • Data Retention: Define how long different types of data will be retained and establish criteria for its deletion to avoid unnecessary data accumulation.

II. Establish Security Policies

Next, develop security policies that dictate the protection of personal data within the organization. Key components may include:

  • Access Controls: Establish user roles and permissions to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive information. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access and data leaks.
  • Data Encryption: Mandate encryption for sensitive data, protecting information from unauthorized access during transfer and while stored.
  • Incident Response Plan: Create a detailed plan outlining steps to take in the event of a data breach, including containment measures, notification procedures, and investigation protocols.

III. Monitor Compliance

Establish a monitoring system to ensure adherence to the privacy and security policies. This could involve:

  • Regular Audits: Conduct internal audits to evaluate compliance with the policies, such as reviewing access logs to confirm that only authorized personnel access sensitive data.
  • Feedback Mechanism: Implement a system that allows employees to report potential security issues or policy violations anonymously, fostering a culture of accountability and vigilance regarding data protection.

IV. Review and Update Policies

Recognize that privacy and security are ongoing concerns that require regular attention. Commit to:

  • Annual Policy Review: Schedule regular reviews of the privacy and security policies to ensure they remain aligned with current laws, industry best practices, and the organization’s operational needs.
  • Incident Analysis: After any security incident, conduct a thorough analysis to identify weaknesses in the policies and make necessary adjustments to prevent future occurrences.

3. Appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO)

The DPO plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the organization adheres to data protection laws and implements best practices for data management. Here’s how to approach the appointment and responsibilities of a DPO.

I. Define Roles and Responsibilities

It’s essential to clearly define the role and responsibilities. A DPO typically oversees:

  • Compliance Oversight: Ensuring that the organization adheres to data protection laws and regulations, providing guidance on legal requirements and best practices.
  • Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs): Conducting assessments to evaluate the risks associated with data processing activities and recommending measures to mitigate those risks.
  • Training and Awareness: Developing and implementing training programs to educate employees about data protection principles and their responsibilities.
  • Point of Contact: Acting as a liaison between the organization and data protection authorities, as well as serving as a point of contact for individuals whose data is being processed.

II. Select the Right Candidate

Choosing the right individual for the DPO role is critical. Organizations should look for candidates who possess:

  • Expertise in Data Protection: A strong understanding of data protection laws and regulations, as well as practical experience in compliance.
  • Ability to Communicate Effectively: Strong communication skills to engage with various stakeholders, including employees, management, and external parties.
  • Independence and Objectivity: The DPO should have the autonomy to perform their duties without interference, ensuring they can address data protection issues candidly.

III. Ensure Resources and Support

To effectively fulfill their responsibilities, the DPO should be provided with adequate resources and support, including:

  • Access to Management: Ensuring the DPO has a direct line to senior management to address data protection matters effectively.
  • Budget and Tools: Allocating a budget for the DPO to carry out their duties, which may include conducting training, performing audits, and implementing data protection initiatives.
  • Collaboration with Other Departments: Encouraging collaboration with IT, legal, and compliance teams to ensure a holistic approach to data protection across the organization.

Make sure your processes for getting consent are clear and documented. People should know exactly how their data will be used.

I. Clearly Define Data Usage

Organizations should explicitly communicate how personal data will be used. This includes:

  • Purpose of Data Collection: Clearly state the reasons for collecting personal data, such as for service delivery, marketing communications, or improving products.
  • Data Sharing Practices: Inform individuals if their data will be shared with third parties, such as partners or service providers, and explain the reasons for sharing.

II. Use Plain Language

To ensure that consent forms and communication materials are easily understood, organizations should use plain language that avoids technical jargon. This helps individuals comprehend what they are consenting to. Key points to consider include:

  • Simplicity: Use straightforward language and short sentences to explain data collection practices.
  • Visibility: Highlight important information, such as key terms and conditions, so that individuals can quickly identify critical points.

III. Provide Options for Consent

Consent should be given freely by the individual. Organizations should offer individuals the following options:

  • Granularity: Allow individuals to consent to different types of data processing separately. For instance, they might consent to marketing communications while opting out of data sharing with third parties.
  • Withdrawal of Consent: Clearly communicate that individuals can withdraw their consent at any time and explain how they can do so.

IV. Document Consent

Organizations should maintain records of consent to demonstrate compliance with data protection laws. This can involve:

  • Consent Logs: Keeping a log of when and how consent was obtained, including the information provided to individuals at the time of consent.
  • Version Control: Keeping track of changes made to consent forms and privacy notices to ensure that individuals are aware of the most current terms.

V. Regularly Review Consent Practices

As regulations and business practices evolve, it’s important to regularly review and update consent practices. This includes:

  • Periodic Assessments: Evaluating how consent is obtained and ensuring it remains in line with legal requirements and best practices.
  • Feedback Collection: Seeking feedback from individuals about the consent process to identify areas for improvement.

5. Ensure Data Minimization and Purpose Limitation

Only collect the information you truly need for specific purposes. This not only helps with compliance but also keeps things manageable.

I. Understand Data Minimization

This practice reduces the risk of unauthorized access or breaches by limiting the amount of sensitive information stored. Key aspects to consider include:

  • Identifying Necessity: Before collecting data, evaluate whether each piece of information is essential for achieving a specific business objective, such as service delivery or compliance with legal obligations.
  • Regular Reviews: Periodically review the data collected to ensure that it remains relevant and necessary for the intended purpose. This can help identify any data that can be safely deleted or archived.

II. Define Clear Purposes for Data Collection

Purpose limitation requires that personal data is collected for legitimate, explicit, and defined purposes. Organizations should:

  • Establish Clear Objectives: Clearly define the purposes for which personal data will be collected, ensuring they are legitimate and aligned with the organization’s objectives.
  • Document Purposes: Maintain documentation of the purposes for data collection to provide transparency and accountability. This can help demonstrate compliance with data protection regulations if questioned.

III. Limit Data Retention

Data minimization also involves limiting the retention period for personal data. Organizations should:

  • Define Retention Periods: Establish specific timeframes for retaining different types of data based on legal requirements and business needs. For instance, client data may be retained for a certain number of years for compliance, while marketing data may have a shorter retention period.
  • Implement Deletion Procedures: Create procedures for securely deleting or anonymizing data that is no longer necessary for the defined purposes. This reduces the risk of retaining unnecessary personal data.

6. Employee Training and Awareness

Regularly train your staff on privacy and data security policies. It’s essential for preventing accidental breaches.

I. Develop a Training Program

Start by creating a structured training program that covers all aspects of data protection relevant to the organization. This program should include:

  • Core Concepts: Introduce employees to the fundamentals of data protection, including the principles of data minimization, purpose limitation, and informed consent.
  • Company Policies: Ensure employees are familiar with the organization’s specific data protection policies and procedures, including how to handle personal data safely and securely.

II. Use Engaging Training Methods

To ensure effective learning and retention, use a variety of engaging training methods. These might include:

  • Interactive Workshops: Facilitate workshops that involve case studies, discussions, and role-playing scenarios to illustrate potential data protection challenges and solutions.
  • E-Learning Modules: Develop online training modules that employees can complete at their own pace. This flexibility allows for more thorough engagement with the material.
  • Quizzes and Assessments: Incorporate quizzes and assessments to evaluate employees’ understanding of the material and reinforce learning objectives.

III. Establish a Reporting Mechanism

Encourage a culture of accountability by establishing a clear reporting mechanism for data protection concerns:

  • Anonymous Reporting: Create a system that allows employees to report potential data breaches, suspicious activities, or policy violations anonymously. This encourages employees to speak up without fear of repercussion.
  • Response Protocols: Clearly outline the steps employees should take when they identify a potential data protection issue, ensuring they know how to escalate concerns appropriately.

7. Conduct Regular Audits and Risk Assessments

Schedule regular cybersecurity audits to spot any compliance gaps. Being proactive can save you a lot of trouble later on.

I. Establish a Regular Schedule

Create a regular schedule for conducting audits and risk assessments to ensure they are performed consistently and systematically. Consider:

  • Annual Audits: Conduct comprehensive audits at least once a year to review compliance with data protection laws, organizational policies, and best practices.
  • Quarterly Risk Assessments: Perform risk assessments quarterly to keep pace with changes in the organization, such as new data processing activities or changes in technology and regulations.

II. Define the Scope and Criteria

Clearly define the scope and criteria for both audits and risk assessments. This involves:

  • Identifying Areas of Focus: Determine which aspects of data protection will be evaluated, such as data collection practices, storage security, access controls, and incident response protocols.
  • Setting Evaluation Criteria: Establish specific criteria against which compliance and risks will be assessed. This can include legal requirements, industry standards, and organizational policies.

III. Analyze Findings and Identify Gaps

After conducting the audit and risk assessment, analyze the findings to identify compliance gaps and risks:

  • Compliance Gaps: Identify areas where the organization may be falling short of legal requirements or internal policies, such as inadequate consent processes or lack of employee training.
  • Risk Exposure: Evaluate the level of risk associated with identified vulnerabilities and potential threats, considering the likelihood of occurrence and potential impact on the organization.

How We Can Help

We recognize that achieving compliance with Law 25 can feel overwhelming, especially for small and medium-sized businesses that may not have dedicated IT resources. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing comprehensive managed IT services designed to meet your unique needs and ensure you stay compliant.

  • Ongoing Cybersecurity Assessments

Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing commitment. Our regular assessments and audits will help you identify vulnerabilities and gaps in your data protection strategies, ensuring that you remain compliant and prepared for any potential threats. With our proactive approach, you can rest assured that your organization is always one step ahead of data breaches. You can request your free security audit here.

  • Employee Training and Awareness Programs

Educating your staff about data protection is critical to fostering a culture of compliance. We provide engaging training programs that empower your employees with the knowledge and skills needed to handle personal data responsibly. Our training sessions cover best practices in data security, privacy policies, and the importance of compliance, creating a workforce that is informed about the latest compliance and cybersecurity best practices.

  • Comprehensive Risk Management and Incident Response

Our risk management services encompass everything from identifying potential threats to implementing mitigation strategies. We’ll work closely with your team to develop an incident response plan, ensuring you’re prepared to react swiftly and effectively in the event of a data breach.

Final Thoughts

In this post, we’ve covered essential steps to remain compliant with Law 25 in Montreal from implementing privacy policies, to conducting regular audits. Each of these measures helps create a robust data protection framework that not only meets legal obligations but also fosters trust with your clients.

We’re here to support you with services tailored to help you meet Law 25 requirements, from user awareness training to thorough risk assessments. For more information about Law 25 and what it takes to remain compliant, feel free to contact us.

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What as an IT Service Level Agreement (SLA) in Managed IT Services

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As the Virtual CIO of Info-Tech Montreal, I understand the challenges that small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face when managing their IT infrastructure. Imagine the relief and peace of mind your business could experience by offloading your business IT tasks to a reliable third-party vendor. Well, Info-Tech Montreal is a managed service provider (MSP) that takes care of these tasks for you through what we call Managed IT services.

Managed IT services cover essential functions such as network management, cybersecurity, data backup, and cloud computing services. Such services can significantly reduce the costs associated with additional staff and resources and prevent potential downtime.

No matter whether you choose to do business with Info-Tech Montreal or another IT service provider, you need to ensure that you have a detailed, formal Service Level Agreement (SLA). In this article, I will walk you through some of the essential things to consider when discussing your SLA with your service provider.

WHAT IS AN IT SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENT (SLA)?

A Service Level Agreement is an engagement of service between your selected managed service provider (such as Info-Tech Montreal) and your business. SLAs are usually written by the managed service provider following an IT assessment of your business and a discussion around your managed IT service needs.

Service Level Agreements are an industry standard that most reputable MSPs will adhere to. The complexity of the SLA and what it includes depend on each service provider. An effective IT SLA clearly defines the level of service your MSP will provide and specifies response times for various situations.

As a client, it’s important that you get the agreed level of service. An SLA brings clarity and predictability to your service relationship. SLAs ensure that everyone has the same understanding of requirements and standards, protecting both the service provider and the client. By clearly defining expectations, they help prevent misunderstandings and disputes. In addition to an SLA, I believe that what’s even more important is to establish a relationship of trust with your managed IT services provider so that you can rely on their expertise, whatever the IT problem.

SERVICE LEVEL, RESPONSE & RESOLUTION TIME

As previously mentioned, a well-designed Service Level Agreement (SLA) forms the backbone of a trusting partnership between your company and your Managed Service Provider (MSP). This agreement can contain many different elements, generally varying according to your business’s size and IT service requirements.

However, the most important element of the SLA is, in my opinion, the detail of the expected level of service according to the urgency and severity of IT problems. Response and resolution times are typically associated with each priority. This ensures that critical problems, such as network outages or cybersecurity breaches, are dealt with as a priority and that less urgent problems are resolved within a reasonable timeframe.

Here are a few examples to help you better understand.

Example #1

Problem: One of your company’s network printers is not working, but you have two other printers that are accessible and functional for printing jobs.
Priority level: This problem is considered low priority since it has little impact on your company’s productivity. It will usually be dealt with within 8 hours.

Example #2

Problem: Your email system is completely down, affecting your company’s internal and external communications and paralyzing business-critical operations.
Priority level: This problem is considered a high priority because it affects the smooth running of your business. It should be addressed and resolved within 2 hours.

Example #3

Problem: Your company is experiencing problems with a slow Internet connection affecting certain users.
Priority level: Since the problem is not a complete outage, it is considered medium level and should be addressed within the next 4 to 8 hours.

By setting clear expectations, an SLA guarantees that your IT infrastructure remains operational and secure, minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth business continuity. As a Montreal IT company, we believe that a detailed SLA, combined with a foundation of trust, ensures you receive consistent, high-quality IT support that grows with your business needs.

WHY DO YOU NEED AN SLA IN MANAGED IT SERVICES?

In light of the information I’ve shared so far, I think you’re now a little more aware of the importance of having an IT service level agreement (SLA) with your managed IT services provider. Here’s a quick summary.

AN SLA ESTABLISHES CLEAR EXPECTATIONS

An IT SLA sets precise expectations by outlining incident priorities and expected resolution timeframes. This clarity helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that you and your IT service provider are on the same page. Knowing how quickly services will be delivered and the expected standards helps businesses like yours plan and operate smoothly.

AN IT SLA INCREASES SERVICE CONTINUITY AND RELIABILITY

An IT service level agreement typically includes anticipated resolution times for potential IT issues. This ensures that your IT infrastructure is reliable and any problems are addressed promptly, minimizing downtime and its associated costs.

IN CONCLUSION

An SLA is the foundation of a trusted and transparent partnership between your business and your managed IT service provider. It sets clear expectations, ensures service reliability, establishes a framework for accountability, and facilitates communication. By choosing a dependable MSP and implementing a comprehensive SLA, you’re investing in your business’s technological future.

Is your business seeking reliable managed IT services to boost efficiency and performance? As a leading Montreal IT company, we specialize in providing tailored IT consulting services that cater to your unique business needs. Secure your IT infrastructure with exceptional service quality and responsiveness.

Contact Info-Tech Montreal today for expert IT consulting and discover how our managed IT services can transform your business operations.

Revamping Info-Tech’s Website: New IT Security Services Pages

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Since 2000, Info-Tech Montreal has been making IT simple and reliable for small and medium-sized businesses like yours. As a specialized Montreal IT company, we know how important it is for you to focus on running your business without having to worry about computer networks, servers, hardware, cybersecurity and more.

To help you get to know Info-Tech and our services a little better, we’ve recently revamped our website. I invite you to discover our improved website and to contact us for more information on our services.

A detailed-oriented revamp

These days, companies of all sizes need to ensure the reliability, efficiency, and security of their IT systems. But how can you, as an entrepreneur, navigate a world where technology is constantly evolving and potential risks multiplying?

We felt providing you with more detailed information about our IT services, including our IT security services, could help you make an informed decision about your IT supplier choice.

The new pages on our website now give you all the information you need to understand our comprehensive list of services. With the help of one of our Virtual CIOs (chief information officer) and an assessment of your IT needs, you can choose the services that will keep your business running smoothly.

We understand that running a business involves countless responsibilities and challenges. Our goal with this website revamp is to make information and support more accessible to all our new and existing clients. We are committed to providing top-notch services that help you focus on what you do best – running your business. – James Hutchinson, VCIO at Info-Tech Montreal

New IT security services pages

IT security is important to all IT systems and networks, and companies can’t afford to ignore it. Neglecting IT security could result in serious problems, including downtime, data loss, breaches of confidential information, and more. Our new IT Security service pages are designed to be easy to navigate and understand. They give you a clear picture of how we can help you protect your business from threats.

Our key services to improve IT Security in Montreal include:

  • Cybersecurity: Our cybersecurity services are here to protect your digital assets and data from threats. We offer threat detection and prevention, firewall management, and intrusion detection to keep your business safe from cyberattacks. 
  • Remote Monitoring and Management: We provide 24/7 remote monitoring to keep an eye on your IT systems. This means we can detect and fix issues quickly, often before you even know there’s a problem. 
  • Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery: Planning for the unexpected is crucial. Our business continuity and disaster recovery services help you prepare for and recover from unexpected events. 

Other essential IT services

Info-Tech Montreal does more than ensure the security of your IT systems; we offer a complete range of IT services in Montreal to support your business needs.

  • IT Consulting: Our IT consulting services in Montreal help you make smart decisions about your technology. Whether you need advice on upgrading your systems, implementing new software, or optimizing your current setup, we’re here to guide you.
  • Managed IT Services: Our managed IT services include helpdesk support, system maintenance, and network management. We ensure everything runs smoothly and securely.
  • Server Management: We keep your servers running at their best. From setup and configuration to monitoring and maintenance, we make sure your servers are secure and performing well.
  • Cloud Solutions: Take advantage of the cloud with our services. We help you move your data and applications to the cloud, manage your cloud environment, and ensure it is secure.

How does this benefit our clients?

With its new IT security section and detailed IT service pages, our website now offers a comprehensive overview of all the services we offer to help you protect and grow your business. We give you peace of mind by offering full IT support tailored to your needs, from IT consulting to managed IT services and cloud solutions.

I invite you to explore our website to discover how Info-Tech, a Montreal IT company, can help protect and grow your business. Our goal is to provide the tools and support you need to keep your business safe and efficient in today’s digital world. For further information, please contact us at info@infotechmontreal.com or call (514) 634-4636 x 101.

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Weathering the Storm: 7 Steps to Safeguard Your Business Technology & Data

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An imminent extreme weather event poses a concerning problem for all types of businesses. This is especially true for companies that rely on computers and servers since these devices can easily be damaged by storms, floods, or fires. As extreme weather approaches, the 24 hours prior to its arrival are crucial. Business owners need to act fast to protect their expensive equipment and valuable data, making sure the business can still operate normally after the storm passes.

The Importance of Electronic Equipment

Electronics and data storage devices, such as computers and servers, are crucial to businesses. When snow storms or floods occur, these devices can easily be damaged by water and suffer power issues. When your computer breaks down, not only is it expensive to fix or replace it, but you may also lose all of the information you had stored on it. The importance and volume of data that can be lost is a major concern. Therefore, protecting these devices from storms is a top priority.

A List to Prepare Your Business the Day Before the Disaster

If you’re a business owner in Quebec or Ontario, you likely know about the extreme weather season.

Severe weather not only impacts the location where it occurs, but other areas as well. A technical issue in Montreal due to a snowstorm, for instance, can easily disrupt operations in your Toronto or Vancouver office. Hence, safeguarding your technology and data against adverse weather is crucial.

This useful 7-step list will help you get ready for the extreme weather season. Even if you’re not located in a storm-prone area, it’s wise to be prepared. If a storm creates a technical issue that affects your offices, you need to ensure that it does not harm your business.

Protect Your Premises

It may seem obvious, but office spaces require storm readiness. Just as you’d prepare your home to resist a storm, so too must you follow the same guidelines for your business premises. If possible, shut down and disconnect everything on the day before the storm hits.

Protect Your Tech Devices From Water

Everyone understands that water and technology are enemies. Water damage can not only destroy your business’s tech, but also pose a fire hazard due to the possibility of electrical shorts. If you’re in a flood-prone zone, it’s wise to elevate your electronics – place them on desks, tables, or high shelves. Ensure all devices are connected to surge protectors or, better yet, are disconnected entirely before vacating.

Document Your Assets

As you get your tech ready, snap photos and list all your electronic devices and high-value items. If a disaster strikes, having this inventory simplifies the insurance claim process.

Ensure Your Essential Business and Client Information is Saved Securely

At Info-Tech Montreal, we’ve helped many businesses with disaster recovery. We therefore emphasize the importance of data backups. Consider your business suffering a power outage. If you’re forced to operate from a different location, which documents and software would be crucial for remote operations?

This is when remote monitoring and management tools become invaluable. Your IT service partner can assist in setting up offsite data backups, save your information on the cloud, and guarantee remote access to all necessary resources to keep your business running. Contact us and ask us about getting this set-up ASAP.

Establish a Disaster Recovery Strategy

You’ve safeguarded your data, meticulously checked your tech, and even photographed your office, including those unique knick-knacks for insurance purposes, but are you prepared for the aftermath of storm or flood damage? It’s vital to devise a detailed recovery blueprint, specifying roles, contacts, locations, and storage points for crucial items. If partnered with an IT managed service provider like Info-Tech Montreal, your IT crew can offer invaluable assistance with this type of planning.

Make an Offline Contact List

Weather disasters and their aftermath can disrupt power and access to the internet, making communication a challenge. While safeguarding your data, consider creating a list of vital contacts, including staff, clients, and suppliers. Save this on your phone or have a printed copy handy. That way, if you’re offline, you still have quick access to all necessary contacts, ensuring uninterrupted communication.

Run Drills for Weather Disasters Regularly

It’s often said that practice makes perfect. In high-pressure situations, recalling a months-old plan can be tough. On the other hand, following a drill you and your team have consistently practiced is simpler. Even if your location isn’t typically affected by storms or floods, having an extreme weather protocol is essential. Ensure that both you and your staff are well-versed in emergency procedures.

Preparing Your Business for Extreme Weather Disasters with Info-Tech Montreal

With the right preparations, safeguarding your business against extreme weather events and seasonal risks becomes manageable. At Info-Tech Montreal, we offer services like remote IT managed services, and tech consultancy to prepare your business against unforeseen calamities. Regardless of where you’re located within the Montreal and Ottawa areas, or what type of business you have, we remain ready to assist.

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Protect Your Business from a Data Breach With These 5 Tips

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If you think the risk of a data breach or cyberattack is low, think again. According to the 2019 Data Breach Investigations Report by Verizon, every industry is at risk: last year, attacks were present from manufacturing to retail and from healthcare to administration, and everything in between. To safeguard your company from data breaches, it’s crucial to understand that not all attacks are from external sources – some are internal, and of course sometimes viruses get through accidentally due to employee mistakes.

No matter your industry, you have a lot to lose: your data, customer base, industry secrets, and proprietary information are all targets for attacks. As a cybersecurity expert in Montreal with 25 years of experience, I’ve put together five easy tips you can implement right away to help protect your business from a data breach.

  1. Implement an Employee Policy for Safe Use (anchor links)
  2. Remote Monitoring and Management Agents
  3. Install Proper Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software
  4. Have a Proper Off-Site or Cloud Back-up of All Data
  5. Install a Backup & Disaster Recovery Device

1. Implement an Employee Policy for Safe Use

Many businesses do not have any type of policy in place that sets boundaries for what employees can and cannot do on the internet and in e-mail accounts. To shield your organization from data breaches, your company should create a formal policy which all employees (current and future) need to sign which details information like e-mail best practices, rules for internet browsing, accessing social media sites, and completing personal tasks (like banking) on company time.

2. Remote Monitoring and Management Agents

Having managed IT services, such as Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) on every computer and server allows your business to be in a proactive rather than reactive position with security threats. Acting as a safeguard against potential data breaches, the RMM can automatically advise your IT support team that there is an imminent disk failure, low disk space, overutilization, and more to ensure it is fixed before you face an IT emergency that prevents your staff from getting work done. Depending on your anti-virus software, RMM can also alert your off-site tech experts when malware is present. Which leads us to…

3. Install Proper Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software

When you have a team of IT experts monitoring your network security, a proper business class anti-virus solution will have the ability to alert a central web portal when a virus or malware is present. This is a critical step in protecting your business from data breaches. Because we are monitoring that portal, we’ll be able to tell when a machine has any kind of problem before you or your employees notice. We can then push commands to that computer system to clean it of the virus, and update the anti-virus software if needed. In the case that a virus can’t be cleared through a command sent via the portal, we’ll be able to notify you and your employee, connect manually, and remove it that way.

4. Have a Proper off-site or Cloud Back-up of all Data

At the absolute minimum, your business should have a cloud backup that can safely copy your data for you at regular, frequent intervals. This backup strategy is essential to protect your business from the consequences of a data breach. This way, you have access to a backup in case of a ransomware attack, hardware failure, computer damage, or theft.

5. Install a Backup & Disaster Recovery Device

Hands down, the best thing you can do to make sure your business is protected in the event of any kind of attack or damage, is to install a Backup & Disaster Recovery (BDR) device with a cloud backup component. This comprehensive approach will significantly enhance your ability to protect your business from data breaches. If you have onsite servers, this is especially important. In fact, in our opinion here at Info-Tech Montreal, it’s crucial.

Protect Your Business From a Data Breach Today

Don’t wait for a data breach to strike. Protect your business today! Contact Info-Tech Montreal now for a free security assessment and learn how we can safeguard your valuable data and take the first step towards robust IT security & cybersecurity.

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514-634-4636

INFO@INFOTECHMONTREAL.COM

Info-Tech Montreal
3767 Boulevard Thimens #270,
Saint-Laurent, Québec
H4R 1W4

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