Ways To Send Faxes From A Computer

If you need to send a fax, but there's no fax machine, there is a new alternative that you can try out. Sending your fax from your computer is a huge time saver these days.
With traditional faxing becoming obsolete, people really don't talk about it too much anymore, even though there's still a need to fax certain things on every day for most offices.
But because we don't have a lot of actual fax machines anymore, we have to find the next best thing (or maybe even better?) Using your computer instead of a fax machine is brilliant, really.
How Internet Faxing Works
There are software as well as web- based options that allow you to easily send faxes from your computer. It's better than regular faxing in a few departments, such as having the ability to read your faxes from anywhere (since they are stored online, like email,) and you can also send pictures.
Sending Signatures In Your Fax
One of the typical uses for faxes is sending your identification or some sort of signature. Internet faxing does require a little more effort than the old way (with a machine) since your hard drive is where most of what you fax online resides. However, you can easily scan your ID or signature and then send it as a photograph or PDF.
In a pinch, Kinko's or Office Max type stores will scan the item for you.
Additional Internet Faxing Benefits:
Another benefit of faxing online is that you can get the faxes to come to your email. It keeps people's eyes to themselves as well in the event you need to send a personal fax on company time (not that you'd ever do that). You will have all the documents you need at the click of your mouse once you get started.
Finally, you don't have to wrestle with a fax machine when it comes up with errors. As long as your computer is in good order, you can get this errand done efficiently. The most you'd have to do is a fresh install of the software or exit and re- enter your browser (depending on your choice of an online or local solution).
This technology isn't going to be a thing of the past- but the fax machines are. This really helps you to be more productive during the day. Be sure to visit some of the top internet faxing sites if this all sounds good to you.

Sennheiser HMEC-461 ANR Headset Review

Overview:
This review covers one of Sennheiser's more popular aviation headsets, the Sennheiser HMEC-461.
Here is what I like about this product…
- At $730, it costs less than its competitors (Bose A20 = $1095, Lightspeed Zulu = $800)
- Superior noise reduction - Made with German quality
- You can plug your cell phone directly into the headset
- Best warranty in the industry (10 years)
- Very low clamping force
What I don't like about it…
- Clamping force is very low
Ok, let's look a bit deeper now…
Here is what you get:
- Active Noise Reduction (ANR) headset
- Bag to carry the headset and the related apparatus
- Clip to attach the wires to your clothes
- Owner's Manual
- 2.5 mm cable connectors for your cell phone and 3.5 mm jacks for playing your MP3 player
The most noticeable thing about the Sennheiser HMEC-461 is the light clamping force. At first, when you compare them with other high-end aviation headsets you immediately notice that they feel less stable on your head. The good thing is they feel very comfortable. The bad thing is they may be too comfortable, as in they feel as though they may fall off.
The type of ear pad material Sennheiser uses is also fine for short flights, but if your flights tend to be lighter than that, you will likely find they aren't as comfortable as Bose or Lightspeed's comparable products.
Here's how headset makers can suppress noise in the cockpit…
1. Passive noise protection
2. Active Noise Reduction
Sound is first blocked by the physical action of the ear cups.
Active sound reduction filters noise in a different way. First, the ANR system uses microphones to pick up noise in the cockpit. Then, it electronically matches the sound in opposite amplitude and frequency. This mirror-image of the original sound is then broadcast into the ear cup, thereby canceling the noise so you don't hear it.
What do actual users of the Sennheiser 461 have to say about the product?
- Only 2 negative comments out of a total of 33 found on the internet (that's a 94% positive rating).
The bottom line is, the Sennheiser 461 is an excellent headset but you have to check it in flight to make that determination. Almost any headset will work on a short flight of an hour or less. Where a high-end headset earns its keep is when your flights are longer.
It is wise to read the reviews on the internet and talk to other pilots before you move forward. The best thing of all to do is try several manufacturers' products under your actual flight conditions. Then, you have some field-tested data that leaves out the guesswork.
One last thing…remember - you can't regain the hearing you have already lost.
I have lost some of my hearing because of all those hours in a Cherokee 235 growing up in the 1960's flying with my dad. Very few people wore headsets in those days.
We all get busy, move on to other things, and neglect to take actions on things that aren't nipping at our heals. Hearing loss is so incredibly gradual you don't even notice it.
I wear an ANR aviation headset religiously now. There are a number of high-quality competitors for the Sennheiser HMEC-461, including the Bose A20, and the Lightspeed Zulu. If you try one and don't like it, exchange it for another until you find what you like. That is as easy to do through an online or bricks and mortar store.
There's just no way to know which one is right for you until you try several and pilot stores expect that.

Don't Buy An Aviation Headset Until You Have Read This Article Entirely

If you have been a pilot for any length of time - flying with or without an aviation headset - you may have already lost some of your hearing. You can't reverse the damage that has already occurred, so you need to take action now to protect what you have left.
Pilots experience damaging noise for long periods of time - that is unavoidable. The sound in the flight environment is intense.
First, there are 3 aspects of sound that define cockpit noise:
1. Frequency (Hz - Hertz)
2. Intensity (dB - decibels)
3. Duration of the sound
This is how some typical environments rate in sound intensity:
* Jet cabin - 60-88 dB
* Small single engine airplane - 70-90 dB
* Single engine helicopter - 80-102 dB
* Average office - 40-60 dB
* Major city street - 80-100 dB
* Chain saw/lawn mower - 100-110 dB
* Rock concert - 115-120 dB
Here are the sound limits before hearing damage occurs...
* Ear discomfort - 120 dB
* Ear pain - 130 dB
* Eardrum rupture - 140 dB
* Temporary hearing impairment - 2-3 hours of noise greater than 90 dB
* Permanent hearing impairment - 8 or more hours/day to sound greater than 90 dB for 2 or more years.
The worst thing is the way loud noises affect your flying:
* Distraction and fatigue
* Hard to make out what others are saying and difficult to understand them - in other words, you have to shout to be heard
* Decrease in personal performance by decreasing concentration
Here's what you can do about it...
Use hearing protection - here are your options:
1. Earplugs - wax-impregnated polyurethane are the best and block out the most noise
2. Aviation Headset - the cheapest ones just physically block the sound out
3. ANR Aviation Headset - these headsets block out the sound physically with the added dimension of matching cockpit noise with mirror-image sound that cancels out the noise
4. Combine earplugs with headsets - this is an extreme step, really only for super-loud environments over 115 dB
Conclusion:
You can't regain your hearing.
The moral to this story is to get aggressive with hearing protection while flying. You spend upwards of $500 for flight in many aircraft, so what is the point of skimping on a headset?
Check out your headset options today. Try several types and makes to see which works best for you. Aviation headsets are like clothes or shoes - what fits one person doesn't necessarily work for another.

Understanding USB Cables

In the world of cables, there are many types. One that has permeated the market is USB. USB is short for Universal Serial Bus and offers support for computer hardware, such as keyboards, mice, and storage devices. You can also find it used on items such as PDAs and cell phones. It has a maximum length of 5 meters, or about 16.4 feet. However, you can easily obtain longer connections by using hubs. Two common kinds are 1.1 and 2.0, with 3.0 gaining popularity as well.
USB 1, the original design, supports slower running items with a maximum speed of 1.5MB per second. USB 2.0 came along next and offers faster speeds of up to 40MB per second. It can be found on external hard drives, card readers, printers, scanners, and more. Both types can often mix and match, with each being found on the same computer or hub. While 1.1 hubs will work on 2.0 ports, they will still run at slower 1.1 speeds. And vice versa is also true; USB 2 hubs will work with older 1.1 computers as well.
These cables have several different types available. Type A is used on most devices, such as computer ports. Type B is seen on hubs. Peripheral devices are connected to computers through USB A-B cables. Mini-USB, 4-pin, is used for portable devices, often cell phones or cameras. Mini-USB, 5-pin, is also used for portable devices. However, the extra pin makes if perfect for cell phones and cameras as well as external hard drive devices, i.e., hard disk drives and optical disc storage. And finally there is Micro-USB. Micro-USB, as the name suggests, is considerably smaller than Mini-USB and will eventually replace it. You can find Micro-USB on smart phones and PDAs.
USB 3.0 came along more than ten years after the original (1996 to 2007). USB 3.0, also known as SuperSpeed, works ten times as fast as 2.0. It offers higher performance and better power management while still being fully functional for use on USB 2.0 devices. USB 3.0 only comes in Type A, Type B, and Micro-USB formats.
With its superior speeds and functionality, USB 3.0 is likely to one day replace all other USB devices. That day, however, is farther out than one might think. Currently, over 10 billion devices utilize USB 2.0 technology. In addition to widespread use, USB 2.0 is less costly and will coexist with USB 3.0 for many years to come. In time, the difference in cost will narrow over the course of many years and USB 3.0 will slowly become the industry standard for high speed external interfacing.
Overall, USB remains a household staple with all the technology we enjoy. Just about everyone these days has some sort of digital device, be it a computer, camera, or cell phone. Whether you use 1.1, 2.0, or 3.0, you now have a little bit more of an understanding of what USB is and the different types in use. And for those using high speed devices, investing in 3.0 now could be a smart choice.

The Future of Flipchart Easels - Nobo Kapture

Picture the scenario, you've just finished a three hour brain storming meeting and have lots of great new ideas to go away and work on. Only issue is the meeting notes were taken on a flipchart pad that is now spread across the meeting room and you need to get it back into some sort of order and type up all the notes. If this sounds like an all too familiar situation the the Nobo Kapture System might just be for you.
How it Works
Nobo Kapture digital flipchart solution that allows for written or drawn presentation content to be captured automatically and in real time. The system requires a Nobo Kapture Flipchart, a digital marker and a USB receiver and a standard Flipchart Easels. The Digital Flipchart Pad and Marker are the key components of the Kapture system. The pad is printed with a pattern of dots which recognise what you are writing (including Graphs and Diagrams) and then transmits this to your computer. The USB receiver with integrated Bluetooth technology and pre installed software captures the data from the digital marker allowing for the presentation to be edited and shared with others.
Getting Started
The Nobo Kapture starter kit includes a Digital Flipchart, Digital Marker Pen, USB receiver and configuration card. The USB receiver is plug and play and should install automatically, alternatively it can be downloaded from the Nobo Kapture website. Additional flipchart pads and pens can be purchased as and when required and the flipchart pads themselves will fit any standard size flipchart easel. Once the system is set up correctly capturing a presentation happens automatically and appears on your computer immediately. The presenter does not need to worry about monitoring the system and can focus on delivering their information or running the meeting.
Data Capture
The capture of data is activated by the pressure applied to the pad so a bit of experimenting prior to your first proper usage may be worthwhile. In order to ensure the accurate data capture all writing and drawing should be slow and deliberate so you may have to amend your presentation style to get the best from the system. However, the end rewards will be worth the extra effort and will save you time in the long run.
Editing the Information
You can edit directly from within the Nobo Kapture software and this is a great tool to help clear up the sheets and make them more legible.
There are a lot of neat functions that help make editing simple. Each pen stroke is recorded as an object which allows for quick amendments to be made. You can also cut and paste objects between different pages and rotate objects up to 360 degrees. You can also amend the colours of what's been captured so if you want to highlight key points in red and leave the rest as black then no problem.
Who Should Buy One
Any person or business who conducts regular meetings using a standard flip chart pad should give Nobo Kapture a serious look. It can be a big time saver when it comes to typing up the meeting notes and allows you to focus on what you're trying to achieve from the meeting rather than trying to keep tidy notes.

Desktop As a Service and Cloud Computing Solutions

For individuals that do not know technologies, you may not understand anything about Desktop as a Service. DaaS is a crucial application when it comes to remote access to your PC files. This requires a secure internet connection. You can be virtually anywhere and still be connected and have access to your personal PC files.
There is an increasing need from consumers for mobile access, and a lot of companies are contemplating DaaS systems in order to in order to generate a highly effective mobile system that is secure. This is a tremendous advancement in technology. Workers still possess accessibility to their own data files or company intranet. Dynamic PC systems provides computing systems for the internet. This platform significantly minimizes PC management obligations and will additionally manage cloud computing for DaaS.
DaaS may also be known as virtual PC. Furthermore, there are several third party companies that utilize this system. Usually, DaaS features multi-tenancy structures and also the provides back-end support. This certainly will include data storage, back-up techniques, all security issues as well as upgrades. The whole computer ends up being virtualized within the centralized data facility.
The actual DaaS technologies won't hold data on the actual computer All data is actually kept remotely. Employing this process keeps data secure and in a central location that cannot be penetrated by interlopers. If your notebook computer or cellular device is misplaced or stolen, the actual information is still secure.
There are numerous advantages of employing this specific program. This will produce new workstations very quickly. This platform offers dependable and scalable options through which enables businesses as well as other distributors can provide secured virtual workspaces. This is really accomplished in a very fast and beneficial approach. Data safety is furnished. It holds preserved data inside the secured data center as opposed to the actual mobile product.
Generally, this is an exceptionally adaptable and cost conserving process. Ease of access is definitely attained when you want without issues. DaaS will be able to operate with a variety of cellular devices. There isn't a need to install unique applications. The entire technique is central. It generates a significant amount of digital workspaces originating from a solitary source. This tends to generate a simplified process.
DaaS is considered to be a highly effective instrument whenever it involves virtualized platforms. It is really an essential process that is most certainly changing into a hugely popular system. This is extremely important these days with regard to users being able to get entry to their emails and files while on the go. This is required for business owners that travel often, they are going to have to be in a position to access their Computer without having to be on the real PC. This is certainly all made possible as a result of this innovative technology. This computer access is actually instantaneous.
DaaS moreover allows employees to communicate and share data over different platforms very easily. This is often realized in a very guarded environment. Personnel don't have to stress about others obtaining entrance to not authorized information. It also enables personnel accessibility to their very own Desktops from any region within the world. You just need an internet connection. Desktop as a Service offers overall security and safety as well as continuous entry.

Cloud Computing and Hosted Services Help Empower Your Business and Staff

All businesses, start-up, small, medium and large rely heavily on technology for day to day activities. Expectations around the technology are that it must be available 99.9% of the time and work. If it doesn't work, money is lost through staff not being productive through not having access to key information or the ability to reach out to clients.
Building and managing a technology infrastructure is costly. Capital must be used to purchase servers. And support contracts put in place for maintaining and keeping the server lights on.
The traditional approach to IT where a server has been placed in the main office along with a telephone PBX has been a solution which has worked well for a number of years.
Changes in staff working locations be it from home or when travelling and expansion to new office locations is challenging the traditional IT approach.
Additionally, maintaining a server is costly and upgrades are time consuming and expensive. Furthermore, when the server in the office is unavailable through loss of power, hardware failure or virus infections, the whole company is without the ability to access information and communicate with clients.
Cloud computing or hosted services are offering a compelling alternative to traditional IT solutions of installing and maintaining servers and / or a PBX.
Your current setup, working locations, numbers of staff and quality of connectivity will influence how much difference cloud computer or hosted services can help provide resilience for your technology and additionally help empower staff by enabling the right information at the right time wherever they are.
There are a great number of services available. Sound advice would be to ask an IT Support company who has a good knowledge to help understand how your business operates and suggest practical ways that cloud computing and hosted service can help empower your business and staff.
Below is a selection of services that are on offer:
• Remote desktops
• Remote servers
• Email
• File storage
• Telephone systems (VoIP)
• Application e.g. SAGE
A company with good knowledge of traditional IT support and cloud computing and hosted services will be able to quickly help you choose which cloud computing / hosted services are right for your business.
The process of implementing cloud computing and hosted services is usually very straightforward and will not impact your business in any way. Using a company with a good knowledge of cloud computing and hosted services will help you make a very smooth transition.

How to Choose a Cloud Backup Solution for Businesses

There are MANY cloud backup solutions on the market today. It has become very difficult to know which is the right one for your needs; everyone is claiming they are the best, the easiest, the fastest, etc. After 10 years of experience in the field and hundreds of thousands of hours spent on global analytical research I have put together a list of the most important factors to consider before choosing a solution:
1- In any business time is money. A key feature in a backup solution is simplicity when it comes to deployment and installation; zero hassle, zero employee intervention, zero headache. The installation should be seamless and take up little-to-no time to complete. Everything should be handled on a central, remote location on the cloud without the need to install anything on individual machines or on a complex local server.
2- Configuration should be done completely in the cloud throughout the entire company; there should'nt be a need to manually configure each machine with regards to the backup settings and what data will be backed up. A solution that requires manually setting up a backup policy/job configuration should not even be a consideration.
3- Why stress over using separate software to handle images of your hard disk stored on local locations when you can find a cloud backup solution that handles all of that for you? Using a cloud backup solution that supports complete DR will remove the hassle of worrying about local storage, servers, purchasing hard disks, etc.
4- For example: If you are away on a business trip and your Windows somehow gets corrupted you can easily repair your entire system from the cloud. With today's high-speed internet it will only take a couple of hours to get back up and running with all of your data, applications and settings intact.
5- Make sure that DR comes with "true" deduplication technology. If the Disaster Recovery is not deduped it will not be useful (Deduplication refers to backing up only one instance of a particular file throughout the world and using pointers to acknowledge who can access this file. This can be done on common files, such as Windows files to save both time and space) A true cloud solution is mandatory! Most cloud backup solutions use proprietary storage, backing up to their own personal servers. A true cloud solution means that your data will be stored in well known, first class storage facilities that duplicate your data throughout their global network of locations. Using a proprietary storage location has a great deal of risk since they are not as secure or reliable. In 2009 Carbonite lost the data of their customers due to proprietary storage failures. True cloud locations like Amazon, Nirvanix, etc. also have a risk but their risk is much smaller and backed with a guarantee to help protect you from such instances.
6- Block Level Backup, otherwise known as Delta Backup, is crucial. Block Level Backup breaks up larger files, that are changed often, into smaller pieces and only backs up pieces that have been modified. For example: Outlook stores all emails in one large.PST file, without block level backup your Cloud solution would backup this large file (around 1 GB) each time you receive an email which will tie up your business' bandwidth and is not very practical. Block level will allow you to only back up the modified sections of the file saving both time and space.
7- Security is obviously extremely important to all businesses. A backup solution is handling important data and time and effort should be made to make sure that it is secure. The key things to look out for is that the backup will be encrypted using AES-256 or higher, your backup is encrypted at the source and that you are given the ability to authorize personal encryption for key people in the company, such as the CEO.
8- One of the major benefits with leveraging the cloud is the ability to access your data at all times. Your backup solution should provide the same convenience. You should be able to access your backed up data through a web interface and/or your mobile device. By access this means the ability to restore, view, share and maybe even edit.
9- Speed!!! Backing up an entire computer, let alone a company, can be extremely time consuming. There are different technologies that help speed up the process; make sure the solution you choose uses these technologies. Most cloud solutions on the market are extremely slow and give little to no options when it comes to throttling the bandwidth. A backup solution that is slow negates all other fancy features that it may contain.
10- Strong management consoles are often overlooked. A powerful web console can make or break a backup solution. The management section should allow you to completely control your entire company's backup; You should be able to view reports and monitor activity, edit, add and suspend users, create/edit backup policies, control security, etc. all directly from the cloud. Many backup solutions on the market claim to have such management functionality, but at the end of the day all it does is handle the billing, which is important but not the only important thing. There is no point in backing up if you cannot restore. The backup solution you choose should come with a variety of restore options. Backup has come a long way from single file restore, emailing compressed files, or requesting a CD with the restored data to be shipped which can take a lot of time. In this fast paced day and age, time is of the essence, so restoring a file should be done in seconds. There should be several restore options, such as file restore, folder restore, drag and drop restore, restoring deleted files, restore from an older version, and complete Disaster Recovery restore. These options should also be available in remote locations such as from a web interface or a mobile device.
11- Data is critical and losing your data can be detrimental! Make sure the backup solution you choose gives you the ability to restore your entire machine easily and quickly in case anything were to happen to your data. You should have the option to restore data to its original location and even restore Windows files if needed.
12- Cost!!! As a business owner the last thing you need to worry about is another bill. Payment should be straightforward, one flat fee and without surprise charges.
13- Features and bells and whistles are great but if it affects your computer's performance it is going to slow productivity. You should not be able to feel the impact of a backup solution and it should never interrupt your work. To have different performance modes, such as battery mode or presentation mode, are key. For example: If you are presenting a PowerPoint to an important customer you should not have to feel a hang because a backup has started. The solution should intelligently notice that you are running a presentation and slow down the backup so that it goes unnoticed.
14- Finally, as a business, you need something that is simple to setup, worry free, and requires little to no learning curve. A set-it-and-forget-it type of solution is ideal.
Business wide backup is important, and with the increase in computer reliant data its importance is only growing stronger. There are many players in the market claiming to be the fastest, easiest, most powerful, and the best so it can become confusing. This article sums up all of the major features that should be mandatory when selecting a cloud backup solution. Without the core features such as the backup technology, user experience, restore options, seamless performance, and a safe and secure cloud storage facility, a backup solution will not be as powerful and as beneficial as it could be. The key is to look for a solution that is the complete package, provides complete protection, access and sharing options, and of course a fail safe such as a variety of restore options and disaster recovery in case something were to happen to your computer. This article should make choosing a company wide backup solution a little less confusing and allow you to benefit from all that a cloud backup can offer.

Cloud Computing For Business Applications

Advancements in computer technology have increased performance levels and productivity in businesses of all sizes. Increased data speeds and internet usage in conjunction with larger storage capacities and a diverse lineup of electronic devices have brought about a new era in networking capabilities. On the cutting edge of this technology is cloud computing.
What exactly is cloud computing? Through a service provider, cloud computing is a platform that acts as a remote data center where users can access files and software securely through a multitude of devices wherever there is internet access. It is a solution for businesses and individuals looking for an easy way to store and access media from one device to another and the ability to share that media with other people who have been given access.
The cloud computing network may seem complicated, but it can be used by anyone. It is not necessary for the end user to understand the complexities of the infrastructure involved or the networking system and how it works. The interesting and applicable example for comparison would be electricity, where users have access to the service but don't necessarily understand the systems and the component devices, which provide the service.
It is a model, which provides an environment where networks, applications, and storage can be shared by many users with minimum effort. This requires minimal service provider interaction and makes available the pooled computing sources, which can be shared on-demand. This capability to store information remotely opens many possibilities in small business. Without the need to keep programs and files stored locally, a person can now work from a phone, touch pad, or laptop from anywhere, and share their files with anyone else in the company. Cloud computing can also be used as a remote backup, storing an off-site copy of important documents in case data recovery is necessary for computer repair.
Since cloud computing providers deliver online business applications and IT infrastructures, these services can be used without investing a lot of resources. Especially helpful to small and medium businesses, these services have the potential to stop outsourcing by making in-house tasks more affordable, saving both time and money. Offering low up-front costs, complete customization, and IT support options, cloud computing is becoming a competitor in computer networking for small businesses.
This new platform is still an emerging technology, but will help to create a new generation of products and services. Many large companies are investing resources, building infrastructure and exploring the possibilities of cloud computing as a platform. Products and services that were not previously cost effective or viable options for many businesses will be available through these service providers. Sharing of pooled resources will enable users to build real-time connections, making project collaboration and business partnerships more efficient.
This revolutionary computer networking platform made possible by advancements in computer technology will eventually be commonplace in businesses of all sizes. Cloud computing has had a strong and promising beginning, and will most definitely have a lasting impact on business environment, business practices and productivity.

How Do I Find Out If Someone Is Searching For Me?

Have you ever thought of searching yourself online? Many people are curious about how search engines portray them but few are bold enough to admit that they have searched their name online because it is often considered a vain move to look yourself up on the web. Although, it is important to let your vanity get the best of you and discover what kind of information is available about you on the major search engines and social networking sites.
This helps you to remain updated and lets you acquit yourself in the virtual world as you would in the real life. It is important to be careful with what you have attached to your name because you never know who might be looking for your name on the internet. There can be various reasons why somebody might type your name in the search engines. May be he is your boss who wants to look into your past and present activities, current and previous social connections, lifestyle and attitude or may be it is a long-lost friend, colleague or family member who are seeing if they can get in touch with you over the internet.
If you are among those who are curious to know  online, various people search sites can help. It can be difficult to know about the onlookers through social networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter. People search sites can help you figure out "who is looking for me" and also let you look for your friends and relatives without paying a penny.
All you have to do is sign up for the site. You can also select to get email updates sent to you whenever someone looks for your name or other details online. This means that you can keep the update of people who are searching for you online and track the searchers in real time. Such sites scrutinize all search engines along with numerous social networking sites so that you can get the answer to the question "who searching for me" online.
Make sure to sign up to a free people search site to find out the answer of this interesting question "who searching for me" online. In the days of online identity theft, this can be a threatening implication, but in today's internet savvy world, you will definitely be surprised by figuring out "who is looking for me" online.
Do not just wonder who is searching for you online, instead, check out people search sites and figure out exactly who is looking for you on the web!

Should You Buy The 1st Generation Of A Gadget?

High tech doesn't stay high tech for too long in this world of fast moving, upgradable and downloadable technology. It appears as if once a week there's an update to make something faster, or a download to give you more content and a new version of whatever you just bought is on the shelf with new even more magnificent features. So what are you supposed to do about it? Are you supposed to just sit on the sideline and watch all the cool things from a distance and not take the plunge into the awesomeness yourself?
That wouldn't be enjoyable and you would wind up missing out on all of the awesome new things that technology is offering. As long as you do not make technology the core of your life and depend on it 100% to get you through the day and are able to hold a conversation face to face without needing to do it in a chat room online, then you will end up fine. But sometimes holding out, waiting a little bit longer before purchasing that new toy can save lots of money and complications.
All new technology gets better after the 1st generation has been sold and all of the glitches have been solved. The very first iPod is nothing like the most recently released generation iPod, and I am fairly certain that most of the people that bought the first generation iPod have upgraded to a more modern model since then. That is not to say that the first generation iPod was not any good, however it got better yet after the 1st generation. But it was crucial that those first people purchased the product because it enabled the developers to create an even better model afterwards.
So there needs to be a good mix of individuals who are going to jump on a new technology right away, and individuals that are going to hold back until the costs get a little more sensible. And it makes no difference how great the technology is, if there aren't enough people that purchase that technology and prove that it's profitable, then the developers and manufacturers will be unable to keep the technology moving forward and turning it into what it could be.
Without the popularity of the iPod and the iPod touch, Apple never would have been able to release the iPhone to the public. And without the iPhone, there would be millions of people that would not know what to do with their leisure time playing music and apps.

What Is IT Asset Disposition (ITAD)?

Companies struggling to remain competitive in an increasingly technical world are finding that immense capital resources are being used to purchase new equipment. Properly disposing of old equipment offers another costly challenge. Failure to uphold disposal regulations can result in irrevocable legal and environmental damage. Information Technology Asset Disposition (ITAD) offers a variety of strategies to deal with these difficulties and return part of a company's technological investments.
Auditing and Equipment Reinvestment
IT Asset Disposition can be undertaken by internal IT professionals or external companies. Both alternatives have individual benefits but provide the same basic services. Initially, an ITAD strategy will implement in-depth auditing of equipment and their barcodes, serial numbers and other ID numbers. This ensures that accurate reporting on ITAD implementation can be given. The second process undertaken involves reinvestment in the current technology infrastructure. Minor hardware and software upgrades can prevent the purchase of new equipment for years at a time. This delay allows for needed products to diminish in cost and become more able to perform to company requirements.
Reselling and Recycling Logistics
Those computer devices that are not worth reinvesting typically see two futures. Many are sold to customers who have a lesser need for their computing. This is often the case with large servers as companies grow and upgrade. ITAD professionals always ensure that secure data destruction methods are employed to prevent a breach of secure information. Equipment that cannot be reused or resold is typically sent to a recycling facility that upholds a policy for zero landfill use. This goal is obtained by separating each component within the device and breaking it down to be used in a new manufacturing process.
Liability, Environmental Resolution and Capital Recovery
Implementation of each of the IT asset disposition techniques allows for resolution of issues that can create legal liabilities and environmental damage while returning some of the original investment. During secure data destruction the private and confidential information stored on hard drives and other media is irrevocably destroyed. Zero landfill recycling policies prevent any waste is allowed to contribute to environmental degradation. Furthermore, reselling to outside companies recoups computer costs and prevents chemical use and carbon emissions that occur during the creation of new equipment. The continued reliance on IT asset disposition will increasingly serve companies in the future as they see major financial incentives while offering a valuable service to the environment. Customers and clients will appreciate the powerful security strategies and the "green" approach to company policy. In the persistently digital world, companies will more and more rely on ITAD strategies to get the greatest return on their technology investments.

Why Is VPN So Important?

VPN (repeated thrice) is all what we hear these days in our organizations and in our daily lives. Why do we hear it so many times, why is it so important that we talk about it so much? Do we really need it and if we need it why and where do we need it? I will try answering some of the questions here.
Virtual Private Network or VPN basically adds a layer of security to your internet connection hence making the flow of information more secure and private. More technically, VPN encrypts your information before it leaves your system and to the point it reaches your requested destination.
With the exponential growth and availability of the internet, the need of the security and privacy of the internet is also at all high. Netizens now require tools to hide their identity and information from hackers and trackers who are after it and in order to do so, we tend to go for security and privacy tools. One of the best tools to secure your online identity and flow of information is VPN. That is the main reason we hear about it so much.
With the immense growth in the availability of the internet on public Wi-Fi's in Cafes, Streets and Universities, our information is at all time high risk. Thanks to the simple plug-ins like Firesheep, even a school going kid can hack your connection and take away whatever you are trying to access on hotspot connection. What can we do to protect ourselves on Public Wi-Fi? The answer to this is also VPN. That Is another reason, why we hear about VPN so much.
The growth in businesses worldwide has triggered a trend of dispersed workforces. Now more employees than ever work remotely while connecting to centralized servers in head offices and regional offices, thus having a regular flow of information between their system and centralized servers. This unsecured flow of information does not only risk the privacy and security of the flowing information but it risks the information stored on centralized servers and your system, thus making the entire data vulnerable to hacks. Therefore in order to have secure remote access to the centralized servers, the best solution is Dedicated/Static IP VPN which not only encrypts the flowing information, but also builds a secure tunnel for the information to flow while restricting the remote access to server through those dedicated IPs only.
Another, important reason for which a VPN is used internationally by individuals as well is to bypass the local firewalls and content filters created by ISPs and Governments most of the time. VPN allots you with a different IP address most probably of a country where there are no or less internet content filters in order for you to access the websites that are blocked in your region or country. The most censored countries include China, Iran, UAE and some African and Middle Eastern Countries.
Apart from the above identified few most important reasons and uses of VPN, there are millions other uses as well, obviously some are ethical and some are un ethical. But VPN Service Providers make sure that their service is used for all ethical reason to avoid any law suit.
Choosing a personal VPN service is very difficult for the reason that there are almost 200 personal VPN providers in the industry, some obviously try to scam you (taking advantage of the growth in the need of VPN) and some really are the experts and giants of the industry. Still, sometimes it gets very difficult to identify the perfect match for you based on your need of bandwidth, servers, protocols, OS and several other things the best option is to look for a VPN Review website which gives you complete details and guides to the Best VPN based on your needs.
The VPN is a technology, which is here to stay. Several advancements and upgrades are planned and are happening in the technology, like there are frequent launch of more secure protocols. It is one great technology that will only make internet more secure and private for netizens who are worried about their security and privacy.

Resources for Virtualization Technologies

With the ever increasing power of the computer world there comes a time when corporations have hundreds if not thousands of computers for the singular purpose of handling the work flow within their organization. However this has become costly on electricity, hardware, maintenance, and personal to keep these computers working. What can be done to reduce the cost but not the productivity of a company? Virtualization technologies holds the answer.
Through virtual tech it is possible to reduce a server room with ten, twenty, or even a hundred servers down to a handful of computers all running virtual machines. These VM's are the same thing as running two operating systems at the same time from one machine. However from a server standpoint it is like hosting your mail server on your application server, at the same time, yet neither server knows they are on the same box!
This new technology lets companies cut back on their costs while simultaneously improving their ability to scale up by using less electricity, air conditioning, and physical space for their servers. It also allows them to run more secure network since it is easier to monitor the activity of a couple virtual machines running on a single box than it is to monitor twenty or thirty servers.
However VM ware can be a confusing and low-documented technology to start moving into. With no knowledge of the technology or the big players that are involved within the tech it is very difficult to understand what is happening within the market, how to utilize the new technology, and how to effectively plan the transition to the virtual environment. Questions of which provider to go for come up, Microsoft virtual machines, or VM ware workstation? Should you run a baremetal server with a hypervisor or should you just run a full desktop virtual server. Do you need an application, workstation, or desktop environment?
All of these questions can easily be answered by industry professionals who are in the know, however for smaller business owners these are daunting questions that all require hours of research to answer faithfully. It can be difficult to find accurate information from the web that describes these differences and the pros and cons of each different type of server.
In the coming future you don't want to be left behind by faster more agile companies. Be on the fore front of new technology with virtualization.

The Simplification Of Personal Computers

Once upon a time, anyone who knew how to do anything with a personal computer aside from switching it on would have constantly been called a "geek". Definitely, if you spent more than one hour each day using a computer for anything at all besides work, you would have been thought to be uncool. Nevertheless, recently the usage of computers has become something that more people do than not.
The very idea of something like Facebook 10 or 15 years ago may have set alarm bells buzzing among the awesome youngsters. Computer users socializing were similar to dogs rollerblading - not usual, unsettling to look at and something to be discouraged. But as personal computers have got cheaper and simpler to use, social networking is now very popular.
The boundary between "geek" and "chic" has refined in many cases to a point in which it does not exist. In fact, the idea of "geek chic" has really taken off, and it's not even an issue for many youngsters who have matured in an age in which the Internet is pretty widespread. Now it's people who do not use personal computers that are regarded as a bit weird.
Like every social change, there can be discussion as to whether or not this has had overall appealing results. Undoubtedly, somebody who works in computers or just considers them a pastime do not need to cringe every time they are asked what they're into. With any kind of mass use, a sensation can appeal to undesirable activity and promotion, but on balance most people seem to be satisfied with the diversification it has brought.
Computing And Language - A Marriage Made In Hell?
Around two decades ago, "computing language" meant a single thing, and was something simply understandable to educated programmers. Yet today, it is more likely to refer to a form of slang that is used among online communities. This has introduced combined results, many of which may be very good and others very, very bad.
Some people will probably be aware of "Leetspeak", which is really a specific term made op from characters other than letters - and therefore can't actually be "spoken". It's most familiarly utilized amongst cyber-terrorist, gamers, or people seeking to be seen as related to those areas, and to the untrained eye is nonsensical and irritating.
The use of "text speak", or more frequently "txt spk" is also partially a result of the introduction of the Internet. Generally attained by dropping vowels from words (although not necessarily every vowel) along with the introduction of numbers and emoticons made from punctuation marks, it results in phrases like, "Gr8! So u r in2 txt spk? Me 2!" Those who desire to be taken seriously avoid it.
Lolspeak, most commonly viewed on the Lolcats website, is a mutation of text speak and took its name partly from the text speak abbreviation "lol" (laughing out loud). It combines text speak with the deliberate usage of an infantile form of speech - indeed, the Lolcats site is alternatively referred to as, "I Can Has Cheezburgr?" To novices, these kinds of dialects are all very difficult.

Our Everyday Lives Without Computers

It's not too long ago that computers were a real luxury, many didn't have one - and those who did got only one - and so they were viewed as some awesome model of tomorrow. Eventually, using computers, we will have the capacity to do... well, the possibilities were limitless. And also a bunch of the forecasts have already come true, specially the manner in which computers have linked up the planet via the Internet. Now it is difficult for many of us to visualize what the world would be like with no computer.
Without the computer, communication will be slower and less successful. Shopping would be a much more stressful process. If your sports team was miles away and hidden, then without the presence of Internet you would be waiting a long time to hear results of any games in which they played. Bands would certainly find it very difficult indeed to acquire any publicity beyond their home towns. And business has been changed irrevocably through the birth of computers and specially the Internet. If the computer was taken out of our lives the next day, we would miss it. Even those of us who definitely are self-confessed technophobes would soon realize just what had been sacrificed with its departure. And if we quite often have got cause to curse the impact that computers have - which many of us do - then it really is at least worth realizing that this is a trade-off we all have had to make. The Information Revolution is up there with the Industrial one in relation to impact.
Computers - The Predictions We've Got Incorrect
These days, we all know where we are with computers. Even a few of the nearly all hardened Luddites of history have come to terms with the undeniable fact that computers are not going to arise and overthrow the human race, and are beginning to use them, if sparingly. But when we initially started to discover an information technology world, we failed to realize exactly how huge it would develop. It's almost guaranteed that you or a friend or acquaintance possesses an IBM computer. It's a fairly large name. You may wonder just how that came to be when you realize that in 1943 their then chairman assumed that the eventual market for the home computer would expand to about 5 homes having a computer each. He was a few million off, it is safe to say. Several houses now have five or more.
Xerox are the world's number 1 brand in photocopiers. Nonetheless, they were well ahead of IBM in terms of creating PCs, but shelved the idea when they decided that photocopiers would be more rewarding. Just how different might the world be had they thought differently? We'll never know. At one time it was thought that computers would never ever possess a household application because the machines were too large. Today you possibly can fit 1 in your pocket.
Just before computers were even really conceptualized, the commissioner of the US Office of patents told the then President McKinley that "everything that can be invented has been invented". One can only wonder how he would answer the entire world we live in today.

Contacts: Collecting, Connecting and Coordinating - Part II

Connecting with Contacts
Now that you've met a few new business professionals from last night's networking event, make sure to continue the relationship online. Here's an easy way to start. Soon after the networking event, offer to connect with them on LinkedIn and introduce yourself a 2nd time. Always be sure to remove the default LinkedIn- provided blurb and craft a short note about the conversation you had (shows you were paying attention; doesn't everyone like to get a personal note?).
It's a good strategy to ask further questions about their business, what types of clients they need to meet, etc. If your businesses or personalities really clicked, look to develop the conversation past LinkedIn and onto email and phone. If you feel the synergy is right, move on to set up a coffee chat.
Now we move on to Group 2. These are the individuals you had met for the 2nd or 3rd time. At the very least, if you feel it has the potential to develop into a beneficial connection, go ahead and email them to let them know it was great to see them again. Just a short touch to keep you in their minds. By now, with the people you've met and conversed with more than once, you'll most likely have a "feel" for their interest level in your business. Hopefully, your conversations have included an exchange of ideas about each others' business focus, and if that's the case, I would let them know that they can benefit from receiving free tips and news from you about developments in your industry.
Remember to branch out with your connections to embrace other avenues of social media. Perhaps your connections really only check in with LinkedIn here and there, but spend a lot of their time on Twitter; follow them on Twitter and send a Direct Message or two, share a link, etc. Or perhaps Facebook is more their speed, and you may want to check out their Fan page and encourage them to Like yours in turn. While on their Fan Page or Blog, post positive comments and show your support. Continuing the relationship on Social Media sites is interesting, worthwhile, and helps you learn more about them and their business.
Will this pay off? It has been proven that a smaller, true list of warm connections will go much further than a barrel of cards from strangers. You'll want to evaluate if they fit your target market (or have direct access to them). Have they demonstrated a genuine interest in your products or in helping you connect to people who do?
Follow through on this screening process and every few months, go through the people in your database. You'll know by now who to reach out to. Toss out anyone who you can't remember because you've never heard from them again. Where do all these contacts go? Find out in Part III.

Cloud Computing for Business - Should I or Shouldn't I?

What is the Cloud?
The Cloud is just another word for the Internet: It originates from how techies like to draw "external networks" on their network diagrams. Over time it has been adopted by the marketing department as it sounds 'funkier' than the Internet and has now moved into "common" terminology for the Internet.
What happens is that your data, documents, software, e-mails, even your desktop get's stored in the Cloud. What it allows, is for you to access your data anywhere. Therefore, you no longer need to work from just one computer, you no longer need all of your staff to work in the office everyday, you yourself, no longer need to work from the office everyday. The Cloud allows you to log on and open up your work from whatever location or computer you desire.
According to Global Survey, it is this benefit above all others that is driving people to the Cloud.
Do I need it?
Although it depends on your business, most industries will find something they can successfully apply it to. What's great about the Cloud is the scalability: You can keep your documents, desktop and just about everything on the Cloud - or you could simply Back-up or have your e-mails stored in the Cloud. As your business grows, you can adopt more of the services but the scalability of it means you can have as little or as much as you like, which also makes it very affordable. It can also save you money on anti-virus, software, and IT Support contracts.
Another benefit is safety. When using the Cloud, your work is backed up instantly: This means if your computer crashes, gets lost or stolen, your work remains exactly where it is - ready to be accessed from your new computer. It provides a great peace of mind for you and your staff.
Is it complicated?
No, it's really simple. The set up and any necessary transition get's handled by the Cloud provider. Once it's done, you can then access your data anywhere, and know that it's stored safely in the Cloud.
Where do I start?
Decide how much of the Cloud you need for your business right now. Find out the cost and decide if the benefit out weigh's the fee (The Cloud is generally considered low cost). Research carefully Cloud providers, many of the major brands like Apple, Amazon and Microsoft offer Cloud Computing and can be very cost-effective. Make sure that you also get quotes from providers in your area, it's always an important benefit to have your Cloud provider near by just in case you need to actually speak to or visit them.
So Cloud Computing for your business: Should you or shouldn't you?
Well, you decide! I say, yes you probably should, and if you are not convinced, I predict that one day you probably will. Cloud Computing is an incredible resource for businesses, and the future of technology.

What to Consider When Looking for an Internet Tablet

Internet tablets offer a variety of media features that allow users to stay in touch with the fast paced world around them while being mobile and away from your PC or notebook. There are many different internet tablets offered to consumers today and figuring out which one is the right choice for you may depend on what you are looking for.
The first thing you want to consider is how user friendly these devices are. Internet tablets are portable and offer you a lot of great features such as a camera and recording devices. Watching movies and playing games on large bright screens are other great features that you can find with almost all Internet tablets.
The next thing to consider when investing in an Internet tablet or as some others may call it, a tablet PC, is that you will want to consider what type of operating systems the tablet runs on. Most people will look at the obvious when researching internet tablets, portability. They make sure that it fits right in a purse or back pocket and they may also make sure there is enough memory space so they can save all of their pictures, games, and movies. They will also keep in mind how much it costs to keep the device active and current.
Perhaps the most difficult decision will be choosing between the endless brands that are available for Internet tablets. There have been a lot of news and reviews concerning internet tablets but some brands that have been generating a lot of positive buzz are Sonos, Archos, Dell, and ViewSonic. The Archos tablets are one of the Android tablet models along with countless others to choose from. Price range and powerful features are things that will continue to change in 2011 as more announcements of more tablet PCs are coming out daily as manufactures continue to introduce and release their new models.
Something else to consider when investing in a portable tablet will be sound quality and what to do when you are not travelling and enjoying the portability of the tablet PC. Investing in wireless speakers would be a great way to get the most out of your tablet while you are watching videos, movies, or playing games. Listening to your music collection has never been easier since you can connect your internet ready tablet to external speakers so you will be able to enjoy it in the comfort of whatever place you choose.

Don't Let Your Email Frustrations Stand In The Way Of Your Productivity

Do you find yourself fighting the urge to scream every time you open your email inbox? Have you ever received an email from a client saying he sent you an email, and you never got it? Have you ever opened your email box and saw you had a thousand or more emails? Most of that email being random spam from email addresses you have never seen before in your life? How did these spammers get my email address? And more importantly, how do I get to the important emails and sort through all of the spam without sitting here for hours clicking and deleting every single one? Have you ever opened an attachment and gave your computer a virus? Do you remember how long it took you to get your computer back? You had to send it to the tech guys, they had to fix it, you had to pay them, and you were just sitting there scratching your head wondering what happened. "I was just checking my email." It's time that you got your email inbox under control and got your email to work for you.
Four Useful Tips For Regaining Control Of Your Email
Dealing With Spammers.
First a brief overview of how the spammers got in your inbox in the first place. The main way that spammers "harvest" emails as they refer to it is through mailing lists. If you are a business owner and have an opt-in list, it is similar but they have ways of breaking into peoples web sites and searching for email addresses. Once a spammer has your email address, he is probably going to pass it on, and that spammer will pass it on, hence the thousand plus spam emails.
Now to deal with spammers it is easiest when you first open your email account to filter out the spam. Try not to give out your business email or personal email to any special offers or mass-mailing lists as this is an easy way to be targeted by spammers.
In your email client, whether it be outlook or an online mail service, you should be able to mark certain senders as spam, and have your email client automatically delete any emails from that sender.
If a certain email address gets thousands of spam emails a day, it may be easier for you to create a new email address than to go through and mark hundreds or thousands of senders as spam. You should be able to change your email address if you explain to your client that that address has been targeted by too many spammers.
Organize Your Mail Into Folders
If you use the same address for business and for personal emails, you are going to need to create two different sets of folders. Create a folder for your personal emails. If you want to create separate folders underneath that for family and friends that is entirely up to you.
Next, create a folder for your business emails. If you want to create subfolders for clients, and affiliates, and business partners, once again, that is entirely up to your personal preference.
Find what works for you. There is no definitive right or wrong way to organize your email, as a rule of thumb what is most productive and most organized is best.
Sort your contacts
Depending on who your email client is, you should be able to set up your email to where it pulls emails from your inbox and automatically places them in the folder of your choosing.
If you sort through your contact list there should be an option to automatically sort the email from your inbox. Organization is key here. As a rule of thumb, the more organized your contacts are, the less work you will have to do on your email and the more time you will have to actually do what email is supposed to do...stay in contact with other people.
If, on the other hand, your email client does not do it automatically; it is a relatively painless process. As your emails come in, before you open them; drag the names and senders of the people that you know to their appropriate folders. Once you have grabbed the names you know, go to the folders you created earlier and read those emails. You can come back to your inbox when you have extra time to look through all of the unknown emails.
Dealing With Malware, Viruses, and Email Exploits
Any time you open your email, it is a good idea to make sure your antivirus program is running and up to date. There are antivirus programs that automatically scan through emails, and if you have one of these you shouldn't need to worry about this but there are always exceptions.
When you look at the email, if there is an attachment you will see a little paperclip. These attachments can be the housing that a virus could be living in. Not saying to delete every single email that is an attachment, but keep a wary eye when you open an attachment. It's a good idea to send any attachment to your antivirus for it to check it out before you open it or drag it into any of your personal folders on your computer.

How Can The U.S. Marine Corps Help You Transform Your Government IT Services?

When I think about the U. S. Marines, I do not think about Generals, Harrier Jets, or Military Police. The first thing I always think about is Drill Sergeants! The reason I think of Drill Sergeants or Drill Instructors (DIs) could be the fact that when I was a kid, my father was a DI. Making sure the recruits understood the "good of the many" outweighed the "good of the few" made his success. But he started each boot camp with standard processes that have evolved over the last 200 years and have been adopted by all Drill Instructors across The Corps.
So what do U.S. Marines have in common with transforming your IT services agency to be the lean, mean, service machine everyone expects? Everything! The Drill Instructor starts with basics; basic crew cut, basic clothes, and basic training. You and your organization can start transformation of your agency or organization with basic processes and procedures that have evolved over the last four decades for the IT community-ITIL.
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is a "library" of best practices that has been evolving and adapting to new technologies since the 70's. This library of best practices and methodologies has been created by a community of IT professionals that actually do the work, manage the environment, and overcome the business obstacles.
The purpose of ITIL is to align IT services with the agency's business objectives and provide competitive advantages for the agency or organization by using the best practices in areas such as financial management, problem management, change and configuration management, and service level management. Every Federal, State, and Local government will tell you the same thing; they want the best service at the lowest cost. What does "best service at the lowest cost" mean? We should simply say the business wants the right amount of service, at the right time, at the lowest cost possible, to meet its objectives. The IT organization should be considered as a tool for the business to reach its objective, as a lever to turn services on and off. So if the agency's business objective is to supply social services benefits to the citizens of the state at any time of day or night, then the agency should just turn their IT lever "on" for those services 24*7*366 (leap year).
How do you transform your agency to deliver the right amount of service, at the right time, at the lowest possible cost? Buzzwords like consolidate, one-stop-shop, economies-of-scale, reengineer, and centralize may be the first methods to come to mind. The Marine Drill Instructor starts on Paris Island with new recruits and standard procedures that are tested, used, documented, and refined over the years. You should do the same when transforming your organization by using proven processes the IT community has been documenting and refining for decades in the IT Infrastructure Library. You don't have to create a new "wheel"; you only have to pick the best "wheel" from the library and install it. The "wheel" you will use from ITIL has already been tested and used by hundreds of other organizations with tangible results.
Service Level Management is maintaining and improving IT service quality through a constant cycle of agreeing, monitoring, and reporting to meet customers' business objectives. Because of your evolution process, you probably range the gamut on service levels provided to your customers from 8 to 12 hours a day. Some end users may even get support 24 hours per day, weekend support, or holiday support, but most after-hours support is usually done by on-call support. This could mean that at any given time there are 100+ people being used for on-call support. Since there are no service catalogs, there may be end users trying unsuccessfully to supply citizens with services because their applications are down and they don't know who to call.
With ITIL processes in Service Level Management, poor service for end users can be eliminated. Quality of service is agreed to, based on the needs of each agency, and monitored accordingly. Because of inter-agency cooperation, there are operational agreements that cascade through other support organizations to meet the end user requirements. All of these services are measured. The process is self-correcting in that each department is accountable for their own service levels rather than being accountable for the entire service supply chain. This is helpful because nobody knows where in the chain which service was interrupted.
Problem Management seeks to get to the root cause and initiate action to remove the error. With the evolution of support in your agency, about 40% of your support organizations are on home grown systems (spending time writing and supporting applications that do not have the ITIL processes of Problem Management built into them.) There is another 40% of Incident Management applications that may have some of the processes built into them, but are not used because of resource allocations, training or many other reasons. The remaining 20% of your support teams that have the application with built-in ITIL processes and that use them can only affect small changes based on the end user where they have immediate control.
Having not only the right ITIL compliant application, but also using the ITIL processes and best practices will help fix problems faster and keep problems from happening in the first place. With ITIL processes, support organizations will understand classification, trend analysis, diagnosis, and the root cause of problems. With operational agreements in place with other support organizations, you can be proactive about deleting the problems rather than continuing to fix the problems over, and over, and over again. These processes will get to the root cause of the problems and initiate the action necessary to remove the errors.
Transformation of an organization takes time, resources, and effort. Most states and large organizations take over 18 months to move through managed growth, incident management, problem management, service level management and the rest of the ITIL processes. As you will note, there is a mixture of technology, people and process changes involved in this transformation process. You cannot use a "silver bullet" to transform your organization, nor can you use only technology and processes. ITIL transformation is a balanced approach across your support organization to bring about streamlined procedures and efficiency while eliminating waste and reducing costs.
The speed with which agencies and organizations apply information technology and optimize their IT resources is becoming more critical to their overall performance. The transformation to service management solutions and services that can be delivered by using ITIL best practices is of enormous short-term and strategic value, especially as Information Technology needs continue to expand more rapidly than IT budget allocations. ITIL will guide your IT organizations in communicating with internal constituencies, defining end user needs, providing IT services, allocating resources, optimizing service levels and managing service delivery from a financial perspective. By bringing this "bottom-line" discipline to your IT organizations and processes, the same way the U.S. Marines bring discipline with Drill Instructors, you will be transforming your organizations so that IT will remain closely aligned with the needs of the business and provide significant competitive advantages.

"Semper Fi"
About the Author
Mark Latham works full time creating and implementing Service Support and Service Delivery processes for Federal, State, and Private organizations. He is a speaker at National Support events; Instructs Directors on how to take waste from their operations, and is ITIL certified. He works as the Vice President for Customer Solutions at STI Knowledge, a Business Process Outsourcing company in Atlanta Georgia.

Definition and Different Types of Servers

A Server is a computer or device through which network resources are controlled. For instance, a file server is a storage device that stores files. Files can be stored on the server by any user on the network. Similarly, a print server is a computer that is used to run one or more printers and network traffic is controlled by network server.
Normally, servers do not complete any other tasks other than their own jobs. On parallel processing operating systems on the other hand, a single computer can perform more than a few applications at the same time. A server can refer to the application that is managing resources more willingly than the whole computer.
Different types of servers are available here:
Proxy Servers:
These devices exist between a client application (normally a Web browser) and an external server (usually another server on the Web) to sort out requests, improve functioning, and share connections.
Mail Servers:
Approximately as omnipresent and critical as Web servers, mail devices create and store mail over mutual networks (by means of LANs and WANs) and throughout the Internet.
Server Platforms:
A platform is the fundamental hardware or software for a system and is the engine that runs the server.
Web Servers:
At its foundation, a Web server supplies static data to a Web browser by loading a file from a disk and providing it crosswise the network to a user's Web browser. This whole exchange is arbitrated by the browser and server chatting to each other using HTTP.
Application Servers:
Application devices engage a large portion of computing region between database servers and the end-user and they normally link the two.
Database Server:
Database server controls the database with the use of SOL database management system. Client request is delivered in the shape of SOL questions to the server then database server accesses the stored data to act upon the client question and delivers answer back to the client.
Real-Time Communication Servers (IRC and immediate messaging (IM) servers):
Real-time communication servers allow a lot of users to share information directly.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) Servers:
File Transfer Protocol moves one or more files securely among computers while providing file security and organization in addition to transfer control.
Collaboration Servers:
In numerous techniques, collaboration software reveals the innovative power of the Web. Collaboration software has been planned to facilitate users to collaborate, in spite of location, by means of the Internet or a mutual intranet and to perform the work jointly in a virtual environment.
List Servers:
List servers provide a method to better deal with mailing lists whether these are interactive discussions open to the public or one-way lists that deliver statements, circular or publicity.
Telnet Servers:
A Telnet server permits users to log on to a host computer and execute jobs as they're working on the remote computer itself.
Open Source Servers:
From your fundamental open source server operating systems to the server software (that assists you to get your job done), open source software is an important part of numerous IT infrastructures.

Cloud Computing: Getting Down to Business

There is nothing new about the concept of Cloud Computing, in theory it isn't much different than mainframe systems used over 30 years ago. All computing is centralized and users access the information they need from terminal devices. In recent years though, technology has advanced to deliver this type of computing on a much more efficient scale. Now working an a document, surfing the web, and using software can be accessed through the cloud just as fast, if not faster than using your desktop PC.
A great case in point of cloud computing is Netflix. The old days of driving to the video store to rent a DVD and playing it from a DVD player are fading quickly. Why invest in players and physical movies when you can just access what you want when you want it? You can now stream a movie directly to your TV, computer, or even a smart phone. You have access to the data you need (in this case 1000's of movies) on any device, and you do not need to invest in hardware to process the data (in this case a DVD player).
Fragmented Solutions
Filtering out all of the different Cloud offerings in the market today can be a daunting task. There are many vendors that provide single Cloud based solutions such as E-mail, Back-up, file sharing, infrastructure, or even software. The problem is that there hasn't been a truly turn key solution that can deliver everything you need in your business network through one single interface.
There can be savings by moving pieces of your network, like e-mail for example. But what about the rest of your network? You'll still be left with servers to maintain, staff to manage it all, data to back-up, etc. The reason why most companies have not yet totally embraced Cloud Computing is because there hasn't been a simple solution that provides everything a company needs. The goal is to eliminate as much of the liability that comes along with your IT operations from your balance sheet.
Is There Money to Be Saved?
Maybe. Looking at the true cost savings of Cloud can be complex. There are obvious cost savings when it comes to eliminating unnecessary hardware like servers and even some desktops; But if you can't migrate all or most of your network to the Cloud, the true cost savings won't really appear. What's the single biggest expense in most IT budgets? Labor.
The mantra for your company's IT should be "less is more". If you can reduce the labor and material costs you spend on maintaining a server room, troubleshooting issues, and upgrading systems, your IT budget just shrank by 50% or more. Imagine applying those additional resources towards a more efficient ERP software, CRM, or a marketing initiative.
Going with the cheapest solution may end up being more costly than you originally thought. If it can't offer everything your employees need to work in a simple and familiar delivery, what seems like savings may actually decrease productivity. After all, technology is supposed to make employees more efficient. If you can move all or most of your network to the Cloud, reduce your labor/material expenses, and ensure your employees are able to access everything they need in a single Cloud solution, there are major savings.
Potential Cost Savings

• Servers: buying, maintaining, upgrading every few yeas
• Desktops: replace with less expensive, longer lasting Thin Terminals
• Licensing: Microsoft Office, server licensing
• Energy: Reduce power and cooling consumption
• Labor: Reduce maintenance, troubleshooting, helpdesk, etc

Scalability- Why is it important?
One of the big benefits of Cloud Computing is it's ability to adapt with your business. During periods of growth, companies invest heavily in growing their IT department. This means buying more equipment and paying more labor to maintain it all. During down turns, most businesses are stuck with the depreciating equipment they have invested in and need to maintain it to continue doing business. You can't really sell of parts of your network when times are slow.
With Cloud, you can scale very quickly without any additional capital expenditures. Let's say tomorrow you get a huge contract and need to hire more employees, not a problem just add them to your Cloud. If your business slows down and you have less staff, just remove them from your Cloud and down goes your IT cost. You pay for what you consume, not for what you think you may need in the future.
Empower Your Staff
Of course saving money sounds good, but to grow your business you need to make money. Making technology available to your staff when they need it is imperative to maximizing efficiencies in today's market. With more initiatives to work remotely on a multitude of devices, cloud computing makes more sense than ever. Larger corporations have already started BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer) programs where employees can use what ever device they want to work. Latptops, Macs, and even tablets like IPads are becoming more popular in the work place. Since all of the processing, data, software and e-mail all come from the cloud, the end device (PC, Mac, tablet, phone) is just displaying an image and interface to work on. Even an old desktop with minimal resources will work just fine.
So imagine enabling your organizations to work anywhere, anytime, on the device of their choice. Do you think you may get a few extra minutes of productivity each day? Will collaboration, integration, and efficiency amongst your team help close that extra deal?
Security and Reliability
A common concern that comes up around Cloud Computing is security. Often someone fears what they don't know. The reality behind Cloud Computing is that your network is placed in state of the art SAS 70 compliant data centers. These data centers have security measures in place the average business could never afford to implement. Dual power grids, cooling systems, full surveillance, biometric restrictive access, multiple gigabyte internet connections and the latest equipment an IT manager could only dream of. They are able to guarantee 99.999% uptime and full back-ups of your network.
By moving your entire network to the Cloud, a crashed computer or a lost laptop means nothing. Just login from another device and keep working...all of your data will be there waiting for you to finish what ever you were working on.
So What's The Best Solution
If you want to save your company money and maximize efficiencies, a total Cloud approach is the way to go. However using 10 different Cloud solutions to deliver your entire network still requires quite bit of management and brings integration issues.

Using a Webcam in a Chat Room

Chat room is a cyber space which serves as a platform for internet surfers to interact with one another. It uses a text-based mode of communication. Technological advancement and faster internet connections have made voice calling and video conferencing through webcams possible. The webcam chat feature has spiced up the interest in chatting among the users. Lots of online chat sites provide live video streaming 24x7 for free. Cam chats have given the online chatting a new meaning and a made it more lively. Webcams with high quality video have reduced the distance between people. Video chatting provided by most sites is completely free and secure. Using webcam in chat rooms is not as complicated as it seems.
One needs to hook up the webcam with the computer system and log in to a chat site. Care must be taken to ensure that one's video is shared only with users one wants. Public chat sites have an option of broadcasting the user's video such that any member logged in to the chat room can view the video. To prevent undue embarrassment or scandal, it is better to ensure that your video is viewable only to users you permit. Video chatting is also very popular in online dating sites. Use of webcams has further reduced the apparent difference between the real and cyber world.
Ever since the time of text based instant messages, the concept of cyber sex has evolved. Majority of online chat sites are used by various internet surfers for erotic chats. It has raised concerns over the negative influence this might impart upon the teenagers. Since most of these chat rooms are free, there is no way of ensuring that those accessing the site are over 18 years of age. Use of webcams has taken the concept of cyber sex to the next level. Earlier, with a text based system, this was limited only to users with a proactive imagination. With video streaming, which leaves little to the imagination, the number of people indulging in such activities have widened. Live erotic video streaming by advertising it in chat rooms has become a sort of white-collar prostitution.
In a pre webcam era, many users with fake profiles roamed the chat rooms lying about their sex, age and physical attributes. It was a time when the only way to ensure that the user at the other end is not a cheat was to meet in person. Webcams have taken that element of surprise away. They have made the chatting service more safe and secure. As the virtual cyber world becomes more and more life-like, the arguments against the usage of online chatting services are becoming feebler. Webcams have provided the one thing text based rooms could not provide. The ability to watch the person you are chatting with, which makes everything seem more real.

Does Your Business Need an Inventory Tracking System?

If you truly want to be successful in today's business world, then having an inventory tracking system is a necessity. Your business must be able to accurately get orders out in a timely manner. And this must be done day in and day out. Of course you can have this done manually by one of your employees but that would just mean more money for you to pay out.
But with an inventory tracking system, you will be able to track everything with just a push of a button. Everything is automated. Once an order is pulled and scanned by the system, that information goes into the computer and immediately updates inventory. That means you always know what you have on hand. You will never oversell an item and have customers waiting weeks to receive their order.
An inventory tracking system that is functioning properly will allow your employees to always get orders out in a timely and accurate manner. This means you will save money, time and your customers will be very happy. And as we all know, happy customers will keep coming back. And of course, the more customers that come back, the more money you will make.
Why an Inventory Tracking System Is So Important?
One of the many reasons so many small businesses fail is because they are unable to accommodate the growth of their business. Things might start off slow, but once they pick up it goes really fast. So even if your business is relatively small right now, it is still a good idea to have some sort of inventory tracking system in place. Start off small and scale up as your business grows.
Being able to track your inventory effectively is a key component to your business success. Knowing where your inventory is, how much of it you have and how much you paid for it will allow you to avoid costly mistakes. We are only human and we will make mistakes. But having the proper system in place will help eliminate most of those mistakes.
When it boils down to it, the success or failure of your business will depend on whether or not you have the proper inventory tracking system in place. You may not think you need it right now, but once you give it a try you will see what a huge impact it can have on your business.

The Baffling Question of How to Speed Up My Computer

Working long hours on the computer is doubly tiring if the computer is very slow. It also takes a lot of valuable time, not to mention the wasted electricity. Then the thought on ways how to speed up my computer begin to crop up. A diagnostic freeware available at the internet can be engaged to find out the causes of the sluggishness.
Many self-help jobs can be done to speed up the computer. Destructive Spywares, Adware, Trojan and Viruses are suspects to the torpidity. One of the first things to do when purchasing a computer system is to install good Anti-Virus software, but if this was not done, a free virus scan can be done on-line. Remember too that there are contaminations that can enter the system undetected by the installed virus guard. Its virus data base may not be updated and certain viruses may also not be known to the anti-virus.
Scanning the system for unwanted programs and viruses can proceed. Deletion of any contaminated file should be done if the anti-virus engine is unable to clean them. Important files could be the victims, but there is no choice but to remove them or risk a system crash. Viruses hide in the computer memory, and just like their ecology counterparts, they spread like disease. They affect the Random Access Memory (RAM).
If the virus scan yields no dubious file detections, the computer may then be weighted down by unnecessary files. It is time to clean-up the desktop. This may be the solution to the perplexity of how to speed up my computer.
Examining the Program Files might reveal the presence of software that is of no use. Just click the "Start" button of the taskbar then press the "Control Panel" and look for "Add or Remove Programs". Software drivers may include other programs not to your knowledge. The prompts of installation discs generally recommend "Express Install" over the "Custom Install". Express install downloads everything from the driver in contrast to the custom install that have choices to set-up.
When programs are installed, connections to the Operating System (OS) are established whether such programs are used or not. It slows down the system every time the computer is rebooted. Removing them frees up disc space that leaves the RAM decongested. Consider the option of adding RAM memory hardware to the computer to elicit a more responsive system. Browse the internet for an additional RAM options.
In the event that the OS is not fully conformable with a hardware configuration, the system's technical requirements must be referred to. The web can also give valuable information on this highly technical and sensitive matter. Nasty problems can be avoided if the system is properly configured. It is important to note that hardware devices and the computer system should work together. Slowness may just be a symptom to a more nightmarish problem. If the system configuration is well in order, it might be the ultimate solution to the baffling how to speed up my computer.

What to Do If My Computer Is Slow

The "my computer is slow" resentment is experienced by many and it's a widespread issue that needs to be addressed. Stuff to revive computer agility should be given due attention.
Foremost that should be given close scrutiny is the PC registry. Because it is loaded with database all about the PC assembly, the Operating System must keep an eye on the diverse configurations of the various installed hardware. If they don't match, then there is a problem. Windows has unique requirements that use unique machine configurations.
As pointed out, the problem may lie in the PC registry. The glitches may be seen early on but they tend to become more complex as time progresses. A scan and repair of the registry can be found from the internet to promptly halt the inert responses observed. The scan and repair tool is a freeware. Generally, more powerful tools, the ones that have to be bought, can only submit the errors found; but the total scan is the first step to help decide whether to make the purchase or not.
Installed applications deplete the computer memory. Thinking twice then before downloading or installing applications is best precaution. Some of them are just ornaments that bear no real value. It may well be a good tip to resolve the "my computer is slow"complaint.

• Some installed programs may have to go if not used. They can easily be removed through your "Add or Remove" feature from the Control Panel. When automatic start up is enabled in certain programs, they run together with the system in reboot. The startup programs use memory and CPU time. Consider the following on how to disable the automatic startup.
• Startup programs can be deleted by pressing the Start task bar, then All Programs and look for Startup in the rolled up list. Just Right-click it then press Delete. Another way of doing this is again to click the Start then Run, and type "msconfig". Wait until a window comes out, and then choose Startup from the indexes. The checked items are programs that run alongside the system upon rebooting. Click the Disable button then Apply, but if unsure if you're disabling the right item, it is better to leave it as is.
• There are on-line disk defragmenters that effectively optimize the file system. Find the best freeware software that can do the job. They accelerate the computer by compressing files together. Some not only raise the PC performance but also repair computer errors.
• Heat and dust factors affect the computer's performance. Fans are built-in in computer encasements. They keep the machine cool down from long hours of use. The computer case can easily be opened; the dust can be wiped-off through the use of a simple paint brush.

To sum it up, excellent technology that diagnoses and put the computer on stable status is the best solution to the "my computer is slow" problem. They can be had for free from the internet. They contour the computer registry minus the high priced hardware upgrades.