When it comes to protecting your business from cyber threats, understanding the difference between vulnerability vs penetration testing is essential. Both assessments play a critical role in strengthening security, but they offer very different insights into your network, your risks, and your overall readiness against real-world attacks.

At Complete Business Systems of Colorado (CBS), we help organizations build stronger, more resilient IT environments. This guide breaks down vulnerability vs penetration testing in plain language and explains when your business needs each one.

What Is Vulnerability Testing?

A vulnerability test is a structured scan that identifies potential weaknesses in your systems, devices, applications, and network. It tells you where risk exists, but it does not attempt to exploit those weaknesses.

A vulnerability test answers questions like:

• How many entry points exist on your network?

• Are any systems outdated or unpatched?

• Do any configurations leave you potentially exposed?

• Which vulnerabilities pose the highest probability of being exploited?

Home Security Example

Imagine walking around your house and documenting every door, window, and garage entry. You’re not trying to open the locks, you’re simply identifying all the places someone could break in. That’s vulnerability testing.

It’s a high-level view of your security surface.

What Is Penetration Testing?

Penetration testing (or pentesting) goes much further. Instead of only listing your potential weaknesses, a pentest actively attempts to exploit them, simulating how a real attacker would break into your system.

Penetration testing answers questions such as:

• Can someone bypass your firewall or authentication?

• Can a weak password be cracked?

• Can a misconfigured server expose sensitive business data?

• What happens after an attacker gets in?

Home Security Example

If vulnerability testing identifies all your doors and windows, penetration testing tells you:

• Which window is already broken

• What your garage door code is

• How fast someone could get inside

• How much damage they could do once they’re in

This is the critical difference in vulnerability vs penetration testing: one identifies the risk, and the other proves the impact.

Vulnerability vs Penetration Testing: Key Differences

When looking at the key differences in vulnerability vs penetration testing it’s important to remember that both assessments are valuable, but they serve different purposes.

1. Depth of Insight

• Vulnerability testing: Surface-level identification of weaknesses

• Penetration testing: Deep, hands-on exploitation to reveal real-world risk

2. Frequency

• Vulnerability testing: Best performed regularly (monthly or quarterly)

• Penetration testing: Often annual or after major system changes

3. Output

• Vulnerability testing: A list of issues ranked by severity

• Penetration testing: A detailed report showing exactly how an attack unfolded

4. Purpose

• Vulnerability test: Prevent problems before they appear

• Pentest: Understand how far an attacker could go

The contrast between vulnerability vs penetration testing is similar to inspecting a home for weak points vs hiring someone to test whether those weaknesses can be exploited.

Do Businesses Need Both?

In most cases, yes. Here’s why:

Vulnerability Testing Helps You Stay Proactive

Technology changes quickly. New devices join your network, software ages, and updates are missed. Regular vulnerability tests ensure you always know your risk level.

Penetration Testing Shows the Real Impact

A pentest uncovers how a breach could occur, what data is accessible, and what actions an attacker could take. This provides vital insights into your true security exposures.

Together, They Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Strategy

Using both vulnerability testing and penetration testing allows you to:

• Identify weaknesses early

• Understand risk at a deeper level

• Prioritize fixes based on real-world impact

• Improve compliance with cybersecurity standards

• Reduce the likelihood of downtime, breaches, or business interruption

For Colorado organizations that rely on uptime like municipalities, healthcare providers, legal firms, schools, contractors, and small businesses, this layered approach is essential.

Vulnerability vs Penetration Testing: Which Should You Choose First?

So now it’s time to decide on vulnerability vs penetration testing, which is right for you? If you’re just beginning your cybersecurity journey:

Start with Vulnerability Testing if you want to:

• Build a baseline understanding of your current risks

• Maintain regular system hygiene

• Detect new issues as your network evolves

Start with Penetration Testing if you want to:

• Meet compliance or insurance requirements

• Understand real-world attack paths

• Validate the effectiveness of your cybersecurity program

• Prioritize the most critical vulnerabilities

Really the choice isn’t vulnerability vs penetration testing, it’s a combination of both. Most businesses benefit from vulnerability testing year-round and penetration testing annually.

Strengthen Your Security with Complete Business Systems of Colorado

Today’s cyber threats don’t just target large enterprises. Small and mid-sized Colorado businesses are just as vulnerable, usually more at risk due to lower security and IT preventions in place. At CBS of Colorado, we provide the IT services and cybersecurity support local organizations need to operate confidently and securely.

Our security services include:

• Managed IT Services

• Network and endpoint protection

• Vulnerability scanning

• Penetration testing partnerships

• Compliance-driven security assessments

• Document management and secure workflows

Whether you want to understand your risk level or test how resilient your systems truly are, we can help you determine the right next step.

Ready to improve your cybersecurity posture?

Contact Complete Business Systems of Colorado today to learn whether vulnerability testing, penetration testing, or a combination of both is right for your organization.

For organizations that rely on Microsoft 365 for email, file storage, and collaboration, protecting sensitive data is more important than ever. Cyber threats are evolving daily, and even small gaps in security can put your company at risk of data breaches, compliance violations, and costly downtime. Microsoft Tenant Protection helps safeguard your Microsoft 365 environment by securing user accounts, managing access, and monitoring for suspicious activity. This ensures your business stays productive and protected.

Understanding Microsoft Tenant Protection

Microsoft Tenant Protection refers to the suite of security measures, tools, and best practices designed to protect the entire Microsoft 365 tenant—your company’s unique environment that houses data, email, Teams, SharePoint, and other services. Unlike single-device or single-application security, tenant-level protection covers every aspect of your Microsoft ecosystem.

This level of protection includes:

• Identity and access management – Verifying who can log in, from where, and with what level of permissions.

• Conditional access policies – Restricting sign-ins based on location, device type, or other risk factors.

• Threat detection and response – Identifying unusual behavior or potential intrusions before they escalate.

• Data loss prevention – Safeguarding sensitive files and communications from accidental or malicious leaks.

Key Features Businesses Should Understand

Microsoft Tenant Protection is not a single product but a layered approach that leverages tools like Microsoft Entra (Azure Active Directory), Microsoft Defender for Office 365, and built-in compliance features. Here are the core features every business should understand:

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Requiring a second form of verification drastically reduces the risk of compromised accounts, one of the most common attack vectors.

2. Conditional Access

Policies can block or allow sign-ins based on risk signals such as location, device compliance, or unusual login patterns, ensuring only legitimate users gain access.

3. Advanced Threat Protection

Microsoft’s threat intelligence tools actively monitor for phishing, malware, and ransomware attempts across email, SharePoint, and Teams.

4. Compliance and Data Governance

Tenant protection tools help meet regulatory requirements such as HIPAA or GDPR by securing sensitive data and maintaining audit logs.

5. Centralized Monitoring and Reporting

Administrators gain visibility into all activity across the Microsoft 365 tenant, allowing for proactive responses to emerging threats.

Why Microsoft Tenant Protection Is So Popular

The growing reliance on cloud services has made Microsoft 365 a target for cybercriminals. Tenant protection provides a scalable way for businesses of all sizes to address modern security needs without adding excessive complexity.

Key reasons for its popularity include:

• Integration with existing Microsoft tools – No need for separate third-party solutions.

• Ease of deployment – Quickly implemented with minimal disruption to users.

• Cost efficiency – Built into Microsoft 365 licensing tiers or available as add-ons, making enterprise-level protection accessible to smaller businesses.

• Constant updates – Microsoft continuously enhances protection features to stay ahead of evolving threats.

Why Security for Microsoft Tenant Protection Is Critical

While Microsoft offers robust tools, configuration and ongoing management are crucial. Simply enabling features is not enough; businesses must ensure policies are optimized for their specific environment. Without proper oversight, gaps in security can still occur, especially as employees join, leave, or work remotely.

Partnering with experts like CBS of Colorado ensures your Microsoft tenant is configured correctly and continuously monitored. Our team tailors policies to your business needs, manages updates, and provides responsive support when threats emerge. This proactive approach reduces risk and protects your data, employees, and reputation.

Enhance Your Microsoft Tenant Security with CBS of Colorado

At CBS of Colorado, we understand that security isn’t one-size-fits-all. We work closely with businesses across industries to implement and manage Microsoft Tenant Protection strategies that keep operations secure and compliant. From initial assessment to ongoing monitoring, we make sure your Microsoft 365 environment is protected against today’s most advanced threats.

Ready to strengthen your Microsoft tenant security? Contact CBS of Colorado to learn how we can help protect your business and give you peace of mind.

In today’s digital-first business world, zero day security is no longer an optional concern, it’s a necessary part of a proactive IT strategy. At CBS of Colorado, we’ve seen how quickly zero day threats can escalate. That’s why we’re breaking down what zero day security is, how to protect your systems, and why simple actions like rebooting your machines once a week can make a big difference.

What Is Zero Day Security?

Zero day security refers to the defense strategies and technologies used to detect and prevent cyberattacks that exploit unknown vulnerabilities, those that software vendors haven’t had the chance to patch yet. These are called zero day threats because developers have “zero days” to fix the flaw before it can be used maliciously.

Unlike traditional malware, zero day attacks are incredibly hard to detect with standard antivirus software because they exploit undiscovered weaknesses. These attacks can affect everything from your operating systems and email platforms to printers and IoT devices. This makes for a strong zero day security strategy essential for every business.

Why Zero Day Security Matters for Small and Midsize Businesses

Many small and mid-sized Colorado businesses think cybercriminals only target large corporations. In reality, smaller businesses are often easier targets because they lack sophisticated security infrastructure. Without proper zero day security measures, even a minor vulnerability can result in stolen data, operational downtime, and damage to your reputation.

That’s where CBS of Colorado steps in. Our zero day security strategies are designed to help local businesses stay protected. Whether they’re working in the cloud, on a hybrid system, or managing on-premise networks.

Prevention Tips: How to Improve Zero Day Security

You can’t predict every cyber threat, but you can prepare for them. Here are several key actions to help safeguard your systems from zero day security risks:

1. Reboot Your Devices Weekly
   It sounds simple, but it’s powerful. Many critical security patches require a system reboot to activate. Encourage your team to restart their computers at least once a week to ensure updates are properly applied. This basic step significantly boosts your zero day security posture.

2. Keep All Software Up to Date
   Regular software updates often contain fixes for known vulnerabilities. Delaying them gives attackers more opportunity to exploit your systems. Use automatic updates where possible, especially for operating systems, antivirus tools, and web browsers.

3. Invest in Next-Gen Antivirus and Endpoint Detection
   Traditional antivirus tools aren’t enough. You need zero day security tools that include behavioral analysis, machine learning, and real-time threat detection. CBS offers advanced IT solutions that cover this level of protection.

4. Train Your Team
   Human error remains a top cause of security breaches. Teach employees to recognize phishing attempts, suspicious downloads, and other risky behaviors that could lead to a zero day attack.

5. Enable Network Segmentation
   Don’t let one infected machine compromise your entire business. Network segmentation helps isolate threats before they spread, creating an additional layer of zero day security.

CBS of Colorado’s Approach to Zero Day Security

At CBS of Colorado, we take a layered and proactive approach to zero day security. Our Managed Network Services team integrates the latest cybersecurity tools, including real-time threat detection, automated patch management, and secure remote access controls. We go beyond reactive measures, we build defense systems designed to evolve alongside modern threats.

We also offer:

• Continuous system monitoring and alerting

• Scheduled security audits and vulnerability scans

• Cloud and on-premise backup solutions

• Secure printer and device configurations

And yes, we’ll even help your team understand the importance of restarting their computers weekly—it’s a small habit that greatly improves zero day security.

Why Rebooting Matters: One Weekly Habit That Can Prevent Major Threats

One of the most overlooked defenses in zero day security is a regular reboot. Many businesses delay restarts due to workflow concerns, but this delay leaves systems vulnerable. When you apply a patch, it doesn’t take full effect until the system restarts. At CBS of Colorado, we recommend scheduling a weekly reboot policy. Whether it’s automated overnight or prompted at the end of the workday this simple step can prevent major issues.

Build a Resilient Zero Day Security Strategy

The digital landscape changes fast, and zero day security is one of the most dynamic areas of cybersecurity. No system is 100% safe from zero day vulnerabilities, but with the right tools, education, and habits in place, your business can significantly reduce its exposure.

CBS of Colorado is proud to support businesses throughout the Denver metro area with comprehensive IT solutions that include robust zero day protection measures. Let us help you build a stronger, smarter network—because when your tech works, your business works better.

Ready to get started? Contact CBS of Colorado today for a quote or consultation.

In today’s increasingly digital world, cybersecurity has never been more critical for businesses. One of the most effective ways to ensure your business’s systems and networks are secure is through pentesting, or penetration testing. But what is pentesting, and why is it so essential for companies, especially in Colorado?

This blog will answer what is pentesting and provide you with the knowledge you need to better protect your business from cyber threats.

What is Pentesting?

So, exactly what is pentesting? Pentesting, short for penetration testing, is a cybersecurity process used to identify vulnerabilities in a computer system, network, or web application. It involves simulating a cyber attack, often referred to as an ethical hack, to assess the security of the system. Pentesters—skilled security professionals—use various tools and techniques to exploit weaknesses in the system, just as a malicious hacker would, but with the goal of improving the system’s defenses.

While penetration testing is often associated with large corporations, it’s crucial for businesses of all sizes. With the increasing number of cyber threats, small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) must also prioritize securing their systems. At Complete Business Systems of Colorado, we provide top-tier IT solutions and support to help businesses stay ahead of these security risks, and pentesting is one of the most effective measures we recommend to our clients.

Why is Pentesting Important?

We’ve answered what is pentesting, let’s look at why it’s important. The importance of pentesting cannot be overstated. By proactively identifying security vulnerabilities, businesses can mitigate risks before they become larger, more costly problems. Here are several key reasons why pentesting should be a part of every company’s cybersecurity

 strategy:

1. Identifying Vulnerabilities Early

   • Pentesting simulates real-world cyber attacks, revealing hidden weaknesses in your systems. Identifying and addressing these vulnerabilities early helps prevent potential data breaches or system failures.

2. Improving Compliance

   • Many industries require businesses to adhere to strict cybersecurity standards and regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS). Regular pentests help ensure your company meets these compliance requirements.

3. Protecting Sensitive Data

   • Data is a company’s most valuable asset. A breach of sensitive customer or business data can have devastating consequences. Pentesting helps identify vulnerabilities that could lead to data leaks and protect the integrity of your data.

4. Building Trust with Clients

   • Businesses that invest in cybersecurity demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding client information. Performing pentests and addressing any issues not only secures your systems but also fosters trust with your clients.

5. Preventing Financial Losses

   • Cyber attacks can result in significant financial losses, from operational disruptions to legal fines and reputational damage. Regular pentesting reduces the chances of successful cyber attacks, ultimately saving your business money in the long run.

Types of Pentesting

Not only do you need to know what is pentesting, you also need to know the types of pentesting. Pentesting isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There are several types of penetration tests, each designed to target specific areas of your business’s IT infrastructure:

1. Network Pentesting
   This type of pentest focuses on your business’s network. It assesses the security of your internal and external network connections, identifying vulnerabilities that could be exploited to gain unauthorized access to your systems.

2. Web Application Pentesting
   Web applications are often a target for hackers due to their complexity and accessibility. This type of testing evaluates your web applications for vulnerabilities that could be exploited, ensuring that sensitive user data is protected.

3. Social Engineering Pentesting
   Social engineering involves manipulating people into divulging confidential information. In this type of test, pentesters attempt to trick employees into providing sensitive information, highlighting the importance of employee awareness and training.

4. Wireless Network Pentesting
   Many businesses rely on wireless networks, which can be susceptible to attacks if not properly secured. Wireless pentesting assesses the security of your Wi-Fi networks to ensure that unauthorized users cannot gain access.

5. Physical Pentesting
   This focuses on physical security threats, assessing the likelihood of an attacker physically gaining access to your premises or hardware. While it’s less common, physical pentesting is valuable for businesses with sensitive equipment or data.

The Pentesting Process: How Does It Work?

What is pentesting in terms of how it works? The process of pentesting follows a structured approach, ensuring that every potential vulnerability is thoroughly tested. Here’s a brief overview of the typical pentesting process:

1. Planning and Scope Definition
   The pentester works with the business to understand the scope of the test, including which systems, networks, and applications will be tested.

2. Information Gathering
   Pentesters gather information about the target system to identify potential entry points. This step may involve open-source intelligence (OSINT) collection or scanning for system vulnerabilities.

3. Vulnerability Assessment
   Once potential vulnerabilities are identified, the pentester uses a range of tools to test whether they can be exploited to gain unauthorized access.

4. Exploitation
   At this stage, the pentester attempts to exploit the vulnerabilities found, simulating a real-world attack. The goal is not to cause harm but to understand how far an attacker could go once they exploit a weakness.

5. Reporting and Recommendations
   After completing the test, the pentester provides a detailed report outlining the vulnerabilities found, the methods used to exploit them, and recommendations for remediation.

6. Remediation and Retesting
   After the vulnerabilities have been fixed, retesting ensures that the weaknesses have been properly addressed and that the system is secure.

How CBS of Colorado Can Help

At Complete Business Systems, we understand the importance of maintaining a secure business environment. Our IT Managed Services include comprehensive cybersecurity solutions such as pentesting to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cybercriminals. We use state-of-the-art tools and techniques to ensure that your systems are fortified against the latest threats. We’re the answer to all your business solution questions, including “what is pentesting?”

Is Pentesting Right for Your Business?

If you’re still wondering, “what is pentesting?” and whether it’s right for your business, the answer is clear: pentesting is an essential part of any cybersecurity strategy. By regularly conducting pentests, you can safeguard your systems, improve compliance, and build trust with your clients. CBS of Colorado offers expert penetration testing services to ensure that your business is prepared to face today’s ever-evolving cyber threats.

Protect your business by reaching out to us for a consultation on how pentesting can strengthen your cybersecurity defenses. Stop asking what is pentesting, contact Complete Business Systems today to get started!

In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, staying competitive means understanding the tools that keep your business efficient, secure, and scalable. One term you’ve likely heard—maybe even considered for your own business—is SaaS. But what is SaaS, and why is it such a game-changer for modern businesses?

At Complete Business Systems (CBS) of Colorado, we believe in empowering local businesses with the knowledge and tools to thrive in a technology-driven landscape. So, let’s break down what is SaaS and how it can help your business.

What is SaaS?

Exactly what is SaaS? SaaS, short for Software as a Service, is a method of delivering software over the internet—rather than installing and maintaining software on individual computers or servers, you simply access it via the web. It’s like renting software instead of buying it outright.

You’re likely already using SaaS in your everyday operations. Think email platforms like Gmail, collaboration tools like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, or accounting software like QuickBooks Online. These are all examples of SaaS applications.

SaaS is one of the three main categories of cloud computing, alongside IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) and PaaS (Platform as a Service). But SaaS stands out for its simplicity and user-friendliness, making it ideal for small to mid-sized businesses.

How SaaS Works

Now that you know what is SaaS, how does it work? With SaaS, the software provider hosts the application and related data on their own servers. Users simply log in through a web browser to access the service. This setup eliminates the need for hardware maintenance, complex installations, and constant updates—because the service provider handles it all.

At CBS of Colorado, we’ve seen firsthand how SaaS solutions can streamline operations and reduce IT headaches. Whether it’s integrating SaaS for document management, customer relationship management (CRM), or office productivity tools, the benefits are clear.

Benefits of SaaS for Colorado Businesses

1. Cost-Effective SaaS typically runs on a subscription model, meaning you pay monthly or annually. This makes it easier for businesses to budget and scale without large upfront software investments. Plus, you avoid the hidden costs of managing and maintaining on-premise systems.

2. Scalability Need to add a new user? Want to upgrade your service tier? SaaS platforms make it easy to scale up (or down) based on your business needs.

3. Accessibility and Flexibility Employees can access SaaS platforms from anywhere—home, office, or on the road—making remote work and hybrid office models seamless.

4. Security and Updates Most SaaS providers offer robust data security protocols and automatic software updates. That means your business is always protected and operating on the latest version of the software.

5. Easy Integration Many SaaS solutions are designed to integrate with your existing tools and workflows, making transitions smoother and more productive.

SaaS and IT Services: A Natural Fit

As Colorado’s trusted provider of IT and managed print services, CBS of Colorado offers more than just hardware support—we help businesses stay on the cutting edge through software integration and strategic technology planning. SaaS fits perfectly into this mission.

We regularly help clients implement SaaS platforms that align with their goals—whether it’s automating document workflows, improving team communication, or managing IT infrastructure remotely. And because we’re a locally owned and operated business with over 30 years of experience, you get the added benefit of hands-on, responsive support from a team that understands the local business landscape.

Is SaaS Right for Your Business?

If you’re a small to mid-sized business in Colorado looking to simplify your IT management, improve flexibility, and stay secure without breaking the bank, SaaS might be the perfect solution.

At CBS of Colorado, we don’t just offer technology—we offer guidance. Our experienced team will help you evaluate your current systems and determine whether a SaaS approach is right for you. We also assist with the setup, training, and ongoing support to ensure a smooth transition. Our team ensure your company knows exactly what is SaaS and how to best use it for streamlined automation.

Final Thoughts: Why SaaS Matters

So, what is SaaS? It’s more than a buzzword. It’s a smarter way to work. With lower costs, improved access, and simplified IT management, SaaS has revolutionized the way modern businesses operate. And for growing companies across Colorado, it offers a practical path to innovation and efficiency.

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Ready to explore SaaS solutions for your business?

Contact Complete Business Systems of Colorado today and let’s talk about how we can keep your company efficient, connected, and competitive—every step of the way.

In the modern workplace, efficiency is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Businesses of all sizes are turning to smarter tools to streamline workflows, reduce repetitive tasks, and stay competitive in a fast-changing economy. At the heart of this shift is AI business automation—a powerful solution that’s quickly becoming an essential part of everyday operations.

From small businesses in Colorado to global enterprises, companies are using artificial intelligence to work faster, smarter, and more effectively. But what exactly does AI business automation look like in practice? And how can your business use it to gain a competitive edge?

What Is AI Business Automation?

AI business automation refers to the use of artificial intelligence technologies to complete tasks that traditionally required human effort. Unlike traditional automation, which follows predefined rules, AI-based systems can learn, adapt, and improve over time. This means businesses can automate complex processes, analyze large volumes of data, and make intelligent decisions—often in real time.

In simple terms, AI business automation helps businesses do more with less—reducing manual workloads and improving overall productivity.

How Businesses Are Using AI Automation Today

AI business automation is already being used across industries in ways that are both practical and powerful. Here are just a few areas where it’s making a big impact:

1. Customer Service

AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can answer questions, route inquiries, and even complete transactions 24/7. They learn from each interaction, improving over time to deliver faster and more helpful responses—without needing breaks or time off.

2. Accounting & Finance

AI tools can process invoices, flag anomalies, and reconcile accounts with incredible speed and accuracy. This reduces errors, saves time, and allows financial teams to focus on strategic planning instead of data entry.

3. Marketing & Sales

AI helps companies identify high-value leads, personalize content, and schedule follow-ups automatically. Predictive analytics tools can even suggest which products a customer is most likely to purchase—helping sales teams close deals more efficiently.

4. IT and Security

AI business automation plays a key role in modern cybersecurity. AI can monitor networks for unusual behavior, detect threats in real time, and even respond automatically to mitigate risks—ensuring your business stays protected around the clock.

5. Document and Workflow Management

AI is revolutionizing how businesses handle paperwork. Tools can scan, categorize, and route documents automatically—whether it’s contracts, onboarding forms, or internal communications. This reduces bottlenecks and ensures that nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

The Benefits of AI Business Automation

Integrating AI business automation into your operations comes with a range of benefits:

• Increased Efficiency: By automating repetitive tasks, teams can focus on higher-level priorities.

• Lower Operating Costs: Automation reduces the need for manual labor, helping businesses cut costs.

• Fewer Errors: AI systems are consistent and precise, minimizing mistakes in data-heavy environments.

• Faster Decision-Making: AI can analyze data quickly and generate real-time insights for smarter business choices.

• Scalability: As your business grows, AI systems scale with you—no need to constantly increase headcount.

Is AI Business Automation Right for Your Company?

You don’t need to be a tech giant to benefit from AI business automation. Whether you run a construction company, healthcare practice, retail store, or law firm, there’s a place for AI in your operations.

At Complete Business Systems of Colorado, we specialize in helping businesses identify and implement smart automation solutions that match their unique goals. From intelligent print management and workflow automation to secure document handling and network protection, we bring AI-driven tools to the front lines of everyday business.

Embrace the Future of Smart Business

AI business automation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a powerful tool that’s already transforming the way businesses operate. By adopting these technologies today, your business can stay ahead of the curve, improve customer experiences, and free up your team to focus on what really matters.

Ready to explore how AI business automation can work for you? Reach out to Complete Business Systems of Colorado and let’s build a smarter, more efficient future—together.

When it comes to technology, your business deserves more than just a break-fix solution. You deserve a proactive partner. At CBS of Colorado, we have the managed network services Colorado businesses rely on and built to meet you where you are—and grow with you. Whether you’re a small team just getting started or a well-established company ready to strengthen your IT infrastructure, we have a Managed Network Service package to match your needs.

Why Managed Network Services Matter

Technology shouldn’t slow you down—it should empower you. CBS of Colorado has the managed network services Colorado companies trust. Our packages are designed to reduce downtime, boost security, and streamline support with a local team you can count on. From antivirus protection to disaster recovery planning, we’ve got every angle covered.

Let’s break down the options so you can find the right fit.

MNS Base: The Foundation of Reliable Support

This package includes all the essentials for businesses seeking dependable IT support and network monitoring. With MNS Base, you receive:

• IT Professional Account Consultant

• Antivirus Protection

• System Monitoring

• CBS Live Help Desk

MNS Base is the perfect entry-level plan for companies that want solid protection, expert guidance, and responsive local service.

MNS Base 24/7: Always-On Support When You Need It Most

This upgraded plan includes all the features of MNS Base, plus:

• 24/7 Partner Live Help Desk

With MNS Base 24/7, your team has around-the-clock access to expert support—ideal for businesses that operate outside of typical office hours or need extra peace of mind.

MNS Complete: IT Support + Advanced Security

For businesses seeking comprehensive support and enterprise-grade security, MNS Complete is our most advanced offering. It includes everything in MNS Base, plus robust security and disaster recovery features:

• Ransomware Protection

• End User Security Awareness Training

• Office 365 / G-Suite Backup

• Firewall Appliance

• Email Security

MNS Complete is the go-to choice for businesses that value prevention, preparation, and compliance—all backed by CBS of Colorado’s trusted service.

CBS Solutions Package: A Flexible Starting Point

Looking for a custom-tailored option? The CBS Solutions Package is our most flexible offering. It includes:

• IT Professional Account Consultant

From there, you can build your plan by adding any of our core or advanced services to match your business’s exact needs and budget.

Core Managed Network Services (Included or Add-On)

No matter which plan you choose, our core managed network services can be included or added à la carte to create the perfect fit:

• IT Professional Account Consultant

• Antivirus Protection

• System Monitoring

• CBS Live Help Desk

• 24/7 Partner Live Help Desk

These services form the backbone of our managed network services that Colorado businesses have trusted for decades.

Additional Security & Disaster Recovery Services

Need more robust protection? Our add-on security and backup tools can be included with any of Managed Network Service Packages to customize your plan for your business needs:

• Ransomware Protection

• End User Security Awareness Training

• Office 365 / G-Suite Backup

• Firewall Appliance

• Email Security

• Endpoint Backup

With flexible options and proactive security tools, you can scale your IT protection with confidence.

Why Businesses Choose CBS of Colorado

We’ve proudly provided managed network services Colorado businesses have depended on since 1989. With an average response time of just 2.11 hours and a team of highly trained technicians, we don’t just talk support—we deliver it.

Whichever Managed Network Service package you choose, our mission stays the same. CBS of Colorado is here to make your technology easy, secure, and aligned with your goals.

Let’s Talk About the Right Managed Network Services for You

Not sure which package fits your business best? Contact CBS of Colorado today and let’s find the right plan for your size, needs, and growth. Our range of Managed Network Services allow businesses to choose and customize any package to suit their business needs.

In today’s digital world, businesses face an increasing number of cybersecurity threats. Cybercriminals continuously develop more advanced tactics, putting sensitive data, customer information, and business operations at risk. Without ransomware protection and end-user security awareness, companies can become easy targets for attacks that cause downtime, financial loss, and reputational damage.

That’s where MNS Complete solutions from CBS of Colorado come in. This comprehensive IT services package provides businesses with everything they need to stay protected, secure, and efficient. From ransomware protection to end-user security awareness training, MNS Complete ensures that your business is not only defended against cyber threats but also well-equipped to prevent breaches before they happen.

What Are MNS Complete Solutions?

MNS Complete solutions combine IT management, cybersecurity, and data protection in one seamless package. Businesses no longer have to juggle multiple vendors or worry about gaps in their security infrastructure. With MNS Complete, companies receive professional IT support, proactive monitoring, and critical cybersecurity measures that help protect against ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and other digital threats.

Key Features of MNS Complete Solutions

1. IT Management and Support

• IT Professional Account Consultant – Get customized IT support tailored to your business needs.
• Antivirus Protection – Defend against malware, viruses, and cyber threats before they cause damage.
• 24/7 System Monitoring – Detect IT issues early and prevent costly downtime.
• CBS Live Helpdesk – Receive fast, reliable IT support when you need it.

2. Ransomware Protection and Cybersecurity

• Ransomware Protection – Cybercriminals use ransomware attacks to encrypt business data and demand payment. MNS Complete solutions provide proactive ransomware protection by detecting threats early, preventing them from spreading, and neutralizing attacks before they can harm your business.
• Email Security – Prevent phishing attempts and malicious attachments from reaching your inbox.
• Firewall Appliance – Strengthen network security and block unauthorized access.
• Office 365 and G-Suite Backup – Ensure business-critical data is protected and recoverable in case of an attack or accidental loss.

3. End-User Security Awareness Training

Many security breaches occur due to human error. Employees often fall victim to phishing scams, weak passwords, and social engineering tactics used by cybercriminals. MNS Complete provides end-user security awareness training to educate employees on best practices for cybersecurity.

With end-user security awareness training, your team will:

• Learn how to recognize and avoid phishing emails.
• Understand the importance of strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
• Identify potential cyber threats before they compromise business systems.
• Improve overall cybersecurity habits to reduce risk and improve business security.

Why Businesses Need MNS Complete Solutions

Cybersecurity threats are increasing in both volume and complexity. Many businesses believe they are too small to be targeted, but cybercriminals often go after small and mid-sized businesses because they lack proper cybersecurity measures.

By implementing MNS Complete, businesses can:

• Prevent costly ransomware attacks with advanced ransomware protection.
• Improve employee cybersecurity knowledge with end-user security awareness training.
• Reduce downtime and IT disruptions with proactive system monitoring and expert IT support.
• Safeguard business data with cloud backups and email security measures.

Investing in MNS Complete is not just about security—it’s about business continuity, efficiency, and peace of mind.

How Ransomware Protection and End-User Security Awareness Work Together

Many businesses assume that ransomware protection alone is enough to prevent cyberattacks. While strong ransomware defenses are critical, they must be paired with end-user security awareness training to be truly effective.

Even the best MNS Complete solutions cannot stop an employee from accidentally clicking a malicious link in an email. That’s why end-user security awareness training is a key component of MNS Complete. When employees know how to recognize phishing emails, suspicious websites, and social engineering tactics, they can avoid making security mistakes that lead to cyberattacks.

The All-in-One Solution for IT Services and Cybersecurity

Many businesses struggle to find the right balance between IT management and security protection. Some invest in ransomware protection but neglect end-user security awareness training. Others have strong IT support but lack robust cybersecurity measures.

With MNS Complete solutions, businesses no longer have to compromise on security or IT support. Everything is included in one seamless package, ensuring that:

• IT systems remain up-to-date and secure.
• Employees receive cybersecurity training to avoid mistakes.
• Business data is backed up and recoverable.
• Cyber threats like ransomware are detected and neutralized before they cause harm.

Protect Your Business with MNS Complete

In today’s rapidly evolving digital environment, ransomware protection and end-user security awareness training are no longer optional—they are essential. Businesses must take a proactive approach to cybersecurity to prevent financial losses, downtime, and data breaches.

With MNS Complete solutions from CBS of Colorado, your business gains access to comprehensive IT services, ransomware protection, and employee security training—all in one convenient package.

Don’t wait until a cyberattack disrupts your business. Invest in MNS Complete today and ensure that your company stays secure, compliant, and operational.

Contact CBS of Colorado today to learn more about MNS Complete and how they can protect your business from cyber threats.

When discussing cybersecurity, most people focus on computers, servers, or mobile devices. However, an often-overlooked vulnerability exists in office printers and copiers—especially legacy models. These devices, commonly referred to as “endpoints,” can pose significant security risks when not updated or maintained. Understanding these risks is essential for safeguarding sensitive business data.

What Is a Printer Security Risk?

Printers and copiers are no longer simple machines that only print or copy documents. Modern devices are equipped with sophisticated software, storage, and network connectivity. This increased functionality, while convenient, also makes them potential entry points for cyberattacks.

When older or legacy printers remain in use, they often lack the updated firmware, security patches, or advanced encryption features found in modern devices. As a result, they become vulnerable to exploitation. A printer security risk arises when these weaknesses can be exploited to gain access to sensitive information or to infiltrate a company’s broader network.

Common Security Risks of Legacy Printers & Copiers

1. Outdated Firmware and Software Legacy printers and copiers frequently lack the ability to receive automatic updates, leaving them with outdated firmware. Hackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to gain access to the device and potentially your entire network.
2. Weak or No Password Protection Many older devices rely on default passwords that are rarely changed. Without robust password policies, unauthorized users can easily access the device’s settings or stored data.
3. Unencrypted Data Transmission Legacy printers often lack encryption for data transmitted across the network. Sensitive information sent to the printer—such as financial records or personal data—could be intercepted during transit.
4. Hard Drive Data Storage Modern printers and copiers often come with internal hard drives to store scanned or printed documents temporarily. If not properly secured or wiped, these hard drives can expose sensitive information to unauthorized users, especially if the devices are retired without proper decommissioning.
5. Access to the Corporate Network Printers and copiers are frequently connected to the same network as computers and servers. A compromised legacy printer can serve as a gateway for attackers to infiltrate the network, steal data, or deploy malware.

Why Upgrading Legacy Printers and Copiers Matters

Upgrading your legacy devices to newer models isn’t just about improving speed or features; it’s a critical step in enhancing your cybersecurity. Modern printers and copiers are built with security in mind, offering features such as:

• Regular Firmware Updates: Automatic updates ensure the device is protected against the latest vulnerabilities.
• Enhanced Encryption: Modern devices encrypt data in transit and at rest, protecting sensitive information.
• Authentication and Access Control: Advanced access control features, like PIN codes or user authentication, restrict unauthorized usage.
• Secure Hard Drive Management: Newer devices automatically overwrite stored data or provide easy-to-use hard drive wiping features.

How to Mitigate Copier Security Risks with Legacy Devices

If upgrading your devices isn’t an immediate option, there are steps you can take to reduce the security risks associated with legacy printers and copiers:

1. Implement Strong Passwords: Change default passwords to complex, unique ones. Regularly update these passwords to maintain security.
2. Limit Network Access: Restrict printer access to authorized users only, and segment the printer network from sensitive systems.
3. Disable Unnecessary Features: Turn off features like wireless access or internet connectivity if they are not essential.
4. Secure Physical Access: Ensure printers are in secure areas to prevent unauthorized users from accessing stored data or printed materials.
5. Regular Maintenance and Updates: While legacy devices may not receive firmware updates, staying on top of manufacturer-recommended maintenance can mitigate some vulnerabilities.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore the Copier Security Risk

Printers and copiers may not seem like critical security concerns, but their vulnerabilities can have far-reaching consequences. By understanding the security risks of legacy printers and copiers, businesses can take proactive steps to secure their networks and sensitive data.

Whether it’s upgrading to modern, secure devices or implementing best practices for existing ones, addressing these risks is an essential part of any comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. Don’t let a printer security risk become the weak link in your organization’s defenses.

By upgrading or properly managing legacy devices, you can ensure your office remains efficient and secure. For more information on how to safeguard your business from copier security risks, consider reaching out to an IT professional or office technology provider today. Learn what steps you should take before disposing of office printers and copier here.

Microsoft Copilot has become a popular tool for improving business productivity, offering AI-driven assistance across Microsoft 365 apps. However, businesses considering the Copilot free version should carefully evaluate its features and security risks, especially when compared to the paid versions.

Copilot Free vs. Paid: What’s the Difference?

The Copilot free version provides basic AI functionalities to help users automate routine tasks, summarize meetings, and draft emails. While the free version offers many benefits, it lacks advanced security features available in the paid versions, such as enhanced administrator controls, granular permissions, and deeper integrations for data protection.

Businesses using the Copilot free version might find it useful for simple tasks but should be aware of its limitations. Paid versions offer more robust security, allowing businesses to manage access and control sensitive data more effectively. When comparing Copilot free vs. paid, the critical difference lies in how well your company can protect its internal data​

Key Microsoft Copilot Security Risks

1. Data Exposure Risks: One of the main concerns with the Copilot free version is the potential for data exposure. Copilot integrates with all Microsoft 365 services, meaning it has access to emails, files, and documents across your organization. If access controls aren’t tightly managed, sensitive information could be inadvertently exposed to unauthorized employees. Microsoft Copilot security risks become amplified when users can access data that isn’t properly restricted​
2. Insufficient Permission Management: The free version of Copilot uses your company’s existing Microsoft 365 permissions. If employees have broad access to sensitive files, Copilot can surface this information in unexpected ways, such as generating responses based on sensitive data. While the paid versions of Copilot include features that help administrators control and manage permissions, these controls are limited in the free version​
3. Risk of External Threats: Even though Microsoft employs comprehensive security protocols, vulnerabilities still exist in the Copilot free version, particularly regarding external threats. Phishing attacks or malicious actors could exploit weaknesses in your company’s access controls, especially if security practices like multi-factor authentication aren’t in place. This poses a significant Microsoft Copilot security risk, especially for businesses handling sensitive or confidential data​

Best Practices for Using the Copilot Free Version

If your business chooses to use the Copilot free version, there are steps you can take to mitigate some of the security risks:

• Limit Access to Sensitive Data: Ensure that employees only have access to the data they need to perform their tasks. This will help reduce the likelihood of Copilot generating outputs based on sensitive or confidential information.
• Educate Employees on AI Use: Train your employees on how to use AI tools like Copilot safely. They should verify any AI-generated outputs and be aware of the potential risks of sharing sensitive information​
• Implement Multi-Factor Authentication: Adding extra layers of security, like multi-factor authentication, can help protect your systems from unauthorized access, especially when using tools with extensive access like Copilot.

Copilot Free Version—Is It Right for Your Business?

While the Copilot free version offers valuable productivity features, it lacks the advanced security, administrative controls, and compliance tools found in the paid versions. If your business handles sensitive data, deals with regulatory requirements, or simply needs stronger data governance, the Microsoft Copilot security risks in the free version could outweigh the benefits. Without robust access control and data management, companies are at higher risk for inadvertent data exposure. Consider investing in the paid version for better oversight and enhanced security protections.

For businesses in need of expert IT guidance on securing AI tools like Copilot, CBS of Colorado offers comprehensive IT services, including data protection strategies and AI integration solutions. Ensure your company’s critical data remains safe while maximizing the potential of AI-powered tools.

Across the business world, there’s an intense debate raging – and an intense battle for your dollar as well. Microsoft and Google, two of the world’s largest tech companies, both would like you to believe their business software suites are the superior one. To any business owner, the choice between using Microsoft 365 vs Google Workspace may seem like an unnecessarily tough one to make, as both suites have similar features – office apps, mail, conferencing – yet each have unique ways of implementing them.

In this article, we’ll take a look at both Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace and each of their big features. We’ll show you the pros and cons of each, so that you can make a better-informed decision on which suite is best for your business’s needs.

Office Apps

Microsoft, with their widely-known and decades old line of office apps, being Word, Excel, Powerpoint and others, definitely have a greater public recognition than Google’s competing Docs, Sheets, and Slides – but does that mean you should count the new guy out?

Both 365 and Workspace are comprehensive in terms of features. From document creation to template implementation to file sharing, both suites will almost never leave you thinking, “I really wish this app could do more.” For the vast majority of business owners, 365 and Workspace alike will provide a complete set of features and functions, so functionality itself isn’t an issue of this debate. So then, when it comes to the core apps of these suites, what all is being debated?

Where & How Do They Run?

There’s a very good chance you’re already familiar with Word, Excel, and Powerpoint. With them having been around since the early days of PCs, they’ve built up quite a reputation, and in many ways, they’re still the same apps they were back then – solid, reliable workhorses that stay out of your way and let you get to work. The biggest difference, of course, being their modern code bases and feature sets.

365’s desktop apps, available starting at their Business Standard and Apps for Business packages, will run natively on any Windows or Mac computer, and functions just like any other traditional app. Open them from your taskbar or Dock, get to work, then close them once you’re done – simple.

This is in contrast to Google Workspace. Having been created by Google, the world’s leader in online and cloud-based tech, Workspace is a highly cloud-centric suite. Instead of having apps sitting on your desktop, Google’s apps live in your web browser. This also means that they were designed to be used while you’re connected to the Internet, and originally, Google’s apps could only be accessed online.

Google has since introduced ways to access their Workspace apps offline, but users won’t be getting the full experience. There are certainly benefits to using a cloud-based suite, but often times, nothing beats a good, old-fashioned native desktop app. Said apps, like 365’s, better harness your computers resources for improved performance, as opposed to funneling everything you do through your web browser first.

Compatibility

Picture this – a higher-up or business partner of yours asks you for a copy of some files for a meeting later today. A text document file, a spreadsheet file, and the file for the presentation you’ll be using – what format, or type of file, do you think they’ll ask for?

If you said .doc, .xls, and .ppt, you’ve just made a great case for using Microsoft 365.

Microsoft’s own file formats have been commonplace and the industry standard for decades. .doc has long been the almost-universal standard for any type of traditional text document. Needless to say, 365 will have no issues whatsoever handling these files.

Workspace can handle .doc’s and the like too, however. For simple documents, Workspace can open and edit Microsoft’s formats with few issues.

However, if you’re trying to open a more complex document, like one with templates, watermarking, or a lot of individual assets, Workspace may give you trouble. Misplaced images, strange text wrapping or formatting, missing template elements are just a few compatibility issues that may occur with Workspace and Microsoft formats.

A document’s age may also play a factor. Microsoft has a long history of great compatibility between versions of Word and the like – a Word doc from 1996 will open just as easily in today’s Word as a Word doc from 2021. Workspace, being so new relatively speaking, may run into further issues in cases like these.

Workspace can, however, effortlessly open, edit, and share its own file formats. If compatibility isn’t a top priority, that may well be a point for Google in your book.

Usability

365, for how feature-rich it is, can potentially be a bit overwhelming to some newer or less computer-savvy users. While having these apps live on your hard drive is a plus, the long menus, and complicated toolbars and features of Word and the like can be daunting. In this way, there’s a bit of a learning curve to be had with 365 – it may take some getting used to for the less tech-inclined.

Workspace, however, was designed with simplicity and ease-of-use in mind. With an interface as clean as a whistle, and with many features and menus slimmed down and streamlined, it’s a breeze to use – even for those with little computer experience.

Since both Workspace and Microsoft 365 have cloud-based versions, they can be fired up from any type of device via a web browser – be they a mobile one, or one with a non-Microsoft or Apple operating system. While both Google and Microsoft make mobile versions of their suites’ apps, Microsoft 365 has a more feature-rich set of apps for both Android and iOS.

Experienced computer users will likely find both Workspace and 365 easy to use. Some power users may prefer the customizability (think macros, custom keyboard shortcuts, plugins) of 365, but by and large both Workspace and 365 offer usability fit for any user with decent computer experience.

Email

An absolutely integral part of any business’s operations, a good email service is something you can’t go without as a business. Fortunately, both Microsoft’s Outlook and Google ubiquitous Gmail are solid choices of email client – though like their respective office apps, there are key differences between the two.

Gmail is widely known and liked by its user base. With a clean look, easy-to-grasp feature set, and mass adoption, few people will complain about having to use Gmail as their email client. There’s a good chance most, if not all, of your employee base already has some experience with Gmail, and those who don’t won’t have much issue adjusting.

Microsoft’s client, while not as popular, is similarly easy to grasp and intuitive, and more widely accepted in the business community. While it may take some users a bit of time to adjust, Microsoft customers enjoy better email security and more robust sorting capabilities. Just like Microsoft’s office apps, too, Outlook has an email client that lives on a user’s hard drive. It’s feature-rich, snappy, and power-user friendly, but users can use the web-based version just as easily.

Storage

Offering up to a gigabyte for free – more than enough for most users – Gmail is still considered rather generous. However, even on their priciest plan, Google offers a maximum of 30GB per Gmail user. Especially if your business deals a lot with large files, many users may find this restricting.

Microsoft offers a similar amount of storage for free, but their plans range from 50GB to 100GB per user.

If you value simplicity and a streamlined experience, Google may be your pick. If you value, sorting and storage capacity, consider Microsoft.

Video Conferencing

If you’re sick and tired of Zoom, you’ll be happy to know that neither Google nor Microsoft use it – they’ve got their own set of apps to conference with instead.

With Google Meet, you’ll be conferencing using the same cloud-centric approach that the other Workspace suite apps use. While you obviously need internet to video conference, Meet incorporates the same level of integration and cross-app features that you’d expect from such a cloud-centric suite.

Microsoft Teams, while not as streamlined at a glance, is just as easy to use. Available in both a desktop app and a web app, Teams makes it easy for anyone, regardless of tech skill, to join – just click the link, and it’ll sign you on automatically. Meet provides similar functionality, but Microsoft has gone out of their way to make it extremely easy to join a video call – something many of us struggled with during the age of remote work.

If large-scale conferencing is a priority, Teams will give you more bang (or rather, attendees) per buck. Meet allows for up to 500 attendees in its most expensive plan, where Microsoft grants that same number in its second most expensive. If you’re not holding back, with Teams you can enjoy a full 1000 attendees in a single meeting, though it will unfortunately be expensive.

Cloud Storage

Not to be confused with the aforementioned email storage, cloud storage is like a hard drive in the cloud – a place where you can store and back up all your files.

There’s a surprising amount of variation in how much cloud storage Google and Microsoft provide. At their cheapest price plan, Google offers a (relatively) tiny 30GB of storage per user – an acceptable amount for basic users, but those who deal with large files will find this very insufficient. This figure jumps up to 2TB – almost 67 (!) times more – at their next-highest plan, then to 5TB on their highest.

Microsoft takes an entirely different approach. They offer 1TB per user across the board, for every plan. At their cheapest offering, Microsoft is offering a staggering 34 times more storage than Google per user making Microsoft 365 the easy choice here.

Pricing

Google is very straightforward in their pricing plans. Ranging from 6 to 18 dollars per user per month, Google keeps it simple for easy consideration. More money per month gives your business greater storage space per user, allows for more conference participants, and at the highest echelons, enhanced security and retention.

Microsoft has a more flexible, albeit potentially confusing payment plan. They offer plans ranging from 6 dollars per month per user, to 22.

More expensive plans offer much better security and peace of mind, with threats like phishing and ransomware being blocked before they can hit your business. Alternatively, Microsoft offers packages that laser-target certain features. For instance, Microsoft offers a package that includes the desktop office apps, but leaves off other, less relevant features.

The Verdict

Both Microsoft 365 vs Google Workspace have their own strengths and shortcomings, and the fact the debate between them is so heated is a testament to how good they both are.

However, when looking at the big picture – the current state of the business world, the needs of the average user, the trajectory of the tech world – our winner of the Google Workspace vs Microsoft 365 debate, is Microsoft.

Native desktop apps, unbeatable file format compatibility, intuitive large-scale conferencing, and a generous cloud storage scheme make Microsoft the natural choice of business software suite. While Google is the current winner in the field of cloud integration and ease of access, Microsoft is quickly closing the gap and offering cloud solutions on par with that of their competitor.

In the world of business, tech is inescapable. Modern businesses rely on tech in some capacity for nearly everything, from client acquisition to payment processing to data storage, and we don’t blame you if it feels overwhelming.

While a blessing in many ways, the continued mass adoption of tech in business can over-complicate the ins and outs of everyday business life. In our tech-reliant world, you need an IT partner who can de-mystify the confusing world of business technology, and that partner may well come in the form of a Managed Service Provider.

We’ll walk you through four ways managed service providers can benefit you and your business, saving time, money, and most importantly, headache.

You Can Fire Your In-House IT Department

If you’ve got one or several people working as computer repairmen, internet-fixers or printer doctors, a managed service provider may be capable of taking over their job(s) entirely. An MSP can offer all the services that an in-house IT department can, like diagnostics, networking, security, computer updates, etc., all remotely while remaining just as quick and efficient.

With a managed service provider or MSP, like Complete Business Solutions, you can get in touch with your provider’s 24/7 helpdesk to get immediate help with any device on your company’s network. Our helpdesk’s tech support specialists are 100% transparent and accept full accountability for their actions on your network, so you can rest easy knowing your network is always safe and covered in the event of tech issues.

Ditch Your Expensive On-Site IT Hardware

Do you have a big, loud tower of servers that sits in your office and shoots your electricity bill through the roof? Tired of dealing with that cluttered, dense mess of wires and cables in that one backroom or closet?

A managed service provider might be just what the doctor ordered. Your provider can transfer all of your large on-site network infrastructure to the cloud, decluttering your office and simplifying how you and your employees manage their files. From one convenient online portal, you can store and manage all of your business’s data with ease and from anywhere in the world. And with Complete Business Systems, you can enjoy Tier 3 enterprise-class security and frequent backups to ensure maximum data security.

Simplify Your Phone & Conferencing Systems

Many businesses have surrendered to the idea that their phone systems are hopelessly complex, confusing or frustrating to manage without the help of their IT people — but it doesn’t have to be this way. A managed service provider can take your phone and video conferencing systems and migrate them to the cloud for greatly enhanced ease of use and simplicity.

From the cloud, your communications solutions can be effortlessly scaled to fit the needs of your business — if your company is growing rapidly, so can your phone systems, all with minimal effort and no downtime. At Complete Business Systems, you can also equip your business with top-of-the-line 4K video conferencing hardware and HD phone call quality, so that you and your employees never miss a detail.

Work With Confidence Knowing You’re Protected

If a flash flood or fire were to sweep through your office, would your business outright lose all of its data for good? If so, it may be time for a managed service provider.

Safely kept away in the cloud, your business’s data will be untouchable by natural disasters. No matter what freak weather events or freak accidents happen at your office, you won’t so much as lose a single file, as your data is constantly stored in a secure server offsite.

Likewise, your data will be kept safe from hackers and data thieves. With enterprise-grade encryption end-to-end, and a nearly impenetrable security layer on the server’s end, a hacker would theoretically need thousands of years to crack the code that keeps your data secure.

In the event your office requires backups of your data, we at Complete Business Systems will personally guide you through the restore process and tie up any and all loose ends, so that you’ll be back to work in no time.

If you’re in the market for technology right now, you’re no stranger to the fact that shortages, price hikes, and shipping delays are all the rage. With the number of places with office printers in stock declining, and the number of copiers and the like still in stock seemingly dropping by the hour, you aren’t alone if you’re wondering where you can buy office technology in 2022. Fortunately, you’re in luck if you’re still on the hunt for office printers in stock or any other office appliance. But first, let’s take a closer look at what exactly is going on in the market.

Why Is Buying Tech Such a Hassle All of a Sudden?

If it feels like buying new equipment for your office is harder, more headache-inducing than ever, it’s not just you — businesses the world over are struggling to supply their offices with printers, copiers, and even basic ink. There are many individual reasons for this new phenomenon, but the single biggest factor probably won’t surprise you – the COVID-19 pandemic.

The world of tech manufacturing has been hit especially hard by the pandemic. From a lack of production specialists to a lack of raw materials, getting products to market has been a challenge for most tech industries as of late. If you’ve heard something about a “supply chain crisis” or “chip shortage” lately, this is just one area of the market that’s been affected by that crisis. And for this industry, among others, these COVID-19-induced crises and shortages aren’t appearing to let up any time soon.

While these tech firms haven’t completely ground their production to a halt, it’s still become quite a bit harder for businesses the world over to get office printers in stock, in addition to copiers, and other office technology they need. In other words, there’s a lot more scarcity than there was previously.

And with scarcity comes a whole host of issues for those looking to obtain new office equipment. From rising prices on new and used equipment, to longer shipping times and more delays, to ever more frequent “out of stock” notices when you’re trying to shop around, buying new tech for your office has truly become a hassle. And we get that, and we’re happy to be able to say that hope is not yet lost for you and your office.

The Best Place to Buy Office Technology in 2022

At Complete Business Systems, we are proud to announce that we have office printers in stock, office copiers in stock, and not to mention VOIP systems, multifunction copiers, every kind of ink and toner you can imagine, all in stock. Where other office technology suppliers are struggling to fill orders and meet their clients’ needs, CBS has been able to keep up with demand ever since these market issues began in 2020. And we’ll be able to keep on keeping our clients happy in both the immediate and more distant futures.

How is CBS Able to Supply Office Equipment When Other Suppliers Can’t?

Going beyond our integrated, close-knit relationships with our suppliers, we at CBS have one key area that sets us apart from your standard big-box office supply store – direct partnerships with all of your favorite, most trusted brands. Our close relationship with these brands — including Microsoft, HP, Kyocera, Ricoh and many more — ensure that we have priority over others when it comes to our order fulfillment and customer satisfaction. Working with these brands directly give us a sort of VIP status, making CBS greater Denver’s premier office technology supplier.

Our expansive stock of used and refurbished office printers in stock and office copiers in stock allows us to supply a greater volume of equipment, at an even wider variety of price points. If you need the top of the line for your office, we can arrange for a brand-new piece of equipment for you. or if you need something more economical, consider a refurbished item. All of these and more are, of course, in stock.

In recent times, cyber security has become a crucial aspect for companies across the globe. However, it is still not given the importance that it deserves. In 2021, there were 5 major cyber-attacks that involved ransomware, and millions of dollars were either stolen or extorted by cybercriminals. 

In April, Colonial Pipeline’s 100 gigabytes worth of data was stolen within two hours, and the company had to pay the hackers $4.4 million in Bitcoin. Later, the same year, Acer fell victim to an attack and had to pay $50 million, which is one of the biggest amounts to ever have been paid to date. 

The list can go on with numerous other companies such as Brenntag, JBS Foods, and more. All these cases have two simple yet significant learnings:

• People need to start seeing cyber security as a business decision rather than an auxiliary part of a company’s infrastructure. 
• Cyber security is not a one-time fix. It is an always-on, ever-evolving process that needs constant attention. 

Understanding this has never been more important. Ever since the global pandemic and the resultant lockdown, organizations have started moving towards digital transformation.

Companies are strategizing and devising plans for hybrid work models where people can work both on-premises and remotely. In fact, an Accenture report also stated that 63% of high-revenue growth companies chose to go with the hybrid model. Having a widely dispersed staff can compromise network security and shed light on your organization’s cyber security vulnerabilities. 

With such insights, it is evident that cyber security will play a key role in organizations and companies. So, what are the best cyber security practices to strengthen security and safeguard the organization? We put together a list below so you will know what to look for when you are looking for a cyber security partner to keep your organization safe.  

Best Practices to Improve Cyber Security

IT Security Audits

This can be a yearly or bi-yearly activity, where a company’s cyber security infrastructure goes through an audit by experienced vendors who specialize in the field. This way, you’ll know the gaps in the system and can fill them accordingly.

Training Workforce

A significant number of cyberattacks happen through spam, phishing emails, or employee systems in the organization. So, you must ensure that you spend time training your workforce, educating them about security, raising awareness, and also teaching the best practices. 

Contingency Plans

In the event of a disaster, there needs to be a well-structured plan that directs the personnel on various steps to take. For this, you must have an incident response team ready. This team can identify, contain, and eliminate cyberattacks, minimizing the impact of any security breach. 

Insurance

Invest in insurance to save the business thousands and millions of dollars. Cyberattacks are inevitable, and with each passing day, their complexity and nature are evolving. Cyber security doesn’t guarantee safety; it merely decreases your chances of getting hacked. So, on a rainy day, when your organization faces an attack and incurs a loss, you should have insurance that cuts losses.

Conclusion

Overall, cyber security is something organizations, businesses, and essentially anyone owning a digital device needs to focus on. After all, the world is moving towards digitalization, and it is imperative that you keep your infrastructure safe. If you think your company could use a cyber security audit reach out to our team at Complete Business Systems today.

 

These days everyone is growing more and more attached to their phones.  Not merely due to bad habits or addictive tendencies but also because business and daily life is becoming more and more attached to smartphones by the day.

Whether its tickets to a show, sending money, or simply doing business via email, more and more people are using their phone as the primary medium to get these things done.  Consequently, people find themselves using public and shared charging stations more and more.

Unfortunately, many of these stations lack security and can be easily manipulated to expose sensitive information from people who have used the charging station.  As more and more of these stations have gone into use around the country, more and more hackers are using them to steal or manipulate sensitive data.

With this in mind, CBS has recently partnered with the new Supernova product line.

Supernova charge stations offer a fantastic solution for businesses to help keep their employees phones charged!  Even better, the units are checked out and returned on premise so you can offer these chargers to your visitors as well.

The charging devices are small and portable and can be returned at the user’s leisure.  The devices are also attached to your cell phone number so it is very easy to check out and return the chargers to the station without confusion or lost chargers.

To learn more about the Supernova product line get in touch with us ASAP.  We have units on-premise to show you and can get your office set up quickly and easily!

Getting a regular network assessment for performance and security is rarely at the top of a business owner’s mind.  With a million other things that are typically more pressing and time-sensitive bombarding company employees from the CEO to the I.T. administrator, it’s not uncommon to see regular network assessments go by the wayside.  As a result, it is quite easy to set aside important network maintenance issues in preference for focusing on more pressing or urgent tasks.

However, as business has evolved and other factors have led to more and more remote-working habits, the relationship with the internet and business networks has rapidly and greatly evolved in a relatively short period of time.  As a result of this evolution, it is more important than ever to audit and regularly assess your network for a myriad of reasons.  Since it would take a great deal of time to discuss each potential error or challenge that can arise from a vulnerable or inefficient network, we will focus on the most important three.

1.  Security

Network security may seem like an obvious talking point but there is more complexity to this issue than people realize.  First of all, security is not just as simple as having firewalls and spam filters.  Proper security measures also include other elements such as login protocols, cloud access, maintaining current and updated hardware and software, remote access, and more.

Since the last year has drastically changed how people access work information and interact with business documents online, it is quite common to see network security that worked great one or two years ago have unpredicted vulnerabilities due to an adjustment in regular working habits.

Performing quarterly or yearly network assessments is a simple and easy way to get a top-down view of your network and how you and your team interact and operate on it.  Despite working habits continuing to change, you can keep your security and network performance in line with this evolution.

2.  Efficiency

Similarly with network security, business and employee efficiency can be directly linked to your network performance.  The most obvious example is when an employee can’t access work documents remotely due to dated or poorly designed network access protocols.  Having your team consistently be able to access work documents quickly and efficiently is more important than ever with a growing remote workforce.

This breaks down into two parts.  Hardware and software.

Having current and reliable technology may be an obvious suggestion, but technology is evolving faster than ever so people need to understand that hardware more than a few years old could present potential challenges with regard to network access and performance.

Software performance and integration is the second part of the equation.  Even if you have the best tech money can buy, it needs to properly integrate and function with your vital business software.  With more employees moving from the office to remote work, it is common to see a loss in average efficiency due to slow performance or regular network access problems.

By doing regular network assessments, you can easily identify what hardware and software is potentially slowing you down and make adjustments accordingly.

3.  Overhead Cost

Last but not least, regular network assessments offer valuable feedback that allow businesses to streamline their internal functionality and minimize fiscal waste.  Knowing what hardware and software is working is only part of the conversation.  The second thing to consider is whether or not there is an opportunity to simplify or remove potential hardware, software, or processes that result in wasted time, resources, or both.

Analyzing network assessment data is very much a process where you get back what you put in.  If your I.T. team or manager is not regularly looking through reports to find areas of loss or inefficiency, then it is very possible and likely that you could be spending extra dollars for literally no reason.

Taking a moment to audit a network is not a terribly time consuming process and if done regularly can really help a business in several manners including employee performance, business expenses, and network security.

One of the most frustrating challenges facing remote workers today is having inconsistent or slow access to business files and networks.  While there are a multitude of ways to connect to your business network, not all of them are as reliable or fast.  Below is a list of the three most common problems facing users that depend on remote access to do work.

Speed

The first and most common challenge faced by remote workers is inconsistent or regular slow connection speeds.  The main reason is many remote connections have minimal bandwidth so if the user is trying to work inside of a large application like Quickbooks, it is difficult and time consuming for the information to get through to the end user.

The best way to work around this potential hurdle is to use a cloud-based solution like Microsoft Azure.  The single sign-on feature coupled with more dedicated bandwidth offered in the cloud makes it very easy to directly access your network and applications without being bottlenecked through slow network connections.

Reliability

The next issue that users face is more focused on reliability.  Due to the same reasons that speed and performance is slowed, connectivity and reliability are also a challenge.  This can really be a problem for people that need consistent access to their files.  Getting kicked off or dropped from the network could be very frustrating as files and adjustments could be lost without being properly saved and updated.

Cloud based solutions can be set up and formatted to make sure that users have consistent access and reliable security features.  However, the best way to manage these applications and platforms is with a certified and trained partner.  Since all businesses operate in their own unique way, it takes specialized and nuanced expertise to maximize the value and efficiency of these platforms.

Design Limitations

Lastly, it is important to understand and appreciate that not all remote access platforms are designed for large file transfers or simultaneous multiple users.  Since much of the working landscape has changed so rapidly in the last year, it is not unusual to see some businesses struggling to find solutions that allow them to work to their full operational potential.

What is important is identifying what is most important for your business.

Do you work with financial or confidential information?

If so, you may put security as your highest priority.

Do you have a large company and need hundreds of users to have reliable access to your network? 

In that case you may need a solution that is more focused on single sign-on access with a large amount of bandwidth to support your workforce

Are you getting disconnected from the network all the time? 

This could be as simple as bandwidth or dated software.  This could be quickly fixed by moving to a cloud based network.

These are just a few of the potential questions that someone might consider when thinking about ways to improve access and performance for remote users.  However, there are many more variable and details to consider so if you are dealing with problems or headaches accessing your business network, give us a call to set up a network audit!

It is no secret that even in remote working times like these, documents still need to be printed.  Everything from standard black and white documentation to colorful promotional banners advertising the latest meal delivery service promotion.  Furthermore, as we continue to push through these challenging times and restore a sense of normalcy and order to daily business, the demand for printing will likely increase dramatically.

With all the financial strain that has come with the last year of pandemic related social struggles, it is important now more than ever to ensure that you aren’t wasting important dollars on easily overlooked investments.  One of the heaviest costs that companies tend to overlook is the amount of time and money they invest in printing systems and supplies.  This is an easy error to make since waste happens in very small increments.  Perhaps printing a document with color more often than normal or printing different assets that use different amounts of color.  Each print job will only cost a few cents but once you factor in volume, that small amount can turn rather large quite quickly.

With challenges and circumstances like these in mind, CBS has developed a 3-tiered managed printing program to help minimize your overall investment and minimize waste.  The philosophy is quite simple.  Since you know what you print and have an idea of how much, we have put together flat-rates based on your colored ink usage.  The tiered design allows for flexibility and forgiveness with respect to printing practices.  Here is how they break down:

Tier 1 – Business Color/Low Coverage – This is perfect for standard business applications such as letterheads or standard financial statements.

Tier 2 – Creative Color/Medium Coverage – This tier is more for offices that create a lot of printed presentations with visuals like colored graphs or charts.

Tier 3 – Full Color/High Coverage – This is for businesses that design or produce large marketing pieces with high resolution imagery.

These optional printing programs are offered as part of any standard copier agreement.

Ever since rolling out the 3-tiered printing platform, CBS has saved overhead expenses for numerous clients and that list continues to grow.  With more and more clients using creative platforms like this, they can maximize their output without spending extra.

There simply is no good reason to waste dollars on printing anymore.  To learn more about rates or getting the platform started for your business please get in touch with us today!

Moving from the office to working from home has brought with it more than a few changes to how we all do business.  Shifting environments means we have had to shift our practices regarding a multitude of processes, ranging from security protocols, to e-mail to basic network user access.

How can employees access private business information without losing security?

How can we make it easy for employees to access, use, and share vital information easily and efficiently?

How can we make data and vital business applications available anywhere to remote users?

These are just a few of the questions that business owners and I.T. specialists were facing virtually over night.

The good news is that most major service providers have already been developing and considering new ways to support these working environments for some time.  So the questions no longer surrounded if the necessary protocols and security measures could be implemented, but instead:

How many platforms, applications, and protocols were needed?

How/if could they be properly integrated?

What would it look like for each independent business?

How is the remote user affected and what measures need to be put in place to have them work properly?

While these may seem like simpler or easier problems to be faced with, they actually aren’t.  Security solutions and access protocols are very much customized around the unique needs and internal processes of each business.  So there is no simple, or one-size-fits-all solution regarding security.  Technical expertise is essential when developing and implementing a cloud platform like Microsoft Azure.

By using Office 365 or Azure you can allow for simple, single sign-in access to your network that has fully functional data backups and security in place.  Files that are being used and accessed remotely are being done so within the safety and security of a managed cloud service.  Furthermore, by setting up the platforms to integrate properly you allow remote employees easy and quick access to their active directory and files without losing or altering established access parameters.

Having these platforms implemented by experts creates a work from home environment that allows users to enjoy the access, functionality, and security of a fully functional business network.  However, due to the multitude of different functions and applications with platforms like Azure, it is very easy to make a mistake in setup that compromises performance.  So make sure you are working with an expert when you go through the setup process or you could mistakenly allow for potential vulnerability regarding security or performance.

One of the places where businesses are most vulnerable is through e-mail access and bad practices.  Since it is very easy to bounce information in and out of e-mail, many businesses could find themselves exposed to phishing scams, ransomware, and other digital threats that they didn’t face when they were working within their own on-premise networks.

E-mail is being used more and more maliciously now than ever before.  Security breaches can easily happen if employees are not properly trained on how to use e-mail appropriately.  Creating protocols for securely accessing e-mail and data that are simple to use, yet still extremely protective, can help prevent breaches that can cripple a business.

From local government offices to small privately owned business, everyone was targeted and many were victimized by phishing scams, ransomware, and spam attacks in 2020.  Most trends like this tend to get more malicious and brazen over time so it is important now more than ever to ensure that your employees are not making simple mistakes that can compromise vital information.

Here are a few examples of bad e-mail practices that compromised networks, private information, and destroyed businesses:

• E-mailing company files to personal e-mail for easy access.  This takes private data from a secure environment to a potentially exposed network.
• Clicking malicious e-mails that could have been filtered with proper security.  These e-mails often look safe an convincing and typically seem like they are from a trusted source.  It only takes one mistaken click to compromise a wealth of information.
• Working as a remote user outside of the network opens up the potential for gaps to arise within the disaster recovery or backup protocols.  If your business network is regularly backing up your e-mail data, you will lose that the moment someone migrates files off the business network.

These are just a few of a growing list of examples where people and businesses were victimized over mishaps in e-mail.  There are plenty of steps and pre-emptive measures available to help mitigate and avoid these potential security pitfalls.

CBS has an experienced and certified team of I.T. network specialists that are ready to assist you in both setting up and optimizing your cloud network.  Contact us anytime to set up a network audit or simply ask a question.

It is no secret that 2020 was one of the most challenging years in the history of the US economy.  Businesses and people from every industry were drastically impacted and almost all of us were asked to alter our way of doing work and conducting business in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.  CBS was no different.  But we had the added challenge of serving as a reliable and trustworthy resource for our clients who had to make the same or similar operational adjustments that we were making.

We are proud to say that we rolled out a myriad of solutions to aid in these efforts, ranging from Equipment Dropship Programs to enhanced Remote Working Platforms all the way to a comprehensive suite of “Contact Free” technologies.  Despite the numerous challenges, CBS stayed ahead of the evolving and changing operational demands to keep our clients working efficiently throughout this difficult year.

Below are three of the biggest and most influential products and services that we rolled out in 2020.

Ricoh Dropship and Contact-Free Programs

Back in March, when the initial lockdown took effect, people were asked to work remote in any situation possible.  However, most people lack the advanced printing and copying technology that they make regular use of while working in the office.  In response, Ricoh and CBS rolled out a dropship program to get “plug and play” devices in the hands of people working from home.

Ricoh was not finished though.  As stay-at-home restriction loosened over the summer, more people were making their way back to the office.  But the fear and concerns about COVID were still very much a real problem.  This created a unique challenge.  How could we maximize the value of the technology while minimizing the potential transmission of germs from using a shared device?

The answer was the Ricoh Contact-Free copier functionality.  Ricoh has made it possible to use all the primary features of your device without having to physically interact with the machine.  You can you use your personal wireless device to access your address book to share information.  Copying, scanning, fax, and printing can all now be done with most Ricoh devices without touching the machine.

Microsoft Azure and Cloud Computing

Printing functionality wasn’t the only thing that was potentially lost by moving workforces remote.  People also needed to access their company data and interact with their CRM and other databases.  What is more, people still needed to collaborate and interact so the demand for tools like Microsoft Teams skyrocketed.

The CBS I.T. division made a priority of ensuring that people had access to not only major cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure, but we also guided and helped our clients in setting up and optimizing performance.

Using a tool like Microsoft Azure allows you to streamline your login and access to your suite of Microsoft tools, including Teams, Outlook, and more!  Azure is extremely complex and has a lot of moving pieces though so having experts like the I.T. team at CBS is essential to ensure not only proper setup and functionality, but also security.

With more and more people working remote and accessing company data from numerous locations and networks, it is also vital that you have proper security and disaster recovery protocols established.  With CBS and Microsoft Azure, our clients were able to remain productive and maintain peace of mind with regard to their vital data and operations.

New Wide Format Technology

With regard to some changes that were not directly in response to COVID-19, CBS now offers technology for Vinyl printing and wraps.  Due to a large and growing demand from businesses in Denver, we decided to expand our wide format catalogue to include technology that uses UV, eco-solvent, and solvent based inks.

• UV – UV based inks are very strong and durable.  This is the perfect type of ink for something that will be outside and exposed to harsh elements on a regular basis.  While UV based printing technology is a bit more expensive, the investment is well worth it if you plan on exposing your work to harsh elements
• Eco-Solvent – This is a great ink for something that needs to be durable and long lasting but stays inside.  The eco-solvent ink design is to offer a solvent level of print quality without the harsh fumes.
• Solvent – Solvent ink is great if you need something to withstand the elements but don’t need it to last as long or be as durable as something printed with UV.  However, the chemicals in the ink can be harsh to breathe so these items should not be displayed indoors without good air ventilation.

While there were quite a few other offers and services we rolled out in 2020, these three ranked towards the top with regards to client interest and deployment.  All of these services and new technologies are here to stay as we will continue to grow and evolve our catalogue of products and services.

We may not yet know what challenges will face us in the coming year, but we can all be certain that the shared difficulties and struggles of 2020 will only strengthen our resolve and prepare us for whatever lies ahead.

From all of us at CBS, have a happy holiday season and New Year!

We are excited to announce that CBS has recently expanded our product portfolio to include printing technology designed for signage, wraps, and other outdoor applications.

This new printing technology comes with a diverse selection of sizes and specifications to ensure solutions that fit the exact desired need of each client.  These printers are available with UV, Solvent, and Eco-Solvent inks and come in a wide range of sizes ranging from 48 to 104 inches.

This technology has largely been used by print shops because in house solutions were hard to come by.  However, CBS now has solutions for those businesses seeking an alternative to outsourcing.  By bringing these types of printing projects in house, businesses can now reproduce what they need, when they need it, at a much more cost effective price point when compared to expensive print shops.

Since this new technology comes with a variety of options regarding size and ink types, it is vital to understand what the different inks do and how they are best utilized.

Eco-Solvent solutions are fantastic since they have less odor and can be used in any space with good ventilation.  Indoor signage and graphics are common places where this style of printing is used.

Solvent inks are not made from mineral bases and tend to be fade proof, water proof, and resilient to scratches and contact.  These inks are more typical for anything exposed to harsher elements or spending long amounts of time outside.  Eco-Solvent solutions tend to be more ideal for indoor environments where Solvent solutions are more suitable for being outdoors.

UV ink is an extremely resilient solution and can last longer than either solvent ink in sunlight.  The UV ink application process actually uses UV lights inside the printer to dry the ink immediately.  Since this ink is made of different chemical compounds it can last longer outside while still remaining waterproof and resilient.

Each of these solutions is now available from CBS and our Wide Format Specialist can walk you through how to select the perfect solution for you or your business.

For more information or if you have any questions about this exciting new technology, contact us anytime!

It is no secret that the last few months have forever changed the way we approach, and do business.  Fortunately, many of these adjustments are helping reluctant business owners find justification in trying out new technology and solutions.  In an effort to make these adjustments as painless and efficient as possible, CBS has been a leader in the Denver market in offering reliable and innovative solutions to help workers and businesses adapt to a changing workplace.

While we are beginning to return to a more normal sense of life and business, some of the services we have rolled out in response to the Covid pandemic will continue to be available.  Three of our more popular service offerings include our in-house printing services, dropship program for plug-and-play desktop devices, and our scalable MNS Gold program.

In-House Printing:

After Covid struck, we noticed that there was an increased need for quick access to printing devices.  While most work and correspondence can be finished and transferred safely via digital mediums, there is still a prevalent need for getting documents printed.

While we do not have the capacity or desire to offer a full-capability print shop, we do want our clients to have on-site access to the solutions and technology they need in a timely manner.   So for projects of an urgent nature, we are still available and happy to assist our clients with their printing needs.  For more information on pricing or how to set up a project please click HERE.

Ricoh Dropshiping:

Another part of people losing access to printing technology was the need for new devices in home offices and remote work spaces.  In response, we started our Ricoh dropship program for plug-and-play devices to keep printing demands properly met.  With this program, we were able to quickly get new machines to home offices fast and without any physical contact.

Since, like most professional analysts, we expect a shift in business to a more remote daily experience, we are going to continue to make this service available.  It allows for us to provide reliable new technology to our clients quickly and with minimal or no personal contact.

Managed Network Services – Gold:

Last but not least, we rolled out our MNS Gold platform.  This allows for businesses to roll out I.T. solutions that are scaled more closely to resemble their daily operations and needs.  Most importantly, these scaled back solutions allow more remote workers to have responsible I.T. solutions and security in place without making a large investment.

Offering scalable solutions that fit the direct needs of our clients is a goal that we aim for on a daily basis.  However, managed network services is complex and unique to every business so our expectation and goal is to continue to further evolve how we approach and offer managed network services to our clients.  Our I.T. division at CBS truly has a very exciting future as we continue to grow and expand the countless ways we serve our clients.

Adjusting back to normal business will come with its own unique set of unexpected challenges.  However, just as we helped support our clients work from their homes, we will be there to help get them back to the office.

It is no secret that in today’s business marketplace there are malicious and intelligent threats all over the internet.  Some of them are very benign while others have the capacity to completely put someone out of business.

In recent posts, we have explored concepts like disaster recovery and business continuity.  Within that model exists network security practices and protocols.  However, the complexity and detail of network security processes are wholly dependent on the organizations that implement them.

What that basically means is that there is no such thing as a 100% guaranteed one-size-fits-all solution.

The good news is that while such diversity in methodology exists, there are still a handful of best practices that can be applied and implemented across all solutions.  We are going to briefly discuss 5 methods that are easy to implement and can make a big difference in maintaining the integrity of your privacy and professional network.

Keep Software Updated Regularly

This may seem fairly obvious but it is a very easy process to forget about.  Countless businesses and private users fail to update software regularly and do not realize that this enhances their risk for a network attack.  The best way to address this is simply to pay attention to notifications and then set updates to occur automatically.

Many of these software updates include security updates so delaying these regular software enhancements can give a hacker or online threat the opening it needs to access your network or private data.

Use Varied & Complex Passwords With Management Tool

Another one of the more obvious but perpetually ignored facets of good online security is using complex passwords that change often.  Most people, including the author of this blog, get comfortable using the same handful of passwords.  It is easier to manage and you don’t have to worry about forgetting.  It makes sense!

Problem is that the more a password is used, the more likely it is to be compromised.  The dark web offers countless tools to decipher passwords that are used with regularity and then paired to the parent email or account of the host user.  That means if one of your passwords is compromised, you can have security breaches on any entities that use those same login credentials.

So the next question becomes “how can one manage so many different passwords?”

There are numerous different online apps and platforms that are designed to remember passwords and auto enter them for you as needed.  These allow you to use highly complex passwords and change them regularly without ever having to actually learn or memorize them.

Use Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication is becoming more and more popular with education, finance, and banking services.  This is the process of verifying a login by sending the stored contact information (usually a text or email) a code to verify that the actual account owner is the one accessing the account.

Many personal and business account allows for this level of security as an option but it is not always utilized since people tend to get annoyed with spending another minute or two to safely login.  However, that extra minute could not be better spent if it means maintaining the security and integrity of a network with confidential and private information.

Understand Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are one of the most popular and common threats to security.  While they are the easiest to avoid, they are also among the most successful strategies to breaking into networks.  The success of this strategy relies on the ignorance of the masses at large.  People are still not careful about opening suspicious emails or clicking links that look like they are real.

Phishing scams are usually emails, texts, or instant messages that have links in them.  The emails can look official and legitimate which is why people continue to take the bait.  The best way to avoid falling for these scams is simply to avoid clicking on any link that doesn’t come from a trusted source.  These links usually look like they are coming from a service provider or institution that you have an account with, banks being among the most common.  However, if you look closely, you can usually find something suspicious.  (For example, the return email may be www.bank.co instead of www.bank.com)

No banks will contact you via email only with account sensitive issues so if you receive correspondence that looks like it could be real, the best solution is to contact the institution directly so you control how the information is passed and who receives it.

In conclusion, don’t click on links that look suspicious in the least.  If ever you have a doubt, you should contact the institution in question directly.

Backup Your Data

Last but not least, everyone should have some kind of backup for their important data.  Whether that is using the cloud, physical storage, or hiring an outside service provider, backing up your data is imperative.

We have discussed the concepts surrounding data backup and the strategies that come into play in previous posts so I won’t go into excess detail here but using a data backup or disaster recovery strategy is one of the most reliable methods to securing the information on your network.

Like other strategies, this process is going to be largely dependent on the type of information you are securing, the complexity of your network, and the associated value.  However, there are numerous strategies and services available to allow you to have backup your personal or business data so it is very easy to find a platform or solution that fits your needs without over investing.

These are just a handful of a plethora of different methods someone can use to protect their data and network.  Feel free to add other strategies that we haven’t covered in the comments section below.

Lastly, if you have questions or are interested in learning more about improving or managing your business network security please contact us anytime to set up a meeting or network audit.

 

In our last blog, we briefly introduced disaster recovery solutions as part of the business continuity family.  However, disaster recovery is arguably the most important aspect of your business continuity plan.  Today’s blog will go over some of the basic concepts and strategies that are available with disaster recovery solutions.

Since every business operates differently, disaster recovery solutions offer a diverse selection of strategies to work with any business regardless of size or investment capability.  Since some businesses can operate with minimal data, they do not need to over invest in securing their vital information.

While other methods are available, the primary types of file backup are either file or image based backups.  File based solutions backup each file independently whereas and image based approach allows for a faster more streamlined solution as it backups files through image capturing which is more efficient and best suited for large volumes of documents.

These backups can be stored in numerous places.  Everywhere from a USB device to a protected cloud server can be used to store backed up information.

This is where some of the complications and problems can arise.  Since most people who run a business are experts in their craft instead of in the intricacies of data security, it is extremely important to have a clear and accurate understanding of how you are managing your disaster recovery plan.

Here are just a few of the questions that should be considered:

1. Are you saving everything on a USB?
2. Are you backing things up to the cloud?
3. How often are these backups occurring?
4. Do you have more than one redundancy to better ensure secured data?
5. When was the last time your disaster recovery plan was tested?

All of these questions are important.  But most importantly, as businesses grow and change, the answer to these questions may change.  For example, if a business is only a few people and they store sensitive data in a few separate files, it may only make sense to secure those files.  However, if the business grows and starts to migrate that data into different file groupings or create new workflows, the information may not be secured anymore since the workflow and organization has changed.

Another issue that faces people who try to manually secure information on USB devices is if a file is compromised and then unknowingly saved to the USB, then the USB becomes compromised too, along with any other computer that gets connected to this device.  In this scenario, not only has the user had their data compromised on the USB, but they have also compromised other devices as well.  Since many ransomware hacks have delayed enabling, people are unaware that they are putting malicious information on to their storage device.

The most important fact about disaster recovery is that there is no perfect solution.  Hackers and ransomware are evolving as much as the security designed to stop them.  That is why it is vital to keep your disaster recovery plan top of mind as your business grows and evolves.

There are countless examples of people how thought a simple or manual solution would be enough only to learn first hand that they were not properly secured.  Hundreds of businesses get their information held by ransomware every year and for many of them it serves as a death sentence.  However, for businesses that utilize proper disaster recovery practices, these threats are minimal and easily mitigated.

The key takeaways are the following:

1. Have more than one redundancy.  If you have an on-site solution, consider adding a remote cloud backup to ensure your data is safe.
2. Check and make sure your disaster plan is current with your business workflow no less than once a year.
3. USB drives can be compromised.  Unplugging something doesn’t ensure safety.
4. Your backup process should be tested 1-2 times a year to ensure efficacy and timely access.
5. Don’t try to figure this out for yourself.  CBS and other companies have specialists that can walk you through this process to ensure you receive proper solution.

Your data matters!  Make sure it is protected.

With all of the new technology and software available in today’s workplace, it can be overwhelming to get an understanding of what is necessary and what is superfluous.  From CRM’s to managed service providers, owners and administrators have a lot of options and strategies to consider when approaching business technology.

One of the most important strategies to consider is business continuity.

Put simply, business continuity is the strategy for maintaining functionality and performance through potential network threats or problems.  These threats range from benign problems like software mishaps to more serious issues like dealing with ransomware.  Most large organizations have processes in place due to compliance requirements or because they have a wealth of private or sensitive information.  A solid business continuity plan allows these corporations to protect themselves from losing sensitive information or experiencing large amounts of downtime due to an unforeseen event.  Anything from weather disasters or hacker attacks can be mitigated by having redundant backups and geographically diverse server locations.

Business continuity has multiple facets that contribute to the overall outcome.  One of the most important pieces is disaster recovery.

Disaster recovery is the piece of a business continuity plan that directly pertains to dealing with data loss, downtime, and external threats.  Since every business operates differently, no two disaster recovery plans are the same.

This is extremely important to highlight because many companies try to approach disaster recovery with a singular approach.  Unfortunately, one strategy doesn’t often apply to more than one business.

When designing and implementing a disaster recovery plan, multiple variables need to be considered.  Everything from compliance protocol, industry, number of employees, number of offices, network size, workflow, and standard operational procedures are just a few of the variables that need to be considered.

There is a wealth of misconception and misunderstanding about what makes for a good disaster recovery plan.  Many people assume that keeping data on an extra thumb drive is sufficient when in fact, the thumb drive itself could be hacked and compromised and then used as a tool to infiltrate other networks.  Disaster recovery solutions are not simplistic by design since proper network security and business continuity demands much more attention to detail and technical insight in today’s economy.

In conclusion, business continuity and disaster recovery plans are vital to any operating business.  These plans allow for maximum up-time while drastically reducing threats to sensitive information and data.  All of these solutions are customized and scalable to allow for businesses of any size to ensure consistent performance and safe digital operations.

Most people that work in offices are familiar with the standard functions of a copy machine.  Scan, fax, and print are the primary roles of these devices and most everyone understands what these roles entail.  However, what many people do not realize is how some of those processes can be streamlined in ways that enhance profit and reduce time investment.

Good scanning strategies and practices offer a fantastic example of how optimizing integrated processes can result in a boost in efficiency and reduce overhead costs.

So how exactly can good scanning practices help your manage or optimize your business workflow?

1. Compression – One of the biggest headaches faced by numerous business verticals is having files that are large and slow to load.  Finance, legal, accounting, and healthcare are just a few of the fields where large documents and files are stored and accessed with great regularity.  By utilizing compression software such as PremierCOMPRESSION, you can automatically compress file sizes as they are scanned into your database.  This greatly reduces the amount of time it takes to load a file while simultaneously reducing the amount of space you use to save vital data.  Using quality compression software offers a night and day experience to business people that need to access large files regularly.  Furthermore, studies have shown in numerous verticals that there is money to be saved by minimizing file sizes since it allows people to invest less in storing data.
2. Accessibility – The next headache that good scanning practices can help alleviate is user access.  Even if you have compressed files, they can still be long and wordy and time consuming to read through.  By implementing a full-suite scanning solution, you can make your documents searchable in PDF format.  This is another feature that is popular with organizations that work in the legal, medical, or the financial vertical.  Having the freedom and flexibility to search archived documents with specific data saves time and frustration for people that need to regularly find or reference dated information.
3. Integration – The last headache that a good scanning solution addresses is organization and workflow.  The key component to this strategy is healthy and responsible software integration.  Since there are hundreds of business optimization platforms available and no two are the same, it is vital to employ a scanning solution that can communicate and integrate with your working processes and systems.  Many free or online compression and scanning tools have challenging limitations when it comes to integration.  Solutions like Panasonic’s PremierCOMPRESSION, allow you to quickly and easily integrate with functional software and workflows.  What is more, these processes can be automated on installation to cater to the exact needs of your business.

Overall, there are a multitude of good reasons to investigate how scanning solutions can help your business.  However, the above three features address common daily headaches faced by millions of working people everyday.  The savings in both time and cost more than justify implementing a proper scanning strategy.

To get started or to learn more about what scanning solutions can do to help your business, give us a call to set up a product demonstration.

While our site may be new, we certainly are not. CBS has been proudly serving Denver businesses for the last 30 years. Back in 1989, we were very focused on offering products and services that were specific to office technology such as printers and copiers. However, as the business world evolved to using more advanced technology and automated processes, we were forced to evolve as well.

Today, we offer a wide range of professional business services that range from copiers to managed I.T. services. Some of our other specialties include managed print services, interactive touch displays, wide format printing, production printing, and more. We staff specialists for each of our unique product offerings and offer customized and scalable solutions to work with businesses of any size. Over the years, our service team has consistently set the highest standard for customer accountability and service. Today, our service team leads the market in response time and quality of service.

Our new website is designed to offer our customers and shoppers a simple and direct passageway to our services, products, and our identity. We cordially welcome you to peruse our new site to learn about how we can serve and help your business. We are committed to positioning ourselves as the leading and most credible office technology service provider on the Colorado front range. Check back for updates on events, promotions, and information on new technologies and software.

Thank you for taking a moment to look at our new website. We look forward to doing business with you!