2021 will be a crucial year for employees and employers because last year’s situation has forced a transition to a remote workforce much quicker. This shift will impact organizations in many ways starting from security to everyday operations and IT infrastructure.

Information Technology (IT) infrastructure are several components required to operate and manage IT environments – it can fit on a cloud system, or within an organization’s own facilities.

3 main IT infrastructure components:

• Hardware
• Software
• Networking

These facilities are used to create, deliver, test, watch, control, and support IT services. We will break down exactly what those three components do to make it easier to understand the system as a whole.

Hardware

Hardware includes network servers, data centers, routers, network switches and etc.

• Network servers come in different formats and every one of them serves unique purposes. We may refer network server as another computer that is used for data storage. A location where all the central files are stored is called a file server. The directory server can be accessed by several different computers and is a central database of information. Web server tries to share files through a web browser via HTTP. There is another type of server that includes print servers, databases, and application servers.
• Network switches connect devices on the same network using LAN. They allow two internal devices to connect without forwarding traffic to every network device. It contains several ports that physically connect devices on a network together. Physical parts include other switches, routers, and servers.
• The router’s job is to communicate between the internet and the devices that connect to the internet. More simply it routes traffic between the devices and the internet.
• Data centers or server rooms are the command center of your network. It’s where all your servers are located. In other words, that’s the place where your company’s information is located.

Software

The software includes all applications used by the business: web servers, content management systems, operating systems. Without those applications’ hardware can’t perform its infrastructure function.

1. The web server includes several parts that control how users access hosted files. It can be an HTTP server which is software that understands Web addresses (URLs) and protocols that your browser uses to view webpages (HTTP).
2. A content management system (CMS) is computer software used to manage the creation and modification of digital content.
3. An operating system (OS) is software that supports a computer’s basic functions. The most popular operating systems are Mac, Windows, Linux, and etc.

Networking

The networking component gives you the ability to communicate between internal and external systems. Networking infrastructure consists of two parts: networking hardware and networking software. Networking hardware includes routers, switches, LAN cards, wireless routers, cables while networking software includes network operations and management, operating systems, firewalls, and network security applications.

Above we’ve discussed 3 types of IT infrastructure components that can be found in every company. There are 2 ways of implementing it:

• Traditional infrastructure – This kind of infrastructure in a company means that all components are managed and owned by the business within its own facilities
• Cloud infrastructure – You can create a private cloud or you can use a public cloud from a provider like Google, Microsoft, and etc.
• Hyper-converged infrastructure – HCI is a software-defined IT infrastructure that virtualizes all of the elements of conventional hardware-defined systems. It allows you to manage your compute, network, and data storage resources from a single interface.

There are several tips to improve your IT infrastructure. To get the bigger picture you’ll need to examine your IT infrastructure for weak spots – after that, you can seek solutions. The best option would be to get advice from professionals, like Far Out Solution. They have vast experience in their field and create packages that are focused on addressing exactly what you’re looking for! You can contact them anytime and get full information on how to improve your IT infrastructure.

Your network is an easily overlooked aspect of almost all businesses. Who can blame them? It is not something that even people check at their own homes. However, it is a crucial part of every business and one that you cannot afford to lose. Not for a single moment. Imagine you are riding a bullet train at speeds that can literally peel your face off, and one of the rails that the train is running on suddenly collapsed or better yet went missing. In this scenario what do you think about the outcome? It’s a disaster waiting to happen, to prevent that you have to get an expert to take care of the rails and every aspect of the train to ensure a smooth and safe ride. Much like the train, your network should always be in tip-top shape. That is when a Network Assessment is an absolute must.

Why is a Network Assessment Necessary?

That is almost the same question as to why do humans need to breathe. Your network can be considered the veins that run through the entire business. From your printers, lobby display, and every single computer is connected to the network, that much is pretty obvious to most people. However, the maintenance aspect of it is not very common knowledge. Now imagine the server to be the brain, the hubs, and network switches to be the heart and the network cables to be the veins.

Now just like doctors that would diagnose a sick person, in a business scenario, it would take a whole team to ensure that everything is running smoothly. IT engineers, field technicians, network analysts, and IT Help Desks work hand in hand to isolate a single issue in your network. It takes a whole team of professionals to get things done. This is simply because each task has to be handled by a different expert in that field. Again much like doctors that have specialties like Cardiologists, Neurologists, and Podiatrists, your network has so many experts as well to keep everything running and continuously, then monitoring it to prevent or even prepare for future updates and upgrades when needed. These are just the tip of the iceberg, getting into details can take a whole year to probably explain.

Far Our Solutions leading experts in the field of Network Assessment have been trusted and been by fortune 500 companies across the country. Celebrities and Politicians alike have trusted us to this day. Our comprehensive package includes:

● Technology Management: planning, support, and documentation
● Network Topology: design, cable plant, and Internet connectivity
● Network Security: firewall, perimeter, physical and wireless security
● Server Infrastructure: hardware, operating systems, and storage
● Network Services: directory services, administrative policies, remote access, and redundancy
● Network Applications: communication, collaboration, and financial management
● Cloud Services
● PC Fleet

Things to Consider to Have a Successful Network Assessment

● Identify and visualize your network

Easier said than done. To be able to have a mental image of how and what your network is like to see areas of improvement and better delegate tasks to your field team so that their work will not only be efficient and effective but also precise and accurate.

● Prepare the necessary tools and personnel

Once you are able to identify the issue you’d want your team to be able to resolve the issue with the right kind of equipment and the right kind of field expert for that particular issue. This will not only save you time and money to perform but also a form of prevention to a major equipment failure.

● Consider your business technical capacity

You have to be honest with yourselves in order to confirm whether or not your business has the technical capability to process it. If not you can rely on 3rd party providers that offer a comprehensive package in Network Assessment.

● Safety and Security

When considering the idea of hiring a 3rd party to take care of your network you have to do your research in order to ensure the safety of the entirety of your business.

There is no way around it, every facet of business has to evolve and improve! Even the slightest enhancements will be appreciated. The same certainly applies to the kind of printing service that we now have available in our hands. Technology has reached a point where almost everything can be offered in a bundled service that not only will save your company a lot of money, but also improve the overall efficiency, functionality, and productivity of the workforce.

Imagine being able to print hi-resolution images with full-color coverage using hi-end/top-of-the-line printers that would normally cost a fortune to invest in for your company. You might want/need to allocate that budget to more pressing financial matters in your business. Printing as a Service (PaaS) allows you to enjoy the benefits of getting a high-end printing device without actually purchasing it. This is a subscription or pay-per-use-based service that varies differently from one provider to another. The core service however does not change.

Why Printing as a Service (PaaS) Is The Future of Printing

While you enjoy your average run-of-the-mill printer that obviously does its job, or overpays for functionality that is only used occasionally, PaaS offers so much more than that of what you are used to. You no longer have to spend hours working or should we say waiting for your IT personnel to show up and resolve the issue regarding your printer. Since most devices that will be used will require minimum to no actual physical troubleshooting this will make it seamless to fix and resolve remotely. Also, some packages will include not just the printers themselves but also all of the consumables, depending on your package. That is so convenient and efficient for your business, as you no longer need to determine how much paper you will be required to procure for the next quarter.

You can get as much as you want when it comes to the device(s) that you’ll need. If you need a printer for every floor of every office space in your area you are most welcome to do so. The device functionality is determined by the needs of your business. Your budget will be your limit, remember getting PaaS will always be cheaper than acquiring those printers yourself. Small and medium businesses or even enterprise-level can benefit immensely from this type of service. Now the only questions that remain:

Is your company ready to be a part of the future?

OR

Are you going to be left behind?

The “New Normal” will take a great deal of getting used to. Most of us are not built to be cooped up in our homes to live and work. However, with the advanced technology that we currently have, working from home has become a reality and mostly taken for granted. Technology enables us to be functional in our society without ever leaving the comfort of our own home. This goes to show how far we’ve come as new technology is discovered and implemented in every turn. Our jobs can now be performed in our living room.

Also, education has now moved to a home-based platform. Gone are the days when students are carrying enormous textbooks meant to cover only one specific subject. Lessons are now conducted virtually! What will a typical student need to cope with these fast-paced changes?

Hardware And Software to Utilize

When we talk about the kinds of software to use, it will vary depending on the tasks that you have to perform professionally and/or a student. A great example right now when we talk about having a meeting or class with work colleagues or classmates.

We automatically assume it would be done using Zoom. Yes! It is the new Skype. Then there are notating applications, screen recording applications, and other things that would make learning and other tasks that much easier and more interactive. It depends on the organization or school you work for or provides your educational experience. They will be the ones to provide you with instructions on where you can download or purchase the applications required for you to communicate effectively.

Without that direction you have to decide what type of systems and software tools you are going to use, it all boils down to your specific needs. What I mean by that is, if you are going to use your system to do virtual training, meetings, and online modules you can opt to a mid-range system.

Windows and/or Apple iOS-based hardware platforms are plentiful and dependent on the brand and specifications that you are going for. When it comes to the variety of options and models to choose from when choosing your hardware I guess your budget is your limit.

The dawn of a new era is finally here, the advancement and development of emerging technology are going to skyrocket. Hold on to your seats! Get ready to be blown away. Right now, there’ll be no excuse for your home not to have an internet connection. It has now been a commodity consumed side by side with electricity, water, and gas for your home. Now that your device such as your Smartphone, laptop, PC, and other systems can connect to your home network. What if we could take things further, say your coffee maker turns on at a specific time. Your light dims, on your preferred mood with a touch of a button. The laundry starts spinning on your way home from a busy day, then the music starts playing as you walk through your door. Sounds like a dream? Well, it is all possible today.

What You Need For Your Smart Home Setup

Aside from getting your piggy bank out of your closet, there are numerous items to start with. Even before you think about the other upgrades to the latest and the best type of automated coffee maker out there, you might want to consider your home security first. After all, with the money, you’ll spend on your upgrade, you want to be safe in the comfort of your own home. Let us discuss the specifics.

• Smart Home Hubs and Controllers
• Lighting
• Entertainment
• Room Climate Management / Energy Efficiency

Smart Home Hubs and Controllers are where you will interact with your smart home system. Most of the things that you can do with it can also be done on your phone, but the hubs and controllers are dedicated devices that works best for its purpose. Needless to say, your Smart Home setup would not have been complete without a functioning light that sets up the mood in every room in your home. It should match your entertainment system that has been placed in your room or dedicated home cinema. Then to top it all off, your room should always be at the temperature that you prefer. This will also allow you to save on electricity consumption.

Completing the Setup for Your Smart Home

Assessing your home by providing you with a thorough and in-depth rundown of every nook and cranny of your home is no easy task, as tedious and time-consuming as it may sound, Far Out Solutions leading Smart Home assessment is trusted even by celebrities to set up their Smart Home. Our team of IT and Engineers have the perfect solution for your every need.

Get in touch with us to see where we can improve or start your Smart Home today.

Today’s technology is so fast and advances that any normal individual or even a company can easily be left behind. Here’s a great example, go buy any brand of smartphones that you can think of, the most popular ones are of course iPhone series, the Samsung S series and so much more. I can literally fill up a whole page with just the name of the manufacturer alone. Now after you’ve bought it, wait a couple of months and I guarantee it, there’s going to be a new model of that “new” smartphone that you’ve just purchased. Most tech-savvy or tech enthusiasts would call this nowadays as “tech year”. In between each new release or every quarter they consider this as a tech year. If you’ve held on to a device for 12 months that’s already considered as 4 tech years. It is both quite fascinating and a little bit scary at the same time.

Do Not Get Left Behind

Now that I’ve at least broaden your understanding about how you have to keep up, let me now introduce one of the most vital components of any technology, the Video, and Audio hardware. The peripherals alone are enough to overwhelm the average joe, trying to discern among the audio cables such as XLR male, XLR female, TRS, RCA cables, to the digital ones, firewire, thunderbolt, MIDI Cables, there’s also the optical cable, which is a whole new category. All of these are just the tip of the iceberg, we haven’t even discussed the video components yet and the amount of information that I’ve hurled at you so far is enough to make you open up a new tab on your browser to check these types of cables.

Allow us, at Far Out Solutions to take care of that soon-to-be surefire headache of an upgrade to your existing audio and video equipment. We’re not talking about an installation that a quick youtube search can fix, it is an installation that will require a professional to assess, plan, and finally execute as a project.

Solutions Designs and Implementation

Designing an upgrade to any infrastructure would take a considerable about of time and effort to do. Taking into consideration all the existing components that can still be integrated with the upgrade is a tedious task, that requires years of experience and expertise. Luckily we have both, let us take care of all that for you. Our highly trained employees, composed of engineers and IT professionals have with them decades of practical knowledge that sets them apart from most. We want every single project that we take on to be as personal as possible, we care about your growth and we’ll grow along with you.

It is no secret that smart home security systems are on the rise throughout the United States. Countless security companies advertise their ease of smart systems. Here are a list of four reasons why homeowners are choosing smart security systems:

Lower Your Energy Bills

One of the biggest reasons why homeowners enjoy these security systems is because they save on energy costs. By using these security systems in your home, you do not need to worry that your air conditioning or heating will turn on while you are out. Instead, you simply program the cooling or heating systems to turn on at certain times or according to the weather.

Keep You In Control

Another reason why home security systems are popular is because of the increased control they give homeowners. With the ability to have cameras around the praminidar of your home, you can keep an eye on your home and property. They take security a step further by offering the feature of using cameras indoors. You can even make sure your kids or your pet are not getting into the pantry to sneak a treat.

Up To Date With Technology

They do not call these security systems smart for anything. These systems seamlessly connect with your computer, laptop, iPad, or even your phone. That way, you can always be aware of things around your home whether that is seeing the children playing outside or keeping you and your loved ones safe from a break-in. Not only can you view a live feed of the happenings from your home on your living room couch, but also from anywhere in the United States. That’s right, you can be 2,000 miles away and still access many of the features smart systems have to offer.

There to Protect You

Most importantly, the smart system will keep you and your loved ones safe with door locks, smoke detectors, and other alarm systems. With smart security systems, you can rest easy knowing you truly are safe.

Contact Far Out Solutions to secure your first smart home security system. They have many customizable features to let you live more comfortably. Just a few of the things they offer are door locks, smart lights, smart climate controls, smart access control for garages, smoke detectors, and alarm systems. Do not wait, contact Far Out Solutions, they are the best solution to upgrading your home.

As the world increasingly gets digitized, technologies become more entrenched in our daily lives – even in our homes. Today, it is challenging to come home to a house that does not have WiFi connectivity, a new basic requirement for quality of life. Our children will be the first to tell you this, as they are growing up in an age where connectivity is now a must, and access to everything that they could want is at their fingertips. If you are yet to scale up to meet all these new demands for your home, getting a package for services by a residential managed provider is recommended.

First things first, though: what exactly is a residential managed IT services provider? A managed services provider, in simple terms, takes care of all the technologies that you would like to have in your residential property for maximum convenience, consistent connectivity, and support for issues and emergencies. Getting a package from such a business will equip your home for a lot of advantages, the best three of which will be discussed below.

Comfortable Management of Necessary Technologies

According to industry forecasts, the average person will have 6.58 connected devices by 2020, which translates to nearly 50 billion network-connected devices around the world. That’s only 6 months away. And as early as now, we are seeing why that prediction won’t be far off. In our homes, we typically have at least more than two devices that connect to the Internet, such as our smartphones and our laptops. If you have children who are age-eligible to use gadgets, that number will only increase. A residential managed IT services provider can help you make better sense of all the technologies that your house will need for connectivity, including your WiFi, phone and intercom systems, and even security and surveillance. Your provider will take care of all these suites and make sure that your residential property stays connected to the technologies that make life better.

More Functionality and Less Stress

If you are not well-versed in the ways by which all these new technologies work, chances are you will have a tough time making them work when they don’t want to. Printing, for instance, is a very important function that needs to be managed properly; the problem is, setting up a wireless printer so that anybody in the house can successfully print anything that they want to is not going to be that easy. A managed IT services provider will install, implement, and maintain all your connectivity systems to drive smooth functionality in your home, while also saving you from the hassles of fixing technical issues or, just as bad, requiring unhelpful customer support.

Cost-Efficient Service Inclusions

Finally, a residential managed provider can offer savings in cost and time that you would otherwise not have access to if you were winging it on your own. Far Out Solutions, for instance, offers a package that starts with first understanding your specific needs, as well as the current setup in your home, so that you can make the most out of the service. For a fixed monthly price, your audio/video devices will be updated to their latest firmware versions whenever they are available, you won’t need to deal with separate bills from technology vendors, and you are treated to the peace of mind that only comes with knowing that whatever it is that you may need, you can depend on your provider to deliver that for you.

Although technology has been able to bring the world together and advance virtually all aspects of modern society, there is one area that hasn’t quite been able to keep up with demand: cybersecurity.

Unfortunately, as the world becomes more and more dependent on technology, the chances of businesses and organizations being attacked also increases. As a small or medium-sized business owner, what can you do to protect your company?

Fortunately, managed service providers (MSPs) like Far Out Solutions are here to help. Let’s look at how MSPs can help mitigate the problems you face online and how they can protect your business from a worst-case scenario.

By the Numbers: the Cybersecurity Threat

It seems that every few months or so, there’s a headline about a major corporation getting attacked by hackers or malware. While these attacks can be devastating for the companies involved since most of them are massive entities, it’s easy to assume that only enterprise-level organizations are being hit, right?

According to recent data, up to 61 percent of small and medium businesses were attacked, and over half of them experienced a data breach. The cost of these attacks can range from a few thousand to over a million dollars, so prevention is always the best approach.

How Managed Service Providers Can Help?

When looking at the reasons why small and medium businesses are attacked, we can notice a couple of trends. Fifty-four percent of companies said that employee negligence or misconduct led directly to the breach. Seventy-three percent of respondents said that insufficient personnel and budgeting for IT solutions contributed to the lack of cybersecurity.

Fortunately, when you utilize a managed service provider, you can get access to qualified and trained cybersecurity experts, as well as better infrastructure to both prevent and remove threats that occur.

Here are a few benefits that you can expect:

Full-Time Monitoring

Chances are, you don’t have employees who can monitor your network for threats at three in the morning. MSPs like Far Out Solutions have round-the-clock cybersecurity professionals watching out for threats.

Updated Cybersecurity Systems

As protective software and technology improve, hackers, become more sophisticated. Malware and ransomware of today could easily overrun the cybersecurity programs of yesteryear, meaning that you have to make sure your network is updated consistently. While that may be an issue for you, it’s not a problem for MSPs.

Faster Performance

Managed service providers are designed to help businesses and organizations maintain a high-quality and high-speed network. Thus, using these services ensures that your company can operate at a competitive level, all without having to worry about things like updates, patches, and other routine maintenance.

Contact Far Out Solutions Today

Your business can’t afford to be the victim of a cyber attack. Contact us today to find out more about our cybersecurity solutions so that you can get the peace of mind you deserve.