Global IT Spending To Rise
August 31st, 2010
Posted By: Mark Dryer
According to Maxwell Cooter at CIO.com, IT spending made a recovery from the economic trials of previous years. Research conducted by the International Data Corporation (IDC), shows that IT spending is steady and will experience expenditure increases of approximately 6 percent. The U.S. shows the biggest overall increase after a fall in 2009. The U.S. still trails behind markets such as China, which is expected to increase 21 percent this year.
Read more.
MDL Technology, LLC, a KC IT Company, Reviews How To Protect Your Data
August 26th, 2010
By: Mark Dryer
MDL Technology, LLC, a Kansas City IT company, recently reviewed how to protect your data. When it comes to data storage security one has to take care to look at both the physical security of the data being stored as well as the network security sides of the problem.
Every company should be housing their data not only in a secure rack but also in a secure facility that is monitored 24/7 around-the-clock and restricts access to a limited number of authorized personnel.
Companies that house their mission-critical data on large Storage Area Networks (SANs) are advised to maintain a separate SAN that is housed in a separate facility that is physically distant from the primary one. These two SANs should be mirrored over a fiber optic link so that the data itself is never lost and can be easily recovered in the event of physical loss of either SAN from natural or man-made disasters.
Although implementing this type of data storage redundancy comes with higher initial setup and maintenance costs, one must take into account that financial losses could occur if the data is irretrievably lost. Those losses would easily dwarf the cost of implementation; therefore redundant data storage infrastructure should be considered a cost of doing business in the modern digital age we find ourselves in today. There is an old adage heard in military and law enforcement circles when it comes to an officer or soldier having ready access to his firearms: one is none, two is one, three is two. The thought is that when most needed, a single firearm failure leaves an officer or soldier with no weapon, so they always carry at least two – three if possible. This same train of thought should always be applied to computing infrastructure. Two SANs equals one always operational. It is the same for dual firewalls with hardware and ISP failover capability, dual SAN switches, dual LAN switches, etc.
Okay, so that takes care of the physical security and redundancy but what about the network side of the equation?
A few years ago, systems administrators were building servers what we like to call “the old fashioned way” using the method of buy-build-deploy on a one-for-one basis. They would buy a server, install the server operating system on it, and then deploy it. If a server was hacked or the hardware failed, system admins would have to either restore the data from backup or, more likely, completely rebuild the entire server.
Today, more and more systems admins are utilizing modern virtualization techniques in order to deploy several “virtual” servers on a single piece of server hardware. It not only helps reduce the physical hardware footprint by being able to pack more servers in the same rack space, but also helps reduce heating and electrical costs. Those are only the most publicly touted benefits behind a virtual server infrastructure. In terms of disaster recovery from hardware failure or site loss, it is far easier to recover a virtual server than one that is built directly on the server hardware itself. This is because a virtual server is not tied to the physical hardware itself rather it sits on top of a tiny server environment called a “hypervisor” that allows separation of the virtual server from the hardware it’s running on. In a properly executed virtual server infrastructure, if a physical virtual host server fails, the virtual servers will automatically restart on separate physical virtual hosts with total downtime being measured in minutes instead of hours or days.
Like redundant data storage, infrastructure initial implementation costs are higher than normal, so is setting up a virtual server infrastructure. But for large companies that measure downtime in the thousands, or hundreds of thousands of dollars per minute, virtual server infrastructure deployment will pay for itself the first time a critical piece of server hardware fails. This type of server environment also allows easy server hardware upgrades since virtual servers can be migrated between varying hardware platforms with little or no impact to the users.
Dell, IBM, HP, and EMC are the critical players in the SAN data storage game are the usual suspects. Their individual capabilities and warranties are all about the same. In the virtual server market, VMware with its vSphere 4.1 product line and Citrix with its Xenserver products are leading the way. VMware has the edge on the virtual server front with its ease of use and live migration capabilities; however, Citrix is known for its virtual desktop expertise, management tools and virtual desktop deployment speed. Citrix continues to have the upper hand when it comes to deploying thin clients.
Information Technology Outsource Offers Great Advantages for Businesses
August 18th, 2010
Thu, Aug 20, 2009 12:35 PM
To outsource or not to outsource, that is the question many businesses are currently facing when it comes to satisfying IT needs. In a recent article in the Kansas City Star, many companies are seeing many advantages to outsourcing. Often times, small to medium-sized businesses choose to outsource their IT department because the want a variable cost model for the company instead of instead of a fixed cost structure that’s created when hiring an in-house IT department.
Of course, saving money is one of the major chants most business owners are verbalizing, but are there other advantages to outsourcing your IT department? Can you stay competitive with other companies that have a dedicated IT department on location? As boardrooms across the nation ask begin to ask these questions, here’s a list of the top 5 reasons business should consider outsourcing their IT departments.
Top 5 advantages to IT outsourcing
- Staffing needs are always met. How many times have you heard business owners worry themselves with how they will staff their IT department? Much of the time a company acquires new business and additional staff must be brought on board to meet the increased workload. Or maybe, a new software program is coming out and the CFO doesn’t have time to train his IT staff. By outsourcing their IT department, business owners put their staffing concerns to rest. Outsourced IT consultants understand the importance of staying up-to-date on the latest software releases and are always available when a company may need to beef up their support.
- Improved communication and accountability. Think about what it would be like if as a business owner you received a detailed report and update as to how your IT department was running, the updates that needed to be made presented with the cost to make those changes, along with a monthly recap on performance of your network. By outsourcing your IT department, these are some of the daily/monthly items they provide. What’s more, since they do this for every client they serve, their presentations are complete and offer a comprehensive view as the “health” of your network. Again, this is why many business owners elect for the Managed Service programs, usually costing them a monthly fee for 24-hour monitoring of their company’s network.
- Cost-effective solution. Keeping in mind the economic state of the nation, many business owners elect for IT outsourcing to cut costs and manage their yearly budgeting constraints. What’s smart about this approach is the IT expenditures become more traceable as every hour spent is often tracked by the IT outsourced company. In addition, with an outsourced IT department, time is spent on the items that are needed to maintain a healthy network and not on unnecessary software and hardware upgrades. Plus, the learning curve is curtailed as to be a competitive IT outsourcing company, their employees stay up-to-date on the latest technologies meaning your not paying someone to learn a program.
- Technologically advanced professionals. It’s also worth noting that bring on an outsourced IT department means you have highly trained tech professionals at your disposal. As mentioned before, to stay competitive, outsourcing IT departments stay updated on the latest software and technology advances and pass that expertise onto the clients they serve. What’s more, most outsourcing companies have strong relationships with other computer-related companies and can often help you find computers, hardware and additional services that they might not be able to provide. They often serve as your technology ambassador to the ever-changing IT world.
So if you’re ready to update your computer network and you’re looking for an easy, cost-effective solution that saves you time and reduces your stress levels, consider outsourcing your IT department.
MDL Technology Relocates to Downtown Kansas City to Offer Better Computer Service for KC Companies
February 18th, 2010
It’s true, we’ve moved downtown to help delete computer downtime for our clients. So that’s why we decided to show off our new digs in Kansas City on Tuesday, February 16th.
We had a great time meeting all our BNI friends during our recent open house. It was exciting to catch up with everyone and provide tours of our newest location at 1102 GRAND. Thanks to everyone who attended.
MDL Technology Offers Service and Insights on Data Backup
January 21st, 2010
Having a system that backs up your company’s vital information and works in the fashion your operation works is one resolution you can’t skimp on this year.
Why is back up important?
Just think about it. You walk into the office, turn on your computer and nothing happens. You try again … still nothing. Long story short, your computer crashes and all data is gone. It happens all the time and it’s just one reason backing up your computer is paramount to the success of your business.
So why is it so important?
Seems like a simple question to answer. But many businesses struggle knowing what kind of backup is needed within their company’s operations. Many choices exist including onsite back up and offsite back up. Now that we’re located in the 1102 GRAND building, we can offer an even wider range of backup options that are just steps away from our office … literally!
Why are many businesses choosing offsite back up?
In a recent blog post, we chat about the reasons why people are choosing offsite back up over onsite back up. And, while both are effective ways to conduct business, as organizations are seeing more and more volumes of data, tape back ups just don’t provide as much secure storage option as often is needed.
What can an offsite back up do to improve my business?
The tape back up systems that companies once used to help safely store important information overnight are now being replaced by an even more secure back up system. Through offsite back up, an organization’s data is backed up automatically on the server at an interval that meets the business demands. Some organizations choose to have it backed up hourly, while others still stick with once a day back ups. In addition to secure storage, offsite back up systems also remove the risk of tapes being lost, stolen or damaged while outside the office or of being left at home when next due for updating.
Looking for an offsite back up solution?
We are currently helping companies all over Kansas City develop offsite back up solutions that fit their needs and solve their massive data storage challenges. See what we can do for you.
Top 5 Reasons to Get Computer Upgrades
December 15th, 2009
As 2010 is fast approaching, now is the perfect time of year to re-evaluate your current computer systems. In a recent newsletter we received from HP, they had a list of things that the new HP PCs with Windows® 7 Professional will bring to the table. And, just in case you haven’t made your list for this holiday season, a snappy new HP PC could be your next big tool to getting things in 2010 done, quickly and efficiently.
5 Reasons To Upgrade:
1) Your current computer is just too cumbersome. It doesn’t work smart!
With the new HP PCs that have Windows 7 Professional, now you’ll have features like Quick Look 3 and QuickWeb. These two powerful programs allow you to easily view important information right on your desktop without having to boot up your computer. It makes surfing the Internet an absolute breeze and reduces the time you currently spend opening multiple programs.
2) It takes unnecessary amounts of time trying to complete tasks.
Tired of constantly trying to work faster? Now you can make your PC work even harder! With the new HP desktop, now you have an Intel® CoreTM2 Duo processor & Windows 7 Professional that can run 3 times faster than your old PC while using half the amount of electricity. This comes out to a whopping 68% increase in performance power!
3) Your PC takes a lot of extra power and isn’t as cost-effective as you wish.
Say goodbye to computer energy drain! Now the new HP PCs save you money and help to save the environment to boot. Now, up to 55% less energy is required to run this PC powerhouse. That means cost-effective greenness for all involved.
4) Your current downtime is depressing.
Many companies struggle with massive amounts of computer downtime. Besides implementing a Managed Services program, PCs that have served for more than 3 years often experience many more downtime triggers. Turn your downtime into up time with a new PC that maximizes your productivity and profitability.
5) Your computer ROI is non-existent.
With a new HP PC, you can easily improve your “return on technology”. In fact, HP will give you over $1,000 in FREE offers with every hardware purchase. What’s more, services like HP’s Trade-In Program can give you cash back up to $100 when you trade-in and upgrade your notebook.
MDL Technology Moved into New Building in Kansas City to Provide Computer Support and Network Services for Local Businesses
December 10th, 2009
The new MDL Technology, LLC offices are now located in the 1102 GRAND building at 1102 GRAND, Suite 1100 in Kansas City. This building is known as the Midwest Internet Hub & Collocation Facility.
Now, we are centrally located meaning we can serve you with even more speed and ease. What’s more, by being a part of the 1102 GRAND facility, we can be literally steps a way from your server and able to address your needs in a flash.
Even though we’re still settling in, we’re always able to assist you with all your computer network needs. Just give us a call at 816.781.3006.
Stay tuned to our website for more information about our new location and all the latest happenings by following us on our various social media sites.
Tips to Monitor Computer Performances and Reduce PC Downtime
December 9th, 2009
Have you ever stopped to think what would happen to your business if all of your computers suddenly went down? Do you have any idea what the revenue loss would be? How fast could you get the network up and running again? Would you know whom to call? These questions and of course, many more, are top-of-mind in many 2010 planning meetings this year when it comes to IT budgeting.
Right now, many companies are now finding they need to implement no-fail solutions into their 2010 business plans and to do that, they need to first survey their IT network’s current state-of-affairs. In fact, the topic has become some popular on the Internet, that a downtime calculator has been created to estimate exactly what an unexpected computer downtime emergency could cost individuals and businesses alike. What’s more, a small hiccup in your computer network and you could loose mountains of data that’s hard to reproduce. There are many things to consider when reducing your 2010 downtime.
Steps to More Computer Up time in 2010
1) Have a Network Audit Performed.
If you have never had your current computer network system audited, you may be placing your company at risk for major computer-related issues. Many businesses who may or may not have an IT department in place, elect to have companies like MDL Technology, LLC, perform a network audit. When they review your computer network system they implement an intensive diagnostic and planning service that checks critical components of your network to ensure that it’s running at peak performance and protected from data loss, downtime viruses and even security breaches.
2) Implement a Managed Services Program.
It never fails, you’ve installed virus software, you’ve cleaned our your unwanted email and gone as far as to even delete your Internet surfing history, and your computer network still crashes. While all these are important things to implement, they still fall short of the more robust protection a Managed Services program can provide. A Managed Services program monitors a company’s network 24/7 and provides software updates, fixes and often times monthly service for a monthly fixed fee. Because of the known cost, many business owners choose to go with a Managed Services program because the don’t want the hassle of managing the constant IT needs and being uncertain how much to allot each month for repairs. The program removes that concern.
3) Make Sure You Have Dependable Data Back-up.
When it comes to the data stored on every computer you own or that exists in your business, it’s important that it is protected and backed-up daily. If you don’t currently have a back-up action plan in place, 2010 is the year to do so. Imagine how costly it can be to pay someone to re key your data, or make an emergency call to a computer network person only to be told there’s nothing they can do. Backup is paramount. The best part is, there are many options out there. You can do onsite, offsite, online, and even purchase external back-up sources so that your data is secure. Many IT outsource companies provide this for individuals and business owners alike. What’s more, the cost of data backup today is pennies compared to the fortune it might cost tomorrow to retrieve it.
2010 can be the year your business shines. Putting your IT concerns behind you is a great start. The IT professionals at MDL Technology would be happy to provide even more tips on what can help your company run a more protective 2010, give us a call at 816.781.3006 or send us an email at mdryer@mdltechnology.com .
Three Reasons to Outsource Computer and Network Services
November 20th, 2009
Wouldn’t it be a relief to know next year’s IT budget?
What if it could be a set rate each month?
Imagine eliminating the time you currently spend interviewing multiple tech candidates to fill an IT department?
Now, you don’t have to imagine, it’s reality! Many outsourced IT companies are offering Managed Services programs where for one low monthly rate, your company’s computer network system can be monitored 24/7, offsite and even protected from the latest spam, spyware and viruses.
Here are a few reasons why many companies are signing up for Managed Services programs like those offered from outsourced IT companies including MDL Technology, LLC.
Three reasons to outsource your monthly IT needs.
1) Downtime is minimized.
When your system is monitored 24/7 through a Managed Services program, an outsourced IT department is able to catch glitches before they become an issue for your business. What’s more, outsourced IT professionals must stay on top of all the latest software updates, locate and remove compromising computer viruses and reduce common inefficient business processes in order to stay competitive in their industry. This is an added benefit for the company that outsources their IT department, as they don’t have budget for an IT department’s education. And, they have the peace of mind knowing that their computer network system is operating seamlessly, thanks to monthly preventative maintenance.
2) Budgeting is mindless.
Won’t your accountant love you knowing that there won’t be any “additional” line items to fill in each week or maybe daily? With Managed Service programs, IT departments offer a list of services usually containing, 24/7 computer system monitoring, virus detection and updates, software upgrades and server backup recovery, just to name a few. Most Managed Service programs allow customers to only pay one, monthly rate. Your accountant will be singing your praises.
3) Protection is paramount.
Managed Service programs have many safety measures set in place that keep their customer’s networks functioning and help to remove the issue of security breeches. From virus scanning to daily back up and firewall monitoring, outsourced IT professionals stay up-to-date on the latest developments in IT threats and leverage that knowledge to help safety the customers they serve.
So this coming year, make a new resolution and hire an outsourced IT department with a Managed Services Program, you’ll reduce the computer crashes and help your IT budget along the way.
MDL Technology Offers Tips to Organize Computers from Hardware to Software
November 6th, 2009
When it comes to running your computer network effectively, there are many applications, software programs and external devices to make things easier.
Here’s a list of some of MDL Technology’s favorites for this week.
1) Microsoft Dynamics CRM: Say goodbye to the stacks of business contacts you’ve been meaning to call and hello to a nifty system that not only stores your contact’s information, it allows you to forecast sales, track the sales your business makes and measure the bustling business activity you create. In fact, it seems to be a pretty popular tool as many of our current customers are asking us to add this to their line of services.
2) Microsoft Office Outlook: You may be familiar with the product, but did you realize there a host of features this product offers? From keeping your information, contacts, email and to yes, even streamlining your calendar, Outlook helps you keep it all in order. In fact, Microsoft Office Outlook offers a glimpse at the 10 Top Benefits of working with Outlook. Check them out and start saving time!
3) Apps, Apps and more Apps: It seems like everywhere you turn Apps are taking the world by storm. But what if you don’t currently have a fancy Smartphone to try your hand at simplifying life? Check out this interesting article recently posted on Open Forum, that lists 6 desktop apps that can save you time and make you feel on the cutting edge of organizing.
As always, MDL Technology, LLC strives to help consumers and businesses fine-turn their computer network situations. If you have a question for one of our techs or have a tech tip of your own you wish to share with us, drop us a line.