Benefits of Voice Over IP (VoIP)

February 16th, 2012

Voice over IP was designed to increase the functionality of voice communication, enabling it to be accessed anywhere around the world.

VoIP not only increases the scope of traditional voice communications, but it also reduces overhead. With your regular phone line (PSTN – Packet-Switched Telephone Network), you actually pay per minute for international calls. But since VoIP utilizes the Internet, all you pay for is your monthly subscription, making VoIP the obvious choice for any company conducting business around the world (VoIP can potentially save you up to 40 % on local calls, and up to 90 % on international calls).

Other Benefits of VoIP

Conference Calls with VoIP: VoIP allows you to setup a conference with a whole team communicating in real time.

VoIP Hardware Setup: All you need is your computer, Internet connection, speakers, microphone, and a sound card.

VoIP Features: Features include Caller ID, Contact Lists, Voicemail, extra-virtual numbers, etc.

VoIP is More than Voice: VoIP handles other media types besides just voice, including images, video and text.

VoIP is Perfect for Multitasking: You can speak to someone while sending them files, while utilizing video conferencing features.

VoIP and Tele-working: You can remotely access voice, fax and data services from your workplace through the organization’s intranet.

Fax over IP: Fax services using PSTN are high cost for long distances. Not only is faxing with VoIP cheaper, but there is not even a need for a fax machine.

VoIP is poised to be the next big business technology!

If you feel your business could benefit from our VoIP Services, contact DataLink Interactive and ask us about our Wireless Network Services. Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with your business’ challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24×7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Sources:

Reasons for Choosing Voice over IP – VoIP Advantage

Baltimore City Crime Statistics and the Importance of a Business Security System

February 7th, 2012

Is your business located in Baltimore City? If so, how safe do you feel?

Baltimore City Crime Figures

  • With a crime index of 100 indicating a completely safe city, Baltimore, Maryland scores a 6.
  • Baltimore ranks as the 8th most dangerous city in America, according to USNews.com
  • A review of 2010 data shows that Baltimore has the fourth-worst murder rate in the country, according to recent number-crunching byThe Atlantic magazine, corroborated by Justin Fenton in The Baltimore Sun. Baltimore’s rate of 34.85 put the city just ahead of Detroit’s, which was 34.46.
  • Baltimore police reported 196 homicides in 2011
  • Baltimore averages 459 crimes per square mile. The national median is 41.8
  • 1 in 64 Baltimore residents run the risk of becoming a victim of violent crime. Violent crimes are defined as offenses that involve face-to-face confrontation between the victim and the perpetrator, including homicide, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
  • There were 16,298 thefts, 3,336 robberies, and 7,573 burglaries in Baltimore City in 2010.
  • In 2011, Home-invasion robberies rose by 34% (though most other crime rates dropped).

Believe it or not, Baltimore City crime rates are on the decline. Still, Baltimore ranks extremely high when compared to the rest of the nation. So what have you done to protect your business? The solution could be much simpler than you think.

The Answer: A Business Security System.

Countless studies have proven that professionally installed and actively monitored security systems can drastically reduce crime. And according to one particular report, a home or business without an alarm system is 2.7 to 3.5 times more likely to be burglarized than a home or business that has a burglar alarm.

If you feel your business could benefit from our Alarm and Security Systems or our Surveillance Cameras, contact DataLink Interactive and ask us about our Physical Security Services. Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with your business’ challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24×7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Sources:

2011 – Baltimore City, Maryland – Violent Crime Rate

Baltimore’s Murder Rate Worse Than Detroits But…

The 11 Most Dangerous Cities

Baltimore City – Wikipedia

How a Monitored Security System Affects Crime Statistics

The Benefits of Outsourcing Network Security and Intrusion Detection Services in Maryland

February 1st, 2012

Network security is of the utmost importance to any business. Hackers continue to find new ways to break into your network, stealing your precious data and putting your entire business at risk. One of the best ways to ensure the security of your network is to outsource intrusion detection to a professional IT company, like DataLink Interactive.

The Benefits of an Intrusion Detection System (IDS)

  • A Proactive solution to IT Network Security
  • Actively monitors your network for malicious activity and reports any findings to you
  • Prevent network damage before it happens
  • Quickly identify and eject network intruders
  • If damage still does occur, IDS allows faster detection
  • Serves a deterrent to hackers
  • Enables the collection of information about intrusion techniques
  • Allows you to act in a timely and appropriate manner

You should never just assume that your network is safe. You NEED to know it is.

So is your network secure?

Don’t wait until your system is hacked. Be proactive with DataLink’s Network Security / Intrusion Detection services.

If you feel your business could benefit from Outsourced Network Security / Intrusion Detection Services, contact DataLink Interactive and ask us about our IT Support Services. Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with your business’ challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24×7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Sources:

Intrusion Detection FAQ: Getting Started

Benefits of an Intrusion Detection System

What are three benefits that can be provided by an intrusion detection system

Outsourcing Disaster Recovery Needs to a Professional IT Support Firm

January 24th, 2012

With the increasing importance of technology in today’s world, your business cannot afford to lose critical data. Of companies that had a major loss of business data…

•      43% never recovered

•      51% closed within two years

•      6% survived long-term

Don’t let your business become another statistic. Protect your company against major data loss with disaster recovery. Companies of all sizes, from small business to Fortune 500 companies, have realized that disaster recovery planning is a critical aspect of any successful business strategy. But what if you cannot afford a dedicated, in-house IT department?

The solution is simple…outsource!

Outsourced disaster recovery can cost significantly less than trying to ensure the same level of disaster preparedness in-house. According to an IDC study, companies that leverage in-house DR sites spend 32% more than those opting to outsource. Other benefits of outsourced disaster recovery include:

•      No upfront technology or storage costs

•      No hardware maintenance costs or software subscriptions

•      Increased efficiency by freeing up internal resources

•      Utilize a team of IT experts without having to pay a single salary

So do the right thing for your Maryland business and outsource your disaster recovery system. If you feel your business could benefit from an Outsourced Disaster Recovery System, contact DataLink Interactive and ask us about our IT Support services. Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with your business’ challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24×7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Sources:

Data Storage: 10 Compelling Reasons for Outsourcing Disaster Recovery

Outsourcing Disaster Recovery versus traditional in-house methods

Disaster Recovery Services FAQ SearchDisasterRecovery.com

Disaster Recovery Guide Disaster-Recovery-Guide.com

Business Technology Assessment Services in Maryland

January 18th, 2012

Before we get into the benefits of technology assessments, I want you to answer a few questions:

  1. Is your current technology providing you with the benefits you expected?
  2. Are the benefits of IT really worth the cost?
  3. Are you able to evaluate new technology and determine how to best utilize it in your business?

If you cannot accurately answer the above questions, then you a technology assessment may be exactly what your business needs. A DataLink technology assessment will thoroughly examine the strengths and weaknesses of your company’s IT infrastructure. We will evaluate how you currently use technology as well as what technologies are available that may be beneficial for you and your business.

Benefits of a Technology Assessment

•      Maximize your current infrastructure

•      Increase efficiency

•      Identify available technologies that may be useful for your business

•      Identify current strengths and how you can build upon them

•      Identify potential security weaknesses and learn how to fix them

•     Reduce total cost of ownership

•     Most importantly: Develop a plan for future IT growth and development

If you feel your business could benefit from our Technology Asessment Service, contact DataLink Interactive and ask us about our Professional Consulting Services. Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with your business’ challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24/7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Sources:

Why Do We Need a Small Business Technology Assessment? Nonik.com

Business Technology Assessment OutsourceItCorp.com

Ad Hoc IT Support In Maryland

January 11th, 2012

Sometimes it is tough for companies, especially small businesses, to keep up with and fully handle all of their IT needs. If this is the case with your business, you have two options. 1) Outsource your IT needs to a professional CTO / CIO management company.  2) Utilize a pay-as-you-go Ad-Hoc IT support service, like the one offered by DataLink Interactive.

Benefits of Ad Hoc IT Support

Save Money: Pay as you go Ad Hoc services allow you to pay for the IT support you need and nothing else.

No Contract: As we said before, you only pay for the support you need. There is no contract. Ad Hoc IT support is a great solution for companies on a tight budget or for businesses that want to “test drive” their IT provider before signing on for the complete managed IT package.

High Level of Service: Ad Hoc services provide the same level of professional tech support as CTO and CIO outsourcing firms. The only difference is that Ad Hoc IT technicians are only there when you need them.

Disadvantages of Ad Hoc IT Support

You are on Your Own…For Now: If something small comes up that you don’t want to pay to have addressed, you are on your own.

Reactive IT Support: While fully outsourcing your IT needs can provide a proactive IT solution, Ad Hoc services are strictly reactive. Something happens or goes wrong and then you call for support.

If you feel your business could benefit from our Ad-Hoc IT Support Services, contact DataLink Interactive and ask us about our IT Support Services. Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with your home security challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24/7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Serving Maryland, Washington DC & Virginia.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Sources:

IT Support That Doesn’t Tie You Into a Contract

The Newest Technological Advances in Video Surveillance

January 4th, 2012

The security industry is an ever-evolving world of new technologies. This is especially true when it comes to video surveillance, which has come a long way in just the last few years. What was once an unreliable means to capture blurry images is now an invaluable security asset.

So what are some of the newest developments in the surveillance industry?

Megapixel Cameras: High definition cameras have revolutionized the security industry. No longer do you have to deal with grainy images that are almost impossible to interpret; now you can easily identify subjects, what they are wearing and what they look like. Plus this allows you to use fewer cameras to cover a given area than every before, saving you money!

HDCCTV: An alternate to megapixel video, HDCCTV boasts one big advantage over its other high definition competition. It allows you to continue using conventional analog equipment.

Storage Solutions: Data storage was once a huge hurdle for the video surveillance industry. Today, storage capacity has finally risen enough to meet system demands.

Analytics: It is almost impossible for any human to thoroughly monitor a network of multiple cameras. Fortunately, programmers have created advanced algorithms – video analytics – to makes sense of all this video “noise.”  This new technology is capable of picking out and identifying certain objects in rapidly moving video (think facial recognition software).

Night Vision: Thermal cameras and infrared cameras have been around for quite some time. But until recently, these technologies were steeply priced, making their use in the private sector fairly uncommon. Today, these technologies are readily available and much more reasonably priced.

With these new developments, not only has the functionality of video surveillance improved, but the price has also dropped considerably!

If you feel your home could benefit from our Video Surveillance Services, contact DataLink Interactive and ask us about our Physical Security Services. Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with your home security challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24/7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Serving Maryland, Washington DC & Virginia.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Sources:

Video Continues to Enhance Its Security Image

5 Useful Tips To Enhance Your Network Security

January 3rd, 2012

Are you looking for ways to improve your network security? If yes, we are here to help by providing you with 5 useful tips to enhance your network security.

When it comes to network security, you must not only install appropriate hardware and software but you need to know how to use the software, hardware and setup the proper security policies and procedures.

Make Policies Clear and Implement Them

To protect your network you need solid policy, strategy and execution. When you implement policies for security, you document and enforce policies to make it part of the health and function of your network security. Manage security depends on the size and the products and services your organization provides. Your policies will always have to be backed up by technology.

Hire A Professional To Protect Your Network

You will need someone to protect your network 24/7. It is best to hire an expert in network security. If your network fails, then your business will fail.

Configure Your Hardware

Make certain that your network has an intrusion prevention system (IPS). Your IPS needs to have a blocking protection on and the blocking protection must have the ability to be configured. Your basic network hardware and software must also be configured for protection.

Make sure Employees Protect Portable Devices

When users of your network also log into unprotected Wi-Fi networks at public hotspots or at home, this can make your system vulnerable. Create a process that protects your network from these types of vulnerabilities. Make a pamphlet to pass to your employees about the risk that come with using an unprotected Wi-Fi network.

Protect Your Email

Your email is the most vulnerable application on your network. Anyone can have the ability to read unencrypted emails and spread viruses to your network through email. The average company will send over 75% of its intellectual property through emails. You must consistently protect your email network.

Datalink’s IT support services can provide your company with effective network security and more!

Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with business challenges. Contact us by calling (410) 729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24/7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Serving Maryland, Washington, DC & Virginia.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Source: Eight Top Tips For Network Security

3 IT Tips To Create A Successful Disaster Recovery Plan For Your Business

December 30th, 2011

Are you looking for ways to successfully compile a disaster recovery plan for your business? If yes, we are here to help by providing you disaster recovery planning tips. Read below to get started.

The Info-Tech Research Group states that 60% of United States’ businesses do not have a formal disaster recovery plan to resume Information Technology (IT) services, if a crisis happens where business could fail by the means of technology. Faulkner Information Services discovered 50% of companies that have a technology crisis where they lose a great deal of data will go out of business in 24 months or less.

The follow disaster recovery planning tips are below to keep your company’s data secure :

Have a formal disaster recovery plan

When you have an official disaster recovery plan, you are being a excellent leader for your company. Start planning for the basics and over time add more details to the plan. Make sure you know what is important to your business’ functionality including email, application access, database back-up and computer equipment. Make sure you monitor your plan and effectively implement components of your plan. When you monitor your plan, you are less likely to have IT issues and downtime if a crisis happens.

Test out your plan

Make sure you test out your disaster recovery plan once a year. Make sure the test has realistic conditions.

Perform off-site data back up and storage

When you create a back-up file of valuable data, make sure this information is transferable and can be transferred in a securable way. Store the data in an offsite data storage center with high protection.

For more information on IT Disaster recovery planning, read here.

Datalink’s IT support services can provide your company with reliable backup, disaster recovery systems and more!

Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with business challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24/7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Serving Maryland, Washington, DC & Virginia.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

 

Holiday Season Crime Rates and Home Security Advice from Your Maryland Security Experts

December 21st, 2011

‘Tis the season to be…burglarized?

Unfortunately, everyone’s favorite time of year is also synonymous with increased crime rates. While the holiday season brings out the best in some, it seems to bring out the worst in others. All across the United States, home burglaries increase right around Christmas and New Years.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help protect your possessions. Below you will find several basic safety precautions.

1. Don’t advertise the fact that you’re going out of town.

2. Hire a house sitter when you are away for any period of time .

3. Put deadbolts on all of your doors .

4. Make sure the windows are locked.

5. Keep large Christmas presents hidden away until Christmas. Don’t make things easier for burglars.

6. Invest in double paned glass, which is much harder to break.

7. Criminals love the dark, so leave your lights on. You will pay a lot more to replace what is stolen than you will on your increased electric bill.

8. Make sure windows and door are not obstructed from view by trees, bushes or other plants. This just give criminals a discrete place to work.

9. Trust your residential security needs to DataLink Interactive!

So do your part to protect your loved ones and your home this Holiday Season.

If you feel your home could benefit from our Alarm and Security System Services, contact DataLink Interactive and ask us about our Physical Security Services. Learn what our technology experts have to say and how they can help you with your home security challenges. Contact us by calling (410)729-0440 or click here today!

Each and every DataLink client is valued. We care about your success. Whether you just need extra help on a project or 24/7 coverage, DataLink is here to support your organization and the technologies you depend on. We get to know you and our recommendations are tailored to your requirements. Everyday we work hard to strengthen the relationships we’ve built with our clients – we’re proud that we’ve earned their trust.

Serving Maryland, Washington, DC & Virginia.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter!

Sources:

The Secret to Surviving the Christmas Crime Wave (and Keeping Your Dallas Homeowners Insurance Rates Down While You’re at It)