Harnessing Data for Business Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Data-Driven Decision-Making

The role of data in shaping business strategies cannot be overstated. Harnessing data for business success is essential for entrepreneurs and business leaders seeking to leverage data-driven decision-making for competitive advantage. This guide offers practical insights into collecting, analyzing, ...

Top Business Trends of 2024: Strategies for Growth and Success

As we embark on 2024, the business environment continues to evolve with rapid technological advancements, shifting economic landscapes, and ever-changing consumer behaviors. For businesses aiming to stay at the forefront, recognizing and capitalizing on these trends is crucial. This article delves ...

Empowering Organizations with CISA's Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2023 Toolkit

With the end of October just around the corner, that also means it is the end of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. While the month might soon be over, cybersecurity issues and threats most certainly are not. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in partnership with the National ...

Four Essential Steps to Enhance Your Online Safety

As cyber threats continue to evolve, both individuals and businesses must be proactive in their approach to cybersecurity. Whether you're an individual looking to protect your personal data or an IT professional tasked with safeguarding company information, there are fundamental steps you can take ...

Secure Our World: The New Mantra for Cybersecurity in 2023 and Beyond

As cyber threats continue to evolve, so must our approach to safeguarding our digital realm. Enter "Secure Our World" – the groundbreaking cybersecurity awareness program launched by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). As we delve into 2023 and look towards the future, this ...

Celebrating Two Decades of Cybersecurity Awareness Month

In October 2003, the digital realm was at a crossroads. The internet, once a novelty, has transformed into an essential component of our daily lives. With this rapid digitization came new challenges and vulnerabilities. The need to secure our digital infrastructure and data was becoming ...

What the Heck is “The Cloud”?

“The Cloud” is more than just a buzzword. It has revolutionized how businesses operate, offering various opportunities for innovation, scalability, and efficiency. But what the heck is “The Cloud”? At its core, “The Cloud” refers to a network of servers located across the globe, providing storage, ...

Managed IT Services vs Professional IT Services: A Comprehensive Comparison

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, businesses face a critical decision when managing their IT needs. The choice between Managed IT Services and Professional IT Services can significantly impact an organization's efficiency, productivity, and bottom line. In this article, we'll delve into ...

Keeper: Your Ultimate Password Management Solution

Keeper is a game-changing password management solution that goes beyond just storing your passwords. It provides a multi-layered security approach, protecting not only passwords but also secrets, applications, systems, and IT resources. With its zero-trust and zero-knowledge architecture, Keeper ...

Celebrating 100 Tech Tips: A Journey with SeedSpark

In a world where technology evolves faster than we can blink, staying up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices can be a daunting task. But what if you could have bite-sized pieces of tech wisdom delivered straight to your inbox every week? That's exactly what SeedSpark's 5-Second Tech ...

Why You Need a Password Management Tool ASAP

Nearly every aspect of our lives is intertwined with technology, which is why ensuring the security of our online accounts and sensitive information has become paramount. An important aspect of maintaining robust digital security is the use of a password management tool (and we can help!). Let’s ...

Spotting Internet Scams: 10 Red Flags You Should Never Ignore

The digital age has revolutionized the way we communicate, shop, and conduct business. However, it has also given rise to a proliferation of internet scams, preying on unsuspecting individuals seeking convenience and opportunities online. As technology advances, so do the techniques employed by ...

5 Signs Your Cybersecurity Is Weak

Businesses heavily rely on digital platforms to streamline operations and serve their customers better. However, the rapid digital transformation has brought about an increase in cyber threats, putting companies at risk of data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. As a leading ...

Threads vs. Twitter: A New, Refreshing Take on Social Media and Real-Time Conversations.

It has been an exhilarating week since Threads by Meta (The parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp), the revolutionary social media communication appmade its debut. The buzz surrounding Threads continues to grow as businesses worldwide eagerly explore the immense potential this ...

How to Automate Your Business Processes for Exponential Growth

Businesses are constantly seeking ways to enhance efficiency, cut costs, and improve productivity. One of the most effective methods to achieve these goals is through business process automation. By automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, companies can free up valuable resources, reduce ...

Why Your HR Team Needs to Finally Update Their Computers

Staying up to date with the latest hardware and software advancements is crucial for businesses to maintain a competitive edge. One department that often gets overlooked in terms of technology upgrades is Human Resources (HR). While HR teamsare responsible for managing an organization's ...

Unleashing the Potential of AI Chatbots

 AI chatbots have become an integral part of many businesses, offering efficient and personalized customer interactions. These intelligent systems rely on prompts, carefully crafted by prompt writers, to generate relevant and contextually appropriate responses. As the use of AI continues to expand, ...

Should Your Business Use Windows 11 S Mode?

 When it comes to choosing an operating system, striking the right balance between simplicity, security, and performance is crucial. Microsoft 11 S Mode brings a range of exciting features and enhancements. Among its offerings is the updated version of S Mode, known as Windows 11 S Mode. Designed ...

How to Prepare for the End of the Windows Server 2012

In the world of enterprise computing, Windows Server 2012 has been a trusted operating system, providing stability and reliability to countless organizations. However, as technology continues to evolve, so too must our software. Microsoft announced that Windows Server 2012 and 2012R2 have reached ...

4 Reasons to Update Your Apple Devices ASAP

Electronic devices have become an essential part of our daily lives, and we rely on them for various purposes, including communication, entertainment, and work. However, the increased usage of these devices has also made them a prime target for cybercriminals.

10 Easy Ways to Keep Your Inbox Organized

 As our lives continue to become increasingly digital, email has become one of the primary methods of communication. However, with the sheer volume of emails that most of us receive daily, it can be challenging to keep our inboxes organized and manageable. Here are 10 easy ways to keep your email ...

The Importance of Data Privacy: A Look at TikTok's Challenges

  Data privacy is more crucial than ever, with apps and websites collecting and processing vast amounts of user data. TikTok, the popular social media app, has come under scrutiny recently for its data privacy practices, which have raised concerns about the security and privacy of user data online ...

What You Need to Know about Windows Canary Channel

If you'resomeone who likes to stay on the cutting edgeof technology, youmay already be familiar with Windows' Insider Programs (Dev, Beta, and Release Preview Channels). These programs allow users to test new features and updates before being released to the general public.However, Windows recently ...

Spring Cleaning for Your Devices

Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, and it's not just limited to the physical space around us. Our electronic devices, which we use every day for work, communication, entertainment, and more, can also benefit from a little spring cleaning. A cluttered and disorganized device can slow down ...

What Does the Collapse of Silicon Valley Bank Mean for Cybersecurity?

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank has been a major topic of discussion. Whether it’sbecause of the financial impact it has, or the worry it brings that other banks might fail, it’s something that businesses have been following and will continue to monitor.Oneparticularside effect of this incident ...

What Impact Will Virtual Reality Have in the Workplace?

Virtual reality (VR) technology has come a long way since its inception in the 1960s. Today, it has revolutionized the way we experience entertainment and gaming. But the potential of virtual reality goes far beyond just entertainment. In recent years, VR has been increasingly explored for its ...

Alternatives to Using SMS for 2-factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security measure that requires users to provide two forms of identification before accessing their accounts. One popular method of 2FA is SMS, which sends a one-time code to a user's phone number. While SMS is convenient and easy to use, it has been shown to be ...

5 Benefits of Proactive IT Management vs. Reactive IT Support

As businesses become more reliant on technology, the importance of IT management and cybersecurity continues to increase. Within IT management, there are two distinct approaches: proactive and reactive. While reactive IT support may seem like an easy solution, proactive IT management offers many ...

The Power of AI: How AI Is Transforming Cybersecurity

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming many industries, and cybersecurity is no exception. As technology advances, so do the threats and risks associated with it. Cybercriminals are constantly developing new ways to exploit vulnerabilities and compromise systems, making it challenging for ...

Why Should Businesses Work with a Managed Security Services Provider?

Working with a managed security service provider (MSSP) is becoming increasingly important for organizations of all sizes as the threat landscape continues to evolve. By outsourcing security functions to an MSSP, organizations can benefit from the expertise and resources of a dedicated team of ...

Data Privacy Week: The Importance of Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Have no data privacy fears - Data Privacy Week is here! Every year, the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) puts together this data-packed week to give companies and consumers a chance to sharpen their cybersecurity skills. First, let's talk about what Data Privacy Week is. It started in 1981 ...

Windows 11 Sneak Peek: Hidden Features in January 2023 Update

The latest update for Windows 11 was released this month, boasting security updates for versions 22H2 and 21H2. While security is critical, a couple of cosmetic features are also being finalized behind the scenes. Here's a sneak peek at the Windows 11 hidden features that will become publicly ...

The Future of Cybersecurity Protection in the Workplace

With 85% of data breaches being caused by social engineering or human error, it's clear that organizations can't afford to neglect the importance of the human element of cybersecurity. Employees have become the de facto attack vector of choice for cybercriminals. Their knowledge, beliefs, values, ...

Why you need to keep your software up to date

It can be easy to overlook software updates in the era of managed cloud apps and services, but robust patch management is still vital for staying safe online. One of the oft-cited benefits of cloud computing is that software maintenance and updates are all taken care of by the vendor. It’s their ...

How to identify Social Engineering Scams

Almost all data breaches involve a social engineering element, hence why good security starts with the ability to recognize and report phishing scams. According to Deloitte, 91% of cyberattacks involve a social engineering element, making it by far the most common attack vector. After all, it’s ...

How to Simplify Password Management

Password management tools do more than just help you remember your login details – they can also dramatically improve your password hygiene. The average internet user now has 100 passwords.At the same time, security professionals always warn us that we should have different passwords for each ...

The Importance of Multi-factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication adds a powerful extra layer of protection to your online accounts by dramatically decreasing your susceptibility to phishing attacks. Usernames and passwords are among the favorite targets for attackers. After all, it is far easier to dupe an unsuspecting victim into ...

Cybersecurity Awareness Month: A smarter way to protect yourself online

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and this year the focus is on the human element. Here are the key steps you need to take to protect yourself online.

Crypto Crash: The Future of Digital Currency

This summer, two significant events occurred that will change the landscape and trajectory of cryptocurrency for the foreseeable future. Celsius Network, one of the world's largest cryptocurrency lenders, filed for bankruptcy protection a month after freezing customer assets in the wake of sharp ...

Sentient AI: A Benefit or Risk?

We as humans tend to think of ourselves as the most intelligent, evolved creatures on the planet. However, this may not necessarily be true. There's no reason we can't build a machine as smart (or smarter) than us. That raises an interesting question: If we do create super-intelligent AI, what ...

5 Easy Tricks to Improve Your Work Ergonomics

For millions of Americans, an average workday means sitting at a desk and computer for eight hours. This work can lead to musculoskeletal problems such as back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, neck and shoulder pain, and more. An ergonomically correct workspace can reduce body strain and improve job ...

Microsoft and Netflix Strike A New Deal

Netflix is expected to launch a lower-cost ad-supported option in late 2022, announcing its partnership with Microsoft as its "global advertising technology and sales partner" to help the streaming service earn revenue through ads.

Your Online Accounts Are Compromised: What’s Next?

Data breaches have become all too common in our always-connected, internet-dependent world, but you don’thave to become a victim if your data is stolen online. There are several measures you can take to limit the damage and protect yourself from criminals while keeping your personal finances, ...

Planned Obsolescence: How Long Does Your Tech Truly Last?

Has your device ever stopped working out of the blue? You’ve done all the maintenance, made necessary updates, and kept it in good physical condition. You try everything to resurrect your device, but it won’t come back to life. It seems more apparent every day that tech and other manufactured goods ...

The Password-Less Future

While we've been promised a more secure, password-free future for years now, it seems like 2022 will be the year that millions of people start to move away from passwords altogether. Managing your online passwords can be tedious. Yet, creating long, complicated passwords that deter cyber thieves ...

5 Tips to Improve Your Internet Speed

Slow Wi-Fi can interrupt Teams meetings, ruin gaming experiences, and restrict online access to your favorite content. When the modern world relies on near-instant connections, these inconveniences add up quickly and become frustrating obstacles to work, school, and life in general. Here are five ...

Are QR Codes Safe? How to Keep Your Privacy Intact

In its most basic form, QR codes are square arrangements of composite black and white squares with data stored inside. This data can be in the form of a website URL, a PDF file, landing page, questionnaire, video or audio, and more. They were developed to contain more information than their ...

5 Ways to Extend Your Windows 11 Battery Life

With Microsoft's new Windows 11 operating system, you may expect more usage time between charges than ever before. Every software upgrade includes its own set of issues and bugs, but the good news is that there are simple adjustments you can make to get more juice out of your laptop's battery. Some ...

6 Steps to Crafting The Perfect Password

Choosing a secure password may sound easy, but it can make or break the safety of your online data and identity. Your life can change drastically if a hacker or identity thief figured out your email password. Social media password? Even worse. Eventually, these hackers can access your online bank ...

How to Clean Your Computer Hardware

Everyone wants their laptop or PC to run as quickly and efficiently as possible. This is especially true if your computer is your primary source of income or if you own a gaming PC where performance must be at its peak. Dirt, dust, and other debris can potentially damage parts of your computer if ...

8 Ways to Minimize Email Spam

Spam has been an issue for a long time, and many people either forget aboutit or accept it. Thanks to improvements in automatic filters from email providers and third-party services, the onslaught of fake offers and promised contest winnings are mostly kept out of sight. While it's difficult to ...

The Future of Work: How Virtual Reality Can Impact Your Career

Virtual reality has long been the realm of gamers and futurists, but it may soon land on businesses' priority lists. With VR headsets falling to under $300 and high-speed 5G networks just around the corner, the technology appears to be headed for home in the workplace. Remote work can be stressful ...

5 Easy Ways to Spring Clean Your Devices

Spring has sprung! Not only is it time to clean and refresh your living space, but also an excellent opportunity to give your devices a good decluttering. Our devices accumulate plenty of digital clutter that needs cleaning from time to time (like old files, outdated apps, quick photos, etc.) ...

Don't Take The Bait: How To Identify Advanced Phishing Techniques

To avoid being victimized by phishing sites, we usually advise examining the address bar for HTTPS presence, avoiding domains with questionable characters like g00gle.com, and discouraging clicking on any recurring or suspicious pop-ups. But what if someone discovered a method to phish passwords ...

Which 2FA Should You Use?

Cybercrime is on the rise, and a strong password isn’t enough to keep your money, job, or family safe. To defend against increasingly aggressive attackers, you’ll need a second factor. Two-factor authentication is becoming more widespread online; it typically involves providing a code after ...

How to Take Your Video Calls to the Next Level

The COVID-19 pandemic forced companies around the world to rethink their approach to work. Meetings were moved online and employees began working remotely as the world began to recover. Even as many teams have begun returning to their offices, remote and hybrid workforces are now officially here to ...

Increased Risk of Russian-backed Cyberattacks - Are You Prepared?

New Pricing Updates for Microsoft 365

After becoming one of the world's leading productivity platforms, Microsoft Office 365 has now grown to over 300 million commercial users worldwide. With the addition of Microsoft Teams, Office 365 now includes 24 apps, 1,400 new features, and strong new capabilities that help strengthen ...

Browser Keyboard Shortcuts That Everyone Should Know

"Change your passwords every 30 days!" This is a tip that has been thrown around freely over the last 20 years. While it might have been a safe practice 15 years ago, new changes in cybersecurity technology have meant that plenty of common cybersecurity tips aren't quite as valuable as they used to ...

Top 5 Cybersecurity Myths

"Change your passwords every 30 days!" This is a tip that has been thrown around freely over the last 20 years. While it might have been a safe practice 15 years ago, new changes in cybersecurity technology have meant that plenty of common cybersecurity tips aren't quite as valuable as they used to ...

Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts to Save Time

Keyboard shortcuts might save a few seconds here and there at first glance, but that time can add up in a big way. Lifehack found that keyboard shortcuts can save upwards of 64 hours per year for office workers, meaning that switching from the mouse to a couple of keyboard taps could be the boost ...

SeedSpark Earns Blue Diamond Partner Status with Datto

Top 5 Windows 11 Features for Hybrid Work

As workers around the world eye a return to the office - or an entire shift toward hybrid work - having the right technology in place is key in making sure that everyone is protected and connected. Microsoft designed Windows 11 to break down the barriers that stand between in-office workers and ...

How to Protect Your Business Against Cyberattacks

With 15 billion phishing emails sent out each day, criminals are working overtime to tap into the data of today's businesses. It's not just the biggest corporations that are at risk. Small businesses with lackluster cybersecurity measures and aging technology are a common target for attackers, ...

5 Tips to Keep Your Data Safe Online

As of 2021, the world’s digital population– active internet users – reached 4.66 billion people. An even more staggering statistic is the saturation of internet use itself. According to Statista, 99 percent of adults aged 18-29 are online alongside 98 percent of those aged 30 to 49. Even 96 percent ...

The Biggest Trends from CES 2022

For decades, the Consumer Electronics Show has been the World Summit of tech. From TVs and phones to fitness trackers for your furry friends, new gadgets that are set to hit store shelves around the world in the months ahead. Whether you're looking forward to new office tech or are on the hunt for ...

Here's Why You Should Never Store Passwords in Your Browser

Browsers like Google Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge all give users the option to save their passwords to make logging into their most common websites easy. Unfortunately, this ease comes at a price - browsers put up a thin line of defense when it comes to protecting your passwords. In fact, ...

5 Tech Resolutions for 2022

Did you know that the average household has an average of 25 connected devices? That's a lot of laptops, phones, tablets, smartwatches, smart TVs - and maybe even an Alexa-connected microwave or two. But what good does all of that tech do if you're not making the most of it? With a new year ahead, ...

How to Prep Your Tech for a Holiday Road Trip

With millions of Americans hitting the road this holiday season, it’s time to deck the halls and prep the tech for your big journey! Whether you’re staying home for the holidays or pulling off a Trains, Planes, and Automobiles–style cross-country adventure, these tech tips will make sure that ...

SeedSpark Wrapped 2021 - Our Year in Review

As 2021 comes to a close, we're taking a look back at everything that our team has accomplished throughout the year here at SeedSpark! From onsite visits to tech support calls, our managed IT team was busy making sure that our clients were protected and set for success 24/7/365. Here is a quick ...

4 Windows 11 Tips to Help You Focus

Did you know that it takes the average person 23 minutes and 15 seconds to regain focus after a distraction? From texts and social media messages to phone calls and impromptu meetings, we're constantly fighting wave after wave of distractions threatening our mental focus. Thankfully, Microsoft has ...

Top 5 Tips for Microsoft Teams

Since launching in 2017, Microsoft Teams has grown into something much larger than a little-known Skype competitor. On top of being a core part of the way that millions of business users around the world connect and communicate, Teams has evolved into Microsoft’s answer to Apple’s FaceTime – the ...

How to Prepare Your Cybersecurity for the Holiday Season

While this year's biggest deals may be the talk of the town, our team at SeedSpark is focusing on a different kind of "Cyber Monday". The National Retail Federation is forecasting a record-breaking year for holiday shopping with an estimated $850 billion in revenue - a ~10% increase as compared to ...

5 Technologies We're Thankful for in 2021

Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to look back on what we've been the most thankful for throughout the year. While 2021 has certainly had its fair share of challenges, our team at SeedSpark is thankful for the tech that has kept us protected and connected through all of the ups and downs. ...

Tech to Help You Save Time During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is almost here! While it might be a great opportunity to celebrate with friends and family, an influx of parties, family gatherings, school events, and holiday shopping can create a hectic holiday to-do list. Thankfully, today's newest smartphones and tablets are good for more ...

What is Password Spraying?

Hackers are constantly testing new strategies in an effort to gain access to user accounts, but password spraying is becoming a much more common tactic. Rather than relying on specific passwords obtained in data breaches, password spraying is the practice of taking a "shotgun approach" to login ...

Cybersecurity Tips to Stay Safe During the Holiday Season

Statistics show that more than 2.14 billion people are shopping online in 2021 - but that's not the only way that technology is powering the holidays. From Teams to Facetime, video calls are bringing families and friends together all over the world to bridge the gap and bring holiday cheer to ...

Custom Applications for Construction Services - Why Have a Custom App?

What do plumbers, painters, electricians, and general contractors have in common? All of them come together to help build the future of cities as they grow and expand – but with that expansion comes a lot of work. For small businesses that are struggling to keep track of their projects on pen and ...

Bots Are Stealing MFA Codes and Accessing Accounts - The New Cyber Threat in 2021

Cybersecurity has quickly evolved over the last decade. From simple pin numbers and passwords to more complex password requirements and even passphrases, users around the world have constantly upped the ante in an effort to fight back against a nearly constant stream of attacks coming from every ...

Celebrating 15 Years of SeedSpark

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." This quote is framed and is one of the central art pieces in my office as a steady reminder of the power of innovation. Our team has come a long way since our early days as a Blackberry application development team 15 years ago. Throughout our ...

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Recap - Top Tips for Small Businesses

With Cybersecurity Awareness Month winding down, our team at SeedSpark has been working to help spread the word about some of today's top threats and deliver resourceful tools to help you stay safe in the digital world. As of October, the total number of cyberattacks in the U.S. had already passed ...

What Are the Risks of Using Outdated Technology?

Top 4 Email Security Threats for Small Businesses

While the world's biggest businesses make the headlines for cybersecurity breaches, it's often the smallest companies that are targeted most often - and it's these companies that often have the most to lose. 83% of small- and medium-sized businesses are not financially prepared to recover from a ...

What's the Real Cost of a Ransomware Attack in 2021?

With Cybersecurity Awareness Month in full swing, new annual reports are putting the rise in ransomware and other cyber attacks into perspective - and the results are staggering. According to our friends at Datto, MSPs around the world are reporting that downtime costs are nearly 50X greater than ...

The Biggest Cybersecurity Lessons from 2021 - So Far

Cybersecurity attacks have taken over the headlines in 2021, with networking and cybersecurity firm SonicWall reporting 304.7 million ransomware attacks as of June 2021 – a number higher than the total number of attacks in the entirety of 2020. SeedSpark is constantly monitoring the cybersecurity ...

Why Cybersecurity Solutions Need Artificial Intelligence

Over the last 20 years, cybersecurity has shifted from a minor inconvenience to a significant threat for businesses of every size. While artificial intelligence has already impacted many areas of our lives, it's now introducing the world of cybersecurity to technology that learns and masters ...

How to Remove Chat from Windows 11 Taskbar

Windows 11 is officially here, available as a free upgrade for all Windows 10 users. While many organizations are rolling out the new OS in the months ahead, one of the first things that users will notice is the Chat icon in the taskbar. Microsoft is making Teams a fundamental part of the ...

What is Microsoft Viva?

Since taking over as CEO in 2014, Satya Nadella has increased Microsoft's focus on keeping the user at the center of the products and services that the company works to create. Data-driven insights track each user's experience, providing a deeper understanding of how people engage with Windows and ...

What is BlackMatter Ransomware?

BlackMatter ransomware has made headlines in the last month as the string of cyberattacks that have defined a large part of 2021 continue. Discovered at the end of July, BlackMatter is a new ransomware that seems to have been developed by malicious developers associated with another group of ...

Construct by SeedSpark - Complete Construction Management Software

At SeedSpark, construction has been in our DNA since the beginning. As a leading Charlotte-based software and application development company, SeedSpark has seen the city grow by leaps and bounds over the last 15 years to become a bustling metropolis at the heart of Southeast. Our CEO, Chad ...

iOS 15: Everything You Need to Know

Last week’s “California Streaming” event showcased Apple’s new hardware and software, bringing some subtle changes to the company’s line of devices that are set to come together for a major impact on the user experience and productivity. While new and improved iPad and iPhone models took the ...

What is Windows 11 S Mode and Should You Use It?

Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Tips Every Business Leader Should Know

With an above-average hurricane season officially in full swing, businesses along the Gulf Coast and East Coast have their eyes on the Atlantic as more storms begin to swirl. In the same way that this year’s wave of ransomware attacks devastated companies across the country, natural disasters can ...

What New Features Are Coming to Windows 11?

Windows 11 is launching on October 5, introducing the world to the newest operating system set to power millions of devices around the world over the next decade. With plenty of public previews in the wild, Windows Insiders have had plenty of time to learn what's new with Microsoft's latest OS. ...

Can My Computer Run Windows 11?

Windows 11 is coming on October 5, introducing a streamlined user experience and refreshed "Fluent" design that is set to mark the biggest shakeup for the operating system since 2015's launch of Windows 10. While the end of support for Windows 10 is still years away, many users around the world are ...

Ransomware Activity Rises 10x in 2021

2021 has been a year filled with ransomware attacks as businesses small and large are targeted by online hacking groups. While big-name companies like Colonial Pipeline, JBS Foods, and more have fallen victim, small businesses remain the #1 target for criminals, representing 43% of all data ...

SeedSpark Construction Technology - Enabling the Next Generation of Builders

If there's one thing that we've learned after 15 years as a Charlotte-based technology company, it's that construction is one of the only constants. New high rises and retail spaces are constantly expanding the cities footprint as general contractors and major developers shape the future of the ...

How to Get the Most Out of Your Technology Investment

The last year has put the power of technology into perspective. Digitally connecting with their team and their clients became a major focus for companies of every size, pushing businesses around the world to speed up their efforts to get online. According to Celerity, 63% of leaders say that ...

6 Keyboard Shortcuts to Help You Work Faster

"I wish there was more time in the day." If that sounds like you, you're not alone! There are a wide range of ways to find time in your day-to-day routine, but even the smallest changes can add up. Saving just a few minutes per day can add up to extra hours in the week and entire days in the year ...

How to Protect Mobile Devices in 2021

2021's list of cybersecurity breaches just keeps growing. This week's T-Mobile data breach looks to be one of the biggest of the year as CNN reports that the data of more than 40 million users has been stolen and listed for sale online. From names and addresses to driver license data and social ...

SeedSpark Included in the 2021 Inc. 5000

SeedSpark is proud to share that we have been included in the Inc. 5000 list for the third consecutive year. Being included in this list of industry leaders is the result of hard work from our team, dedication to our clients, and our passion for creating technology-powered solutions that help our ...

SeedSpark Named Best Managed IT Service Provider in Charlotte by Digital.com

Websites for Small Businesses - Building a Better Brand

In today's digital world, small businesses have more competition than ever before. Even with 99% of people between the ages of 18 and 29 spending time online, 23% of small businesses have no online presence. This may not have been a problem 10 years ago, but times are changing. 97% of consumers now ...

Getting Back to (Cyber) School — Mastering Cybersecurity 101

Cyberattacks are running rampant in 2021, but their impact goes well beyond pipelines and meat processors. 87% of educational organizations have experienced at least one successful cyberattack, with 41% of attacks caused by social engineering alone. If putting the data of employees and students at ...

SeedSpark.com is Now Carbon Neutral Certified

According to The Nature Conservancy, a carbon footprint is "the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) that are generated by our actions." Currently, the average American produces roughly 16 tons of carbon per year with a global average of 4 tons annually. As global ...

The Tech Behind Tokyo: How Technology is Powering the 2021 Summer Olympics

After a delay from the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Tokyo Olympic games officially kick off on July 23, 2021. While there are still plenty of restrictions in place to ensure health and safety to everyone involved, technology is helping athletes, organizers, and media officials continue the ...

SeedSpark Ranks #219 in Channel Futures' MSP 501 for 2021

SeedSpark is proud to share that our team is once again included in Channel Futures' MSP 501, climbing the ranks and earning our spot at #219 for 2021. As it approaches its 15th anniversary, this year's MSP 501 rankings were judged on more than annual revenue alone. Instead exploring the impact of ...

Microsoft PrintNightmare Security Update Patch is Now Available

Microsoft is urging users to download their latest security patch as soon as possible, stopping a serious vulnerability impacting Windows users around the world. Known as PrintNightmare, this vulnerability takes advantage of Print Spooler, a service that allows multiple users to access a single ...

Hacking Group REvil Launches July 4th Weekend Ransomware Attack Against Hundreds of Companies

Cybersecurity experts have discovered that REvil, the group responsible for last month's JBS ransomware attack, are now leveraging Kaseya VSA to target hundreds of companies worldwide.

What is Email Spoofing and How Do You Fight Back?

Windows 11 Announcement - Everything You Need to Know

Microsoft's June 24 event finally revealed the long-rumored (and heavily leaked) Windows 11, delivering a new design for one of the world's most popular operating systems. With Windows 11, Microsoft is going head-to-head with Apple and Google by focusing on creating a beautiful and accessible ...

Why You Need a Backup and Disaster Recovery Plan

Building a successful business takes time, investment, and passion. In the same way that an insurance policy protects your car, a backup and data recovery (BDR) is a must-have for businesses to protect their data in a disaster. IT consulting firm Just Gilbey reports that 93% of companies that lost ...

What to Expect from Microsoft's Windows 11 Event

Windows 11 is one of the worst-kept secrets in tech, with plenty of screenshots and even a full built of the OS leaked online well before the event on June 24. Leaks aside, Windows 11 is poised to be the largest update to the world's most popular operating system since the debut of Windows 10 back ...

How Does a Ransomware Attack Work?

Ransomware is a complicated issue and continues to be an increasingly dangerous threat for businesses in 2021. With national powerhouses like Cox Media, Colonial Pipeline, and JBS all target in 2021, it's clear that the threat from hacking groups isn't going away - but that's just one side of the ...

The White House Ransomware Warning - Everything You Need to Know

Experts predicted that a ransomware attack would take place every 11 seconds in 2021 - so far, that statistic is likely in line with reality. Two ransomware attacks have disrupted major services around the world in the last month alone: Colonial Pipeline, one of the Southeast's main sources of ...

5 Ways to Maximize Productivity with Office 365

3 Lessons Learned from the Colonial Pipeline Ransomware Attack

Last week's ransomware attack on Colonial Pipeline, the operator of one of the largest fuel pipelines in the country, catapulted glaring cybersecurity issues into the public eye. Stretching from Pennsylvania to Texas, the pipeline provides a variety of fuel types to businesses and communities ...

The State of Productivity in 2021: How Productive Are People?

In today's fast-paced world, people are always searching for ways to make a smarter use of their time. Our to-do lists are longer than ever before, creating an entire industry built around productivity and maximizing each minute. This drive for productivity has hit the workplace, too. Companies ...

2021 Microsoft Stats: Here's How Fast Microsoft 365 is Growing

The last year has seen a major shift to working remotely, pushing many companies to integrate new technology into the way that they communicate and collaborate with coworkers while also adjusting their approach to providing products and services for their clients. During Microsoft's FY21 Q3 ...

The 8 Best Productivity Tools Included with Microsoft 365

Microsoft's 2021 Work Trend Index - What Business Leaders Should Know

Microsoft has released their 2021 Work Trend Index, sharing useful analytics that give insight into how a hybrid approach to the workplace has created "the next great disruption" in the workplace. Throughout organizations across nearly every industry, now is the time to pause and evaluate your ...

Fake LinkedIn Job Listings Are Targeting Job Seekers

LinkedIn is the social media platform of the corporate world, acting as a mouthpiece for companies, employees, and job seekers to share their thoughts, network, and find new opportunities. Unfortunately, it's also become a haven for scams that are targeting job seekers through obvious flaws in ...

Top 5 Cybersecurity Threats to Businesses in 2021

Cybersecurity attacks become more complex each year, experimenting with new ways to try and tap into the personal data of people and businesses around the world. As remote work becomes a bigger part of that "new normal" we've all been hearing about, companies are continuing to rely more heavily on ...

5 Windows 10 Troubleshooting Tips for 2021

Vishing Attacks Are Spiking - Here's How to Fight Back

2020 was a year that caught everyone off guard. With an international pandemic pushing more people into the digital world than ever before, cybercriminals saw an opportunity to take advantage of the situation. We've shared some insights on the recent rise in COVID-related phishing attacks and on ...

Why Leading Companies Automate Their Workday with Formstack

Every year, organization’s lose 20 to 30% of revenue due to inefficient processes, and one in three consumers will walk away from a brand they love after just one bad experience.

Meet SeedSpark Marketplace, Custom Apps Made Easy

Technology moves at a lightning-fast pace, bringing new innovations that revolutionize the way that businesses across every industry are able to communicate and collaborate to get work done. While there are plenty of big box software solutions out there, it's rare that any one-stop solution is ...

Phishing Attacks: How To Identify & Avoid Them

When it comes to phishing attacks, all it takes is one dirty hook set in one employee to snatch up your vital data. According to NTT’s recent Threat Intelligence Report, 25% of insider threats are hostile with the remaining 75% due to accidental or negligent activity. Even if you have state of the ...

Microsoft Integrations That Make a Difference - SeedSpark x Formstack

For those that haven't heard the news, SeedSpark and Formstack are teaming up! Formstack's team has recently debuted an entire suite of Microsoft integrations, adding to their entire integration catalog spanning nearly every major tool, program, and platform being used in the modern world of ...

Computer Repair vs. Replacement After 3 Years

Is it time to upgrade your computer? If you think that it might be time for a new machine, there are several questions that you should consider before investing in updated hardware. What is your computer struggling with? How old is it? Was it purchased as "business grade" or "consumer grade"? How ...

The Anatomy of A Phishing Email

Over the past few months, we've seen that plenty of phishing emails are on the rise that are impacting users personally and professionally. We've covered common tactics from phishing attackers and how the coronavirus pandemic has given even more opportunities for scammers to take advantage of ...

SeedSpark, Meet Formstack – Building a Better Way to Work

At SeedSpark, we start each day with three questions: what are we doing, why are we doing it, and how can we do better? We're always on the hunt for new tools and innovative resources that can help make a bad situation good, a good solution great, and a great enhancement incredible.

Why Backup Internet is Important for SMBs

When downtime strikes, the idle time has the potential for a devastating impact on small- to medium-sized businesses. According to Gartner, the average cost of network downtime is ~$5,600 per minute... that's $300,000 per hour. While that figure may seem high, there are invisible costs that many ...

How Does Cloud Storage Work?

Cloud-based data storage has gone from a behind-the-scenes method of data management to a fundamental part of how millions worldwide access the files they depend on every day. From clubs and businesses to high schools and colleges, thumb drives have been mostly phased out by services like Google ...

What's the True Cost of a Ransomware Attack?

While it's easy to lump all hacking, scamming, skimming, and phishing together into one big pile of internet crime, there are subtle differences that set each apart. Another major problem in today's modern digital space is ransomware - a form of malware that attacks unsuspecting users by locking ...

Tech to Help Crush Your New Year's Resolutions

With each new year comes a new beginning and with it a new opportunity to make a positive change in every aspect of your life. For many, a New Year's resolution may include more financial responsibility, more trips to the gym, or more veggies in their diet. However, a new year is also a great ...

Making the Most of Technology During the Holiday Season

While technology shapes the way that we live and work throughout the entire year, there are plenty of ways that we can leverage the full power of tech to make the holiday season even brighter! From AI assistants to online subscription services, let's dig into a few of the ways that you're able to ...

IT 101 - Tips and Tricks to Dodge Technical Difficulties

At the SeedSpark Technical Support Desk, we receive hundreds of calls each week to help handle a wide range of technology issues. While we are always ready to tackle any questions that you may have, there are a few simple tricks that you can call before contacting your technical support provider to ...

Microsoft 365 - A Hub for Team Collaboration

With modern technology comes a modern way of working. More teams around the world are adopting a hybrid business model, encouraging employees to work remotely when it fits their needs. Some companies have even shifted entirely to remote operations, slashing their overhead operational costs. ...

Google Suite vs Office 365 - Why Microsoft Comes Out on Top

There are plenty of business productivity suites that promise to simplify the way that companies around the world work each day. With thousands of applications, identifying the option that is the best bet for your business can be quite the difficult task. While there are plenty of alternatives, the ...

Why Your Website Needs an SSL Certificate

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the standard security technology for an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. As a small to mid-size business owner you may or may not understand what an SSL is or does, but you do understand the concept of trust. When customers reach out to your website, ...

Zoom's Security Shortcomings - Why Microsoft Teams is a Smarter Choice

Throughout the last five years – and the last 6 months in particular – Zoom has risen to fame as one of the go-to resources that people rely on to connect and communicate from anywhere in the world. Millions use the service each day to stay in touch with loved ones or meet with coworkers, elements ...

How to Hack a Password: Common Methods and How to Protect Yourself

We live in an increasingly digital age. From our financial and personal records to our private conversations with friends, data is stored across websites and mobile apps designed to make our lives easier and more efficient. With this ease, comes an increased risk for identity theft, crippling data ...

Why Companies Aren't Seeing a Return on AI Investments

No matter the size of a company, its technology is simultaneously one of its most important and expensive investments. From hardware like laptops and tablets to software solutions, finding the right technology is a major part of creating a modern operation.

Meet Anne Seymour – Director of Transformation Services

5 Social Engineering Awareness Tips

According to Kaspersky, a leading cybersecurity company, social engineering is defined as a form of techniques employed by cybercriminals designed to lure unsuspecting users into sending them their confidential data, infecting their computers with malware or opening links to infected sites. With ...

4 Ways Business Process Automation Helps Your Business Succeed

Everyone’s got them – day-to-day tasks that are so mundane and repetitive that even the office intern loathes them. Thankfully, with the advent of technology, many of these necessary evils of office workflows no longer take hours (if not days) of your valuable time to complete. Through the power of ...

Modernizing a Modern Business - Meet the Transformation Continuum

Outlook on Mac Finally Gets the Makeover It Deserves

When it comes to software, looks aren’t everything - but they’re definitely important. A well-designed app can be the difference between a program that gets the job done and a program that is a genuine pleasure to use. Microsoft has been on a redesign frenzy lately, modernizing everything from ...

Digging Deeper with Your Data – Meet Microsoft Power BI

Back to School with Microsoft 365

Internet Explorer is Going Away – Here’s What That Means for You

SeedSpark is Now a WP Engine Partner

SeedSpark Ranks 244 in the 2020 Inc. 5000 List

What is Windows 10 S Mode and Should You Use It?

How to Turn Off S Mode in Windows 10

Windows 10 in S Mode is essentially a lightweight version of Windows 10 Home or Pro, providing an operating system for laptops that may not have enough power to comfortably run powerful third party apps and a robust OS simultaneously. If you're curious about what Windows 10 in S Mode actually does, ...

Why You Should Switch to Microsoft Edge

For many PC users, sticking to the default Internet Explorer or Microsoft Edge web browser seems like a foreign concept. As competitors like Google’s Chrome and Mozilla’s Firefox continued to rise in popularity, Microsoft’s built-in browsers began to grow more outdated with each new update from the ...

7 Microsoft Power BI Tips for Developers

For businesses wanting to make the most out of their company data, Microsoft’s Power BI is one of the most intuitive methods of gaining access to insights that providing all of the information that you need to know by simply glancing at a dashboard. For developers working to create these tools, ...

Virtual Fans Are Coming This Weekend to Major League Baseball

As the United States continues to grapple with social distancing requirements and mask mandates, sports organizations are beginning to build a 2020 sporting season without fans in the stands. While athletes themselves might be forced to get used to empty stands - unless they're in South Korea - ...

How to Use Shifts in Microsoft Teams for Your Organization

What is Phishing on Social Media (and How to Protect Yourself)

While social media is one of the most powerful tools of modern communication, there are still plenty of criminals online who use it to take advantage of unsuspecting users. Much like the more traditional methods, phishing on social media is the act of manipulating someone on a social media platform ...

Why Network Cable Management Matters

We’ve all walked by it – the networking closet. This room is often a nest of tangled wires and flashing lights, all somehow magically connecting your team to the outside digital world. It’s easy to take the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach to cable management (why mess with something when ...

Building Better Branding - Graphic Design, Modern Marketing, and How They Can Boost Your Business

Why Your Company Should Be On Social Media in 2020

As the digital transformation has begun to impact nearly every part of our lives, modern technology has had a profound impact on the world of communication. Whether it’s between friends, family, or coworkers, the way we communicate has been driven forward by social media. Recent figures show that ...

How COVID-19 Changed the Way We Use the Internet

Since February, the world has been grappling with the impact of COVID-19, known as the novel coronavirus. This pandemic has swept the globe, fundamentally shifting the way that we live our lives each day. As revealed in a New York Times report last month, it’s also changing the way that internet ...

Hurricane Prep Checklist - Business IT Edition

With experts predicting above-average activity this hurricane season, it's important to take the necessary steps towards ensuring that your team is able to work safely and securely no matter what Mother Nature has in store. No hurricane preparedness checklist is a safety guarantee, but every ...

5 Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Tips for 2020

5 Reasons WordPress is the Best Website Builder in 2020

In our modern digital era, having a well-developed and designed online presence is just as important as having a sign on the door or a listing in The Yellow Pages. Your digital presence is an extension of your company – it's the link to the online world and the thousands who search for businesses ...

Goodbye Wunderlist, Hello Microsoft To Do - Tips for Using Microsoft's To Do App

As announced in late 2019, popular organization app Wunderlist is officially offline. After being acquired by Microsoft in 2015, it was decided that instead of allowing the two apps – Microsoft To Do and Wunderlist - to coexist, there should instead be only one. Thankfully, Microsoft’s alternative ...

Parenting During a Quarantine – Balancing Work and Life in a “Work from Home” World

NVIDIA's RTX Voice Removes Mic Background Noise - Even a Leaf Blower

The Psychology of Shares: Why People Share on Social Media

How to Write a Winning Resume

Let’s make one thing clear – there is never a bad time to spruce up your resume. Whether you’re actively looking for a job or comfortably in your ideal career, keeping an updated account of your jobs, responsibilities, and accomplishments is an important part in keeping yourself on track and your ...

Small Business Loans to Help with Coronavirus Relief

As the world continues to grapple with the impact of COVID-19, its impact on the world of small business cannot be understated. While some businesses have flourished during this time, others have faced a direct hit that impacts the company’s bottom line and the lives of its employees.

Streamlining Business Processes with Microsoft 365

Meet SeedSpark Sessions, a Podcast for the Digital Age

Inside a Tech Firm Working from Home During the Coronavirus

COVID-19, known as the novel coronavirus, has had an impact on employees around the world as companies make emergency adjustments to the way that they do business. Millions are now working remotely, urged to stay at home in an attempt to “flatten the curve” and speed up society’s recovery from the ...

How to Help the Charlotte Community During the Coronavirus Pandemic

There are so many incredible aspects of Charlotte, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Carolinas, Charlotte is the ideal blend of “big city” and “small town”. While the city is home to nearly 900K people, the greater Charlotte community is packed with passion and love for one another.

Microsoft's March Event - Everything Coming to Microsoft 365 in 2020

Brand Building 101 - Creating a Digital Presence for Your Company

Brands are everywhere. On your cereal box in the morning, plastered on billboards scattered along your morning commute, decorating mugs and ballpoint pens in the office – it’s safe to say, they’re here to stay. The brands that we’ve all come to know didn’t simply appear one day. Teams have ...

Slack is Adding Microsoft Teams Integration

How to Run a Remote Meeting

Why Your Business Should Invest in Custom Graphics

We’ve already covered why social media is important for your business, but now you’re facing an even larger dilemma: what do you post? While tweeting hashtag-laden word soup or chasing the viral dream by sharing memes are both optional approaches, social media platforms are more than a digital ...

New Features Coming to Microsoft Teams in 2020

How to Securely Work From Home

4 Reasons Why Your Company Should Use Microsoft 365

What is Google’s BERT Algorithm and How Does It Work?

According to HubSpot, Google has 92.42 percent of the search engine market share worldwide. With approximately 2 trillion global searches per year, you’re likely one of the billions around the world using Google Search to answer life’s biggest (and smallest) questions.

Coronavirus Phishing Attacks Are On the Rise - How to Fight Back

How to Share Emails and Messages Between Outlook and Microsoft Teams

Email via Outlook is a tried-and-true staple of office communication, forming the backbone of everything from business transactions to chili cook-offs. However, over the course of the past five years, Microsoft Teams has revolutionized the way that people around the world communicate with both ...

The Power of Creating Great Content

SeedSpark is Now a Blue Partner in Datto's Global Partner Program

How to Use Microsoft Shifts in Teams

How Working Remotely Could Boost Your Business

“I’m going to work, have a great day!”

5 Ways Office 365 Boosts Your Business

When many business professionals hear “Office 365”, the basics immediately jump to mind. “Oh, you mean my email?” or “Isn’t that the one with Word?” are common responses. While word processing and email functionality are major parts of Office 365, the power of the toolkit that Microsoft has created ...

Life Cycle Refreshes - How Often Should Your Company Upgrade Computer Hardware?

That initial investment in new technology can be substantial. Thousands of dollars are poured into purchasing new laptops, desktop towers, and networking equipment in the name of embracing the digital transformation and future-proofing your company. Then you get the news – the day after you’ve ...

5 Ways Technology is Transforming Businesses in 2020

Whether you’re ready or not, the future is here. 2015 was not the cutting-edge utopia imagined in Back to the Future II - unfortunately, no flying DeLoreans… yet. Though five years later, 2020 is poised to be packed with revolutionary tech trends fundamentally changing the way that people do ...

What is Business Process Automation?

Businesses around the world in every industry conduct their work and satisfy clients by performing thousands of processes both big and small. From fulfilling client orders to buying office supplies, processes are the heartbeat of businesses. While necessary, many of these processes are repetitive ...

How Starting a Blog Can Boost Your Business

Social media, when used effectively, goes a long way in expanding your brand and making contact with potential clients. Once the Facebook feeds and Twitter timelines start rolling, what’s the next step? While some companies are satisfied with redirecting social media traffic back to their website’s ...

Why Microsoft Teams is Better Than Traditional VOIP Services

With the advent of the internet, the last three decades have allowed constant exploration and discovery in terms of the ways that people can use the internet to communicate. Each year more companies are exploring new software solutions that bring teams together, optimizing communication in the ...

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