29 January

Why You Need to Backup Office 365 with 3rd Party Solutions

CK SolutionsBackups, MANAGED IT Support services Dublin, Office 365

The Hidden Risks of Relying Solely on Microsoft 365

Microsoft Office 365 has become an essential tool for businesses, offering streamlined communication, collaboration, and productivity. Yet, many mistakenly believe that Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure eliminates the need for additional data protection. While Microsoft 365 boasts strong security features, it isn’t immune to data loss. Whether due to accidental deletions, malicious actions, or compliance mishaps, the risks are real. Relying solely on Microsoft’s built-in protections can leave your organisation exposed to gaps in recovery when the unexpected occurs.

Common Scenarios Where Backups Prove Their Worth

Picture this: an employee accidentally deletes a critical project folder shared across departments. Without a third-party backup, recovering that data beyond Microsoft’s retention limits could be impossible. Now imagine a ransomware attack locking you out of your Microsoft 365 environment, leaving you facing a ransom demand to regain access. A third-party backup would allow you to restore your data to its pre-attack state, avoiding the ransom altogether. Additionally, when legal or compliance audits require data retention far beyond Microsoft’s default limits, third-party backups ensure you’re prepared to meet these obligations without issue.

How to Choose the Right Backup Solution for Microsoft 365

Finding the right backup solution takes careful thought. Look for features like automated backups, granular recovery, and coverage for the full Microsoft 365 suite, including Exchange, SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive. Your backup system should also scale with your organisation as it grows. Prioritise providers offering robust encryption and compliance certifications to protect your sensitive data. While cost is important, it’s the value and reliability of the solution that matter most—because a subpar backup can end up costing much more in the long run.

Conclusion: Building Resilience in Your Digital Workplace

In today’s data-driven world, protecting your Microsoft 365 environment isn’t optional—it’s essential. Microsoft provides a solid foundation, but third-party backups are critical for comprehensive data protection and recovery. By investing in a reliable backup solution, you can mitigate risks, strengthen compliance, and future-proof your digital workplace. In the fast-paced world of technology, resilience isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the key to long-term success.

 

Understanding Microsoft 365’s Built-in Backup Limitations

Microsoft provides impressive uptime guarantees and retention policies, but these aren’t a substitute for comprehensive backups. Retention policies manage data lifecycle rather than offer full recovery options. For instance, if an email or file is permanently deleted (whether intentionally or not), it can’t be recovered once the retention window closes. Moreover, Microsoft 365 doesn’t protect against ransomware encryption or insider threats, both of which could severely disrupt access to critical business data. These gaps highlight the need for more robust backup measures.

The Key Benefits of Third-Party Backup Solutions

Third-party backup solutions address the limitations of Microsoft 365’s native capabilities. They offer extended data retention flexibility, enabling businesses to store backups well beyond standard retention periods. With granular restoration options, you can recover individual emails, files, or even calendar events without having to restore entire accounts. Additionally, these solutions provide an extra layer of protection against external threats like ransomware and internal risks such as accidental deletions. Ultimately, third-party backups create a safety net tailored to your organisation’s unique needs.

17 January

The Advantages of Microsoft 365 Business Premium

CK SolutionsMANAGED IT Support services Dublin, Office 365

In today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses need tools that can keep up with their ever-changing demands. From boosting productivity to ensuring top-notch security, having a comprehensive solution is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Microsoft 365 Business Premium is a standout platform that helps businesses flourish. By combining familiar applications with advanced features, it enables organisations to streamline operations, collaborate effectively, and protect their data.

Whether you’re just starting to explore Microsoft 365 or need expert guidance, CK Computer Solutions – Managed IT Services provider in Dublin – can help set up and install the platform, ensuring a seamless transition for your business

Better Collaboration and Communication

Clear communication and seamless collaboration are the heart of any successful business. Microsoft 365 Business Premium creates an ideal environment for teams to work together effortlessly.

With Microsoft Teams, employees can collaborate in real time through video calls, instant messaging, and shared workspaces. Whether your team is in the same office or spread across the globe, Teams breaks down communication barriers.

Outlook takes email communication to the next level with advanced features, including customisable inbox organisation and integrated calendars, ensuring no message or meeting is overlooked.

For file sharing and storage, OneDrive offers a secure, easily accessible solution. Employees can save, share, and work on files from anywhere, so productivity is never tied to a specific location.

To ensure your Microsoft 365 environment is optimised for your unique business needs, CK Computer Solutions provides tailored solutions to enhance collaboration and efficiency.

Strong Security Features

With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, safeguarding your business data is crucial. Microsoft 365 Business Premium includes a suite of robust security features to give businesses peace of mind.

Advanced Threat Protection identifies and neutralises phishing attacks, malware, and other online threats before they cause harm. This proactive approach ensures your business stays ahead of attackers.

For sensitive information, tools like Information Protection help classify and secure data, ensuring compliance with regulations and preventing unauthorised access.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection by requiring multiple forms of verification. Even if passwords are compromised, MFA keeps your accounts secure.

Partnering with CK Computer Solutions ensures your business is equipped with the right security configurations and ongoing support to protect your data effectively.

Productivity with Integrated Applications

Microsoft 365 Business Premium comes packed with tools to boost productivity, all without the need for additional software.

Core applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint remain essential for workplace efficiency. Regular updates ensure these tools stay ahead of the curve, helping employees work smarter.

For automating repetitive tasks, Power Automate simplifies workflows, saving time and effort. Coupled with SharePoint, teams can centralise resources, track projects, and improve collaboration.

Microsoft Viva, a newer addition, uses AI to provide insights that promote employee well-being and productivity. It identifies areas for improvement and helps businesses create a more engaging work environment.

Scalability and Cost Efficiency

A key advantage of Microsoft 365 Business Premium is its scalability. It’s designed to suit businesses of all sizes and grows alongside your organisation.

The subscription model provides predictable costs, making budgeting straightforward. You avoid the large upfront expenses of traditional software, while benefiting from continuous updates.

Flexible licensing options let businesses pick plans that suit their specific needs, ensuring they only pay for what they use. This flexibility makes it a great fit for startups, growing businesses, and established firms alike.

For businesses in Dublin and beyond, CK Computer Solutions offers cost-efficient setup and support, helping you maximise the value of your Microsoft 365 investment.

 

Easier IT Management

Managing IT infrastructure can be a challenge, but Microsoft 365 Business Premium simplifies it.

The centralised admin console gives IT teams a single dashboard to manage users, devices, and settings. This streamlines operations, reduces downtime, and ensures consistency across your organisation.

Automated updates keep all applications and systems current, avoiding compatibility issues and reducing security risks.

And if something does go wrong, dedicated support is available to minimise disruptions and get things back on track quickly.

CK Computer Solutions can handle the setup, ongoing management, and troubleshooting of your Microsoft 365 environment, allowing your team to focus on core business objectives.

Conclusion

Microsoft 365 Business Premium isn’t just a software package—it’s a comprehensive solution for modern businesses. By improving collaboration, strengthening security, and simplifying operations, it helps organisations achieve their goals with confidence. Choosing this platform isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a strategic step towards future-proofing your business in an ever-evolving digital world.

For expert installation and ongoing support in Dublin, CK Computer Solutions – Managed IT Services provider – is your trusted partner. Let us help you unlock the full potential of Microsoft 365 Business Premium.

10 January

VoIP Solutions for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

CK SolutionsMANAGED IT Support services Dublin, VoIP

In today’s fast-paced business world, effective communication is key to staying ahead. At CK Computer Support, we provide modern VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) solutions designed with small and medium-sized businesses in mind. Our services are dependable, scalable, and affordable, ensuring your business remains connected—wherever and whenever you need it.

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2 January

Windows 10 End of Life: What You Need to Know

CK SolutionsMANAGED IT Support services Dublin, Windows 10, Windows 11

Windows 10 End of Life: What You Need to Know

 

A Major Shift in Microsoft’s Ecosystem

Microsoft’s announcement of Windows 10’s End of Life (EOL) marks the end of an era for one of the most widely adopted operating systems in history. Since its launch in 2015, Windows 10 has served as a reliable foundation for personal and professional computing. However, this milestone also signals a critical turning point. As EOL looms, businesses and individuals alike must grapple with the implications of using an unsupported system and prepare for what lies ahead.

What Does ‘End of Life’ Really Mean?

When software reaches EOL, it signifies the cessation of official support from its developer. For Windows 10 users, this means no more security patches, feature updates, or technical assistance from Microsoft. While the operating system won’t stop functioning, its vulnerability to cyber threats will skyrocket. Malware, ransomware, and other malicious exploits tend to target unsupported systems, making EOL a significant cybersecurity concern. Additionally, older systems can become increasingly incompatible with new applications and technologies, creating a cascading effect of inefficiencies.

Key Dates to Keep in Mind

Microsoft has set October 14, 2025, as the official date for Windows 10’s retirement. Leading up to this deadline, the company is rolling out extended support for enterprise and education editions, offering a gradual transition for larger organizations. It’s vital to pay attention to these dates to avoid last-minute scrambling. As with all major software transitions, planning is essential to ensure a seamless upgrade path.

Challenges of Sticking with Windows 10 Post-EOL

Continuing to use Windows 10 beyond its EOL is akin to driving a car without insurance—it works, but the risks are immense. The most pressing issue is the absence of security updates, leaving systems exposed to emerging threats. Moreover, as hardware manufacturers shift their focus to newer systems, compatibility with Windows 10 will wane. This means peripherals, drivers, and even essential software might cease to function optimally, leading to operational bottlenecks and frustrated users.

Steps to Prepare for the Transition

Proactively preparing for Windows 10’s EOL can mitigate disruptions. Start by conducting a comprehensive audit of your systems to identify which devices are still running Windows 10. Consider the costs and benefits of upgrading to Windows 11, which offers enhanced features and improved security. For organisations with legacy applications, virtualization or extended support contracts might provide temporary solutions. Training staff on new systems and ensuring data backups are also crucial steps to safeguard against potential hiccups during the transition.

 

FAQ: Common Questions About Windows 10 EOL

Q1: Can I still use Windows 10 after its EOL?
Yes, you can technically continue using Windows 10 after EOL. However, without security updates, your system will become increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks and compatibility issues.

Q2: What happens to my existing software and files?
Your existing software and files will remain intact, but newer applications may not work well with Windows 10 post-EOL. It’s essential to back up critical files and verify software compatibility if you plan to upgrade.

Q3: Do I have to upgrade to Windows 11?
Yes you should upgrade as it is recommended as it offers continued support, enhanced security, and modern features. Alternatives like Linux or macOS are also options, depending on your needs.

Q4: Will Windows 10 receive any updates after EOL?
No, regular updates will cease after the EOL date. Microsoft may provide paid extended support for businesses, but this is not guaranteed for all users.

Q5: How much will it cost to upgrade to Windows 11?
For most users with a licensed version of Windows 10, the upgrade to Windows 11 is free. However, check your system requirements to ensure compatibility.

The Road Ahead for Windows Users

The end of Windows 10 signals more than just the discontinuation of a product—it’s a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of technology. While change can be daunting, it’s also an opportunity to embrace innovation and strengthen digital resilience. By planning ahead and making informed decisions, users can turn the challenges of Windows 10’s EOL into a springboard for future growth and security. Whether you’re an individual upgrading a home PC or an organisation overhauling an entire network, the key to a smooth transition lies in preparation and adaptability.

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6 January

Things to Look for in Phishing Email

CK SolutionsMANAGED IT Support services Dublin

1. The Anatomy of a Phishing Email

Phishing emails are digital wolves in sheep’s clothing. At first glance, they appear innocuous, often impersonating trusted entities such as banks, businesses, or government institutions. Their primary goal? To trick recipients into revealing sensitive data like passwords, financial details, or personal identifiers.

These emails capitalize on subtle psychological tricks, exploiting trust and urgency. Phishers rely on the average user’s instinct to act quickly rather than inspect. Understanding the anatomy of these deceptive messages is the first step to avoiding the bait.

2. Suspicious Sender Information

Scrutinizing Email Addresses

While phishing emails often mimic legitimate companies, the sender’s address reveals critical clues. Instead of an authentic domain (e.g., @paypal.com), you may encounter misspellings like paypalsupport@gmail.com or unfamiliar variations like @secure-accounts.net. Always hover over the “From” address to see its true origin.

The Trick of Impersonation

Advanced phishing attacks may employ spoofing, where a sender appears to be someone you trust—like your boss or a customer service agent. The sophistication lies in subtle typos or the use of public-facing contact names. If something feels “off,” don’t take it at face value. Contact the individual or company directly through trusted means to confirm authenticity.

3. Unusual or Urgent Language

The Role of Emotional Manipulation

Phishers exploit human psychology to provoke emotions. Words like “urgent,” “immediate action,” or “account suspension” trigger panic, prompting users to bypass their usual caution. By creating fear or excitement, scammers push recipients into impulsive decisions.

Common Phrases That Raise Red Flags

Be wary of emails containing phrases such as:

  • “Verify your account now!”
  • “Your payment failed—click to fix it!”
  • “You have won a prize!”

These messages often have exclamation points, capitalized words, or aggressive calls to action. The urgency is deliberate; its purpose is to override rational skepticism.

4. Inconsistent or Poor Design

Formatting Issues and Branding Inconsistencies

Legitimate companies invest in clean, professional communication. Phishing emails, however, frequently contain visible errors. Watch for odd font changes, misspellings, or uneven logos. If the formatting feels disjointed or unpolished, treat it as a red flag.

Spotting Unusual Attachments or Links

Phishing often hides malware or credential-harvesting tools in attachments or links. Never click on a link without inspecting it first. Hovering over links reveals their destination URLs, which can expose misleading or unfamiliar domains. Legitimate companies rarely send attachments without prior notice. If an unexpected file appears—especially .exe, .zip, or macro-enabled formats—it’s best left unopened.

5. Analyzing the Call to Action

Pressure Tactics: Time-Sensitive Requests

Phishers excel at creating artificial urgency. Phrases like “Your account will be locked in 24 hours” are meant to provoke anxiety. These time-sensitive traps cloud judgment, compelling you to act without verifying.

Demands for Personal Information

Legitimate businesses rarely, if ever, request sensitive details—like passwords or Social Security numbers—via email. Be especially wary of requests that redirect you to “login portals.” Fake landing pages may look authentic but are designed to capture your credentials. A legitimate company would encourage secure, verifiable interactions through official channels.

Final Thoughts

Phishing emails are constantly evolving, becoming more sophisticated and harder to identify. Awareness is your greatest shield. By carefully inspecting sender details, language, formatting, and calls to action, you can defend yourself against falling prey to these deceptive tactics. When in doubt, err on the side of skepticism and verify through trusted means—because online vigilance is no longer optional; it’s essential.

31 October

Importance of Multi-factor authentication

CK SolutionsUncategorised

Attacks on companies are more complex these days. Basically anymore can do basic attacks like phishing and vishing. These kinds of attacks are still an effective way of getting access to a company’s most important and confidential information.

Although companies use many security controls intended to lessen their intrusion footsteps and protect their information and systems against invasion, those defensive restrictions are negated when an attacker is able to gain the appropriate authorization to the setting.

Multi-factor authentication has emerged as a very protective method to protect a company from far-off attacks and when done right, can counter most threats from gaining an easy footing into his/her organization, even when user names and passwords become jeopardized.

What is MFA?
Multi-factor authentication is the method of establishing a user by verifying 2 or more characteristics or factors that are exclusive to that person. There are 3 main characteristics that are commonly used as components in the process of authentication. They are something that you possess (one-time passcode), something that you know (password), and something that you are (facial recognition). With authentication, the computer verifies the identity of a person. Mfa adds a supplemental layer of security and protection against data breaches and jeopardized credentials. Without this additional layer of protection, it’s hard to truly authenticate that the person accessing the system is who they say they are because passwords can be cracked, stolen, or easy to guess.

Why is mfa important
Mfa is important because it is one of the most protective to avert unlawful access to confidential information. Passwords aren’t enough for protection anymore because they can be cracked or stolen. Plus, firewalls, anti-virus software can be bypassed. It’s useful to have if someone gets your password. The user will be prompted to enter a one-time passcode or provide a code generated by an app. Facial recognition, voice recognition, or some other form of biometrics can also be used. When completed right, mfa can be utilized to protect business applications, email, and other points of authentication.

Conclusion
With the increasing growth of cyber-attacks against companies, passwords alone can’t be depended on as the only method of security for a business to hinder people from attaining unauthorized access. Multi-factor authentication has been proven to reduce the probability of a breach of data by a stolen password.

28 May

Why You Need a VPN to Stay Safe Online

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If you use the internet, security should concern you. Hackers can easily intercept your personal communications and even monitor what websites you visit.
When you consider the use of your computer for work or business, online threats become even more disconcerting. When family members, including children, become involved, you start to understand that security matters.
With so much at stake every time you go online, shouldn’t you take some precautions? Although online security may at first seem complicated, you can quickly enhance your safety by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Continue reading to learn what a VPN can do for you.
Anonymity :
A VPN service creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your computer and a VPN service. This prevents your ISP and hackers from seeing what websites you visit. Also, when using a VPN, web servers log your VPN’s IP address, not yours, allowing you to anonymously use online resources.
Additionally, your ISP sees only that you’ve connected to your VPN service. If you choose a VPN provider that doesn’t keep user logs, you can defend yourself against government surveillance, advertisers and third-party subpoenas.
Security :
Have you ever connected to a “free” Wi-Fi network at a coffee shop, library, airport or store? Every time you do, anyone else connected to that network has a chance to hack your phone or computer. Also, they can monitor your plain-text data such as emails and URLs sent from your device to the internet.
A VPN tunnel allows you to safely use public Wi-Fi without fear. Sure, the owner of the Wi-Fi network as well as any snoopers and hackers can see that you’re using the network. However, they can’t see any of your data or what websites you visit while connected via your VPN service.
Freedom :
Some Wi-Fi operators, such as schools, employers and businesses restrict the type of websites that users can access through their network. They may do this for one or more reasons:
• Conserve bandwidth.
• Prevent distractions.
• Maintain standards.
• Manage liability.
Common content restrictions may include social media, video, pornography and file downloads.
In such settings, you can still freely access the internet by first connecting to a VPN service. When you do, network administrators can see that you’ve connected to an internet resource. However, since all data goes through your VPN tunnel, no one can analyze your activities.
In summary, a VPN gives you an affordable, easy to use way to increase your anonymity, security and freedom online. Stop taking risks with your personal, family and business. Always connect to a VPN before using the internet.

18 May

What to Expect from GDPR in Ireland

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The General Data Protection Regulation enacted by the European Union is scheduled to go into effect on May 25. The effect of this regulatory framework will differ across European jurisdictions; in the United Kingdom, for example, companies will only have to follow GDPR guidelines until Brexit is formalized. As for Ireland and other EU member states, the GDPR is not exactly a rigid proposition.
The Seanad opted to adopt some of the flexibility offered by the GDPR when it passed the Irish Data Protection Bill earlier this year. This new law is filled with complexities for government and public entities, but the situation is not as strict for private companies.
Article 37 of the new law directs certain companies to appoint a data protection officer; specifically, business enterprises that collect, store and process large amounts of sensitive data will be expected to appoint a DPO. Some examples of sensitive digital information include: health records and data that can reveal the political and religious inclinations of Irish or European citizens. With this in mind, it is safe to assume that certain barristers and solicitors offices will have to abide by this article; moreover, private hospitals, insurance offices, and psychologists may have to do so as well. Banks and private funds can also expect to be subject to GDPR compliance.
Larger business enterprises in Ireland have more at stake under the new laws, but small companies should not believe that they will be impervious to the expensive penalties that can be imposed under GDPR. The reality of personal information stored in digital records these days is that it must be protected, and not just because of GDPR. If anything, the enactment of the Irish Data Protection Bill should prompt company owners to look at how their office network is protected.
Any company that has been managing its own server on premises should strongly consider migrating its data infrastructure to the cloud. The security advantage in this regard is that cloud technology has become very competitive, which means that providers are mindful about using secure and GDPR compliant options. There is more than compliance to consider when choosing cloud solutions; the ability to automate the data backup process and ease of recovery should also be factored in.
In the end, GDPR may become a wake-up call for Irish companies that have neglected the overall security of their office networks and the integrity of their data.

1 April

Mobile Messaging Apps in Ireland Vulnerable to Callback Scam

Uncategorised

A recent warning issued by An Garda Síochána about a callback scam targeting Irish users of WhatsApp should serve as a reminder to company owners that their business networks, including their mobile messaging platforms, face a variety of risks.
In early March 2018, a news story published by the Mirror explained that Gardai received many complaints from WhatsApp users who received a message from an unknown number and the subject line “Martineilli.” Users who opened the message were later targeted by missed VoIP calls from numbers starting with the 087 country code, which would suggest calls originated within Ireland. The idea is to ensnare WhatsApp users into a callback scam.
Gardai detectives have determined that the 087 numbers are spoofed, and that the calls are actually made from Bosnia. When the callers return the call, they unknowingly activate a special charge to their monthly bill. Some callers report that this has happened to them various times in a single month.
The lesson for business owners to learn in this case is that their mobile messaging apps can be vulnerable to external attacks. Even dedicated business messaging networks such as Slack are not as safe as many people wish for; furthermore, micro-companies that decide to use WhatsApp for business use just because it is already installed in the personal smartphones of most employees are opening their companies to greater risk.
In the past, information security researchers combing through code posted on the popular online development platform known as GitHub have discovered Slack tokens with login credentials that could be used to spy on corporate chats, projects and conversation threads.
Companies that choose to implement mobile messaging apps as part of their networks should first conduct a security audit. Even though apps such as Telegram offer strong end-to-end data encryption, company owners should not assume that they will be impervious to phishing attacks or social engineering.
A mobile messaging app can only be as secure as the business network and security policies of the company. Any digital communications solution can be hacked; the idea is to enact preventive measures to avoid data breaches and network intrusion situations.

30 March

Mozilla Releases Firefox Container Extension to Isolate Facebook Browsing Data

Uncategorised

Mozilla Corporation has implemented new technology by creating a Firefox extension in an effort to isolate specific social media data collection and improve the security of web browsing users.
The well-known browser maker has launched the Firefox Container as a consequence of the recent Cambridge Analytica incident and ongoing investigations of Facebook’s data mishandling aspersions. In response to the security breaches and controversy surrounding the misuse of Facebook user data, Mozilla accelerated the release of the Facebook Container add-on technology, which was previously in the development process with other plugins.
Data analysis firm, Cambridge Analytica, purportedly collected millions of Facebook user data without consent, leading to a potential value for the Trump presidential campaign. As a result, Facebook’s CEO made a public commitment to implement limitations on developer access to user data. Unsatisfied by these limitations, Mozilla has removed advertisements from Facebook as an additional response to Facebook’s data collection practices.
As Facebook’s default privacy setting remained problematic, Mozilla expedited the premiere of the Facebook Container extensions, empowering its web browser users to maintain and increase the regulation of their online privacy and security features.
Further examples of Mozilla’s ongoing commitment to security and usability can be noted through their Extended Support Release of Java Plugins this year. In 2017, Mozilla Firefox announced the removal of the Java Plugin support from its latest version of the web browser. Bank of Ireland addressed this impediment of access to their business clients concerning the Business On Line feature. As a result, Mozilla ensured functionality for older versions of the web browser for such issues while developing a solution towards future plugin support and integration as promised and executed in 2018.
As Irish businesses increase their use of online advertisements through Facebook, concerns were taken into consideration by Mozilla and other web browsing pioneers, despite their own removal of ads in protest of negative data practices. This is highlighted through ongoing developments made by Mozilla to improve usability, the security of plugins, and extensions for business users in Ireland and various locations in Europe.
As noted in the Facebook data security breach and Bank of Ireland inconvenience, Mozilla Corporation demonstrates a continuous development of technology towards user privacy and usability, with an involved interest of their users alongside their corporate responsibility and focus on technology improvements.

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