VoIP Blog by IP5280
7 Questions to Ask a Security IT Consultant
Everyone knows how hard it is to find good help these days, and finding a good IT consulting service is no different. In order to figure out if your IT consultant really knows what’s up, ask some trick questions. Here are a few to get you started:
1. Can you tell me how vulnerable I am to the MyDoom virus? MyDoom is not a virus, it is actually a worm and a good IT consulting expert should correct you on this fact. Some other warning signs are if the IT consulting expert simply proceeds to describe MyDoom's actions without correcting you, a sign that they are either unassertive or ignorant, or if they don't know what MyDoom is.
2. If my website is under attach by a DDOS, can you stop it? The fact of the matter is that once a DDOS attach is underway, it cannot be stopped. There are steps, however, that can be taken to defend the website. If the IT consulting expert claims they can stop the attack or if they say there is no way to defend the website, this may be a sign that you are dealing with someone not too competent in IT consulting.
3. Tell me three ways you would suggest to secure a WiFi network. Your IT consulting expert should be able to rattle off at least three ways without hesitation. If they are not able to do so, run away.
4. Can you create a good password for me and explain the logic behind it? This may seem like a simple task, but it is incredibly important for a quality IT consulting expert to be able to create a well-constructed and secure password. This is a basic security concept that is essential knowledge for an IT consulting expert.
5. What are the benefits of HEPA for my computer? OK, this is a trick question since HEPA stands for high efficiency particulate air filter and is a type of air filter that keeps dust and contaminates from damaging hardware in a data center. This is not technically in the field of IT consulting. However, if the IT consulting expert tries to bluff his way out of it, thinking it is an acronym for a type of IT or security specification, may not be some one you can trust.
6. Tell me the benefits of using WEP to encrypt a hard drive. This is another trick question since WEB is not a good way to encrypt data that is sent over an 802.11 wireless. Bluffers may try to justify its use but don't fall for is. You would never want to use WEP to encrypt a hard drive.
7. What would you do if you discovered a stash of illicit material on an employee’s computer? This is a good way to understand the morals of the IT consulting expert and assess his ability to handle a situation that has complex security and ethical issues. Ideally, the IT consulting expert would contact you or a senior staff member directly. A warning is if he says he would talk to the employee in question directly without involving senior staff members.
1. Can you tell me how vulnerable I am to the MyDoom virus? MyDoom is not a virus, it is actually a worm and a good IT consulting expert should correct you on this fact. Some other warning signs are if the IT consulting expert simply proceeds to describe MyDoom's actions without correcting you, a sign that they are either unassertive or ignorant, or if they don't know what MyDoom is.
2. If my website is under attach by a DDOS, can you stop it? The fact of the matter is that once a DDOS attach is underway, it cannot be stopped. There are steps, however, that can be taken to defend the website. If the IT consulting expert claims they can stop the attack or if they say there is no way to defend the website, this may be a sign that you are dealing with someone not too competent in IT consulting.
3. Tell me three ways you would suggest to secure a WiFi network. Your IT consulting expert should be able to rattle off at least three ways without hesitation. If they are not able to do so, run away.
4. Can you create a good password for me and explain the logic behind it? This may seem like a simple task, but it is incredibly important for a quality IT consulting expert to be able to create a well-constructed and secure password. This is a basic security concept that is essential knowledge for an IT consulting expert.
5. What are the benefits of HEPA for my computer? OK, this is a trick question since HEPA stands for high efficiency particulate air filter and is a type of air filter that keeps dust and contaminates from damaging hardware in a data center. This is not technically in the field of IT consulting. However, if the IT consulting expert tries to bluff his way out of it, thinking it is an acronym for a type of IT or security specification, may not be some one you can trust.
6. Tell me the benefits of using WEP to encrypt a hard drive. This is another trick question since WEB is not a good way to encrypt data that is sent over an 802.11 wireless. Bluffers may try to justify its use but don't fall for is. You would never want to use WEP to encrypt a hard drive.
7. What would you do if you discovered a stash of illicit material on an employee’s computer? This is a good way to understand the morals of the IT consulting expert and assess his ability to handle a situation that has complex security and ethical issues. Ideally, the IT consulting expert would contact you or a senior staff member directly. A warning is if he says he would talk to the employee in question directly without involving senior staff members.
Write comment (0 Comments)
10 Questions to Ask Your Hosted PBX Provider
If you are thinking of switching your current businesses communications system to a unified communications system like hosted PBX, you are making a wise decision. However, before signing a long term binding contract with a hosted PBX provider, there are some questions you should ask.
1. Find out the terms of policy termination. In case you find your hosted PBX provider is not all that it promised, you want to make sure you have an out. Many providers of hosted PBX will try to lock you into long-term contracts, but there are some that do not have excessive early termination policies.
2. Check on the start up costs. It is standard for there to be start up costs that include set up and equipment fees. However, hosted PBX providers will include 'hidden' costs that are not standard.
3. Find out the day-to-day usage costs not covered under the hosted PBX plan. Services such as international calls are not normally covered under hosted PBX monthly service costs. Find out what the costs of these services are so you don't end up with a hefty surprise bill at the end of the month.
4. If you plan on faxing, find out the logistics of the hosted PBX providers fax services. Some older systems will require an extra box or adapter for a fax line, which will cost extra. Find out if your system is fax compatible and if not, what the extra fees will be to get it up to date.
5. Find out if you will need add-on's, or extras for existing analog phones installed in your offices. If you already have extensive analog phones, you may be able to utilize them using SIP trunking services instead of hosted PBX. Check to see if your existing hardware is compatible with hosted PBX, and if it is not, consider SIP trunking solutions.
6. Find out how your hosted PBX system will handle remote and mobile workers. One of the greatest benefits of hosted PBX is its ability to allow mobile workers to interact in a fast and efficient way. Even if your current business requirement doesn't require remote worker communications, it may in the future.
7. Find out what the requirements for upgrading include. Your business will hopefully expand and grow in the years to come, and your hosted PBX needs to be able to grow with you. Make sure there is room for growth without excessive upgrade costs.
8. Ask about service guarantees. If you encounter an issue with your hosted PBX, you may need solutions fast. Find out the quality of the customer service you will be receiving, including any costs that may be associated with service guarantees.
9. Find out the emergency service protocol with the hosted PBX provider. Federal mandate has made VoIP become 911 compliant but some hosted PBX providers still don't have a solution. In the event of an emergency, you want to know that emergency workers will be able to locate you or your staff. Find out the details on this service before you sign.
10. Make sure you are dealing with a company that will still be in business in the years to come. As in every industry, there are those fly-by-night companies that are here today, gone tomorrow. Research your hosted PBX provider to ensure you are dealing with a reputable company that has a strong and reliable reputation.
1. Find out the terms of policy termination. In case you find your hosted PBX provider is not all that it promised, you want to make sure you have an out. Many providers of hosted PBX will try to lock you into long-term contracts, but there are some that do not have excessive early termination policies.
2. Check on the start up costs. It is standard for there to be start up costs that include set up and equipment fees. However, hosted PBX providers will include 'hidden' costs that are not standard.
3. Find out the day-to-day usage costs not covered under the hosted PBX plan. Services such as international calls are not normally covered under hosted PBX monthly service costs. Find out what the costs of these services are so you don't end up with a hefty surprise bill at the end of the month.
4. If you plan on faxing, find out the logistics of the hosted PBX providers fax services. Some older systems will require an extra box or adapter for a fax line, which will cost extra. Find out if your system is fax compatible and if not, what the extra fees will be to get it up to date.
5. Find out if you will need add-on's, or extras for existing analog phones installed in your offices. If you already have extensive analog phones, you may be able to utilize them using SIP trunking services instead of hosted PBX. Check to see if your existing hardware is compatible with hosted PBX, and if it is not, consider SIP trunking solutions.
6. Find out how your hosted PBX system will handle remote and mobile workers. One of the greatest benefits of hosted PBX is its ability to allow mobile workers to interact in a fast and efficient way. Even if your current business requirement doesn't require remote worker communications, it may in the future.
7. Find out what the requirements for upgrading include. Your business will hopefully expand and grow in the years to come, and your hosted PBX needs to be able to grow with you. Make sure there is room for growth without excessive upgrade costs.
8. Ask about service guarantees. If you encounter an issue with your hosted PBX, you may need solutions fast. Find out the quality of the customer service you will be receiving, including any costs that may be associated with service guarantees.
9. Find out the emergency service protocol with the hosted PBX provider. Federal mandate has made VoIP become 911 compliant but some hosted PBX providers still don't have a solution. In the event of an emergency, you want to know that emergency workers will be able to locate you or your staff. Find out the details on this service before you sign.
10. Make sure you are dealing with a company that will still be in business in the years to come. As in every industry, there are those fly-by-night companies that are here today, gone tomorrow. Research your hosted PBX provider to ensure you are dealing with a reputable company that has a strong and reliable reputation.
Business VoIP FAQs For Small to Medium Sized Businesses
Universal communications systems are changing the way that businesses do business. This is because it is no longer necessary for businesses to invest in expensive PBX equipment in order to have a cutting edge communications system. Business VoIP is leveling the playing field and giving both small and large businesses the opportunity to take advantage of cutting edge communications technology. If you are considering switching your businesses communications platform over to business VoIP, there are some things you should know.
Business VoIP is cost effective. The low cost of VoIP is one of its most attractive points, especially for new or small businesses that do not have the capital to invest in expensive communications equipment. If you have a computer with Internet connection, you are already capable of using VoIP to make calls from your computer.
Business VoIP will update your existing legacy PSTN system. Business, that already have an existing phone system will benefit from an upgrade to VoIP communications technology that will integrate with their existing hardware. Complicated wiring is not necessary, and employees can make calls and work from anywhere an Internet connection is available.
Depending on your bandwidth, a switch to business VoIP may necessitate an upgrade. Depending on the scale of your business, it could be that you will need to upgrade your existing Internet bandwidth. VoIP will require more bandwidth, and a faster is needed to handle the increased traffic. You will want to talk to you Internet service provider to find out what kinds of upgrades you will need to be and assess the cost.
Business VoIP offers many of the same services as PSTN and more. Many of the same features that you rely on with PSTN also come standard with business VoIP. These features include extension dialing, auto attendant, voice mailboxes, and audio conferencing. With business voice over IP, integrated messaging means you can also have messages sent to your email, cell phone, or forwarded to whatever number you wish. Businesses VoIP offers a vast amount of flexibility over PSTN in this area.
Some features of business VoIP requires additional hardware to be purchased. For VoIP features between computers, no hardware is necessary. However, for business VoIP solutions where features such as voicemail and audio conferences are needed, dedicated services will need to be purchased. Hardware, such as headsets with an external microphone and IP-enabled phones, are popular by most users. A physical IP PBX box can be purchased if desired.
You can integrate existing phone and PBX equipment with business VoIP. If your business already has PBX equipment, you can integrate it into business VoIP technology using SIP trunking. This is an effective solution that can integrate several types of communications technology into one platform.
Switching over to a business VoIP can simplify your businesses communications and make it easier to make and receive calls. You will no longer be restricted to the office to get your incoming calls. You can take them from wherever you and your laptop happen to be as long as Internet is available.
Business VoIP is cost effective. The low cost of VoIP is one of its most attractive points, especially for new or small businesses that do not have the capital to invest in expensive communications equipment. If you have a computer with Internet connection, you are already capable of using VoIP to make calls from your computer.
Business VoIP will update your existing legacy PSTN system. Business, that already have an existing phone system will benefit from an upgrade to VoIP communications technology that will integrate with their existing hardware. Complicated wiring is not necessary, and employees can make calls and work from anywhere an Internet connection is available.
Depending on your bandwidth, a switch to business VoIP may necessitate an upgrade. Depending on the scale of your business, it could be that you will need to upgrade your existing Internet bandwidth. VoIP will require more bandwidth, and a faster is needed to handle the increased traffic. You will want to talk to you Internet service provider to find out what kinds of upgrades you will need to be and assess the cost.
Business VoIP offers many of the same services as PSTN and more. Many of the same features that you rely on with PSTN also come standard with business VoIP. These features include extension dialing, auto attendant, voice mailboxes, and audio conferencing. With business voice over IP, integrated messaging means you can also have messages sent to your email, cell phone, or forwarded to whatever number you wish. Businesses VoIP offers a vast amount of flexibility over PSTN in this area.
Some features of business VoIP requires additional hardware to be purchased. For VoIP features between computers, no hardware is necessary. However, for business VoIP solutions where features such as voicemail and audio conferences are needed, dedicated services will need to be purchased. Hardware, such as headsets with an external microphone and IP-enabled phones, are popular by most users. A physical IP PBX box can be purchased if desired.
You can integrate existing phone and PBX equipment with business VoIP. If your business already has PBX equipment, you can integrate it into business VoIP technology using SIP trunking. This is an effective solution that can integrate several types of communications technology into one platform.
Switching over to a business VoIP can simplify your businesses communications and make it easier to make and receive calls. You will no longer be restricted to the office to get your incoming calls. You can take them from wherever you and your laptop happen to be as long as Internet is available.
Top 6 Important VoIP Questions
The field of telecommunications has made leaps and bounds in the past 50 years. Today, technology has surpassed the need for telephone wires and even phones, moving instead to the virtual platform known as Voice over Internet Protocol. This technology allows both businesses and private users to utilize their existing computer and Internet to make calls anywhere in the world. If you are looking to make the switch to VoIP for your communication needs, there are a few questions you will want to address with your service provider to ensure you get the best possible VoIP service.
What are the upfront costs? The upfront costs for VoIP service vary depending on the service you are signing up for and what types of features you require. For an individual who is only using VoIP for computer to computer calls, all that is needed is some free software that is down-loadable from the Internet. However, if you are a business looking to integrate multiple communications features and you want features such as voice mail, auto attendant and faxing capabilities, the cost to set this up will be more. In addition, a monthly service fee will be assessed.
What type of special equipment is required for VoIP service? The type of equipment that will be required will depend on the existing hardware you already have. In addition, some service providers will provide you with free equipment when you sign a contract with them. Tell the provider which type of Internet provider you have to find out what equipment, if any, you will need to purchase to get hooked up with VoIP.
Can I get a local number with my VoIP service? Whether or not you will be able to get a local phone number when you sign up with VoIP will depend on the numbers that the service provider has available. They may be able to transfer your existing phone number to the VoIP service. Most VoIP providers have an online search engine that allows you to check and see if a number in your local area is available.
What are standard features with VoIP? Features that come standard with VoIP include caller ID, call waiting, voice mail, call transfer, online accounting, 3-way calling, and call forwarding. Long distance calling is usually separate, but is usually much less expensive than a regular phone service plan. More features may be included depending on your VoIP service provider.
Will I receive phone calls if my computer is off? It will depend on your service provider if you will be able to make and receive calls when your computer is off. In most cases, as long as you have an Internet connection that is working properly you will be able to receive calls. Other services will require the computer to be turned on, but have voice mail features, that will take the call for you if the computer is turned off.
Can I use my existing Internet provider for VoIP? As long as you are using an Internet provider that supplies you with DSL or cable Internet you should be able to use it for you VoIP service. However, if you are using a slow connection such as dial up you may need to switch. A faster connection is necessary for a clear and quality VoIP connection.
What are the upfront costs? The upfront costs for VoIP service vary depending on the service you are signing up for and what types of features you require. For an individual who is only using VoIP for computer to computer calls, all that is needed is some free software that is down-loadable from the Internet. However, if you are a business looking to integrate multiple communications features and you want features such as voice mail, auto attendant and faxing capabilities, the cost to set this up will be more. In addition, a monthly service fee will be assessed.
What type of special equipment is required for VoIP service? The type of equipment that will be required will depend on the existing hardware you already have. In addition, some service providers will provide you with free equipment when you sign a contract with them. Tell the provider which type of Internet provider you have to find out what equipment, if any, you will need to purchase to get hooked up with VoIP.
Can I get a local number with my VoIP service? Whether or not you will be able to get a local phone number when you sign up with VoIP will depend on the numbers that the service provider has available. They may be able to transfer your existing phone number to the VoIP service. Most VoIP providers have an online search engine that allows you to check and see if a number in your local area is available.
What are standard features with VoIP? Features that come standard with VoIP include caller ID, call waiting, voice mail, call transfer, online accounting, 3-way calling, and call forwarding. Long distance calling is usually separate, but is usually much less expensive than a regular phone service plan. More features may be included depending on your VoIP service provider.
Will I receive phone calls if my computer is off? It will depend on your service provider if you will be able to make and receive calls when your computer is off. In most cases, as long as you have an Internet connection that is working properly you will be able to receive calls. Other services will require the computer to be turned on, but have voice mail features, that will take the call for you if the computer is turned off.
Can I use my existing Internet provider for VoIP? As long as you are using an Internet provider that supplies you with DSL or cable Internet you should be able to use it for you VoIP service. However, if you are using a slow connection such as dial up you may need to switch. A faster connection is necessary for a clear and quality VoIP connection.
More Articles...
Page 1 of 7
