We are now convinced that a firewall and anti virus software is not enough to protect even small networks.  The number of random attacks on the networks we manage is growing, threatening to compromise private information, or disable network functionality.  We recommend closing most or all external ports and only allowing access through an encrypted VPN tunnel. In addition it is necessary to upgrade from a standard firewall to a security device that provides anti-virus, anti spy-ware, content filtering and protection from other vulnerabilities using deep packet inspection. (more…)

Micro-Point, with a long history in IP technologies and Network Security, is implementing Digital IP Cameras systems.  These systems are revolutionizing video surveillance.

It is time for small and mid-sized business to consider installing an IP camera security system. It’s just not that expensive or complicated anymore.  The latest software is revolutionizing video surveillance.  We now have smart software: Motion triggers, which can tell cameras to track objects; software which can discriminate between a human form and other objects (thus reducing false alarms); applications which link video surveillance to safety systems, so that the surveillance system could call the fire department or help turn on sprinklers. (more…)

Google Voice and Gizmo5 allow you to receive phones calls using your internet connection and your PC or Bluetooth headset.  I thought this would be a better way to use my phone where I get poor cell phone reception yet have an excellent internet connection. (more…)

Micro-Point uses Vembu StorGrid at our data center for off-site backups.  It is a critical application that we used to ensure the safety of our Clients information.  It’s flexibility allows us to control costs and keeps multiple copies of mission critical data.  Using it’s unique peer-to-peer (P2P) mode this application can be used to create a local backup, data that you backup to a resource on your network. (more…)

Open DNS is a free DNS (Domain Name Server) service which makes internet browsing safer.  This is an idea solution for home users or schools.  OpenDNS filters out Web page requests at the domain name system (DNS) level.  By default most Internet users use their ISP’s DNS servers for this task.

OpenDNS requires no downloading or installing software, you simply choose OpenDNS DNS servers instead of those assigned by your ISP.  (more…)

KeePass is a free open-source cross-platform password manager.

Years ago I gave up on trying to memorize all of my online accounts,  that is once I learned how to use KeePass.  This is the best Password application I have found, and since it’s cross-platform, you can use it in Windows, Ubuntu, Linux, MacOS X, J2ME (Cell Phones), Blackberry, Windows Mobile etc… (more…)

As a developer I am fanatical about my computers, I spend way too much time testing software and hardware. So when I needed to update my antivirus software, I did my usual research and found that Kapersky and BitDefender are usually rated amongst the best available choices. The most popular antivirus software is usually bloated with extra features so I rule them out. Over time I have used most Antivirus/Antispam software programs and just because one package was good last year, does not make it the obvious choice today.

I chose BitDefender and used it for about a month. (more…)

Snagit is the best utility I have found for day to day PC productivity improvements for heavy computer users. It is hard to explain what it does, but before I try, you need two monitors to use this product effectively!

First, if you do not have two monitors, or one really huge monitor, then you must try that first. I cannot work effectively without the ability to have a search result on one screen while I have the application I am using on the other screen. Once you have adjusted to two monitors, you are ready for Snagit. (more…)

We are configuring 2 PC’s for use in a retail Tea store. One PC will have two PowerPoint presentations displaying the Menu on 42 inch LCD monitors. The other PC will Run three Flash presentations with features and benefits of their products. Sounds real easy doesn’t it? Well it is not! (more…)