We get it. You need business technology services that will get you up and running quickly. The right technology will help you set up a remote system without disrupting your life, your business operations or your budget. If you’re worried how to do this on your own, relax. Our Tucson managed IT services make it easy. We can install the software, get it running and train you and your workers to use it.
What Is a Remote Access System?
It’s a platform that allows you to work on your computer files from any location. If you’ve ever worked from home, you’ve used this to get into your company’s network. If you’ve ever had remote IT support, you used a remote platform to allow the technician to fix your computer.
Various software programs allow groups of computers to work together from various locations. Some of the popular programs include PCAnywhere, RemotePC TeamViewer and Zoho Assist. They all have their own strengths and weaknesses.
A good remote work program lets you:
- Transfer files among all the computers in the network.
- Control access with a security code.
- Use voice chat and face-to-face video communication.
- Use cloud-based storage.
- Scale the program’s size and functions to keep up with your business demands.
What to Expect When Making the Transition to Online Operation
We’re going to walk you through some basic steps you will need to follow to get started. If you have any questions, contact us. We specialize in IT services for Tucson businesses of all sizes.
Get Started: Choose the Right Server
The first step in establishing a remote workspace is choosing your server. Consult with the company that handles your managed IT services to pick the one that’s right for your business.
You should have a server large enough to handle many different business functions. A small server can allow you to perform limited functions like creating documents, sending emails, creating Excel charts and surfing the internet. That’s fine for regular, everyday needs, but it’s not enough power for a business.
A large server allows you to take on many different tasks including:
- Adjusting and exporting calendars.
- Managing databases.
- Sharing folders, documents and presentations.
- Managing print functions.
To manage these complex functions while communicating with the rest of your colleagues, you need what’s known as a Server Message Block or SMB server.
Benefits of an SMB Server
Have you seen the initials SMB when reading or talking about remote servers? A Server Message Block is a network protocol that allows computers to share files and programs with each other. An SMB can extend to allow sharing among systems, domains and local computers that share a network.
An SMB is the most powerful way to seamlessly share files, printers, ports and databases. You can make corrections to an Excel document, send a document to a printer in another building, share documents around the world, exchange commentary on a presentation and collectively produce a report filled with charts and tables. As long as all the computers share the same SMB protocol, there is no limit to how many can join the work group.
Another benefit to an SMB is that almost any computer can use it. Although it was initially designed for Window systems, it works equally well on other systems including Linux. You can even work with a Mac user. You’ll need to download the Samba platform to exchange OSX files.
Why Scalability Matters
Scalability refers to the remote access software’s ability to change along with your business. As your business grows, you will need the ability to add users and functions. Be sure your software platform is able to adapt to those changes.
The coronavirus pandemic is a good example. An unexpected event can require you to quickly add more users, more functions and more power than you may have ever imagined. In the future, you won’t be caught off guard. With scalable software, it’s fast and easy to add internal drives, memory, CPU and more.
Security Is Paramount
Using a secure, controlled-access system is even more important when you’re working remotely. Sending documents and sharing platforms remotely puts you at higher risk of security breaches.
Password protection is a good start, but it’s not enough. You need software that offers real security for your confidential business information. As a business owner, make this a priority.
Don’t Forget Backup
Backup of your important files and documents is critical. What kind of backup system does your remote access software provide? How frequently does it back up your files? Many of today’s programs use cloud-based storage.
Is the storage system compatible with your programs and easy for you to use? These things are critical if the worst happens and you need to restore your documents.
Technical and Customer Support Are Critical
You’re a specialist in the goods or services you’re selling. You’re an expert in your field, not in business technology services. You don’t need to know all the technical details, you just want the software to work. You want a reliable platform that won’t let you down when it’s crunch time.
The right remote work software is easy to install, easy to use and comes with a solid backing of tech and customer service support. What happens if it stops working?
A Team That Works for You
You should always have a team of IT specialists you can call on to troubleshoot and take care of emergency repairs. You might not be able to hire a full-time IT team, but you can get full-service support from a Tucson managed IT services team.
Let a Tucson Managed IT Services Team Handle the Transition
You have enough to worry about right now. You’re probably being pulled in many different directions with a to-do list you don’t know how to get started on.
At Stonebridge MSP, we can take one major thing off your to-do list. We can handle the remote setup of your business so all you have to worry about is keeping your customers happy and your workers safe.
Reasons We Like TeamViewer
At Stonebridge MSP, we prefer and recommend the TeamViewer platform, but we will work with any software. We’ll get it working for you, maintain it and provide full training.
TeamViewer is an outstanding platform for several reasons:
- Is quick to install and easy to use.
- Works with Windows, Mac OSX, Linux, Android and iOS.
- Provides integrated service solutions.
- Allows access to mobile devices.
- Has highly rated security features.
- Offers a fully scalable platform.
We are happy to work with any system you choose. Our managed IT services include installation and setup, data recovery and backup, security, training and business consultation. Give us a call to discuss your options.
Get Ready for Remote Operation
Here are the key takeaways on moving your business into a remote operation.
- Use a software package that’s quick to install, easy to use and has all the features you need.
- Minimize business disruption by using a powerful server that won’t slow you down.
- Contact an expert business technology team for a seamless transition from offline to online operation.
Turning your Tucson business into a remote operation shouldn’t be difficult. With our help, you can make the transition without disrupting your business or your life.