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How to select the best EMR system for your healthcare organization

Editor September 18, 2024

With the growing demand for precision and efficiency in healthcare, electronic medical records (EMRs) have become indispensable for managing patient data. By converting records into digital formats, EMRs enhance workflow efficiency and support reliable, well-organized patient care. When selecting the best EMR system for your practice, consider these important factors.

Identify your requirements

Before exploring EMR options, clearly define the essential features your practice needs. Consider each stage of patient care — from admission to post-visit documentation — and how an EMR can streamline tasks such as scheduling, medication tracking, and reporting. By establishing your requirements, you’ll be better positioned to choose a system that aligns with your practice’s unique workflow.

Evaluate costs

Assess the total cost of ownership, which encompasses initial purchase and setup, ongoing maintenance, support, and training fees. Also, determine if the EMR system operates on a subscription model with recurring charges and regular updates or if it requires a one-time license fee for full ownership.

Be cautious of vendors trying to upsell features you don’t need. Always request a detailed breakdown of all expenses to avoid hidden costs and ensure you’re only paying for what truly benefits your practice.

Select an EMR system for your specialty

An EMR system should be tailored to the specific needs of your medical specialty. For instance, midwifery practices need EMR systems that can accurately document newborn details. Check that the system you choose aligns with the unique demands of your field.

Opt for certified EMR systems

When choosing an EMR, prioritize those that are tested, certified, and rated by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. Certification not only indicates quality and reliability but also makes the system eligible for federal electronic health record (EHR) incentive payments if they meet the “meaningful use” criteria outlined in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Check user reviews

Before committing to an EMR system, read reviews from current users to gain insights into its performance and usability. Talking to other healthcare professionals about their experiences with various systems can also offer valuable perspectives on potential challenges.

Additionally, online review platforms can be useful tools when comparing and evaluating different EMR options with similar offerings and pricing.

If you’re still unsure which EMR system is right for your practice, our expert team is ready to help. Give us a call today.

Key factors for choosing the ideal EMR system

Editor September 18, 2024

Modern healthcare documentation requires both accuracy and efficiency, which is why electronic medical records (EMRs) have become essential for managing patient data. By digitizing health records, EMRs streamline workflows and help ensure that patients receive consistent and well-coordinated care. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing the right EMR system for your healthcare organization.

Identify your requirements

Before exploring EMR options, clearly define the essential features your practice needs. Consider each stage of patient care — from admission to post-visit documentation — and how an EMR can streamline tasks such as scheduling, medication tracking, and reporting. By establishing your requirements, you’ll be better positioned to choose a system that aligns with your practice’s unique workflow.

Evaluate costs

Assess the total cost of ownership, which encompasses initial purchase and setup, ongoing maintenance, support, and training fees. Also, determine if the EMR system operates on a subscription model with recurring charges and regular updates or if it requires a one-time license fee for full ownership.

Be cautious of vendors trying to upsell features you don’t need. Always request a detailed breakdown of all expenses to avoid hidden costs and ensure you’re only paying for what truly benefits your practice.

Select an EMR system for your specialty

An EMR system should be tailored to the specific needs of your medical specialty. For instance, midwifery practices need EMR systems that can accurately document newborn details. Check that the system you choose aligns with the unique demands of your field.

Opt for certified EMR systems

When choosing an EMR, prioritize those that are tested, certified, and rated by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. Certification not only indicates quality and reliability but also makes the system eligible for federal electronic health record (EHR) incentive payments if they meet the “meaningful use” criteria outlined in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Check user reviews

Before committing to an EMR system, read reviews from current users to gain insights into its performance and usability. Talking to other healthcare professionals about their experiences with various systems can also offer valuable perspectives on potential challenges.

Additionally, online review platforms can be useful tools when comparing and evaluating different EMR options with similar offerings and pricing.

If you’re still unsure which EMR system is right for your practice, our expert team is ready to help. Give us a call today.

Get the right EMR system for you: A brief selection guide

Editor September 18, 2024

Selecting the right electronic medical records (EMR) system is critical for healthcare providers looking to improve patient care. EMRs replace paper charts with digital records, improving efficiency and ensuring more accurate, responsive service. With numerous EMR options available, it’s important to assess key factors before committing to one. This article explores the critical criteria for choosing the best EMR for your practice.

Identify your requirements

Before exploring EMR options, clearly define the essential features your practice needs. Consider each stage of patient care — from admission to post-visit documentation — and how an EMR can streamline tasks such as scheduling, medication tracking, and reporting. By establishing your requirements, you’ll be better positioned to choose a system that aligns with your practice’s unique workflow.

Evaluate costs

Assess the total cost of ownership, which encompasses initial purchase and setup, ongoing maintenance, support, and training fees. Also, determine if the EMR system operates on a subscription model with recurring charges and regular updates or if it requires a one-time license fee for full ownership.

Be cautious of vendors trying to upsell features you don’t need. Always request a detailed breakdown of all expenses to avoid hidden costs and ensure you’re only paying for what truly benefits your practice.

Select an EMR system for your specialty

An EMR system should be tailored to the specific needs of your medical specialty. For instance, midwifery practices need EMR systems that can accurately document newborn details. Check that the system you choose aligns with the unique demands of your field.

Opt for certified EMR systems

When choosing an EMR, prioritize those that are tested, certified, and rated by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. Certification not only indicates quality and reliability but also makes the system eligible for federal electronic health record (EHR) incentive payments if they meet the “meaningful use” criteria outlined in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Check user reviews

Before committing to an EMR system, read reviews from current users to gain insights into its performance and usability. Talking to other healthcare professionals about their experiences with various systems can also offer valuable perspectives on potential challenges.

Additionally, online review platforms can be useful tools when comparing and evaluating different EMR options with similar offerings and pricing.

If you’re still unsure which EMR system is right for your practice, our expert team is ready to help. Give us a call today.

How cybercriminals exploit MFA vulnerabilities and how to stay safe

Editor September 16, 2024

Multifactor authentication (MFA) significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access. However, recent attacks have demonstrated that MFA can be compromised. To strengthen your defenses, it’s crucial to understand common MFA vulnerabilities and implement effective countermeasures.

How cybercriminals bypass MFA

Cybercriminals use a variety of techniques to compromise MFA systems.

MFA fatigue

MFA fatigue, also known as push bombing, occurs when cybercriminals flood users with numerous authentication requests, often through push notifications. Overwhelmed by the constant bombardment, users may accidentally or out of frustration approve one of the requests, unwittingly giving cybercriminals access. A notable example of this occurred in 2022 when cybercriminals targeted Uber’s external contractor, repeatedly sending MFA requests until access was granted.

Phishing

In a phishing attack, cybercriminals pose as legitimate entities such as banks or IT support, and send deceptive messages that prompt users to provide their MFA codes. These messages often contain a sense of urgency such as a warning of an account breach or a required security update to pressure users into acting without verifying the authenticity of the request. Once the cybercriminals have the MFA code, they can use it to bypass security systems and gain unauthorized access to accounts or sensitive data.

SIM swapping

Mobile devices are often used as a primary means of receiving MFA codes, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. In a SIM swapping attack, a cybercriminal convinces a mobile carrier to transfer a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card that they control. Once successful, the cybercriminal intercepts MFA codes sent via SMS, allowing unauthorized access to the victim’s accounts.

Strategies to prevent MFA attacks

To protect your organization from MFA hacks, follow these strategies:

Use risk-based authentication

Implement risk-based authentication that dynamically adjusts security requirements based on user behavior. For example, if a user logs in from an unusual location or unknown device, the system can automatically require additional verification. This adaptive approach helps prevent attacks by raising security standards when necessary.

Implement hardware-based MFA

Hardware security keys such as those that use Fast Identity Online (FIDO) protocols, provide stronger protection than software-based MFA. These physical devices generate unique authentication codes, making them much harder to intercept or duplicate. Consider using hardware-based MFA for highly sensitive applications to enhance your security posture.

Regularly review access rights

Grant users only the access they need. Regularly audit user permissions to ensure employees have access only to the data and systems necessary for their roles. This limits the potential damage a compromised account can cause, reducing the overall risk to your business.

Strengthen password reset processes

Password reset procedures can be a weak link in MFA systems. Make sure your reset processes require users to verify their identity through more than one channel. This additional layer of security can prevent cybercriminals from exploiting reset processes to gain unauthorized access.

Monitor high-value targets

Certain users, such as system administrators and legal or HR personnel, possess elevated privileges that make them attractive to attackers. Pay close attention to the MFA protections surrounding these accounts and implement the strictest security measures.

Stay ahead of emerging threats

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics. To ensure your systems remain resilient, keep a close eye on new attack methods and vulnerabilities, and proactively update your security measures to counter these threats.

Implementing these strategies can help you significantly bolster your company’s defenses against MFA attacks and safeguard valuable assets from unauthorized access.

For a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, schedule a consultation with our cybersecurity experts today.

Why MFA isn’t foolproof: How to strengthen your security

Editor September 16, 2024

Multifactor authentication (MFA) significantly enhances your business’s security, but it’s not invincible. Cybercriminals have found ways to exploit MFA’s weaknesses, and understanding these is essential for safeguarding your business. This article will guide you through common MFA hacks and provide preventive strategies.

How cybercriminals bypass MFA

Cybercriminals use a variety of techniques to compromise MFA systems.

MFA fatigue

MFA fatigue, also known as push bombing, occurs when cybercriminals flood users with numerous authentication requests, often through push notifications. Overwhelmed by the constant bombardment, users may accidentally or out of frustration approve one of the requests, unwittingly giving cybercriminals access. A notable example of this occurred in 2022 when cybercriminals targeted Uber’s external contractor, repeatedly sending MFA requests until access was granted.

Phishing

In a phishing attack, cybercriminals pose as legitimate entities such as banks or IT support, and send deceptive messages that prompt users to provide their MFA codes. These messages often contain a sense of urgency such as a warning of an account breach or a required security update to pressure users into acting without verifying the authenticity of the request. Once the cybercriminals have the MFA code, they can use it to bypass security systems and gain unauthorized access to accounts or sensitive data.

SIM swapping

Mobile devices are often used as a primary means of receiving MFA codes, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. In a SIM swapping attack, a cybercriminal convinces a mobile carrier to transfer a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card that they control. Once successful, the cybercriminal intercepts MFA codes sent via SMS, allowing unauthorized access to the victim’s accounts.

Strategies to prevent MFA attacks

To protect your organization from MFA hacks, follow these strategies:

Use risk-based authentication

Implement risk-based authentication that dynamically adjusts security requirements based on user behavior. For example, if a user logs in from an unusual location or unknown device, the system can automatically require additional verification. This adaptive approach helps prevent attacks by raising security standards when necessary.

Implement hardware-based MFA

Hardware security keys such as those that use Fast Identity Online (FIDO) protocols, provide stronger protection than software-based MFA. These physical devices generate unique authentication codes, making them much harder to intercept or duplicate. Consider using hardware-based MFA for highly sensitive applications to enhance your security posture.

Regularly review access rights

Grant users only the access they need. Regularly audit user permissions to ensure employees have access only to the data and systems necessary for their roles. This limits the potential damage a compromised account can cause, reducing the overall risk to your business.

Strengthen password reset processes

Password reset procedures can be a weak link in MFA systems. Make sure your reset processes require users to verify their identity through more than one channel. This additional layer of security can prevent cybercriminals from exploiting reset processes to gain unauthorized access.

Monitor high-value targets

Certain users, such as system administrators and legal or HR personnel, possess elevated privileges that make them attractive to attackers. Pay close attention to the MFA protections surrounding these accounts and implement the strictest security measures.

Stay ahead of emerging threats

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics. To ensure your systems remain resilient, keep a close eye on new attack methods and vulnerabilities, and proactively update your security measures to counter these threats.

Implementing these strategies can help you significantly bolster your company’s defenses against MFA attacks and safeguard valuable assets from unauthorized access.

For a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, schedule a consultation with our cybersecurity experts today.

How cybercriminals bypass MFA and what you can do about it

Editor September 16, 2024

Do you feel more secure knowing that you have multifactor authentication (MFA) in place? While MFA is a powerful security measure, it’s important to realize that it’s not infallible. In this article, we’ll explore the ways MFA can be compromised and provide practical tips to protect your organization.

How cybercriminals bypass MFA

Cybercriminals use a variety of techniques to compromise MFA systems.

MFA fatigue

MFA fatigue, also known as push bombing, occurs when cybercriminals flood users with numerous authentication requests, often through push notifications. Overwhelmed by the constant bombardment, users may accidentally or out of frustration approve one of the requests, unwittingly giving cybercriminals access. A notable example of this occurred in 2022 when cybercriminals targeted Uber’s external contractor, repeatedly sending MFA requests until access was granted.

Phishing

In a phishing attack, cybercriminals pose as legitimate entities such as banks or IT support, and send deceptive messages that prompt users to provide their MFA codes. These messages often contain a sense of urgency such as a warning of an account breach or a required security update to pressure users into acting without verifying the authenticity of the request. Once the cybercriminals have the MFA code, they can use it to bypass security systems and gain unauthorized access to accounts or sensitive data.

SIM swapping

Mobile devices are often used as a primary means of receiving MFA codes, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. In a SIM swapping attack, a cybercriminal convinces a mobile carrier to transfer a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card that they control. Once successful, the cybercriminal intercepts MFA codes sent via SMS, allowing unauthorized access to the victim’s accounts.

Strategies to prevent MFA attacks

To protect your organization from MFA hacks, follow these strategies:

Use risk-based authentication

Implement risk-based authentication that dynamically adjusts security requirements based on user behavior. For example, if a user logs in from an unusual location or unknown device, the system can automatically require additional verification. This adaptive approach helps prevent attacks by raising security standards when necessary.

Implement hardware-based MFA

Hardware security keys such as those that use Fast Identity Online (FIDO) protocols, provide stronger protection than software-based MFA. These physical devices generate unique authentication codes, making them much harder to intercept or duplicate. Consider using hardware-based MFA for highly sensitive applications to enhance your security posture.

Regularly review access rights

Grant users only the access they need. Regularly audit user permissions to ensure employees have access only to the data and systems necessary for their roles. This limits the potential damage a compromised account can cause, reducing the overall risk to your business.

Strengthen password reset processes

Password reset procedures can be a weak link in MFA systems. Make sure your reset processes require users to verify their identity through more than one channel. This additional layer of security can prevent cybercriminals from exploiting reset processes to gain unauthorized access.

Monitor high-value targets

Certain users, such as system administrators and legal or HR personnel, possess elevated privileges that make them attractive to attackers. Pay close attention to the MFA protections surrounding these accounts and implement the strictest security measures.

Stay ahead of emerging threats

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics. To ensure your systems remain resilient, keep a close eye on new attack methods and vulnerabilities, and proactively update your security measures to counter these threats.

Implementing these strategies can help you significantly bolster your company’s defenses against MFA attacks and safeguard valuable assets from unauthorized access.

For a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, schedule a consultation with our cybersecurity experts today.

The difference between HDD and SSD drives

Editor September 13, 2024

Upgrading your data storage system and can’t choose between hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs)? To help you make the best choice for your business and ensure your data system is optimized, we’ll walk you through the features of HDDs and SSDs, as well as the pros and cons of each.

What is an HDD?

An HDD is a spinning hard disk that reads and writes data on a metal platter with a magnetic coating. The internals of an HDD look similar to an old record player — there’s a platter or a stack of platters, which spin around a spindle, and an armature called a read-write head. Data is stored onto the platter via tiny magnetic particles.

What is an SSD?

Unlike an HDD, an SSD does not have any internal moving parts. Instead, it uses integrated circuit assemblies to store, retrieve, and cache data. An SSD has two key components: flash memory chips and the controller (i.e., an embedded microprocessor). Flash memory contains storage memory, while the controller executes firmware-level software.

HDD vs. SSD: How are they different?

Let’s compare the two storage devices based on these five categories.

Speed
HDDs take a long time to access data because the disk must spin to find it. They typically have a spinning speed of around 5,400 to 7,200 rotations per minute.

In contrast, SSDs can complete the same task 200% faster since they rely on instantly accessible memory chips. That’s why a computer equipped with an SSD can boot an operating system and load apps much faster than one that uses an HDD. An SSD can copy and move large files at 500 MB per second, while an HDD can do the same at 30–150 MB per second. This means you can store 20 GB of data in less than 10 seconds with an SSD, but you would need at least two minutes with an HDD.

Capacity
Thanks to recent technological advancements, SSDs can now support terabytes of storage, just like HDDs. However, if you compare today’s lowest-priced laptops, you’d see that they’re either equipped with 128 GB SSD or 500 GB HDD. Why is there such a huge difference in storage capacity? It’s because SSDs come with prohibitively high price tags. Therefore, if you require a lot of storage space, HDD is the way to go.

Cost
For the same storage capacity, HDDs are less expensive than SSDs, which is why they’re often bundled in budget laptops and PCs. To keep its price competitive, a budget laptop typically can have only up to 512 GB SSD storage.

Some gaming laptops solve this speed-price dilemma by having both an SSD and an HDD — the SSD is for key applications and the HDD is for data. However, take note that most consumer and business laptops do not have room for multiple storage drives. Fortunately, you can easily find 1 TB external USB hard drives for under $50.

Durability
HDDs are more susceptible to shock and damage because they have various moving parts and components. This means that if you accidentally drop your laptop, your HDD might get damaged and your data will be lost. Moreover, the longer you use your HDD, the more it wears down and eventually ends up failing.

In contrast, because SSDs use a non-mechanical design of flash storage mounted on a circuit board, they are more durable and are better at keeping your data safe.

Noise
An HDD emits some noise when the drive spins back and forth to process data. In contrast, SSDs do not have moving parts, so it does not make any noise at all.

Conclusion

Overall, SSDs are the clear winner over HDDs. While more expensive, an SSD is the faster and far more durable data storage option in the long run.

If your computer can support multiple hard drives, you can use an SSD as the primary storage for your OS, applications, and most-used programs. Meanwhile, you can use an HDD to store pictures, documents, and other files that do not require quick access times and speeds.

Planning to purchase new hardware? Let our experts guide you so you can confidently make the right IT investments. Get in touch with us today.

How to distinguish between an HDD and an SSD drive

Editor September 13, 2024

Looking to boost your device’s performance? Choosing the right storage drive can make all the difference. In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of HDDs and SSDs, so you can find the best option based on your needs and budget.

What is an HDD?

An HDD is a spinning hard disk that reads and writes data on a metal platter with a magnetic coating. The internals of an HDD look similar to an old record player — there’s a platter or a stack of platters, which spin around a spindle, and an armature called a read-write head. Data is stored onto the platter via tiny magnetic particles.

What is an SSD?

Unlike an HDD, an SSD does not have any internal moving parts. Instead, it uses integrated circuit assemblies to store, retrieve, and cache data. An SSD has two key components: flash memory chips and the controller (i.e., an embedded microprocessor). Flash memory contains storage memory, while the controller executes firmware-level software.

HDD vs. SSD: How are they different?

Let’s compare the two storage devices based on these five categories.

Speed
HDDs take a long time to access data because the disk must spin to find it. They typically have a spinning speed of around 5,400 to 7,200 rotations per minute.

In contrast, SSDs can complete the same task 200% faster since they rely on instantly accessible memory chips. That’s why a computer equipped with an SSD can boot an operating system and load apps much faster than one that uses an HDD. An SSD can copy and move large files at 500 MB per second, while an HDD can do the same at 30–150 MB per second. This means you can store 20 GB of data in less than 10 seconds with an SSD, but you would need at least two minutes with an HDD.

Capacity
Thanks to recent technological advancements, SSDs can now support terabytes of storage, just like HDDs. However, if you compare today’s lowest-priced laptops, you’d see that they’re either equipped with 128 GB SSD or 500 GB HDD. Why is there such a huge difference in storage capacity? It’s because SSDs come with prohibitively high price tags. Therefore, if you require a lot of storage space, HDD is the way to go.

Cost
For the same storage capacity, HDDs are less expensive than SSDs, which is why they’re often bundled in budget laptops and PCs. To keep its price competitive, a budget laptop typically can have only up to 512 GB SSD storage.

Some gaming laptops solve this speed-price dilemma by having both an SSD and an HDD — the SSD is for key applications and the HDD is for data. However, take note that most consumer and business laptops do not have room for multiple storage drives. Fortunately, you can easily find 1 TB external USB hard drives for under $50.

Durability
HDDs are more susceptible to shock and damage because they have various moving parts and components. This means that if you accidentally drop your laptop, your HDD might get damaged and your data will be lost. Moreover, the longer you use your HDD, the more it wears down and eventually ends up failing.

In contrast, because SSDs use a non-mechanical design of flash storage mounted on a circuit board, they are more durable and are better at keeping your data safe.

Noise
An HDD emits some noise when the drive spins back and forth to process data. In contrast, SSDs do not have moving parts, so it does not make any noise at all.

Conclusion

Overall, SSDs are the clear winner over HDDs. While more expensive, an SSD is the faster and far more durable data storage option in the long run.

If your computer can support multiple hard drives, you can use an SSD as the primary storage for your OS, applications, and most-used programs. Meanwhile, you can use an HDD to store pictures, documents, and other files that do not require quick access times and speeds.

Planning to purchase new hardware? Let our experts guide you so you can confidently make the right IT investments. Get in touch with us today.

HDDs vs. SSDs: The differences between two storage solutions

Editor September 13, 2024

When it comes to data storage, two main types of drives dominate the market: hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). While HDDs, which use spinning disks to read and write data, have been the traditional choice, solid-state drives (SSDs), which rely on flash memory for faster performance and durability, are rapidly gaining popularity. This guide outlines the key differences between the two storage technologies.

What is an HDD?

An HDD is a spinning hard disk that reads and writes data on a metal platter with a magnetic coating. The internals of an HDD look similar to an old record player — there’s a platter or a stack of platters, which spin around a spindle, and an armature called a read-write head. Data is stored onto the platter via tiny magnetic particles.

What is an SSD?

Unlike an HDD, an SSD does not have any internal moving parts. Instead, it uses integrated circuit assemblies to store, retrieve, and cache data. An SSD has two key components: flash memory chips and the controller (i.e., an embedded microprocessor). Flash memory contains storage memory, while the controller executes firmware-level software.

HDD vs. SSD: How are they different?

Let’s compare the two storage devices based on these five categories.

Speed
HDDs take a long time to access data because the disk must spin to find it. They typically have a spinning speed of around 5,400 to 7,200 rotations per minute.

In contrast, SSDs can complete the same task 200% faster since they rely on instantly accessible memory chips. That’s why a computer equipped with an SSD can boot an operating system and load apps much faster than one that uses an HDD. An SSD can copy and move large files at 500 MB per second, while an HDD can do the same at 30–150 MB per second. This means you can store 20 GB of data in less than 10 seconds with an SSD, but you would need at least two minutes with an HDD.

Capacity
Thanks to recent technological advancements, SSDs can now support terabytes of storage, just like HDDs. However, if you compare today’s lowest-priced laptops, you’d see that they’re either equipped with 128 GB SSD or 500 GB HDD. Why is there such a huge difference in storage capacity? It’s because SSDs come with prohibitively high price tags. Therefore, if you require a lot of storage space, HDD is the way to go.

Cost
For the same storage capacity, HDDs are less expensive than SSDs, which is why they’re often bundled in budget laptops and PCs. To keep its price competitive, a budget laptop typically can have only up to 512 GB SSD storage.

Some gaming laptops solve this speed-price dilemma by having both an SSD and an HDD — the SSD is for key applications and the HDD is for data. However, take note that most consumer and business laptops do not have room for multiple storage drives. Fortunately, you can easily find 1 TB external USB hard drives for under $50.

Durability
HDDs are more susceptible to shock and damage because they have various moving parts and components. This means that if you accidentally drop your laptop, your HDD might get damaged and your data will be lost. Moreover, the longer you use your HDD, the more it wears down and eventually ends up failing.

In contrast, because SSDs use a non-mechanical design of flash storage mounted on a circuit board, they are more durable and are better at keeping your data safe.

Noise
An HDD emits some noise when the drive spins back and forth to process data. In contrast, SSDs do not have moving parts, so it does not make any noise at all.

Conclusion

Overall, SSDs are the clear winner over HDDs. While more expensive, an SSD is the faster and far more durable data storage option in the long run.

If your computer can support multiple hard drives, you can use an SSD as the primary storage for your OS, applications, and most-used programs. Meanwhile, you can use an HDD to store pictures, documents, and other files that do not require quick access times and speeds.

Planning to purchase new hardware? Let our experts guide you so you can confidently make the right IT investments. Get in touch with us today.

Top ways to get Microsoft Office running again

Editor September 9, 2024

Microsoft Office is indispensable for many tasks, so it can be a headache when it’s not functioning properly. Fortunately, whether you’re dealing with crashes, unresponsive programs, or other performance issues, you don’t have to be a tech expert to fix it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through proven troubleshooting steps to get Microsoft Office up and running again.

Restart your computer

Sometimes, a quick reboot can fix minor problems with your Office programs. A restart clears the memory, closes unused programs, and resets the system’s resources, helping fix temporary problems such as data corruption or resource conflicts.

Check for updates

Microsoft often updates Office to enhance its features, improve its performance, and address any issues. Check for updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Download and install any available updates to avoid problems outdated versions may cause.

Repair office using the built-in tool

One of the easiest ways to fix Microsoft Office is by using the built-in repair tool. To access this, go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. Select Microsoft Office, click Change, and then choose Quick Repair or Online Repair depending on the severity of the problem. Quick Repair solves basic issues, while Online Repair reinstalls Office to resolve more complex problems.

Check for hardware conflicts

Installing new hardware components, such as RAM, external drives, or graphic cards, can sometimes cause conflicts with Microsoft Office due to driver issues, power supply limitations, or compatibility problems. To check for hardware conflicts, go to Device Manager in Windows and look for any warning icons next to the devices. Resolve any conflicts by updating your drivers, checking the hardware’s compatibility with your system, or ensuring proper device installation.

Disable add-ins

Add-ins are third-party programs that can add new functionalities to Office, but sometimes, they can cause problems or make Office unstable. To determine whether a particular add-in is causing the issue, open Office in Safe Mode by holding Ctrl while starting the program. If the app works fine in Safe Mode, go to File > Options > Add-ins and disable the add-in.

Check your antivirus

Certain antivirus software can block or disrupt Microsoft Office functions. If you think your antivirus might be causing problems with Office, try turning it off temporarily to see if the issue goes away. If it is proven to be the culprit, you may need to update your antivirus or change its settings to avoid conflicts.

Reinstall Microsoft Office

Performing a clean installation of Office can often resolve significant issues, especially those stemming from corrupted files. To do this, uninstall Office via the Control Panel and reinstall it using your Microsoft account or product key.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to fix most common Office issues and get back to work quickly. If you want more insights on Microsoft Office or need professional help with your IT, contact our team. We’re happy to assist you with your concern.

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