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Want a better PC? Here’s a guide to building your own

Editor June 13, 2025

Thinking about upgrading your PC? Instead of buying a prebuilt machine, why not build one yourself? It’s simpler than you might think and far more rewarding. By taking on this project, you’ll gain a better understanding of how every component works, learn valuable skills, and get a custom-built system designed specifically for you.

Start with a plan

Before jumping into shopping or assembling your PC, you should first consider three key factors: your primary use case, budget, and available physical space. Are you building a machine for basic productivity tasks, or do you need a powerhouse for video editing or 3D modeling? Defining its purpose will help you pick the right components.

Next, set a realistic budget. While it’s easy to get carried away with premium features and name-brand components, careful planning will help you invest in what truly matters without overspending on unnecessary extras.

Finally, think about your physical space. Will your PC sit on your desk or fit into a compact setup? If space is limited, a smaller case might be a better choice. But take note that smaller cases can only accommodate smaller cooling components.

By addressing these practical considerations upfront, you’ll save yourself time, effort, and frustration when it’s time to start building.

Gather the essential components

At the core of any PC are the following key components:

  • Case
  • Motherboard
  • Central processing unit (CPU) or processor
  • Graphics processing unit (GPU) or graphics card
  • Storage
  • Random-access memory (RAM) or memory
  • Power supply unit (PSU)
  • Cooling system

Case

A PC case is more than just a visual element; it plays a vital role in hardware organization and cooling efficiency. Cases come in different sizes, including compact mini-towers, standard mid-towers, and spacious full towers. Make sure to pick a case that can comfortably house your chosen components, with enough room for cables, proper airflow, and piping if needed.

Motherboard

The motherboard serves as the central hub connecting all your computer’s components. It’s important to choose one that’s compatible with your processor (Intel or AMD) and supports the features you need, such as PCIe slots for your GPU and enough M.2 slots for fast storage.

Processor

The CPU is the brain of your computer, controlling everything from basic tasks to demanding processing power for complex applications. If you’re building a system for heavy photo and video editing, invest in a high-performance processor with multiple cores and a fast clock speed. A powerful CPU enables smooth multitasking, faster rendering, and seamless operation of resource-intensive software. On the other hand, if your needs are limited to basic productivity tasks, a more modest processor will be more than sufficient.

Graphics card

A GPU is responsible for rendering images and videos on your screen. If you regularly perform resource-intensive tasks, such as video editing or 3D rendering, or intend to also use your PC for gaming, get a dedicated GPU to achieve optimal performance. On the other hand, for lighter activities such as basic photo editing or everyday computing, an integrated GPU (i.e., built into the CPU) provides a more cost-effective option without compromising functionality.

Storage

In modern PC builds, solid-state drives (SSDs) are a must-have for fast and efficient storage. They deliver significantly quicker writing times and data access compared to traditional hard drives.

For the best performance, it’s best to have a minimum of 256 GB SSD for your operating system and at least 1 TB of SSD storage for media and other files.

Memory

It’s important to have enough RAM for smooth multitasking and handling resource-intensive tasks. For most users, 16 GB is the sweet spot, providing enough capacity for everyday applications, browsing, and light creative work. However, content creators or professionals working with large files, 3D rendering, or advanced software may find that 32 GB or more offers the performance boost they need to work efficiently without any slowdowns.

Power supply

A high-quality PSU safeguards your components from power surges, ensures stable power delivery, and protects against damage from voltage fluctuations. Investing in a reliable PSU not only extends the lifespan of your hardware but also enhances the efficiency and stability of your entire setup.

Assemble your PC

Once you’ve gathered all the essential components, it’s time to put everything together. Start by setting up a clean, flat workspace. You’ll need a Phillips-head screwdriver and, ideally, the manuals that came with your hardware for guidance.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling your PC:

  1. Install the CPU and cooler: Place the processor into the motherboard socket, apply thermal paste (if it’s not pre-applied), and attach the CPU cooler.
  2. Install the memory and storage: Insert your RAM sticks into the correct slots and fasten your M.2 SSD or other storage device onto the motherboard.
  3. Mount the motherboard: Position the motherboard in your case and screw it into place, making sure the ports align with the back of the case.
  4. Install the power supply: Position the PSU in its designated spot within the case and secure it. Wait to plug in the cables until later.
  5. Install the GPU: Insert your graphics card into the PCIe slot on your motherboard, then secure it with screws.
  6. Connect the power cables: Attach the appropriate power cables to the motherboard, CPU, and GPU, double-checking that all connections are secure.

Booting up and installing Windows

Once everything is connected, turn on your PC to check if everything is working. If it doesn’t boot, double-check your connections and check your power supply. Once the system powers up, insert your USB drive with the Windows installer and follow the on-screen prompts to install the operating system.

Whether you’re considering building your own PC or facing any other tech-related challenges, our expert IT team is here to help. Contact us today for tailored advice, troubleshooting, and support.

How to build a custom PC from scratch

Editor June 13, 2025

Building your own PC lets you customize every aspect of your system. In this blog, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions and expert advice to make sure your first build goes smoothly.

Start with a plan

Before jumping into shopping or assembling your PC, you should first consider three key factors: your primary use case, budget, and available physical space. Are you building a machine for basic productivity tasks, or do you need a powerhouse for video editing or 3D modeling? Defining its purpose will help you pick the right components.

Next, set a realistic budget. While it’s easy to get carried away with premium features and name-brand components, careful planning will help you invest in what truly matters without overspending on unnecessary extras.

Finally, think about your physical space. Will your PC sit on your desk or fit into a compact setup? If space is limited, a smaller case might be a better choice. But take note that smaller cases can only accommodate smaller cooling components.

By addressing these practical considerations upfront, you’ll save yourself time, effort, and frustration when it’s time to start building.

Gather the essential components

At the core of any PC are the following key components:

  • Case
  • Motherboard
  • Central processing unit (CPU) or processor
  • Graphics processing unit (GPU) or graphics card
  • Storage
  • Random-access memory (RAM) or memory
  • Power supply unit (PSU)
  • Cooling system

Case

A PC case is more than just a visual element; it plays a vital role in hardware organization and cooling efficiency. Cases come in different sizes, including compact mini-towers, standard mid-towers, and spacious full towers. Make sure to pick a case that can comfortably house your chosen components, with enough room for cables, proper airflow, and piping if needed.

Motherboard

The motherboard serves as the central hub connecting all your computer’s components. It’s important to choose one that’s compatible with your processor (Intel or AMD) and supports the features you need, such as PCIe slots for your GPU and enough M.2 slots for fast storage.

Processor

The CPU is the brain of your computer, controlling everything from basic tasks to demanding processing power for complex applications. If you’re building a system for heavy photo and video editing, invest in a high-performance processor with multiple cores and a fast clock speed. A powerful CPU enables smooth multitasking, faster rendering, and seamless operation of resource-intensive software. On the other hand, if your needs are limited to basic productivity tasks, a more modest processor will be more than sufficient.

Graphics card

A GPU is responsible for rendering images and videos on your screen. If you regularly perform resource-intensive tasks, such as video editing or 3D rendering, or intend to also use your PC for gaming, get a dedicated GPU to achieve optimal performance. On the other hand, for lighter activities such as basic photo editing or everyday computing, an integrated GPU (i.e., built into the CPU) provides a more cost-effective option without compromising functionality.

Storage

In modern PC builds, solid-state drives (SSDs) are a must-have for fast and efficient storage. They deliver significantly quicker writing times and data access compared to traditional hard drives.

For the best performance, it’s best to have a minimum of 256 GB SSD for your operating system and at least 1 TB of SSD storage for media and other files.

Memory

It’s important to have enough RAM for smooth multitasking and handling resource-intensive tasks. For most users, 16 GB is the sweet spot, providing enough capacity for everyday applications, browsing, and light creative work. However, content creators or professionals working with large files, 3D rendering, or advanced software may find that 32 GB or more offers the performance boost they need to work efficiently without any slowdowns.

Power supply

A high-quality PSU safeguards your components from power surges, ensures stable power delivery, and protects against damage from voltage fluctuations. Investing in a reliable PSU not only extends the lifespan of your hardware but also enhances the efficiency and stability of your entire setup.

Assemble your PC

Once you’ve gathered all the essential components, it’s time to put everything together. Start by setting up a clean, flat workspace. You’ll need a Phillips-head screwdriver and, ideally, the manuals that came with your hardware for guidance.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling your PC:

  1. Install the CPU and cooler: Place the processor into the motherboard socket, apply thermal paste (if it’s not pre-applied), and attach the CPU cooler.
  2. Install the memory and storage: Insert your RAM sticks into the correct slots and fasten your M.2 SSD or other storage device onto the motherboard.
  3. Mount the motherboard: Position the motherboard in your case and screw it into place, making sure the ports align with the back of the case.
  4. Install the power supply: Position the PSU in its designated spot within the case and secure it. Wait to plug in the cables until later.
  5. Install the GPU: Insert your graphics card into the PCIe slot on your motherboard, then secure it with screws.
  6. Connect the power cables: Attach the appropriate power cables to the motherboard, CPU, and GPU, double-checking that all connections are secure.

Booting up and installing Windows

Once everything is connected, turn on your PC to check if everything is working. If it doesn’t boot, double-check your connections and check your power supply. Once the system powers up, insert your USB drive with the Windows installer and follow the on-screen prompts to install the operating system.

Whether you’re considering building your own PC or facing any other tech-related challenges, our expert IT team is here to help. Contact us today for tailored advice, troubleshooting, and support.

Essential strategies to defend your VoIP system against TDoS attacks

Editor June 11, 2025

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offers a range of benefits for organizations, including enhanced call quality, greater scalability and mobility, and reduced operational costs. However, it also introduces specific security risks, and among them are telephony denial-of-service (TDoS) attacks. These attacks can significantly disrupt business communications and operations. Gaining a clear understanding of TDoS threats is essential to strengthening your VoIP system’s resilience and maintaining service continuity.

What is TDoS?

TDoS is a specific type of denial-of-service (DoS) attack directed at VoIP systems. Unlike typical DoS attacks aimed at IT systems, TDoS is more specialized and is often used against critical services such as hospital phone lines and emergency services. Considering that these phone lines are crucial to saving people’s lives, TDoS is a pressing concern. And even more disturbing, some TDoS attackers go as far as demanding ransom, akin to the tactics employed in ransomware attacks.

TDoS attacks are characterized by their efficiency, requiring fewer resources than traditional DoS attacks. In its simplest form, a TDoS attack involves an automated phone dialer repeatedly calling a specific number and disconnecting, preventing others from accessing the line. What makes TDoS a challenge to trace and identify is that attackers use cryptocurrencies and caller-ID spoofing, effectively hiding the identity of the attacker.

What should organizations do to prevent TDoS attacks?

Any business that relies on VoIP for communication must take proactive steps to protect its system against TDoS attacks. VoIP security measures work best when implemented long before an attack happens to effectively ensure your organization is protected from any potential TDoS storm. Make sure to include security measures when your VoIP system is first installed.

However, while fortifying your VoIP system with complex security measures may seem like the best solution, it may hinder business operations. Most businesses rely heavily on seamless communication with customers, partners, and third parties, and stringent security measures can impede this essential function. Instead, you should find a good balance between security and usability.

Here are some strategies to achieve this balance:

  • Call monitoring: One of the easiest ways to prevent a TDoS attack is by implementing call monitoring to analyze and track call traffic. Once call traffic breaches an established limit, it can be directed to other organizations.
  • IP address verification: Set up your VoIP to only receive calls from select and verified IP addresses, such as within your service area.
  • Anti-fraud software: Implement fraud prevention software designed to autonomously analyze multiple phone calls at once for signs of a TDoS attack, such as too many calls from the same origin points or directed at the same destination. Once the software has identified a possible attack in progress, it blocks or reroutes the calls.
  • Call overflow reserve: Maintain or prepare additional call capacity that can be activated in response to sudden increases in call volume.
  • Periodic assessment: Perform regular assessments to ensure your VoIP systems have the necessary call capacity (both primary and reserve), no matter the volume of traffic. Use the results of these assessments to identify and correct weaknesses in your VoIP system.
  • Education: Train your employees to recognize the signs of a TDoS attack and implement the necessary protocols to mitigate it.
  • Continuity of operations agreements: Organizations that handle healthcare or emergency service calls need to establish agreements with similar organizations to ensure service continuity during a TDoS attack.

Protect your VoIP from TDoS and other threats. Connect with one of our IT specialists today.

Prevent TDoS threats from compromising your business communications

Editor June 11, 2025

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has delivered substantial value to businesses, offering enhanced call quality, flexibility, mobility, and cost savings compared to traditional phone systems. However, alongside these advantages comes a growing risk: telephony denial-of-service (TDoS) attacks. What exactly are TDoS attacks, how do they impact VoIP systems, and what measures can organizations take to defend against them? This article provides key insights into TDoS and strategies to safeguard your communications infrastructure.

What is TDoS?

TDoS is a specific type of denial-of-service (DoS) attack directed at VoIP systems. Unlike typical DoS attacks aimed at IT systems, TDoS is more specialized and is often used against critical services such as hospital phone lines and emergency services. Considering that these phone lines are crucial to saving people’s lives, TDoS is a pressing concern. And even more disturbing, some TDoS attackers go as far as demanding ransom, akin to the tactics employed in ransomware attacks.

TDoS attacks are characterized by their efficiency, requiring fewer resources than traditional DoS attacks. In its simplest form, a TDoS attack involves an automated phone dialer repeatedly calling a specific number and disconnecting, preventing others from accessing the line. What makes TDoS a challenge to trace and identify is that attackers use cryptocurrencies and caller-ID spoofing, effectively hiding the identity of the attacker.

What should organizations do to prevent TDoS attacks?

Any business that relies on VoIP for communication must take proactive steps to protect its system against TDoS attacks. VoIP security measures work best when implemented long before an attack happens to effectively ensure your organization is protected from any potential TDoS storm. Make sure to include security measures when your VoIP system is first installed.

However, while fortifying your VoIP system with complex security measures may seem like the best solution, it may hinder business operations. Most businesses rely heavily on seamless communication with customers, partners, and third parties, and stringent security measures can impede this essential function. Instead, you should find a good balance between security and usability.

Here are some strategies to achieve this balance:

  • Call monitoring: One of the easiest ways to prevent a TDoS attack is by implementing call monitoring to analyze and track call traffic. Once call traffic breaches an established limit, it can be directed to other organizations.
  • IP address verification: Set up your VoIP to only receive calls from select and verified IP addresses, such as within your service area.
  • Anti-fraud software: Implement fraud prevention software designed to autonomously analyze multiple phone calls at once for signs of a TDoS attack, such as too many calls from the same origin points or directed at the same destination. Once the software has identified a possible attack in progress, it blocks or reroutes the calls.
  • Call overflow reserve: Maintain or prepare additional call capacity that can be activated in response to sudden increases in call volume.
  • Periodic assessment: Perform regular assessments to ensure your VoIP systems have the necessary call capacity (both primary and reserve), no matter the volume of traffic. Use the results of these assessments to identify and correct weaknesses in your VoIP system.
  • Education: Train your employees to recognize the signs of a TDoS attack and implement the necessary protocols to mitigate it.
  • Continuity of operations agreements: Organizations that handle healthcare or emergency service calls need to establish agreements with similar organizations to ensure service continuity during a TDoS attack.

Protect your VoIP from TDoS and other threats. Connect with one of our IT specialists today.

Mitigating the risk of TDoS attacks on your VoIP infrastructure

Editor June 11, 2025

While Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offers significant advantages — including cost efficiency, scalability, portability, and high-quality audio — it also introduces specific security risks. One such threat is telephony denial-of-service (TDoS). In the following article, we explore what TDoS is and how you can strengthen your VoIP infrastructure against it.

What is TDoS?

TDoS is a specific type of denial-of-service (DoS) attack directed at VoIP systems. Unlike typical DoS attacks aimed at IT systems, TDoS is more specialized and is often used against critical services such as hospital phone lines and emergency services. Considering that these phone lines are crucial to saving people’s lives, TDoS is a pressing concern. And even more disturbing, some TDoS attackers go as far as demanding ransom, akin to the tactics employed in ransomware attacks.

TDoS attacks are characterized by their efficiency, requiring fewer resources than traditional DoS attacks. In its simplest form, a TDoS attack involves an automated phone dialer repeatedly calling a specific number and disconnecting, preventing others from accessing the line. What makes TDoS a challenge to trace and identify is that attackers use cryptocurrencies and caller-ID spoofing, effectively hiding the identity of the attacker.

What should organizations do to prevent TDoS attacks?

Any business that relies on VoIP for communication must take proactive steps to protect its system against TDoS attacks. VoIP security measures work best when implemented long before an attack happens to effectively ensure your organization is protected from any potential TDoS storm. Make sure to include security measures when your VoIP system is first installed.

However, while fortifying your VoIP system with complex security measures may seem like the best solution, it may hinder business operations. Most businesses rely heavily on seamless communication with customers, partners, and third parties, and stringent security measures can impede this essential function. Instead, you should find a good balance between security and usability.

Here are some strategies to achieve this balance:

  • Call monitoring: One of the easiest ways to prevent a TDoS attack is by implementing call monitoring to analyze and track call traffic. Once call traffic breaches an established limit, it can be directed to other organizations.
  • IP address verification: Set up your VoIP to only receive calls from select and verified IP addresses, such as within your service area.
  • Anti-fraud software: Implement fraud prevention software designed to autonomously analyze multiple phone calls at once for signs of a TDoS attack, such as too many calls from the same origin points or directed at the same destination. Once the software has identified a possible attack in progress, it blocks or reroutes the calls.
  • Call overflow reserve: Maintain or prepare additional call capacity that can be activated in response to sudden increases in call volume.
  • Periodic assessment: Perform regular assessments to ensure your VoIP systems have the necessary call capacity (both primary and reserve), no matter the volume of traffic. Use the results of these assessments to identify and correct weaknesses in your VoIP system.
  • Education: Train your employees to recognize the signs of a TDoS attack and implement the necessary protocols to mitigate it.
  • Continuity of operations agreements: Organizations that handle healthcare or emergency service calls need to establish agreements with similar organizations to ensure service continuity during a TDoS attack.

Protect your VoIP from TDoS and other threats. Connect with one of our IT specialists today.

Achieve more with Excel: A productivity guide for Microsoft 365 users

Editor June 9, 2025

Excel for Microsoft 365 is packed with new features that can significantly improve your productivity. From real-time collaboration to dynamic arrays, discover the essential tools that can help you get the most out of this powerful spreadsheet tool.

Get things done faster with SEARCH

If you’ve ever struggled to find a command in Excel’s Ribbon, the SEARCH feature is a game-changer. Simply type what you need, such as “pivot table” or “sum,” and Excel will show you the best options to get started. It also remembers your previous searches, making frequent tasks more accessible. Managing complex spreadsheets then becomes significantly easier and more efficient, helping you save valuable time.

Explore advanced chart types

Visualizing data is crucial; that’s why Microsoft has introduced a range of new chart types to help you display your information more effectively. From treemaps (perfect for hierarchical data) to waterfall charts (ideal for financial statements), Excel now offers a variety of ways to see your data come to life. These chart types can help you uncover insights that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as revenue trends or sales patterns.

Real-time collaboration

The era of exchanging Excel files through endless email chains is over. With Microsoft 365, your team can collaborate simultaneously on the same spreadsheet. As long as the file is saved in SharePoint or OneDrive, your team can work together in real time. You’ll see exactly what others are editing, and you can even leave comments inside cells to discuss changes.

Linked data types

Excel’s linked data types are a powerful feature that lets you pull in real-time, updated information from the web directly into your spreadsheets. For example, if you’re tracking stock prices, you can enter a company’s ticker symbol, and Excel will automatically fetch the latest stock price. The data in these cells updates regularly, so there’s no need to manually update figures.

Dynamic arrays for smarter formulas

Dynamic arrays are one of the most exciting additions to Excel for Microsoft 365. These formulas allow you to return multiple results from a single calculation. The FILTER function, for instance, can be used to pull only certain data from a list. As your data changes, the dynamic arrays adjust automatically, making them perfect for ever-changing datasets.

Version History and AutoSave

Losing your work is probably the most nerve-wracking thing about working on spreadsheets. Fear no more. With AutoSave enabled on files stored in OneDrive, SharePoint, or OneDrive for Business, your changes are saved automatically. If anything goes wrong, Version History lets you easily restore an earlier version of your file. You can review, compare, and recover past versions whenever you need to, giving you complete control and peace of mind.

Sheet Views for custom filtering

Team members often need to look at data in different ways because of their unique roles or perspectives. With Sheet Views, Excel allows you to create custom filtered or sorted views of your worksheet without affecting the rest of your team’s view. Whether you’re analyzing sales data or project timelines, this feature makes it easy to personalize your experience while keeping everyone else’s work intact.

3D maps to visualize geospatial data

For those working with geographical data, Excel’s 3D Maps feature provides an interactive way to display and analyze information on a three-dimensional globe. This feature is great for presenting sales or demographic data across regions and allows you to see patterns that are much harder to spot in flat spreadsheets.

Microsoft 365 Copilot

For users who subscribe to Microsoft 365 Copilot, Excel now includes an AI assistant that can help you generate charts, summarize data, and even suggest formulas. While it’s still in its early stages, Copilot can offer guidance for users who may not be Excel experts. However, don’t expect it to replace the experience of manually crafting detailed analyses just yet.

For more Microsoft 365 tips and technology insights, contact our knowledgeable team. We’re always ready to assist you.

How to maximize your productivity with new Excel features in Microsoft 365

Editor June 9, 2025

Looking to boost your efficiency and master Excel like a pro? Discover how the newest Excel features in Microsoft 365 can simplify your workflow and boost efficiency. This guide covers everything from advanced chart types to real-time collaboration, empowering you to use Excel to its full potential.

Get things done faster with SEARCH

If you’ve ever struggled to find a command in Excel’s Ribbon, the SEARCH feature is a game-changer. Simply type what you need, such as “pivot table” or “sum,” and Excel will show you the best options to get started. It also remembers your previous searches, making frequent tasks more accessible. Managing complex spreadsheets then becomes significantly easier and more efficient, helping you save valuable time.

Explore advanced chart types

Visualizing data is crucial; that’s why Microsoft has introduced a range of new chart types to help you display your information more effectively. From treemaps (perfect for hierarchical data) to waterfall charts (ideal for financial statements), Excel now offers a variety of ways to see your data come to life. These chart types can help you uncover insights that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as revenue trends or sales patterns.

Real-time collaboration

The era of exchanging Excel files through endless email chains is over. With Microsoft 365, your team can collaborate simultaneously on the same spreadsheet. As long as the file is saved in SharePoint or OneDrive, your team can work together in real time. You’ll see exactly what others are editing, and you can even leave comments inside cells to discuss changes.

Linked data types

Excel’s linked data types are a powerful feature that lets you pull in real-time, updated information from the web directly into your spreadsheets. For example, if you’re tracking stock prices, you can enter a company’s ticker symbol, and Excel will automatically fetch the latest stock price. The data in these cells updates regularly, so there’s no need to manually update figures.

Dynamic arrays for smarter formulas

Dynamic arrays are one of the most exciting additions to Excel for Microsoft 365. These formulas allow you to return multiple results from a single calculation. The FILTER function, for instance, can be used to pull only certain data from a list. As your data changes, the dynamic arrays adjust automatically, making them perfect for ever-changing datasets.

Version History and AutoSave

Losing your work is probably the most nerve-wracking thing about working on spreadsheets. Fear no more. With AutoSave enabled on files stored in OneDrive, SharePoint, or OneDrive for Business, your changes are saved automatically. If anything goes wrong, Version History lets you easily restore an earlier version of your file. You can review, compare, and recover past versions whenever you need to, giving you complete control and peace of mind.

Sheet Views for custom filtering

Team members often need to look at data in different ways because of their unique roles or perspectives. With Sheet Views, Excel allows you to create custom filtered or sorted views of your worksheet without affecting the rest of your team’s view. Whether you’re analyzing sales data or project timelines, this feature makes it easy to personalize your experience while keeping everyone else’s work intact.

3D maps to visualize geospatial data

For those working with geographical data, Excel’s 3D Maps feature provides an interactive way to display and analyze information on a three-dimensional globe. This feature is great for presenting sales or demographic data across regions and allows you to see patterns that are much harder to spot in flat spreadsheets.

Microsoft 365 Copilot

For users who subscribe to Microsoft 365 Copilot, Excel now includes an AI assistant that can help you generate charts, summarize data, and even suggest formulas. While it’s still in its early stages, Copilot can offer guidance for users who may not be Excel experts. However, don’t expect it to replace the experience of manually crafting detailed analyses just yet.

For more Microsoft 365 tips and technology insights, contact our knowledgeable team. We’re always ready to assist you.

Beyond the basics: Mastering essential Excel features in Microsoft 365

Editor June 9, 2025

Excel has always been a powerful tool for anyone working with data, and with Microsoft 365, it has only become even better. Whether you’re handling financial reports, analyzing trends, or simply organizing information, the latest updates to Excel make it faster, more versatile, and collaborative. Here’s a guide to the most important new features you should take advantage of in Excel for Microsoft 365.

Get things done faster with SEARCH

If you’ve ever struggled to find a command in Excel’s Ribbon, the SEARCH feature is a game-changer. Simply type what you need, such as “pivot table” or “sum,” and Excel will show you the best options to get started. It also remembers your previous searches, making frequent tasks more accessible. Managing complex spreadsheets then becomes significantly easier and more efficient, helping you save valuable time.

Explore advanced chart types

Visualizing data is crucial; that’s why Microsoft has introduced a range of new chart types to help you display your information more effectively. From treemaps (perfect for hierarchical data) to waterfall charts (ideal for financial statements), Excel now offers a variety of ways to see your data come to life. These chart types can help you uncover insights that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as revenue trends or sales patterns.

Real-time collaboration

The era of exchanging Excel files through endless email chains is over. With Microsoft 365, your team can collaborate simultaneously on the same spreadsheet. As long as the file is saved in SharePoint or OneDrive, your team can work together in real time. You’ll see exactly what others are editing, and you can even leave comments inside cells to discuss changes.

Linked data types

Excel’s linked data types are a powerful feature that lets you pull in real-time, updated information from the web directly into your spreadsheets. For example, if you’re tracking stock prices, you can enter a company’s ticker symbol, and Excel will automatically fetch the latest stock price. The data in these cells updates regularly, so there’s no need to manually update figures.

Dynamic arrays for smarter formulas

Dynamic arrays are one of the most exciting additions to Excel for Microsoft 365. These formulas allow you to return multiple results from a single calculation. The FILTER function, for instance, can be used to pull only certain data from a list. As your data changes, the dynamic arrays adjust automatically, making them perfect for ever-changing datasets.

Version History and AutoSave

Losing your work is probably the most nerve-wracking thing about working on spreadsheets. Fear no more. With AutoSave enabled on files stored in OneDrive, SharePoint, or OneDrive for Business, your changes are saved automatically. If anything goes wrong, Version History lets you easily restore an earlier version of your file. You can review, compare, and recover past versions whenever you need to, giving you complete control and peace of mind.

Sheet Views for custom filtering

Team members often need to look at data in different ways because of their unique roles or perspectives. With Sheet Views, Excel allows you to create custom filtered or sorted views of your worksheet without affecting the rest of your team’s view. Whether you’re analyzing sales data or project timelines, this feature makes it easy to personalize your experience while keeping everyone else’s work intact.

3D maps to visualize geospatial data

For those working with geographical data, Excel’s 3D Maps feature provides an interactive way to display and analyze information on a three-dimensional globe. This feature is great for presenting sales or demographic data across regions and allows you to see patterns that are much harder to spot in flat spreadsheets.

Microsoft 365 Copilot

For users who subscribe to Microsoft 365 Copilot, Excel now includes an AI assistant that can help you generate charts, summarize data, and even suggest formulas. While it’s still in its early stages, Copilot can offer guidance for users who may not be Excel experts. However, don’t expect it to replace the experience of manually crafting detailed analyses just yet.

For more Microsoft 365 tips and technology insights, contact our knowledgeable team. We’re always ready to assist you.

Future-proof your business: The enduring advantages of hybrid clouds

Editor June 6, 2025

As technology continues its relentless advance, businesses need an IT foundation that is both stable and adaptable. Hybrid cloud solutions provide this future-proof framework, allowing organizations to strategically place workloads and data where they make the most sense. This empowers them to embrace innovation, optimize resources, and build a resilient enterprise prepared for tomorrow’s opportunities.

A hybrid cloud strategy offers significant benefits for businesses:

Greater flexibility and scalability

One of the key advantages of a hybrid cloud is its ability to adapt as businesses evolve. Companies can scale their computing resources up or down based on current needs.

For instance, during busy times, such as the holiday shopping season, an online store can quickly access additional computing power from the public cloud. When things slow down, they can reduce that power, only paying for what they use.

Enhanced security and compliance

Hybrid clouds also allow businesses to safeguard sensitive data and meet industry regulations more effectively. Highly sensitive information, such as customer financial records or confidential plans, can be stored in a private cloud for greater control over security. Less critical tasks and data can be stored in the public cloud, where they will still be accessible, scalable, and protected — though with different levels of control compared to a private cloud.

By aligning the level of security with data sensitivity, businesses can achieve a balanced and secure infrastructure.

Wiser IT spending

Adopting a hybrid cloud can lead to more cost-effective IT spending. Noncritical tasks that don’t require constant high performance or tight security can be handled on the public cloud, which often operates on a “pay-as-you-go” basis. For critical operations that demand stricter control or specific performance, the private cloud can then be used.

This strategy enables businesses to optimize their budgets while maintaining security and performance where it matters most.

Improved disaster recovery and business continuity

With a hybrid cloud setup, companies can strengthen their ability to recover from disruptions and maintain uninterrupted operations. Critical data and applications can be duplicated across both private and public clouds.

In the event of emergencies, such as natural disasters, equipment failures, or cyberattacks, businesses can quickly switch to backup systems. Having reliable backups minimizes downtime, reduces data loss, and ensures customers continue to receive services.

Ultimately, a hybrid cloud provides businesses with a practical, adaptable approach to managing technology. To learn more about hybrid cloud solutions, talk to our cloud experts today.

How hybrid cloud solutions drive resilience and competitive edge

Editor June 6, 2025

In an era defined by digital transformation, the ability to adapt, secure, and optimize is critical for sustained business success. Hybrid cloud solutions offer a sophisticated framework for achieving these goals, providing a versatile infrastructure that supports diverse business needs. From enhancing disaster recovery to enabling cutting-edge AI initiatives, hybrid clouds are fueling the forward momentum of businesses worldwide.

A hybrid cloud strategy offers significant benefits for businesses:

Greater flexibility and scalability

One of the key advantages of a hybrid cloud is its ability to adapt as businesses evolve. Companies can scale their computing resources up or down based on current needs.

For instance, during busy times, such as the holiday shopping season, an online store can quickly access additional computing power from the public cloud. When things slow down, they can reduce that power, only paying for what they use.

Enhanced security and compliance

Hybrid clouds also allow businesses to safeguard sensitive data and meet industry regulations more effectively. Highly sensitive information, such as customer financial records or confidential plans, can be stored in a private cloud for greater control over security. Less critical tasks and data can be stored in the public cloud, where they will still be accessible, scalable, and protected — though with different levels of control compared to a private cloud.

By aligning the level of security with data sensitivity, businesses can achieve a balanced and secure infrastructure.

Wiser IT spending

Adopting a hybrid cloud can lead to more cost-effective IT spending. Noncritical tasks that don’t require constant high performance or tight security can be handled on the public cloud, which often operates on a “pay-as-you-go” basis. For critical operations that demand stricter control or specific performance, the private cloud can then be used.

This strategy enables businesses to optimize their budgets while maintaining security and performance where it matters most.

Improved disaster recovery and business continuity

With a hybrid cloud setup, companies can strengthen their ability to recover from disruptions and maintain uninterrupted operations. Critical data and applications can be duplicated across both private and public clouds.

In the event of emergencies, such as natural disasters, equipment failures, or cyberattacks, businesses can quickly switch to backup systems. Having reliable backups minimizes downtime, reduces data loss, and ensures customers continue to receive services.

Ultimately, a hybrid cloud provides businesses with a practical, adaptable approach to managing technology. To learn more about hybrid cloud solutions, talk to our cloud experts today.

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