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2 Factor Authentication: Why we strongly recommend this to all our clients At Pro Cloud Solutions, the safety and security of your business systems and information is of prime importance to us. Many of the conversations we have with clients and potential customers are around mitigating the business’ wider online exposure with measures to protect access to mission critical data. We strongly recommend the use of 2 Factor Authentication (commonly shortened to 2FA) to all our clients, and in this blog, we take a look at what is it and why is it so important. Understanding the need for added security The ever-onward march of technology, coupled with post-pandemic ‘new normal’ working patterns, means that more business processes and operations are being carried out online or digitally than ever before. By using the IT services that Pro Cloud Solutions offers, businesses are reaping the rewards that increased efficiency, hassle-free remote working and business agility are bringing. Through sophisticated cloud IT, company data can be accessed flexibly over a wide range of devices across the UK and abroad, meaning team members can have the information they need at their fingertips and can work collaboratively with colleagues in other locations, when working from home or in satellite offices etc. As digital usage is increasing however, so are the potential threats to online safety and security, and 2FA is a vital tool in protecting your business from cyber breaches. The National Cyber Security Centre [1] details that: “In recent attacks, adversaries have logged in to services using guessed or stolen passwords, thus granting that attacker the same permissions (sometimes privileged access) as the legitimate user. This is prevalent when there is no way to differentiate between the actual user and an attacker pretending to be them. These attacks work in a number of ways including: Trying passwords from leaked datasets in case a user has reused a password on other services. Socially engineering account details from users using techniques such as phishing. Attempting to log into multiple user accounts using one of the passwords on the commonly used password lists. In all these cases, authentication becomes the main decision point for whether a user or attacker can gain access to a service” What is 2 Factor Authentication? 2 Factor Authentication is a security measure that requires more than one form of identification before someone is granted access to an account or system. Microsoft, who we are proud to partner with here at Pro Cloud Solutions, recommends the use of authenticator applications on smart phones or SMS verification as the second phase of this two-step user authentication. For instance, you can install the relevant authenticator app on your mobile device. Upon logging in to your user account and entering the required username and password, you’ll be requested to enter the security code from your authenticator app on your Android or iOS device. SMS, or text messaging, can also be used as a form of two-factor authentication when a message is sent to a trusted phone number. The user is prompted to either interact with the text or use a one-time code to verify their identity on a site or app. How effective is 2 Factor Authentication? Since, as reported by the National Cyber Security Centre, over 80% of cyber breaches happen due to weak or stolen passwords, 2FA provides the added layer of security necessary to protect users and their data. Microsoft is quite clear on the efficacy of 2FA: “By providing an extra barrier and a layer of security, double factor authentication makes it incredibly difficult for attackers to get past. 2FA can block over 99.9 percent of account compromise attacks. With 2FA, knowing or cracking the password won’t be enough to gain access” What are the benefits of using 2 Factor Authentication? Beyond being an incredibly effective deterrent to cyber attack, as described above, the use of 2FA has some useful further benefits: 2FA is quick and efficient. Two Factor Authentication is the simplest, most effective way to verify that your people are who they say they are. It offers a user-friendly authentication experience which is both easy and speedy. Expert MSPs such as Pro Cloud Solutions can add 2FA rapidly across your company systems access, saving you time and negating lengthy in-house security discussions and implementations. 2FA allows control and ensures compliance As defined in its articles, one of the core obligations of GDPR is the requirement for processors of personal data to take appropriate measures to protect it, and ENISA — the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security which advises member states and private sector organisations in implementing EU legislation, strongly recommends the use of 2FA [2]. Furthermore, many of the businesses we work with at Pro Cloud Solutions haveindustry regulated controls to adhere to regarding the storage of and access to sensitive data, for which 2FA can be an important security tool. 2FA reduces password fatigue This is a recognised condition that occurs when trying to create, remember and use different complex passwords. This malady places undue stress not just on individual users but on the organisations striving to protect critical data and other assets. Password fatigue results in employees reusing the same or very similar password(s) for multiple accounts, causing security fragility, and reportedly impacting heavily on their productivity and mental energy [3] 2FA systems have in-built monitoring features When a 2FA system is in place, successful and unsuccessful authentication requests are logged, allowing the monitoring system to highlight unusual and potentially malicious login activity. Simon Waugh, MD at Pro Cloud Solutions concludes: “Implementing 2 Factor Authentication is at the top of the list in our data security recommendations to clients. Having a proactive plan around cyber security ensures that companies can benefit from all the advantages Cloud IT brings, without the worry of data vulnerability” Pro Cloud Solutions works with businesses worldwide – spanning not only the globe, but also all sizes of business and industry. With our certified experts, your company information and systems are in safe hands - schedule a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable team today. [1] https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/multi-factor-authentication-online-services [2] https://www.enisa.europa.eu/topics/cybersecurity-policy/data-protection [3] https://www.beyondidentity.com/blog/measuring-password-fatigue Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Cloud IT – Enabling Business To Take Green Strides To Reduce Carbon Footprints Taking a look at our previous blogs about the benefits of cloud IT, readers will have picked up on the key theme of efficiency - of time, operations and spend. Whilst these are key factors in business success and growth, and are often hot topics in our conversations with new Pro Cloud Solutions clients, over the last few years climate impact has also become an important area of discussion. Cloud IT really does offer a green tech solution in a number of ways, and when added to the positive effects on business stability, flexibility and growth potential, this makes a move to the cloud something that all businesses should be considering. Reduce – The First Of The 4 Environmental R’s Both at home and in the office, actions around recycling have been a key focus over the last decade in particular, but the first and most impactful of the 4 environmental R’s is actually reduce, coming before reuse, recycle, and recover. Insights recently shared by the Business Climate Hub detailed that in the near-term, SMEs are making efforts to cut their greenhouse gas emissions through reductions to energy consumption and waste (82%), employee education (64%), and upgrades to facilities and equipment (52%).[i] As a key tool in delivering these reductions, moving to cloud computing helps business to reduce both energy consumption and emissions, as well as playing a major role in reducing commercial e-waste. Reducing Energy Consumption Traditional hardware infrastructures are high maintenance, requiring vast amounts of continuous electricity, as on-premise data centres power each machine constantly. Beyond this, they require energy-hungry cooling systems and regular maintenance cycles. In comparison, cloud computing uses shared data centres located near their source of power, and using the latest equipment - so they need less overall energy to operate. Large companies that use a cloud server typically need 60% to 70% of the space on it. But smaller companies tend to use only 5% to 10%. This means more of them can use a single data centre, and with fewer data centres needed, less overall power is needed for everyone to operate at full capacity. Reducing Emissions At Pro Cloud Solutions, the efficiency, reliability and security of the data centres we use is of fundamental importance, but we are proud to partner with an organisation who is also championing green business practices, how they source power and purchase energy. All of their operations are powered by 100% renewable energy coming from sources like solar, wind, and hydro, and they are continuously evaluating which sites have the largest carbon footprint to identify more opportunities to reduce their emissions. We understand that many of our clients are unable to influence the source and production of their fuel use, as they operate from shared office complexes. For a large number of firms, the ability to use cloud IT therefore not only offers a reduction in emissions, but also an element of environmental control. Cloud data centres do produce heat, and typically, about 70% of all heat produced is wasted - waste heat that could be turned into sustainable energy. With this in mind, here at Pro Cloud Solutions we were recently delighted to read about the innovative energy research that our data centre provider has embarked on, to develop a world-first heat cooling system - designed to turn waste heat into power that drives server cooling systems. Initial results showed potential for up to a 50% reduction in electrical power consumption, and the trial received the “Best Use of Emerging Technology” honour from the Digital City Awards in March 2022 for the significant impact the programme could have on the carbon footprint of the data centre industry. Reducing E-waste According to the Environment Agency, waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is the fastest growing waste stream in the UK, and IT overconsumption and its shortened lifespan have led to rapid growth in the numbers of unwanted or obsolete tech equipment. In 2000, the average lifespan of a computer was 4.5 years. By 2015 it was down to 2 years. New IT hardware with deemed or real advantages are certainly a trigger, however, it is a sad fact that the major cause of new business IT infrastructure spend comes from a perceived lack of reliability, and frustrations with poor connectivity and efficiency. Using Pro Cloud Solutions’ innovative Cloud IT and Hosted Desktop service negates the need for costly, and potentially environmentally harmful on-site infrastructure overhauls. See our blog here for more details: https://www.procloudsolutions.co.uk/post/cut-through-the-cloud-vs-on-premise-confusion-with-pro-cloud-solutions MD Simon Waugh: “At Pro Cloud Solutions we are always delighted to see the positive impact that our services provide, and to see the support we offer as a real enabler of change. When we are also able to see this having a lasting impact on the carbon footprint of our clients, this success has an even greater depth” More Flexibility, Less Travel Impact Beyond energy and waste, Cloud IT offers the flexibility and reliability needed for businesses to reduce the travel impact of their team. In Britain, transport is the largest emitting sector of greenhouse gas emissions, producing 27% of the UK’s total emissions[ii] and so logically, reducing office commutes - as well as encouraging electric, pedal and pedestrian work journeys - forms a major part of business carbon reduction plans. Using Pro Cloud Solutions’ innovative Cloud IT and Hosted Desktop service means that you and your team have the flexibility to work from any location: at home, at the office, or indeed anywhere in the world – all that is needed is an internet connection. Adding to the simplicity, our service works seamlessly across all devices, so it makes no difference whether you are logging in using Windows, Android, Apple or Linux. We understand how important it is for all your team to have company information, inbox and project files at their fingertips, so we ensure that wherever they are, using whatever device, our Hosted Desktop gives everyone consistent and speedy access to all of the systems and applications they need in order to work effectively. More Efficiency, Less Reliance On Paper Recent YouGov research found that: 80% of UK organisations are printing documents just to get them signed The average UK office worker prints off over 500 sheets of paper per month More than half of all office print outs are to ‘make finding files easier’ [iii] As well as the environmental impact of eliminating paper from the office, going electronic also offers the potential of rethinking workflows like these to save even more time. At Pro Cloud Solutions we know that much of the work our clients undertake is team and project based – using our service makes sure that remote working doesn’t have to mean operating in isolation. With efficient cloud access, coupled with our fit for purpose office management systems, you and your team have the latest suite of Microsoft applications readily available, allowing document creation, file sharing and easy access to Teams when conversations are key. Going Green with Pro Cloud Solutions In conclusion, there is a real determination amongst businesses of all sizes to reduce their environmental footprint by scrutinising in-house processes and operations, as well as casting a keen eye on their supply chain. Moving to Cloud IT has a positive green impact for business in many ways that firms may not have previously considered, and working with Pro Cloud Solutions ensures that companies have a green focused IT partner - offering expertise, support and advice. Our certified IT experts support a wide range of businesses worldwide – spanning not only the globe, but also all sizes of business and industry. Working with Pro Cloud Solutions will enable your business operations to increase efficiency, and reduce your effect on the environment. Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Benefit Or Barrier? Research Shows Pivotal Role Of Tech In Staff Satisfaction Freshworks Inc. have recently unveiled results of a survey of over 9000 workers, revealing that businesses globally face a potential workplace crisis due to inadequate technology - damaging employee productivity, mental health and the ability to retain talent*. Despite the global shift to hybrid work igniting the biggest surge in technology investment in history, an overwhelming 91% of employees report being frustrated due to inadequate workplace technology. Simon Waugh, MD at Pro Cloud Solutions concurs: “Tech frustration, and ways to overcome it, is a common theme in the regular conversations that I have with businesses - particularly in those early-stage discussions as we really get to know new clients. In our work as a Managed Service Provider, we’ve had the satisfaction of seeing how great tech can have such a positive impact on not only business operations, but also on team morale, so the statistics from this research really hit home” Efficiency and Productivity At Pro Cloud Solutions we understand the direct link between these two pillars of business success, and all too often see the negative impact on both, when systems and ways of working are no longer fit for purpose – particularly for those firms where operations have now ceased to be carried out all under one roof. Despite the capabilities of tech being a hot topic both during and post pandemic, the June 2022 Freshworks research found that employees reported widespread failures from the workplace technology they use every day. Top complaints included: Slow speeds (51%) Extended response times from IT teams (34%) Lack of collaboration between departments (30%) Missing important features/capabilities (28%) Lack of automation (25%) The Freshworks survey also reveals that dated tech is restricting business productivity, as frustrated employees grapple with daily IT challenges. More than half (57%) of unsatisfied employees say their current software makes them less productive. Nearly half (44%) of employees surveyed say the time spent dealing with technology issues has increased since the beginning of the pandemic. MSPs Can Make All The Difference We are often asked why a business should use a Managed Service Provider (MSP) such as ourselves, and much as the survey figures are a difficult read, a move to cloud based IT through Pro Cloud Solutions is a positive step to mitigating much of the frustration demonstrated in the research, as our services offer businesses of all sizes a real step change in both IT efficiency and productivity. Take a look at our recent blog for more detail on the host of benefits that we bring to business. Impact of Technology on Staff Wellbeing Nearly half (49%) of the employees surveyed by Freshworks reported that inadequate workplace technology causes them to feel stressed, and 48% claim it has negatively impacted their mental health. This is felt at all levels, with 38% of business leaders reporting that their failure to deliver adequate workplace technology to their stakeholders causes them to feel stressed. As businesses make a more permanent move to hybrid or flexi working, the ongoing effects of more separated ways of working must not be ignored. Moreover, as these new practices allow for far more remote working, from almost endless locations both nationally and internationally, reliable technology which is both fit for purpose and up to date is a vital factor in reducing workplace stress. This is reinforced by recent research from Ricoh** which reveals that a third of UK employees regularly feel unmotivated while working remotely, due to technology and communication issues. The Difference Is Pro Cloud Solutions Our team of tech experts offer a round the clock support service, ensuring that when it comes to speed, our clients benefit from not only rapid connection, but also swift resolution of issues. Employees are willing to accept that sometimes things don’t work as they should, but the stress and frustration comes when they either don’t know who to ask, or in-house support is not wraparound - meaning that these issues aren’t fixed quickly. Furthermore, as we make it our business to really understand our clients, we are always looking for common or reoccurring issues so we can present solutions and offer staff training. We understand the major role that the ability to communicate and collaborate has on both business operations and staff morale. Partnering with Pro Cloud Solutions opens up access to the latest technology from the Microsoft 365 suite, that both allows and fosters connected working, and our certified team are on hand to advise at every step. Speak to us about the comms and shared working barriers in your organisation and we can advise on the particular aspects of Microsoft 365 that can make a real and lasting impact to dialogue within your business, as well as help you ensure all your team are using these tools to the maximum benefit. Our handy guide to the advantages of the Microsoft 365 applications can be found here. Impact of Technology on Recruitment and Retention There was much discussion in the latter half of 2021 about the so-called ‘Great Resignation’, where thousands of employees looked for what they hoped would be a ‘grass is greener’ career change or job move. Worryingly, this trend seems to be continuing, adding real pressure on the jobs market, as 44% of workers surveyed by Freshworks stated they were considering leaving their current employer in 2022. Whilst pay and benefits will always top the ‘reasons to leave’ in such surveys, it is insightful to see both lack of flexible working opportunities and innovative tech are in the top five. Recent UK specific research by Ricoh revealed that people felt inadequate technology and a lack of collaborative working environment were holding back more accommodating and agile ways of working, directly leading to negative feelings of the business being stale and behind the times. David Mills, CEO, Ricoh Europe, adds: “While digital transformation may have been on their long-term roadmap, there’s now no time to waste for business. Without the technology that makes it easy and safe to work effectively from anywhere, business owners are facing a brain drain of their top talent” Partner with Pro Cloud Solutions We understand that your team are the heartbeat of your company, and we appreciate the high cost of recruitment both in time and money. Partnering with Pro Cloud Solutions gives you access to the latest technology and our experienced team will work with you to ensure frustrations are reduced by the introduction of smarter and more connected ways of working, matched specifically to the make-up of your business and the needs of you and your staff. Simon Waugh concludes: “Working with Pro Cloud Solutions is all about parity of technology - we take away the worry of keeping up with the competition, guaranteeing that access to great IT isn’t dependent on the budget for a large tech spend. Manageable monthly payments that can flex up and down dependent on need, ensure that your team benefit from industry leading systems, security and connectivity whatever your company size. Pro Cloud Solutions enables your business to maintain that competitive edge, helping you to retain expertise within your team as you strive forward for new business” For a friendly conversation about the precise needs of your particular business operation, Pro Cloud Solutions offer a free initial consultation with one of our expert team – contact us today. Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Why Your SME Needs An MSP – Insight From The Experts At Pro Cloud Solutions In a nutshell, partnering with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) for your business’ IT needs takes you from a position of decision making based on thinking you know what is best, to developing tech strategies centred around what definitely is the optimum for the business. Simon Waugh, MD at Pro Cloud Solutions explains: “It is really inspirational to discuss business with the directors of SMEs – they are very often fearless and agile, and it is commonplace that their passion for what they offer has led to impressive company growth. We do however, find that quite regularly the level of digital expertise within the business has not kept pace with the firm’s expansion.” Cost And The Cost Of Not In an organisation where cash-flow is king there is often a perception that having a more switched-on IT strategy will come at unmanageable cost. However, one of the main benefits of using an MSP is that resource decisions can be more easily made based on the company’s individual technology needs, with the MSP using their expertise to ensure that only what is needed is provided, and that applications are adding real value. Furthermore, partnering with an MSP brings no requirement for significant upfront expenditure, and many SMEs find the regular monthly payments not only easier to budget for, but also dependable on the basis that there is no need for contingency funds to be set aside. Whilst discussing finances here, it is important to also focus on the potential cost ramifications of continuing ‘as is’. Simon expands: “In many of the conversations I have with business leaders, when it comes to decisions on how to implement and manage IT systems, there is a reliance on their most tech-literate member of staff, who more often than not was never recruited with company IT as part of their position or responsibilities. Much as this resourceful characteristic is always admirable, relying on someone with limited knowledge within the business can be a vulnerable strategy, with potential costly implications.” Keeping Your Business Safe And Secure Taking a scatter gun approach to IT, or relying on the assumptions of well meaning, but often under-skilled team members can leave a business and its sensitive data exposed, particularly as access to company files is required from a growing number of locations and from across a variety of devices. Working with an MSP affords secure protection for mission critical data and systems. Providers such as Pro Cloud Solutions apply industry leading security protocols to each part of their process, and will have robust disaster recovery mechanisms in place. It is also true that the sophistication of cyber security measures implemented by the MSP’s cloud data centres will be far beyond those affordable to most SMEs. Simon corroborates: “From a security perspective alone, by relying on someone with limited knowledge you could be opening your business up to cyber threats that could end up costing a lot more than partnering with an MSP.” ENISA, the EU Agency for Cyber Security is also clear in its warning to SMEs: “In a time of increased remote work and growing cyber threats, SMEs are facing major cyber security challenges. Low-security budget, lack of cyber-skills and increase in cyber-attacks can seriously impact SME's competitiveness and compromise the supply chain they are connected to. This is why it is fundamental for SMEs to start taking the right steps to secure their business.” Efficiency And Expertise At Your Beck And Call Technological advancements continue to move at an incredible pace, and much as this regularly brings the opportunity add both capability and efficiency to business operations, these innovations can only really benefit business when decision making involves an outsourced partner, or an employee who is not only tech-savvy, but who also regularly undergoes training and development to fully understand new advancements. “At Pro Cloud Solutions, we understand that for many SMEs, having an in-house IT expert with their finger on the pulse of shifts in the tech sector is out of reach. That’s why one of the main advantages of using an MSP such as ourselves, is the up to the minute insight we can offer the firms we partner with – helping them introduce new applications that yield measured efficiency” adds Simon. Whilst discussing expertise here, it is important to also note that working with an MSP offers access to this know-how across many more hours than any in-house employee is available, with providers offering support on a 24/7 365 basis. The advantages of this aspect will only increase as more firms expand their operations internationally, as well as introducing flexible and hybrid working patterns for their teams. Enabling Growth In the same way that an SME would look to bring in the expertise of an employment or HR specialist to ensure the successful recruitment for key expansion roles, partnering with an MSP to implement and manage IT systems ensures the continued growth of the business can be achieved swiftly and securely. As a key benefit, MSPs such as Pro Cloud Solutions offer tech-agility as products and services can be up- and down-scaled as the need requires and changes can be implemented without stifling lag times. Furthermore, using a trusted IT partner means that advice is always on hand regarding what set up is the best fit, not only for your business’ current situation, but to meet the objectives of future growth and development plans. Not All MSPs Are The Same – Put Your Trust In Pro Cloud Solutions Whether engaging with Pro Cloud Solutions is your first step in outsourcing, or you are already used to delegating aspects of your business to external specialists, you can be assured that our aim is to get you working smarter and faster. The Pro Cloud Solutions difference is that we really are a one stop shop for all your IT support needs and we are specialists in helping companies of all sizes with digital transformation. We appreciate that your needs can change over time and so the breadth of products and services we offer mean that whatever you need, you can achieve it through us and we’ll ensure what you are paying for is always the best fit. What’s more, with our ongoing client support we will identify possible IT weaknesses you may have, and work with you to overcome any issues. Schedule a free consultation with one of our experts and learn how working with Pro Cloud Solutions will enable your business to develop and grow, with digital efficiency and cyber security built in to every process. Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Online Safety And Security – At Pro Cloud Solutions Your Business Is Safe In Our Hands The ever-onward march of technology, coupled with post-pandemic ‘new normal’ working patterns, means that more business processes and operations are being carried out online or digitally than ever before. Furthermore, company information and systems are being accessed over a growing number of devices in often a wide and varied number of locations, across the UK and abroad. It is also unfortunately a fact that as digital usage is increasing, so are the potential threats to online safety and security. Here at Pro Cloud Solutions, many of the conversations we have with clients and potential customers are around mitigating the business’ wider online exposure with measures to protect access to mission critical data and systems. Assessing the Threats According to the National Cyber Security Centre's 2021 annual review [1], there were three times as many ransomware attacks in the first quarter of 2021 than in the whole of 2019. The recent Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2022 compiled annually by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport [2] reports that threats to cyber security (such as phishing, denial of service or malware) are rising, with 39% of businesses reporting a cyber security incident in the last 12 months, and of those firms, 31% estimating that they were attacked at least once a week. This comes as almost two-thirds of respondents told Pricewaterhouse Cooper’s wide-ranging late 2021 survey of UK Executives [3] that they expect cyber-security threats of all shapes to increase significantly over time. In contrast to the vital and expanding part that digital and online applications play in our business lives, the DCMS survey suggests that whilst cyber security is being discussed at board level more than it was when the survey was first run in 2016/ 17, despite high profile instances of cyber-attacks over the last few years, tackling threat is not moving much further up the agenda. Providing the Solutions Using Outsourced Specialists to demystify the process The DCMS survey found that medium and smaller organisations took little proactive action on cyber security, driven by a lack of internal knowledge and competing priorities with their budgets. They often had a fear of the technicalities of cyber security and a preference to not research and mitigate against the risks they presented. The survey also found that despite the quality and assurance advantages that using an outsourced IT specialist can bring, only 40% of UK businesses were working with one in any capacity. At Pro Cloud Solutions we look after businesses of all sizes, and with all levels of technical knowledge. We have significant experience of ensuring that when it comes to IT security and protection, we always package our services to provide the best fit for each individual company. Our team are highly skilled, armed with all the very latest knowledge and certification – but what makes Pro Cloud Solutions different is that we are on a mission to work across all levels of understanding, each and every time. This ensures our advice is clear and uncomplicated from initial service discussions through to implementation and our ongoing support services. Balancing Security and Budgetary Concerns The DCMS survey found that many businesses knew there could be a potentially devastating impact on their firm from a cyber-attack, but were not sure of the specifics of how to manage this from a budgetary point of view. Concerns over possible costs and worry over potential significant outlay meant financial priorities often focused on the immediate operational side of the organisation, rather than on protection and risk mitigation. With Pro Cloud Solutions, our industry leading services are cloud-based, with no requirement for significant upfront expenditure, and many of the firms we look after find the regular monthly payments not only easier to budget for, but also dependable on the basis that there is no need for contingency funds to be set aside. Our best-in-class range of services and applications are at the forefront of innovation and compliance, meaning that whatever package we put together, clients can be assured that our knowledgeable team of industry experts apply sophisticated security protocols to each part of the process, and ensure robust disaster recovery mechanisms are in place. Using the very latest updates and application upgrades The National Cyber Security Centre regularly warns that pre 8.1 versions of Microsoft Windows are no longer tech supported, and so pose an increased security threat, with added exposure and vulnerability. Worryingly though, the DCMS survey highlights that 23 – 25% of medium and large businesses still have older versions of windows installed on company devices. At Pro Cloud Solutions we take away all of the complication around updates and upgrades for our clients. Unlike traditional on-premises software which requires regular maintenance and upgrades, with our cloud-based 365 suite, Microsoft provides an ever-evolving platform, with new capabilities being released regularly. We work hand in hand with businesses to ensure that teams are always accessing the most up to date versions of Microsoft 365 products, which have the very latest innovations and security provisions in-built. As we increasingly benefit from, but also rely more heavily on the use of technology in our business operations, it has never been more important to ensure that sound measures are in place to protect data, systems and staff. Reach out to Pro Cloud Solutions for an initial conversation with one of our expert team. Our aim, from the moment you contact us, is to work alongside your business, ensuring that partnering with Pro Cloud Solutions has a real and lasting impact on the efficiency and security on your company. Footnote Links [1] https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/news/annual-review-2021 [2] https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/cyber-security-breaches-survey-2022/cyber-security-breaches-survey-2022 [3] https://www.pwc.co.uk/press-room/press-releases/two-thirds-of-uk-business-leaders-expect-cyber-security-threat-t.html Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Why Use Microsoft 365? At Pro Cloud Solutions, our mission is to enable businesses of all sizes and sectors to work with ease, efficiency and without worry. We achieve this with the combination of our in-house expertise and our access to world leading products through our partnership with Microsoft. From the daily conversations we have with clients worldwide, we understand that systems working and integrating smoothly brings business efficiency of both time and spend. Through selecting and maintaining the best fit Microsoft 365 tools for each of the businesses we work with, we can ensure that all of our customers are able to work seamlessly across their teams at pace. So, what are the business benefits of using Microsoft 365? Flexible access without the security worries With the increase in remote working over the last couple of years, and with many firms moving to a hybrid working model for their staff going forward, the ease of access that using Microsoft 365 brings is one of the major benefits. Through simple cloud-based login, employees can access the suite of tools from any device, anywhere in the world, and the ability to use Microsoft 365 programmes offline, means that for those businesses with staff in field-based roles it is simply a case of access now and sync later. We understand though that flexibility must always be balanced with security, and here too Microsoft 365 leads from the front. Microsoft prioritises online safety in each of its applications, meaning that right from the start you get business-class security and compliance built in. At Pro Cloud Solutions we work with you to tailor the levels of security that are right for your business and can include multi-factor authentication or a range of more complex verification processes dependent on your company requirements. Clear communication tools you can tailor to your company needs Communication is key in ensuring business efficiency, and Microsoft 365 is a real enabler of quality dialogue across your business, whether that is text or video based. Part of the Microsoft 365 suite, both Teams and Yammer offer businesses the opportunity for clear communication to flow effectively both up and down chain, as well as allowing discussion threads and groups to be organised by sector, department or by community of interest. Microsoft 365 enables easy communication and you can be in constant and immediate contact with anyone across your firm, as the business necessitates. Speak to us about the comms barriers in your organisation and we can advise on the particular aspects of Microsoft 365 that can make a real and lasting impact to dialogue within your business, as well as help you ensure all your team are using these tools to the maximum benefit. Designed for collaborative work Wherever and whenever your teams are working, the ability to collaborate effectively is vital to shared work and projects, creativity and innovation. Many people are familiar with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and OneNote and how they offer the ability to bring together company information in a variety of formats. This means that from the beginning, the adoption of Microsoft 365 across your organisation will be easy to facilitate as your teams will already be accustomed to working collaboratively with a number of the applications. However, additionally Microsoft 365 applications such as SharePoint can bring real benefit to the work your employees carry out with colleagues, acting as the central point of storage for all documentation. Staff can easily share links to documents and work simultaneously with others, creating a multidimensional collaborative environment far removed from the ‘information silos’ that can hinder cross department and external shared work. As part of the Microsoft 365 suite, SharePoint automatically integrates, syncing and updating to the latest version of documents edited within other applications. Comfort of predictable spend with flexibility At Pro Cloud Solutions we appreciate how important cash flow is as the real life-blood to your organisation. Without the burden of heavy initial outlay, use of Microsoft 365 is charged on a monthly subscription basis, a model that allows you to easily control costs within your business and forward plan financial obligations. Over the last few years, we have all learned how important it is to build in flexibility to our business operations allowing us to expand and contract to make the best of opportunities and to respond with agility to market conditions. Working with Pro Cloud Solutions enables you to flex the Microsoft 365 packages and licences you need to ensure you are paying only for what you require to succeed. Business as usual with reliable recovery and upgrades Ensuring business continuity is mission critical, and with Microsoft 365 your files and data are all stored securely in the cloud and so any issues with on-site infrastructure, facilities or devices will not affect your company information. You and your team will always be able to access whatever data is needed even if physical access to the office is not possible. Unlike traditional on-premises software which requires regular maintenance and upgrades, with the 365 suite, Microsoft provides an ever-evolving platform, with new capabilities being released regularly. Here at Pro Cloud Solutions, we work with our clients to ensure that teams are always accessing the most up to date versions of Microsoft 365 products, which have the very latest innovations and security provision. Furthermore, when there are questions and queries or something just isn’t quite functioning properly, our expert team are here to offer advice and resolution. For a friendly conversation about the precise needs of your particular business operation, Pro Cloud Solutions offer a free initial consultation with one of our expert team. We will apply the specifics of your company to each of the Microsoft 365 applications, to ensure that the package you choose is always the best fit for you and your team. Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Cut through the Cloud vs On Premise Confusion with Pro Cloud Solutions The ever-onward march of the digital age we live in, and the fast-paced capability and functionality of the technology available to us, coupled with the post-pandemic move to remote or hybrid/ blended working practices as a forward-looking strategy for the long term, throws up questions – and often confusion and concern – over decisions on whether a business’ hardware and software service applications should remain on premise, or move to being cloud based. Whilst there is no right answer, or one size fits all solution, with ‘on premise vs cloud’ being the primary question we are posed at Pro Cloud Solutions, we thought it advantageous to set out here a comparison between the two, as well as highlighting some important factors to consider in your decision making. Don’t forget that for a friendly conversation about the precise needs of your particular business operation, we offer a free initial consultation with one of our expert team, where we can apply the specifics of your business to each of the decision areas and guide you through any dilemma points. Deployment and Maintenance: Traditionally, business hardware and software has been more often than not located and installed on site, requiring space within the premises for servers and equipment to be housed, with the cost of the hardware, the applications, the space and the power used falling on the business itself. This on premise set up requires there to be a member(s) of the team with both the capability and responsibility for dealing with purchase, installation across the company’s devices, downtime, upgrades and license renewals – or necessitates a third-party contract to handle these aspects. With cloud-based operations, all resources are housed off-site through the service provider and are accessed by employees via the internet. With this set up, it is the responsibility of the cloud IT company to handle maintenance, resolve issues and to ensure that software is both fit for purpose, and of the very latest version. Deployment of software is quicker as there is no need for applications to be installed and updated on individual computers or laptops, with provisioning being almost instant. Security, Control and Compliance: A great deal of comfort can come from keeping business operations in-house, and with an on premise set up everything you use technology-wise belongs to you, and you have total control of what equipment and applications you use. Additionally, your data remains on site and you have authority over how your company information is stored, its encryption and compliance with GDPR. As above, this does require both responsibility and expertise in data control to come from within your business. When a cloud-based solution is used, responsibility for data security and encryption falls to the cloud IT company, so it is imperative to ensure you are using a trusted and certified partner, compliant in GDPR and any industry regulated controls your business might need to adhere to. It is however, worth noting that professional cloud companies will apply industry leading security protocols to each part of their process, and will have robust disaster recovery mechanisms in place. It is also true that the sophistication of protection measures implemented by the cloud data centres will be far beyond those affordable to most on-premise based businesses. Agility and Mobility: On site hardware and software is purchased outright by the individual business, and though this brings with it initial flexibility and autonomy in decision making and the outlay of finances, consideration does need to be given to the suitability of the equipment and applications across the life span of the products, to ensure that costly in-house systems do not become obsolete or cumbersome depending on the direction and development of the business. On premise systems are designed primarily to meet the needs of an organisation’s employees who are by and large working from the company’s base, and as this has been the set up for most businesses – until recently, on premise has tended to be the more prevalent route. Most on premise systems do have the ability to be accessed remotely, but this usually requires the assistance of a third-party solution, and adding an additional link in the chain can bring with it extra exposure and an increased chance of tech or comms issues. Conversely, the primary benefits of using cloud-based IT are its accessibility, and its capacity to flex quickly to the changing needs of the business. As systems and information are accessed online, team members can work efficiently and uninterrupted from the office, their homes or indeed anywhere they choose and, on any device - all they need is an internet connection. For international companies, and those expanding into new territories this adds an extra benefit of secure global connection. Over the last few years, being able to flex operations and pivot direction has become an important consideration in business planning, to ensure stability and profitability no matter the landscape. Cloud based IT offers ultimate agility as products and services can be up- and down-scaled as the need requires and changes can be implemented swiftly. Furthermore, using a trusted cloud IT partner means that advice is on hand regarding what set up is the best fit for your business’ current situation. Cost Implications: Cost remains a huge factor in business decision making, and although once purchased, on premise systems can work out less expensive across the lifetime of the equipment, this does assume that purchased systems remain fit for purpose over their total lifespan – and one mustn’t forget the additional costs of staffing for repair and maintenance, and it is wise to also consider the cost of space and power. With a cloud-based operation there is no requirement for significant upfront expenditure, and many firms find the regular monthly payments associated with cloud IT use, not only easier to budget for, but also dependable on the basis that there is no need for contingency funds to be set aside. Because cloud IT is so agile, companies need only pay for what they require – a reassurance that when times are lean, costs can flex to match. Conversely, when there is a push for business growth or when significant project work necessitates up-scaling of operations, the transparency of cloud-based system costs mean that additional financing can easily be factored in, whether this is for the short or longer term. We are sure that as you have read through the information above it has been clear that when considering a move to cloud-based computing it is imperative that you choose a partner who is trusted, and who has speed, efficiency, security and functionality at the heart of what they do, and how they operate. At Pro Cloud Solutions our certified experts work with a plethora of businesses worldwide – spanning not only the globe, but also all sizes of business and industry. Trust us to enable the backbone of your business operations to be in the right place, every time. Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Enjoy Hassle-Free Home Working With Pro Cloud Solutions Over the last few years, we have seen organisations of every size and from every sector begin to understand that rather than being a blip in usual operations, the pandemic has actually brought about a cultural shift to the world of work like never before. Social media and journalistic commentary are filled with buzzwords around this ‘new’ way of doing business: ‘virtual office’ and ‘flexible/ home/ hybrid working’ are all now regular discussion points. Furthermore, for both current and prospective employees, understanding the company’s working policy is becoming a real consideration, and therefore a major factor in recruitment and retention. Put your trust in Pro Cloud Solutions As you look to implement robust strategies and systems to allow your own business to navigate the ‘new normal’, you can put your trust in Pro Cloud Solutions – working with us opens up all the benefits of remote working, whilst protecting you from the risks. And what’s more, our team of tech experts are not only on hand to talk you through our range of industry leading products, we work with you to gain an in-depth understanding of your business needs, making recommendations that are right for your specific organisation. Flexibility with Consistency Using the Pro Cloud Solutions innovative Hosted Desktop service means that you and your team have the flexibility to work from any location: at home, at the office, or indeed anywhere in the world – all that is needed is an internet connection. Adding to the simplicity, our service works seamlessly across all devices, so it makes no difference whether you are logging in using Windows, Android, Apple or Linux. We understand how important it is for all your team to have company information, inbox and project files at their fingertips, so we ensure that wherever they are, using whatever device, our Hosted Desktop gives everyone consistent and speedy access to all of the systems and applications they need in order to work effectively. Collaboration Without Compromising Compliance At Pro Cloud Solutions we know that much of the work our clients undertake is team and project based – using our service makes sure that remote working doesn’t have to mean operating in isolation. You and your team have the latest suite of Microsoft applications readily available, allowing document creation, file sharing and easy access to Teams when conversations are key. We fully appreciate though, that the sharing of company information across flexible working teams often brings with it concerns over data security. Rest assured that at Pro Cloud Solutions, protecting your digital assets is at the heart of our service. Our products have all the very latest security measures built in, meaning that however many team members you have, working across any number of locations, your data is safe, project information is secure and all systems are fully managed to ensure you are always using the most up to date versions, and our team of tech experts will look after all the licensing too. Every business has company information for which access to differs, depending on the chain of command. Be assured that our team will work to understand your firm’s set up, enabling access to relevant material for those who need it, without compromising mission critical and sensitive data. Maintaining Continuity And Ensuring Future Certainty No matter what business sector you operate in, continuity of internal operations and service to customers is imperative, and with Pro Cloud Solutions no matter where you are working from our built in back up services and managed recovery systems ensure that you are consistently able to deliver the standards your company reputation is built on. Our knowledgeable and certified team are always on hand to offer advice, and to resolve issues speedily and efficiently. The pandemic has taught us that we can never be certain of exactly what lies around the corner. At Pro Cloud Solutions we are proud of the flexibility we have built into all the services we offer. This means that if your operations need to pivot, or if circumstances change, we can adapt our provision to make sure that the service we provide is always fit for purpose and that you are only paying for what you require. We also appreciate how rapidly technology advances, so be assured that our team undertake regular training and certification, enabling us to confidently advise as new and improved options are developed. This ensures that wherever our clients are working from, their business is always operating at the forefront of innovation. Schedule a free consultation with one of our experts and learn how you and your team can enjoy hassle-free home working with Pro Cloud Solutions. Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Global Quality - Local Expertise At Pro Cloud Solutions many UK and international companies rely on us to provide them with the latest, fastest and most secure cloud IT and hosting services, backed up by 24-hour expert support. Our customers take confidence in the fact that no matter where they are based across the world, our knowledgeable team are only a few clicks or a phone call away when individual support is required. Our range of products and services have global renown, yet for us of equal standing is our expertise on a local level. Since inception, Pro Cloud Solutions has proudly been based in the centre of Taunton, the County Town of Somerset in the South West of England. Many of you reading this blog may know Somerset for its rural heartland – farming communities who have worked the land for centuries, with the county thus steeped in agricultural history and heritage. Or perhaps you have spent a holiday nearby, taking advantage of the stunning coastline and breathtaking hills. It may then surprise you to learn that Somerset is home to some of the UK’s most innovative tech projects, and that a growing number of digital businesses have made the county their home. From Europe’s largest building project at Hinkley Point – EDF's groundbreaking nuclear facility, to the 616-acre Gravity site, where between 4,000 and 7,500 jobs are expected to be created as part of the UK's first commercial smart campus which aims to be a blueprint for a cleaner, smarter and digitally driven future – a ‘Silicon Somerset’ so to speak. It is in this hotbed of technological growth that Pro Cloud Solutions is based, and we are proud supporters of the Digital Somerset collective - an exciting movement made up of individuals and businesses, passionate about ensuring Somerset becomes a real hub for digital innovation and collaboration. The aim is to create a culture which celebrates and encourages innovation and change, putting Somerset on the map for the digital industry. For us as a business, our commitment to the local enterprise community goes beyond our collaborations with our neighbours in the digital sector – we make it our business to support the Somerset economy and are always keen to share our expertise for the greater good. A recent example of this is our involvement with the Taunton Chamber of Commerce, of which we have been members for a number of years now. When lockdown struck, we knew there would be many firms who would struggle with the knowledge and practicalities around remote working, particularly those SMEs who do not have the back up of an in-house IT department. Working alongside the Chamber of Commerce, we hosted a free of charge virtual event ‘Remote Working – being Safe and Efficient’ where fellow members of the business community were able to pick up tips on remote working and managing their teams flexibly. The Pro Cloud Solutions team were also on hand to offer advice and support as firms strived to ensure that whilst operating away from their usual office set up, their business information remained secure and their teams were able to work effectively. At Pro Cloud Solutions we pride ourselves in the global expertise we offer, whilst at the same time continuing our support of the local business community in which we operate. Pro Cloud Solutions – the Cloud IT company with a difference Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.

Cloud IT and Hosting Services – the difference is Pro Cloud Solutions At the heart of everything we do at Pro Cloud Solutions is a real desire to offer a differential to industry norms. Whether it’s the range of products we offer or the services we provide to clients, we are determined to demonstrate a step change from what you have likely experienced elsewhere. Our aim, from the moment you contact us, is to work alongside your business, ensuring that partnering with Pro Cloud Solutions has a real and lasting impact on your company. We have a passion for client care The way we operate is underpinned by our zeal to deliver outstanding customer service each and every time. The Pro Cloud Solutions difference is that we are all ears when it comes to learning about your business – by understanding what makes your company tick and what success looks like, we can ensure that the relationship we build with you enhances your performance. Whether you are a new client, or a company that has benefitted from our services for a number of years, we’re not interested in tick lists and call scripts in our interactions with you – our team are here to listen and to build up an ongoing knowledge of your business and your IT needs. We are extremely proud that the growth of Pro Cloud Solutions has been purely organic, driven by the recommendations of current clients. We pride ourselves in delivering the best, and our exceptionally high client retention pays testimony to this. We appreciate that the market can be difficult to navigate We know that the world of cloud IT, hosting services and remote desktops can be daunting, particularly for new businesses and those who have needed to pivot their direction or blend their operational approach over the last few years. As the sector innovates and progresses at a such a pace, this can even lead to confusion for those firms who have good experience of working digitally. The Pro Cloud Solutions difference is that we have a wealth of experience in the sector, gained across 15 years, and our IT experts keep a good working knowledge of all the best-in-class business cloud products. You can be assured that the advice we give and the suggestions we make are based on insight gathered down the years combined with familiarity with all the latest innovations. We understand that one size doesn’t fit all Every one of the companies we partner with is different – we work across size, business sector and location and so at Pro Cloud Solutions versatility really comes to the fore. The package we put together for you will always be bespoke, and that’s why to kick start the process we offer a free of charge consultation with one of our experts, with no obligation. This is our opportunity to understand your needs and to create the best fit for your business from our extensive suite of industry leading products and services. We are an agile business, working with new companies on digital set up, right through to the handling of significant and complex projects for some of the UK’s most established brands. The Pro Cloud Solutions difference is that we are large enough to implement schemes of all sizes, yet small enough to always provide the personal touch. We take the juggle out of outsourcing Whether engaging with us is your first step in outsourcing, or you are already used to delegating aspects of your business to external experts, you can be assured that our aim is to get you working smarter and faster. The Pro Cloud Solutions difference is that we really are a one stop shop for all your IT support needs and we are specialists in helping companies with digital transformation. We also appreciate that your needs can change over time and so the breadth of products and services we offer mean that whatever you need, you can achieve it through us. What’s more, with our ongoing client support we will identify possible IT weaknesses you may have, and work with you to overcome any issues. Pro Cloud Solutions – the Cloud IT company with a difference Pro Cloud Solutions provides Cloud IT and Hosting Services to a range of businesses across the UK and around the World. Based in Taunton, Somerset and proud to support local businesses.