Looking to grow your business? Various Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services can help you get there by enhancing your business communication strategy. With advanced call management, scalability, and easy integration, VoIP opens up new opportunities for growth. Discover how the following VoIP services can propel your business and help you reach your goals.
 

Core communication services

VoIP core communication services provide the foundation for clear and efficient communication both within your team and with clients and partners, fostering collaboration and productivity:

• Voice calls: Delivers high-quality voice communication for clear and reliable conversations
• Video conferencing: Brings teams together regardless of location, facilitating collaboration and enhancing remote work efficiency
• Instant messaging: Enables quick and convenient text-based communication, promoting real-time information sharing
• Unified messaging: Consolidates voice, email, and fax messages into a single platform to simplify message management and improve accessibility

Business VoIP services

Enhancing your business communication infrastructure starts with the right VoIP solutions tailored for professional environments. Simplify your approach to phone systems with the following services:

• Hosted PBX: A cloud-based phone system that offers innovative features such as voicemail and call routing without the need for physical hardware
• SIP trunking: Reduces costs and improves call quality by enabling businesses to use their existing phone system over the internet
• Unified communications: Merges various communication channels (i.e., voice, video, messaging, and collaboration) into one platform

Mobile VoIP services

For businesses with remote or mobile workforces, mobile VoIP services offer unparalleled flexibility and connectivity. These solutions ensure your team stays connected, no matter where they are:

• Mobile VoIP apps: Enable voice and video calls over the internet on smartphones and tablets, providing better flexibility and mobility
• Mobile VoIP numbers: Virtual phone numbers that lets employees use their personal smartphones to receive calls
• Bring your own device solutions: Allows employees to use their personal devices for work while maintaining security and control

Software-based VoIP services

Taking advantage of software-based VoIP services can dramatically improve how your team communicates. With the following solutions, you can enjoy advanced capabilities without the need to invest extensively in hardware:

• Softphones: Applications that enable internet-based phone calls directly from computers or mobile devices
• VoIP desk phones: Internet-enabled phones with advanced features such as touch screens, programmable keys, and HD voice quality
• Call center software: Provides advanced call management features, integrations, and analytics for customer support teams

Productivity-related services

To boost productivity and optimize workflows, VoIP systems seamlessly connect with other business tools and offer the following features and capabilities:

• Integration with customer relationship management (CRM) software: Combines customer data with communication records, providing a comprehensive view of interaction
• Call analytics: Gains valuable insights into call patterns and performance to help optimize communication strategies
• Interactive voice response: Improves customer self-service through menus and options

With a comprehensive suite of services, VoIP has the potential to transform your business communication strategies. If you want to learn more about how VoIP services can improve your operations or if you have any IT questions, get in touch with us.

As traditional phone systems become obsolete, businesses are turning to more innovative communications solutions. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services offer a novel and flexible alternative, providing advanced capabilities that can significantly improve your operations. By leveraging the following VoIP services, you can give your business the boost it needs to thrive.

Core communication services

VoIP core communication services provide the foundation for clear and efficient communication both within your team and with clients and partners, fostering collaboration and productivity:

• Voice calls: Delivers high-quality voice communication for clear and reliable conversations
• Video conferencing: Brings teams together regardless of location, facilitating collaboration and enhancing remote work efficiency
• Instant messaging: Enables quick and convenient text-based communication, promoting real-time information sharing
• Unified messaging: Consolidates voice, email, and fax messages into a single platform to simplify message management and improve accessibility

Business VoIP services

Enhancing your business communication infrastructure starts with the right VoIP solutions tailored for professional environments. Simplify your approach to phone systems with the following services:

• Hosted PBX: A cloud-based phone system that offers innovative features such as voicemail and call routing without the need for physical hardware
• SIP trunking: Reduces costs and improves call quality by enabling businesses to use their existing phone system over the internet
• Unified communications: Merges various communication channels (i.e., voice, video, messaging, and collaboration) into one platform

Mobile VoIP services

For businesses with remote or mobile workforces, mobile VoIP services offer unparalleled flexibility and connectivity. These solutions ensure your team stays connected, no matter where they are:

• Mobile VoIP apps: Enable voice and video calls over the internet on smartphones and tablets, providing better flexibility and mobility
• Mobile VoIP numbers: Virtual phone numbers that lets employees use their personal smartphones to receive calls
• Bring your own device solutions: Allows employees to use their personal devices for work while maintaining security and control

Software-based VoIP services

Taking advantage of software-based VoIP services can dramatically improve how your team communicates. With the following solutions, you can enjoy advanced capabilities without the need to invest extensively in hardware:

• Softphones: Applications that enable internet-based phone calls directly from computers or mobile devices
• VoIP desk phones: Internet-enabled phones with advanced features such as touch screens, programmable keys, and HD voice quality
• Call center software: Provides advanced call management features, integrations, and analytics for customer support teams

Productivity-related services

To boost productivity and optimize workflows, VoIP systems seamlessly connect with other business tools and offer the following features and capabilities:

• Integration with customer relationship management (CRM) software: Combines customer data with communication records, providing a comprehensive view of interaction
• Call analytics: Gains valuable insights into call patterns and performance to help optimize communication strategies
• Interactive voice response: Improves customer self-service through menus and options

With a comprehensive suite of services, VoIP has the potential to transform your business communication strategies. If you want to learn more about how VoIP services can improve your operations or if you have any IT questions, get in touch with us.

Business communication is evolving fast, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is at the forefront of this change. VoIP is designed to streamline operations, improve customer experiences, and facilitate growth, bringing everything from clear voice calls to integrated messaging and video conferencing within your reach. To gain a competitive advantage, harness the power of the following VoIP services.
 

Core communication services

VoIP core communication services provide the foundation for clear and efficient communication both within your team and with clients and partners, fostering collaboration and productivity:

• Voice calls: Delivers high-quality voice communication for clear and reliable conversations
• Video conferencing: Brings teams together regardless of location, facilitating collaboration and enhancing remote work efficiency
• Instant messaging: Enables quick and convenient text-based communication, promoting real-time information sharing
• Unified messaging: Consolidates voice, email, and fax messages into a single platform to simplify message management and improve accessibility

Business VoIP services

Enhancing your business communication infrastructure starts with the right VoIP solutions tailored for professional environments. Simplify your approach to phone systems with the following services:

• Hosted PBX: A cloud-based phone system that offers innovative features such as voicemail and call routing without the need for physical hardware
• SIP trunking: Reduces costs and improves call quality by enabling businesses to use their existing phone system over the internet
• Unified communications: Merges various communication channels (i.e., voice, video, messaging, and collaboration) into one platform

Mobile VoIP services

For businesses with remote or mobile workforces, mobile VoIP services offer unparalleled flexibility and connectivity. These solutions ensure your team stays connected, no matter where they are:

• Mobile VoIP apps: Enable voice and video calls over the internet on smartphones and tablets, providing better flexibility and mobility
• Mobile VoIP numbers: Virtual phone numbers that lets employees use their personal smartphones to receive calls
• Bring your own device solutions: Allows employees to use their personal devices for work while maintaining security and control

Software-based VoIP services

Taking advantage of software-based VoIP services can dramatically improve how your team communicates. With the following solutions, you can enjoy advanced capabilities without the need to invest extensively in hardware:

• Softphones: Applications that enable internet-based phone calls directly from computers or mobile devices
• VoIP desk phones: Internet-enabled phones with advanced features such as touch screens, programmable keys, and HD voice quality
• Call center software: Provides advanced call management features, integrations, and analytics for customer support teams

Productivity-related services

To boost productivity and optimize workflows, VoIP systems seamlessly connect with other business tools and offer the following features and capabilities:

• Integration with customer relationship management (CRM) software: Combines customer data with communication records, providing a comprehensive view of interaction
• Call analytics: Gains valuable insights into call patterns and performance to help optimize communication strategies
• Interactive voice response: Improves customer self-service through menus and options

With a comprehensive suite of services, VoIP has the potential to transform your business communication strategies. If you want to learn more about how VoIP services can improve your operations or if you have any IT questions, get in touch with us.

Simply having well-designed PowerPoint slides is not enough to engage your audience and leave a lasting impression. It’s equally important to deliver your message with confidence, clarity, and enthusiasm. This is where PowerPoint Presenter Coach comes in, providing you with personalized feedback and insightful tips.

What is PowerPoint Presenter Coach?

PowerPoint Presenter Coach is a feature within Microsoft PowerPoint designed to help users improve their presentation skills. This innovative tool provides real-time feedback on various aspects of your delivery, helping you practice and perfect your presentation before facing an audience. You can access PowerPoint Presenter Coach if you have a Microsoft 365 subscription or a 2019 version of PowerPoint for Windows and Mac.

Prerequisites to use Presenter Coach

Before you start using PowerPoint Presenter Coach, make sure you have the following:

• Built-in or external microphone to record your voice
• Stable internet connection to access real-time feedback
• Webcam to track your body language and facial expressions
• Presentation slides with speaker notes (optional)
• A quiet environment with minimal background noise

How does PowerPoint Presenter Coach help improve presentations?

PowerPoint Presenter Coach evaluates various aspects of your presentation skills, offering detailed feedback to help you improve. Here are some key areas where it can assist you:

Pacing

Maintaining the right pace is crucial for keeping your audience engaged. PowerPoint Presenter Coach monitors the speed of your speech, ensuring you don’t talk too fast, which can overwhelm listeners, or too slow, which can bore them. By providing feedback on your pacing, the tool helps you find a rhythm that is easy to follow and keeps your audience attentive.

Monotone pitch

A monotone pitch can make your presentation sound dull and lifeless. Presenter Coach detects variations in your pitch and encourages you to use a more dynamic tone. By varying your pitch, you can emphasize key points, express enthusiasm, and keep your audience interested.

Speech refinement

Concise speech is essential for effective communication. Presenter Coach helps you refine your speech by identifying and providing feedback on filler words, repeated words and phrases, informal speech, and culturally sensitive terms.

Pronunciation

Clear pronunciation ensures that your audience understands your message. Presenter Coach provides feedback on mispronounced words, helping you practice and improve your articulation.

Body language

Nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures play a significant role in communication. PowerPoint Presenter Coach uses your webcam to analyze your movements and provide feedback on your posture, eye contact, and overall body language, helping you appear more confident and engaging.

How to use PowerPoint Presenter Coach

To access PowerPoint Presenter Coach, follow these simple steps:

1. Open your presentation in PowerPoint.
2. Find the Slide Show menu and select Rehearse with Coach under the Presenter Coach section.
3. Presenter Coach will open in a new window, and you can click Get Started to start your rehearsal.
4. Make sure to enable your microphone and allow access for Presenter Coach to use your webcam.
5. As you present, Presenter Coach will provide real-time feedback on different aspects of your delivery, including speech refinement, body language, and pacing.
6. After finishing your rehearsal, you’ll receive a detailed report highlighting areas for improvement and suggestions for how to enhance your delivery.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced speaker, PowerPoint Presenter Coach offers valuable insights to elevate your presentations to the next level. So why not give it a try? For more tips on getting the most value from your Microsoft productivity apps, call us today.

Nailing a presentation isn’t just about having great content; it’s also about delivering it with confidence and clarity. PowerPoint Presenter Coach offers a unique solution by providing real-time feedback on your presentation style, helping you to refine your delivery and ensure your message resonates. Here’s a useful breakdown of how PowerPoint Presenter Coach can help you master your presentation skills.

What is PowerPoint Presenter Coach?

PowerPoint Presenter Coach is a feature within Microsoft PowerPoint designed to help users improve their presentation skills. This innovative tool provides real-time feedback on various aspects of your delivery, helping you practice and perfect your presentation before facing an audience. You can access PowerPoint Presenter Coach if you have a Microsoft 365 subscription or a 2019 version of PowerPoint for Windows and Mac.

Prerequisites to use Presenter Coach

Before you start using PowerPoint Presenter Coach, make sure you have the following:

• Built-in or external microphone to record your voice
• Stable internet connection to access real-time feedback
• Webcam to track your body language and facial expressions
• Presentation slides with speaker notes (optional)
• A quiet environment with minimal background noise

How does PowerPoint Presenter Coach help improve presentations?

PowerPoint Presenter Coach evaluates various aspects of your presentation skills, offering detailed feedback to help you improve. Here are some key areas where it can assist you:

Pacing

Maintaining the right pace is crucial for keeping your audience engaged. PowerPoint Presenter Coach monitors the speed of your speech, ensuring you don’t talk too fast, which can overwhelm listeners, or too slow, which can bore them. By providing feedback on your pacing, the tool helps you find a rhythm that is easy to follow and keeps your audience attentive.

Monotone pitch

A monotone pitch can make your presentation sound dull and lifeless. Presenter Coach detects variations in your pitch and encourages you to use a more dynamic tone. By varying your pitch, you can emphasize key points, express enthusiasm, and keep your audience interested.

Speech refinement

Concise speech is essential for effective communication. Presenter Coach helps you refine your speech by identifying and providing feedback on filler words, repeated words and phrases, informal speech, and culturally sensitive terms.

Pronunciation

Clear pronunciation ensures that your audience understands your message. Presenter Coach provides feedback on mispronounced words, helping you practice and improve your articulation.

Body language

Nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures play a significant role in communication. PowerPoint Presenter Coach uses your webcam to analyze your movements and provide feedback on your posture, eye contact, and overall body language, helping you appear more confident and engaging.

How to use PowerPoint Presenter Coach

To access PowerPoint Presenter Coach, follow these simple steps:

1. Open your presentation in PowerPoint.
2. Find the Slide Show menu and select Rehearse with Coach under the Presenter Coach section.
3. Presenter Coach will open in a new window, and you can click Get Started to start your rehearsal.
4. Make sure to enable your microphone and allow access for Presenter Coach to use your webcam.
5. As you present, Presenter Coach will provide real-time feedback on different aspects of your delivery, including speech refinement, body language, and pacing.
6. After finishing your rehearsal, you’ll receive a detailed report highlighting areas for improvement and suggestions for how to enhance your delivery.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced speaker, PowerPoint Presenter Coach offers valuable insights to elevate your presentations to the next level. So why not give it a try? For more tips on getting the most value from your Microsoft productivity apps, call us today.

Giving a PowerPoint presentation doesn’t have to be a daunting task with the right tools. PowerPoint Presenter Coach is one such tool that’s designed to help you hone your presentation skills and boost your confidence. Whether you’re preparing for a business meeting or a public speaking event, this guide will show you how to make the most of PowerPoint Presenter Coach to deliver a polished, professional presentation every time.

What is PowerPoint Presenter Coach?

PowerPoint Presenter Coach is a feature within Microsoft PowerPoint designed to help users improve their presentation skills. This innovative tool provides real-time feedback on various aspects of your delivery, helping you practice and perfect your presentation before facing an audience. You can access PowerPoint Presenter Coach if you have a Microsoft 365 subscription or a 2019 version of PowerPoint for Windows and Mac.

Prerequisites to use Presenter Coach

Before you start using PowerPoint Presenter Coach, make sure you have the following:

• Built-in or external microphone to record your voice
• Stable internet connection to access real-time feedback
• Webcam to track your body language and facial expressions
• Presentation slides with speaker notes (optional)
• A quiet environment with minimal background noise

How does PowerPoint Presenter Coach help improve presentations?

PowerPoint Presenter Coach evaluates various aspects of your presentation skills, offering detailed feedback to help you improve. Here are some key areas where it can assist you:

Pacing

Maintaining the right pace is crucial for keeping your audience engaged. PowerPoint Presenter Coach monitors the speed of your speech, ensuring you don’t talk too fast, which can overwhelm listeners, or too slow, which can bore them. By providing feedback on your pacing, the tool helps you find a rhythm that is easy to follow and keeps your audience attentive.

Monotone pitch

A monotone pitch can make your presentation sound dull and lifeless. Presenter Coach detects variations in your pitch and encourages you to use a more dynamic tone. By varying your pitch, you can emphasize key points, express enthusiasm, and keep your audience interested.

Speech refinement

Concise speech is essential for effective communication. Presenter Coach helps you refine your speech by identifying and providing feedback on filler words, repeated words and phrases, informal speech, and culturally sensitive terms.

Pronunciation

Clear pronunciation ensures that your audience understands your message. Presenter Coach provides feedback on mispronounced words, helping you practice and improve your articulation.

Body language

Nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures play a significant role in communication. PowerPoint Presenter Coach uses your webcam to analyze your movements and provide feedback on your posture, eye contact, and overall body language, helping you appear more confident and engaging.

How to use PowerPoint Presenter Coach

To access PowerPoint Presenter Coach, follow these simple steps:

1. Open your presentation in PowerPoint.
2. Find the Slide Show menu and select Rehearse with Coach under the Presenter Coach section.
3. Presenter Coach will open in a new window, and you can click Get Started to start your rehearsal.
4. Make sure to enable your microphone and allow access for Presenter Coach to use your webcam.
5. As you present, Presenter Coach will provide real-time feedback on different aspects of your delivery, including speech refinement, body language, and pacing.
6. After finishing your rehearsal, you’ll receive a detailed report highlighting areas for improvement and suggestions for how to enhance your delivery.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced speaker, PowerPoint Presenter Coach offers valuable insights to elevate your presentations to the next level. So why not give it a try? For more tips on getting the most value from your Microsoft productivity apps, call us today.

If you’re a Windows user, you’re no stranger to those inconvenient features and menus that ruin your computing experience. From noisy widgets to an over-enthusiastic taskbar, these features sometimes seem like a concerted effort to interrupt your workflow. But fear not! This blog post is your guide to silencing those digital nuisances, reclaiming your desktop, and enjoying a serene, distraction-free digital environment.

1. The disturbing jingle of Windows widgets

Gone are the days of plain old Windows desktops. Now, task-oriented widgets pepper the screen with news, weather updates, and calendar events, aiming to keep you informed. The problem? They often veer toward the noisy and distracting, particularly during those all-too-important Zoom calls.

Here’s how to hush the hubbub:

Windows 11

1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
2. Select Taskbar Settings.
3. Turn off Widgets under Taskbar items.

Windows 10

1. Right-click an empty space on your taskbar.
2. Select News and interests.
3. Click Turn off.

2. Keeping Bing at bay from your Start menu searches

Have you ever entered a program’s name into the search bar on your Start menu, only to have Bing rudely interject with web results? Unless you’re actually doing a web search, these Bing results can be intrusive.

Thankfully, there’s an easy fix:

1. Open the Start menu and click the gear icon to go to Settings.
2. Navigate to the Personalization section, then Start.
3. Find the switch beside “Show web search results” and toggle it off.

3. Reducing startup stress with fewer apps a-running

When you boot up your PC, you want speed, not lag. Those pesky startup apps, while sometimes useful, can hog resources and slow down your system.

Lighten the load with these steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. Under the Startup tab, disable any apps that you don’t need running at startup.

4. Battling the taskbar clutter

The taskbar is your base of operations, but when you start accumulating icons like trophies, it can become unwieldy. Here’s how to declutter:

Windows 11

1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
2. Select Taskbar Settings.
3. Under Taskbar behaviors, turn off “Show badges on taskbar buttons.”
4. To remove specific icons, right-click them and select Unpin from taskbar.

Windows 10

1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
2. Select Taskbar settings.
3. Under the Notification area, click Select which icons appear on the taskbar.
4. Toggle off any unwanted icons.

5. Notification overload and how to take charge

Notifications may keep you informed about various activities, but they can also be unnecessary distractions. To tame your notifications:

Windows 11

1. Go to Settings and click on System.
2. Under the Notifications section, toggle off any apps you don’t want sending notifications.
3. To customize specific app notifications, click on an app and adjust the settings.

Windows 10

1. Open Settings and navigate to System > Notifications & actions.
2. Toggle off any apps you don’t want sending notifications.
3. To customize specific app notifications, click on an app and adjust the settings.

6. OneDrive syncing: When it’s not so cloud nine

OneDrive is a great way to keep your files backed up and accessible from anywhere, but it can get a little too enthusiastic about its syncing duties.

To manage OneDrive’s data sync features:

1. Look for the OneDrive icon (a cloud) in the system tray at the bottom right corner of your screen. If it’s not visible, click the up arrow to reveal it.
2. Click the gear icon at the top-right corner of the OneDrive pane, then select Settings.
3. In the Settings window, select Sync and backup in the left pane, then click the Manage backup button.
4. From here, you can select the folders you wish to sync to OneDrive.

7. Disabling the Sticky Keys saga

Sticky Keys might have been designed with accessibility in mind, allowing users to perform keyboard shortcuts one key at a time, but it can become an unintended nuisance. If you find yourself accidentally activating Sticky Keys and disrupting your workflow, here’s how to disable this feature:

Windows 11

1. Head to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.
2. Disable the toggle next to “Sticky keys.”

Windows 10

1. Go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
2. Find and disable the “Use Sticky Keys” option.

It’s remarkable how a few clicks and settings tweaks can transform your Windows experience from harrowing to harmonious. Once you’ve conquered these Windows woes, you’ll be one step closer to achieving peak productivity and peace of mind.

Contact our Windows experts today for more tips and tricks, and to learn how we can help optimize your computing experience.

If you’re one of the millions navigating the digital world through a Windows device, you’ve probably stumbled over some hidden tripwires that can trigger various eye-rolls and groans. Today, we’ll peel back the veneer and address the more exasperating Windows features head-on. Whether you’re feeling pestered by pesky notifications or annoyed that your taskbar is appearing more like Times Square, we’ve got your solutions right here.

1. The disturbing jingle of Windows widgets

Gone are the days of plain old Windows desktops. Now, task-oriented widgets pepper the screen with news, weather updates, and calendar events, aiming to keep you informed. The problem? They often veer toward the noisy and distracting, particularly during those all-too-important Zoom calls.

Here’s how to hush the hubbub:

Windows 11

1. 1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
   2. Select Taskbar Settings.

1. Turn off Widgets under Taskbar items.

Windows 10

1. Right-click an empty space on your taskbar.
2. Select News and interests.
3. Click Turn off.

2. Keeping Bing at bay from your Start menu searches

Have you ever entered a program’s name into the search bar on your Start menu, only to have Bing rudely interject with web results? Unless you’re actually doing a web search, these Bing results can be intrusive.

Thankfully, there’s an easy fix:

1. Open the Start menu and click the gear icon to go to Settings.
2. Navigate to the Personalization section, then Start.
3. Find the switch beside “Show web search results” and toggle it off.

3. Reducing startup stress with fewer apps a-running

When you boot up your PC, you want speed, not lag. Those pesky startup apps, while sometimes useful, can hog resources and slow down your system.

Lighten the load with these steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. Under the Startup tab, disable any apps that you don’t need running at startup.

4. Battling the taskbar clutter

The taskbar is your base of operations, but when you start accumulating icons like trophies, it can become unwieldy. Here’s how to declutter:

Windows 11

1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
2. Select Taskbar Settings.
3. Under Taskbar behaviors, turn off “Show badges on taskbar buttons.”
4. To remove specific icons, right-click them and select Unpin from taskbar.

Windows 10

1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
2. Select Taskbar settings.
3. Under the Notification area, click Select which icons appear on the taskbar.
4. Toggle off any unwanted icons.

5. Notification overload and how to take charge

Notifications may keep you informed about various activities, but they can also be unnecessary distractions. To tame your notifications:

Windows 11

1. Go to Settings and click on System.
2. Under the Notifications section, toggle off any apps you don’t want sending notifications.
3. To customize specific app notifications, click on an app and adjust the settings.

Windows 10

1. Open Settings and navigate to System > Notifications & actions.
2. Toggle off any apps you don’t want sending notifications.
3. To customize specific app notifications, click on an app and adjust the settings.

6. OneDrive syncing: When it’s not so cloud nine

OneDrive is a great way to keep your files backed up and accessible from anywhere, but it can get a little too enthusiastic about its syncing duties.

To manage OneDrive’s data sync features:

1. Look for the OneDrive icon (a cloud) in the system tray at the bottom right corner of your screen. If it’s not visible, click the up arrow to reveal it.
2. Click the gear icon at the top-right corner of the OneDrive pane, then select Settings.
3. In the Settings window, select Sync and backup in the left pane, then click the Manage backup button.
4. From here, you can select the folders you wish to sync to OneDrive.

7. Disabling the Sticky Keys saga

Sticky Keys might have been designed with accessibility in mind, allowing users to perform keyboard shortcuts one key at a time, but it can become an unintended nuisance. If you find yourself accidentally activating Sticky Keys and disrupting your workflow, here’s how to disable this feature:

Windows 11

1. Head to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.
2. Disable the toggle next to “Sticky keys.”

Windows 10

1. Go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
2. Find and disable the “Use Sticky Keys” option.

It’s remarkable how a few clicks and settings tweaks can transform your Windows experience from harrowing to harmonious. Once you’ve conquered these Windows woes, you’ll be one step closer to achieving peak productivity and peace of mind.

Contact our Windows experts today for more tips and tricks, and to learn how we can help optimize your computing experience.

Windows comes with a plethora of default settings that aren’t to everyone’s taste and many users find extremely irritating. This guide helps you cut out many of the annoying Windows features so you can boost your productivity and bring peace back to your digital workspace.

1. The disturbing jingle of Windows widgets

Gone are the days of plain old Windows desktops. Now, task-oriented widgets pepper the screen with news, weather updates, and calendar events, aiming to keep you informed. The problem? They often veer toward the noisy and distracting, particularly during those all-too-important Zoom calls.

Here’s how to hush the hubbub:

Windows 11

1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
2. Select Taskbar Settings.
3. Turn off Widgets under Taskbar items.

Windows 10

1. Right-click an empty space on your taskbar.
2. Select News and interests.
3. Click Turn off.

2. Keeping Bing at bay from your Start menu searches

Have you ever entered a program’s name into the search bar on your Start menu, only to have Bing rudely interject with web results? Unless you’re actually doing a web search, these Bing results can be intrusive.

Thankfully, there’s an easy fix:

1. Open the Start menu and click the gear icon to go to Settings.
2. Navigate to the Personalization section, then Start.
3. Find the switch beside “Show web search results” and toggle it off.

3. Reducing startup stress with fewer apps a-running

When you boot up your PC, you want speed, not lag. Those pesky startup apps, while sometimes useful, can hog resources and slow down your system.

Lighten the load with these steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. Under the Startup tab, disable any apps that you don’t need running at startup.

4. Battling the taskbar clutter

The taskbar is your base of operations, but when you start accumulating icons like trophies, it can become unwieldy. Here’s how to declutter:

Windows 11

1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
2. Select Taskbar Settings.
3. Under Taskbar behaviors, turn off “Show badges on taskbar buttons.”
4. To remove specific icons, right-click them and select Unpin from taskbar.

Windows 10

1. Right-click an empty spot on the taskbar.
2. Select Taskbar settings.
3. Under the Notification area, click Select which icons appear on the taskbar.
4. Toggle off any unwanted icons.

5. Notification overload and how to take charge

Notifications may keep you informed about various activities, but they can also be unnecessary distractions. To tame your notifications:

Windows 11

1. Go to Settings and click on System.
2. Under the Notifications section, toggle off any apps you don’t want sending notifications.
3. To customize specific app notifications, click on an app and adjust the settings.

Windows 10

1. Open Settings and navigate to System > Notifications & actions.
2. Toggle off any apps you don’t want sending notifications.
3. To customize specific app notifications, click on an app and adjust the settings.

6. OneDrive syncing: When it’s not so cloud nine

OneDrive is a great way to keep your files backed up and accessible from anywhere, but it can get a little too enthusiastic about its syncing duties.

To manage OneDrive’s data sync features:

1. Look for the OneDrive icon (a cloud) in the system tray at the bottom right corner of your screen. If it’s not visible, click the up arrow to reveal it.
2. Click the gear icon at the top-right corner of the OneDrive pane, then select Settings.
3. In the Settings window, select Sync and backup in the left pane, then click the Manage backup button.
4. From here, you can select the folders you wish to sync to OneDrive.

7. Disabling the Sticky Keys saga

Sticky Keys might have been designed with accessibility in mind, allowing users to perform keyboard shortcuts one key at a time, but it can become an unintended nuisance. If you find yourself accidentally activating Sticky Keys and disrupting your workflow, here’s how to disable this feature:

Windows 11

1. Head to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.
2. Disable the toggle next to “Sticky keys.”

Windows 10

1. Go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
2. Find and disable the “Use Sticky Keys” option.

It’s remarkable how a few clicks and settings tweaks can transform your Windows experience from harrowing to harmonious. Once you’ve conquered these Windows woes, you’ll be one step closer to achieving peak productivity and peace of mind.

Contact our Windows experts today for more tips and tricks, and to learn how we can help optimize your computing experience.

The rise of remote work necessitates effective mobile device management strategies. Two primary options exist: BYOD (bring your own device) and CYOD (choose your own device). Understanding the cost implications and level of control associated with each approach will enable you to make an informed decision that aligns with your organization’s security posture and budgetary constraints.

What is BYOD?

With BYOD, employees use their own devices, such as smartphones and laptops, to connect to the company network, access business data and applications, and perform work-related tasks. Since staff members are already familiar with these devices, your employees can get right to work, which leads to higher efficiency and better employee experience.

BYOD also gives employees greater flexibility and increased mobility, enabling them to work anywhere, anytime. They don’t have to be chained to a desk in order to do their tasks. Instead, they can use their smartphones to check emails or their laptops to edit documents even when they’re on the go.

Your business stands to gain a lot from BYOD as well. Aside from enjoying enhanced employee productivity, you don’t have to buy new equipment and spend on maintenance and upgrades. The money you save can be invested in other things that further improve your bottom line.

However, there are a few risks to consider before implementing a BYOD policy in your workplace. First, there is the potential for data breaches. If an employee’s device is lost or stolen, sensitive company information could be at risk. Additionally, BYOD policies can lead to increased support costs, as employees may need help troubleshooting issues with their personal devices.

If you’re considering adopting BYOD, you must implement a BYOD security policy to ensure that your company’s assets are well protected. This policy should outline key elements such as:

• Access rights ‒ What are the apps and data that employees can access from their personal devices?
• Security requirements – What security measures must an employee’s device have to be deemed fit to be used for work?
• Mobile device management (MDM) solution – What MDM solution must your IT team use to remotely wipe company data from lost or stolen devices?

What is CYOD?

CYOD allows users to choose from a list of devices provided by the company. In this regard, CYOD is similar to BYOD — it gives employees freedom of choice. While not everyone may like the selection of available devices, they may appreciate having a say regarding what computer or mobile device they’ll be using for work. You can also offer employees the option to purchase the device from the company, paying in installments or upfront.

For businesses, the biggest advantage of CYOD is security. You can equip devices with security features to ensure that sensitive data is properly protected. However, since you own the devices, the responsibility of spending on security and optimization will fall on you. This may not be ideal for small businesses or those with a limited budget.

Which policy should your company adopt?

Ultimately, the choice between BYOD and CYOD boils down to what your business needs. If you’re operating on a tight budget, a BYOD policy is the right option for you. On the other hand, CYOD is perfect if you want to ensure the security of your data and other company assets.

Whichever policy you choose, it is essential to carefully consider the implications before making a decision. Call us today and our IT experts will be happy to guide you.

Empowering your workforce with mobile devices can enhance productivity and flexibility. However, a key consideration is the device ownership model. This document explores BYOD (bring your own device) and CYOD (choose your own device) approaches, outlining their respective strengths and weaknesses to help you determine the optimal strategy for your organization.

What is BYOD?

With BYOD, employees use their own devices, such as smartphones and laptops, to connect to the company network, access business data and applications, and perform work-related tasks. Since staff members are already familiar with these devices, your employees can get right to work, which leads to higher efficiency and better employee experience.

BYOD also gives employees greater flexibility and increased mobility, enabling them to work anywhere, anytime. They don’t have to be chained to a desk in order to do their tasks. Instead, they can use their smartphones to check emails or their laptops to edit documents even when they’re on the go.

Your business stands to gain a lot from BYOD as well. Aside from enjoying enhanced employee productivity, you don’t have to buy new equipment and spend on maintenance and upgrades. The money you save can be invested in other things that further improve your bottom line.

However, there are a few risks to consider before implementing a BYOD policy in your workplace. First, there is the potential for data breaches. If an employee’s device is lost or stolen, sensitive company information could be at risk. Additionally, BYOD policies can lead to increased support costs, as employees may need help troubleshooting issues with their personal devices.

If you’re considering adopting BYOD, you must implement a BYOD security policy to ensure that your company’s assets are well protected. This policy should outline key elements such as:

• Access rights ‒ What are the apps and data that employees can access from their personal devices?
• Security requirements – What security measures must an employee’s device have to be deemed fit to be used for work?
• Mobile device management (MDM) solution – What MDM solution must your IT team use to remotely wipe company data from lost or stolen devices?

What is CYOD?

CYOD allows users to choose from a list of devices provided by the company. In this regard, CYOD is similar to BYOD — it gives employees freedom of choice. While not everyone may like the selection of available devices, they may appreciate having a say regarding what computer or mobile device they’ll be using for work. You can also offer employees the option to purchase the device from the company, paying in installments or upfront.

For businesses, the biggest advantage of CYOD is security. You can equip devices with security features to ensure that sensitive data is properly protected. However, since you own the devices, the responsibility of spending on security and optimization will fall on you. This may not be ideal for small businesses or those with a limited budget.

Which policy should your company adopt?

Ultimately, the choice between BYOD and CYOD boils down to what your business needs. If you’re operating on a tight budget, a BYOD policy is the right option for you. On the other hand, CYOD is perfect if you want to ensure the security of your data and other company assets.

Whichever policy you choose, it is essential to carefully consider the implications before making a decision. Call us today and our IT experts will be happy to guide you.

In today’s mobile-first environment, organizations have a critical decision to make regarding employee device usage. Two prominent strategies exist: bring your own device (BYOD) and choose your own device (CYOD). Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each approach will ensure you select the policy best suited to your organization’s needs.

What is BYOD?

With BYOD, employees use their own devices, such as smartphones and laptops, to connect to the company network, access business data and applications, and perform work-related tasks. Since staff members are already familiar with these devices, your employees can get right to work, which leads to higher efficiency and better employee experience.

BYOD also gives employees greater flexibility and increased mobility, enabling them to work anywhere, anytime. They don’t have to be chained to a desk in order to do their tasks. Instead, they can use their smartphones to check emails or their laptops to edit documents even when they’re on the go.

Your business stands to gain a lot from BYOD as well. Aside from enjoying enhanced employee productivity, you don’t have to buy new equipment and spend on maintenance and upgrades. The money you save can be invested in other things that further improve your bottom line.

However, there are a few risks to consider before implementing a BYOD policy in your workplace. First, there is the potential for data breaches. If an employee’s device is lost or stolen, sensitive company information could be at risk. Additionally, BYOD policies can lead to increased support costs, as employees may need help troubleshooting issues with their personal devices.

If you’re considering adopting BYOD, you must implement a BYOD security policy to ensure that your company’s assets are well protected. This policy should outline key elements such as:

• Access rights ‒ What are the apps and data that employees can access from their personal devices?
• Security requirements – What security measures must an employee’s device have to be deemed fit to be used for work?
• Mobile device management (MDM) solution – What MDM solution must your IT team use to remotely wipe company data from lost or stolen devices?

What is CYOD?

CYOD allows users to choose from a list of devices provided by the company. In this regard, CYOD is similar to BYOD — it gives employees freedom of choice. While not everyone may like the selection of available devices, they may appreciate having a say regarding what computer or mobile device they’ll be using for work. You can also offer employees the option to purchase the device from the company, paying in installments or upfront.

For businesses, the biggest advantage of CYOD is security. You can equip devices with security features to ensure that sensitive data is properly protected. However, since you own the devices, the responsibility of spending on security and optimization will fall on you. This may not be ideal for small businesses or those with a limited budget.

Which policy should your company adopt?

Ultimately, the choice between BYOD and CYOD boils down to what your business needs. If you’re operating on a tight budget, a BYOD policy is the right option for you. On the other hand, CYOD is perfect if you want to ensure the security of your data and other company assets.

Whichever policy you choose, it is essential to carefully consider the implications before making a decision. Call us today and our IT experts will be happy to guide you.