Steve Thomas - IT Consultant

The long-anticipated Windows 11 2022 update, or Windows 11 version 22H2, has now been released. This upgrade was the result of a year of development and testing done through the Windows Insider Program. Here are the latest changes and features that come with this update.

Improved Start Menu

Windows 11 22H2 update features three new settings for customizing the Recommended section in the Start menu. Although you cannot disable or remove the Recommended section, you can now choose to show fewer recommended items or more pins by choosing from one of these options:

  • Default – Displays three rows of pinned items and three rows of recommended items.
  • More Pins – Only displays a list of pinned items.
  • More recommendations – Displays more recommended items and two rows of pinned items.

Tabs in File Explorer

With the new update, File Explorer will be capable of supporting tabs. This new tab system is similar to how tabs work in Microsoft Edge. When you open File Explorer, a plus sign (+) is now included on the Ribbon. Clicking on the plus sign lets you open multiple folders in one window. This prevents your screen from getting cluttered with too many open windows, which can be distracting.

Better video calls

If your PC or mobile device has artificial intelligence chips built into it, the new Windows 11 update can remove background noise during video chats, allow the camera to track you as you move around, and even change your video feed to make it appear like you’re making eye contact with others on the call at all times.

Smart App Control

Windows 11 version 22H2 comes with Smart App Control, a new security feature that prevents untrustworthy or unapproved applications, dangerous macros, and script files from running on your computer.

Built using the same AI found in Windows Defender Application Control, Smart App Control can analyze an application’s safety in real time before it runs on your computer. This is an ideal security solution for companies not using a modern device management tool like Microsoft Intune.

Do Not Disturb mode

The new Do Not Disturb mode turns off application notifications and taskbar badges, allowing you to focus on your work. You can turn this feature on by right-clicking on the date and time section on the taskbar and selecting Notification settings. From there, you can set rules and conditions that will automatically turn on Do Not Disturb mode.

For example, you can set Do Not Disturb before a conference call or video meeting. You can also set which reminders can break through Do Not Disturb mode, such as a call or meeting reminder.

Eco-friendly features

Windows 11 version 22H2 was designed to reduce your computer’s carbon emissions. For example, when your computer is on, Windows will schedule updates at points in the day that may result in lower carbon emissions. If regional carbon intensity data is available, it can further optimize when to install updates so they have less of an impact on the environment.

Microsoft has also changed the default power setting for Sleep and Screen off to help reduce emissions when your computer is idle.

How to install the Windows 11 version 22H2 update?

Computers already running Windows 11 can install the new update by going to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. The update will automatically be downloaded and installed onto the devices.

Those still using Windows 10 can check if their computer is compatible with Windows 11 by going to Settings > Update & Security. A download and install button will be present for computers that are eligible for the new OS.

For more information on the new Windows 11 update, get in touch with our experts today.

Microsoft unveiled the first major upgrade for Windows 11 on September 20, 2022. Available in over 190 countries, Windows 11 version 22H2 comes with several new features to enhance productivity, security, and user experience. Read on to learn about these.

Improved Start Menu

Windows 11 22H2 update features three new settings for customizing the Recommended section in the Start menu. Although you cannot disable or remove the Recommended section, you can now choose to show fewer recommended items or more pins by choosing from one of these options:

  • Default – Displays three rows of pinned items and three rows of recommended items.
  • More Pins – Only displays a list of pinned items.
  • More recommendations – Displays more recommended items and two rows of pinned items.

Tabs in File Explorer

With the new update, File Explorer will be capable of supporting tabs. This new tab system is similar to how tabs work in Microsoft Edge. When you open File Explorer, a plus sign (+) is now included on the Ribbon. Clicking on the plus sign lets you open multiple folders in one window. This prevents your screen from getting cluttered with too many open windows, which can be distracting.

Better video calls

If your PC or mobile device has artificial intelligence chips built into it, the new Windows 11 update can remove background noise during video chats, allow the camera to track you as you move around, and even change your video feed to make it appear like you’re making eye contact with others on the call at all times.

Smart App Control

Windows 11 version 22H2 comes with Smart App Control, a new security feature that prevents untrustworthy or unapproved applications, dangerous macros, and script files from running on your computer.

Built using the same AI found in Windows Defender Application Control, Smart App Control can analyze an application’s safety in real time before it runs on your computer. This is an ideal security solution for companies not using a modern device management tool like Microsoft Intune.

Do Not Disturb mode

The new Do Not Disturb mode turns off application notifications and taskbar badges, allowing you to focus on your work. You can turn this feature on by right-clicking on the date and time section on the taskbar and selecting Notification settings. From there, you can set rules and conditions that will automatically turn on Do Not Disturb mode.

For example, you can set Do Not Disturb before a conference call or video meeting. You can also set which reminders can break through Do Not Disturb mode, such as a call or meeting reminder.

Eco-friendly features

Windows 11 version 22H2 was designed to reduce your computer’s carbon emissions. For example, when your computer is on, Windows will schedule updates at points in the day that may result in lower carbon emissions. If regional carbon intensity data is available, it can further optimize when to install updates so they have less of an impact on the environment.

Microsoft has also changed the default power setting for Sleep and Screen off to help reduce emissions when your computer is idle.

How to install the Windows 11 version 22H2 update?

Computers already running Windows 11 can install the new update by going to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. The update will automatically be downloaded and installed onto the devices.

Those still using Windows 10 can check if their computer is compatible with Windows 11 by going to Settings > Update & Security. A download and install button will be present for computers that are eligible for the new OS.

For more information on the new Windows 11 update, get in touch with our experts today.

On September 20, 2022, Microsoft released the first major update for Windows 11 in line with the operating system’s upcoming first anniversary. This free upgrade will make PCs more accessible, convenient, secure, and eco-friendly. Here are some features that come with the Windows 11 update.

Improved Start Menu

Windows 11 22H2 update features three new settings for customizing the Recommended section in the Start menu. Although you cannot disable or remove the Recommended section, you can now choose to show fewer recommended items or more pins by choosing from one of these options:

  • Default – Displays three rows of pinned items and three rows of recommended items.
  • More Pins – Only displays a list of pinned items.
  • More recommendations – Displays more recommended items and two rows of pinned items.

Tabs in File Explorer

With the new update, File Explorer will be capable of supporting tabs. This new tab system is similar to how tabs work in Microsoft Edge. When you open File Explorer, a plus sign (+) is now included on the Ribbon. Clicking on the plus sign lets you open multiple folders in one window. This prevents your screen from getting cluttered with too many open windows, which can be distracting.

Better video calls

If your PC or mobile device has artificial intelligence chips built into it, the new Windows 11 update can remove background noise during video chats, allow the camera to track you as you move around, and even change your video feed to make it appear like you’re making eye contact with others on the call at all times.

Smart App Control

Windows 11 version 22H2 comes with Smart App Control, a new security feature that prevents untrustworthy or unapproved applications, dangerous macros, and script files from running on your computer.

Built using the same AI found in Windows Defender Application Control, Smart App Control can analyze an application’s safety in real time before it runs on your computer. This is an ideal security solution for companies not using a modern device management tool like Microsoft Intune.

Do Not Disturb mode

The new Do Not Disturb mode turns off application notifications and taskbar badges, allowing you to focus on your work. You can turn this feature on by right-clicking on the date and time section on the taskbar and selecting Notification settings. From there, you can set rules and conditions that will automatically turn on Do Not Disturb mode.

For example, you can set Do Not Disturb before a conference call or video meeting. You can also set which reminders can break through Do Not Disturb mode, such as a call or meeting reminder.

Eco-friendly features

Windows 11 version 22H2 was designed to reduce your computer’s carbon emissions. For example, when your computer is on, Windows will schedule updates at points in the day that may result in lower carbon emissions. If regional carbon intensity data is available, it can further optimize when to install updates so they have less of an impact on the environment.

Microsoft has also changed the default power setting for Sleep and Screen off to help reduce emissions when your computer is idle.

How to install the Windows 11 version 22H2 update?

Computers already running Windows 11 can install the new update by going to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. The update will automatically be downloaded and installed onto the devices.

Those still using Windows 10 can check if their computer is compatible with Windows 11 by going to Settings > Update & Security. A download and install button will be present for computers that are eligible for the new OS.

For more information on the new Windows 11 update, get in touch with our experts today.

Seeing ads while browsing the internet is normal, and many people are used to it. But Windows 11 users may be surprised to see ads right on their local computer. Not to worry, though, as there are several solutions to that problem. Get rid of Windows 11 ads permanently by following these steps.

Turn off suggested content in Settings

You may find Microsoft subtly suggesting some of its products or services to you while you use certain built-in apps. If you don’t like that, you can disable this feature by going to Settings > Privacy & security > General. Then, toggle off the switch button beside Show me suggested content in the Settings app. With this feature off, the Settings app will stop displaying suggested content.

Disable system notifications

Microsoft has programmed Windows 11 to send push notifications of tips and tricks that introduce users to more of the company’s products. If you find these suggestions random or unwelcome, you can disable them entirely.

Go to Settings > System > Notifications. Then, uncheck two boxes: the one beside Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device and the one beside Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows. This will prevent the system from showing notifications about certain Windows features or offers.

Remove ads on the Lock screen

Your Lock screen may display ads from time to time depending on your background settings. To prevent this, simply go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen and choose either the Picture or the Slideshow option under Personalize your background. Then, scroll down the page and deselect the “Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen” option. Your Lock screen should now be ad-free.

Uninstall pins from the Start menu

Microsoft uses the pin feature on the Start menu to place ads for its own products and services or other apps found on the Microsoft Store. The apps typically vary depending on the user’s region, but some of the common ones include Prime Video and Adobe Express. They’re designed to be highly visible to lure users into clicking and subscribing to them.

To remove these pins, open Start, right-click the app you want to get rid of, then select Uninstall

Keep File Explorer ad-free

Microsoft also uses File Explorer to promote certain services like OneDrive. To stop getting such ads in File Explorer, open File Explorer and click the three-dotted menu on the command bar. Choose Options, then go to the View tab. Look for the “Show sync provider notifications” option, then deselect the checkbox beside it. This turns off advertisements in File Explorer.

This blog is a good starting point if you want to learn about Windows 11. But if you need something a little more advanced, our managed IT services experts are second to none. Get in touch with one of our specialists today to maximize Windows 11’s full potential.

If you’re using Windows 11, you might have seen ads and notifications pop up in unusual places such as File Explorer or the Start menu. This can be both distracting and annoying, and it can even hinder your productivity. Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of these ads. Read on to learn more.

Turn off suggested content in Settings

You may find Microsoft subtly suggesting some of its products or services to you while you use certain built-in apps. If you don’t like that, you can disable this feature by going to Settings > Privacy & security > General. Then, toggle off the switch button beside Show me suggested content in the Settings app. With this feature off, the Settings app will stop displaying suggested content.

Disable system notifications

Microsoft has programmed Windows 11 to send push notifications of tips and tricks that introduce users to more of the company’s products. If you find these suggestions random or unwelcome, you can disable them entirely.

Go to Settings > System > Notifications. Then, uncheck two boxes: the one beside Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device and the one beside Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows. This will prevent the system from showing notifications about certain Windows features or offers.

Remove ads on the Lock screen

Your Lock screen may display ads from time to time depending on your background settings. To prevent this, simply go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen and choose either the Picture or the Slideshow option under Personalize your background. Then, scroll down the page and deselect the “Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen” option. Your Lock screen should now be ad-free.

Uninstall pins from the Start menu

Microsoft uses the pin feature on the Start menu to place ads for its own products and services or other apps found on the Microsoft Store. The apps typically vary depending on the user’s region, but some of the common ones include Prime Video and Adobe Express. They’re designed to be highly visible to lure users into clicking and subscribing to them.

To remove these pins, open Start, right-click the app you want to get rid of, then select Uninstall

Keep File Explorer ad-free

Microsoft also uses File Explorer to promote certain services like OneDrive. To stop getting such ads in File Explorer, open File Explorer and click the three-dotted menu on the command bar. Choose Options, then go to the View tab. Look for the “Show sync provider notifications” option, then deselect the checkbox beside it. This turns off advertisements in File Explorer.

This blog is a good starting point if you want to learn about Windows 11. But if you need something a little more advanced, our managed IT services experts are second to none. Get in touch with one of our specialists today to maximize Windows 11’s full potential.

Don’t be surprised if you see some ads while using your Windows 11 computer. Microsoft designed its operating systems to show notifications and ads, regardless of the version. Some users don’t mind the ads, but if you do and are wondering if there’s any way to remove such notifications, wonder no more. Here’s how to get rid of unwanted ads in Windows 11.

Turn off suggested content in Settings

You may find Microsoft subtly suggesting some of its products or services to you while you use certain built-in apps. If you don’t like that, you can disable this feature by going to Settings > Privacy & security > General. Then, toggle off the switch button beside Show me suggested content in the Settings app. With this feature off, the Settings app will stop displaying suggested content.

Disable system notifications

Microsoft has programmed Windows 11 to send push notifications of tips and tricks that introduce users to more of the company’s products. If you find these suggestions random or unwelcome, you can disable them entirely.

Go to Settings > System > Notifications. Then, uncheck two boxes: the one beside Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device and the one beside Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows. This will prevent the system from showing notifications about certain Windows features or offers.

Remove ads on the Lock screen

Your Lock screen may display ads from time to time depending on your background settings. To prevent this, simply go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen and choose either the Picture or the Slideshow option under Personalize your background. Then, scroll down the page and deselect the “Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen” option. Your Lock screen should now be ad-free.

Uninstall pins from the Start menu

Microsoft uses the pin feature on the Start menu to place ads for its own products and services or other apps found on the Microsoft Store. The apps typically vary depending on the user’s region, but some of the common ones include Prime Video and Adobe Express. They’re designed to be highly visible to lure users into clicking and subscribing to them.

To remove these pins, open Start, right-click the app you want to get rid of, then select Uninstall

Keep File Explorer ad-free

Microsoft also uses File Explorer to promote certain services like OneDrive. To stop getting such ads in File Explorer, open File Explorer and click the three-dotted menu on the command bar. Choose Options, then go to the View tab. Look for the “Show sync provider notifications” option, then deselect the checkbox beside it. This turns off advertisements in File Explorer.

This blog is a good starting point if you want to learn about Windows 11. But if you need something a little more advanced, our managed IT services experts are second to none. Get in touch with one of our specialists today to maximize Windows 11’s full potential.

You may want to transfer files from your Android phone to a PC or Mac to back up your files and free up some storage space on your device. Thanks to Android’s open and transparent nature, you can easily do so using any of the following methods.

Through a USB cable

Using the USB cord that came with your phone is probably the most convenient way to transfer files to your computer. If your phone has a newer USB Type-C-to-Type-C cable and your desktop or laptop does not have a USB-C port, you’ll need to use a hybrid USB-C cable or a USB-C cable adapter. You can easily find these in your local hardware or computer store.

The rate of data transfer is determined by the type of cable and storage you have on both devices. For example, a phone with an embedded MultiMediaCard will transfer data slower than one with Universal Flash Storage. Additionally, moving files to a computer with a solid-state drive is faster than on those using traditional hard drives.

To transfer files from your Android device to your Windows or Mac via a USB cable, follow these steps:

Windows

  1. Connect your device to your PC using the USB cable.
  2. Tap on the notification that will appear to go to the USB Preferences menu.
  3. Tap on the File Transfer option.
  4. Select from one of the provided options on what to do with the connected device, including:
    • Import photos and videos – When you choose this option, Windows will automatically search and display all the videos and images stored on your device. You can use the checkbox to choose which ones you want to transfer to your computer.

      Windows will also assign a default destination folder where your photos and videos will be saved, but you can change it by clicking on the Change destination option below the default folder destination.

    • Open device to view files – Choosing this option will bring up File Explorer. From there, you can choose the files on your device that you want to transfer by copy-pasting them or simply dragging them to a specific folder.
  5. Once the file transfer is complete, disconnect the USB cable from your computer.

Mac
To transfer files from your device to a Mac computer using a USB cable, you first need to install an official Android file transfer app. Once you’ve done that, simply follow these steps:

  1. Connect your device to your Mac using the USB cable.
  2. When the USB Preferences notification appears, choose the File Transfer option.
  3. Open the Android file transfer app.
  4. From there, you can transfer your files by dragging them to the Finder window.

Via Bluetooth

If you don’t have a USB cable, you can use Bluetooth to transfer your file. However, the transfer speed is significantly lower via this method.

Here’s how to transfer your files using Bluetooth:

  1. Enable Bluetooth on your Android device and PC or Mac.
  2. Search for available devices.
  3. When you find your device, tap on it to pair with it. Your computer will ask you to confirm a PIN before both devices can be connected. There’s an extra step you have to take if you’re using a Mac. Go to System Preferences > Sharing and choose the Bluetooth Sharing option. From there, you can set the default folder where the files will be stored.
  4. Tap on the files on your device you want to transfer, then tap the Share icon and choose Bluetooth. Choose your PC or Mac from the list of connected devices.
  5. On a PC, right-click the Bluetooth icon on the Taskbar and select Receive a File. Windows will automatically save the files in the Documents folder.

On a Mac, the files you shared will be sent to the folder you specified in the Bluetooth Sharing option.

If you follow these steps, you’ll be able to transfer your files in no time. If you want to learn more Android tips and tricks, call our specialists today.

There may be times when you need to transfer files from an Android device to a PC or Mac. This article will discuss several ways to do that.

Through a USB cable

Using the USB cord that came with your phone is probably the most convenient way to transfer files to your computer. If your phone has a newer USB Type-C-to-Type-C cable and your desktop or laptop does not have a USB-C port, you’ll need to use a hybrid USB-C cable or a USB-C cable adapter. You can easily find these in your local hardware or computer store.

The rate of data transfer is determined by the type of cable and storage you have on both devices. For example, a phone with an embedded MultiMediaCard will transfer data slower than one with Universal Flash Storage. Additionally, moving files to a computer with a solid-state drive is faster than on those using traditional hard drives.

To transfer files from your Android device to your Windows or Mac via a USB cable, follow these steps:

Windows

  1. Connect your device to your PC using the USB cable.
  2. Tap on the notification that will appear to go to the USB Preferences menu.
  3. Tap on the File Transfer option.
  4. Select from one of the provided options on what to do with the connected device, including:
    • Import photos and videos – When you choose this option, Windows will automatically search and display all the videos and images stored on your device. You can use the checkbox to choose which ones you want to transfer to your computer.

      Windows will also assign a default destination folder where your photos and videos will be saved, but you can change it by clicking on the Change destination option below the default folder destination.

    • Open device to view files – Choosing this option will bring up File Explorer. From there, you can choose the files on your device that you want to transfer by copy-pasting them or simply dragging them to a specific folder.
  5. Once the file transfer is complete, disconnect the USB cable from your computer.

Mac
To transfer files from your device to a Mac computer using a USB cable, you first need to install an official Android file transfer app. Once you’ve done that, simply follow these steps:

  1. Connect your device to your Mac using the USB cable.
  2. When the USB Preferences notification appears, choose the File Transfer option.
  3. Open the Android file transfer app.
  4. From there, you can transfer your files by dragging them to the Finder window.

Via Bluetooth

If you don’t have a USB cable, you can use Bluetooth to transfer your file. However, the transfer speed is significantly lower via this method.

Here’s how to transfer your files using Bluetooth:

  1. Enable Bluetooth on your Android device and PC or Mac.
  2. Search for available devices.
  3. When you find your device, tap on it to pair with it. Your computer will ask you to confirm a PIN before both devices can be connected. There’s an extra step you have to take if you’re using a Mac. Go to System Preferences > Sharing and choose the Bluetooth Sharing option. From there, you can set the default folder where the files will be stored.
  4. Tap on the files on your device you want to transfer, then tap the Share icon and choose Bluetooth. Choose your PC or Mac from the list of connected devices.
  5. On a PC, right-click the Bluetooth icon on the Taskbar and select Receive a File. Windows will automatically save the files in the Documents folder.

On a Mac, the files you shared will be sent to the folder you specified in the Bluetooth Sharing option.

If you follow these steps, you’ll be able to transfer your files in no time. If you want to learn more Android tips and tricks, call our specialists today.

Do you have videos or photos that you want to view on a bigger screen, or maybe you just need to clear up space on your Android phone? You can transfer the files from your device to a PC or Mac computer, and here are the steps to do it.

Through a USB cable

Using the USB cord that came with your phone is probably the most convenient way to transfer files to your computer. If your phone has a newer USB Type-C-to-Type-C cable and your desktop or laptop does not have a USB-C port, you’ll need to use a hybrid USB-C cable or a USB-C cable adapter. You can easily find these in your local hardware or computer store.

The rate of data transfer is determined by the type of cable and storage you have on both devices. For example, a phone with an embedded MultiMediaCard will transfer data slower than one with Universal Flash Storage. Additionally, moving files to a computer with a solid-state drive is faster than on those using traditional hard drives.

To transfer files from your Android device to your Windows or Mac via a USB cable, follow these steps:

Windows

  1. Connect your device to your PC using the USB cable.
  2. Tap on the notification that will appear to go to the USB Preferences menu.
  3. Tap on the File Transfer option.
  4. Select from one of the provided options on what to do with the connected device, including:
    • Import photos and videos – When you choose this option, Windows will automatically search and display all the videos and images stored on your device. You can use the checkbox to choose which ones you want to transfer to your computer.

      Windows will also assign a default destination folder where your photos and videos will be saved, but you can change it by clicking on the Change destination option below the default folder destination.

    • Open device to view files – Choosing this option will bring up File Explorer. From there, you can choose the files on your device that you want to transfer by copy-pasting them or simply dragging them to a specific folder.
  5. Once the file transfer is complete, disconnect the USB cable from your computer.

Mac
To transfer files from your device to a Mac computer using a USB cable, you first need to install an official Android file transfer app. Once you’ve done that, simply follow these steps:

  1. Connect your device to your Mac using the USB cable.
  2. When the USB Preferences notification appears, choose the File Transfer option.
  3. Open the Android file transfer app.
  4. From there, you can transfer your files by dragging them to the Finder window.

Via Bluetooth

If you don’t have a USB cable, you can use Bluetooth to transfer your file. However, the transfer speed is significantly lower via this method.

Here’s how to transfer your files using Bluetooth:

  1. Enable Bluetooth on your Android device and PC or Mac.
  2. Search for available devices.
  3. When you find your device, tap on it to pair with it. Your computer will ask you to confirm a PIN before both devices can be connected. There’s an extra step you have to take if you’re using a Mac. Go to System Preferences > Sharing and choose the Bluetooth Sharing option. From there, you can set the default folder where the files will be stored.
  4. Tap on the files on your device you want to transfer, then tap the Share icon and choose Bluetooth. Choose your PC or Mac from the list of connected devices.
  5. On a PC, right-click the Bluetooth icon on the Taskbar and select Receive a File. Windows will automatically save the files in the Documents folder.

On a Mac, the files you shared will be sent to the folder you specified in the Bluetooth Sharing option.

If you follow these steps, you’ll be able to transfer your files in no time. If you want to learn more Android tips and tricks, call our specialists today.

For the longest time, businesses have been installing email servers on site to have more control over their data. But the drawback of this setup is that it’s more expensive and you need to have a dedicated IT team to manage everything. Microsoft Exchange Online is a cloud-based email service that offers the same features and benefits of an on-premises Exchange server, without the hassle and expense.

What is Microsoft Exchange Online?

Microsoft Exchange Online is a cloud-based email server that helps businesses keep track of communications, manage calendars, and schedule appointments and meetings. Unlike with the original Exchange Server where you install the program on your own server, Exchange Online is hosted in Microsoft’s data center. This means that Microsoft provides the infrastructure and computing resources required to run the email solution. They’re also largely responsible for securing, backing up, and maintaining your Exchange Online environment.

Since Exchange Online isn’t installed locally, companies must instead sign up for the following subscription plans:

  • Exchange Online (Plan 1): $4/user/month – A standalone email server platform with 50 GB mailbox, Outlook on the web, message archiving, and focused inbox features
  • Exchange Online (Plan 2): $8/user/month – A more robust solution that includes all the features of the first plan including 100 GB mailbox, data loss prevention, automated attendant, and cloud voicemail capabilities
  • Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50/user/month – The most comprehensive plan that comes with Exchange Online, Office Online, SharePoint Online, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams

Benefits of hosted Exchange

Companies that use Exchange Online can enjoy a slew of benefits:

1. Predictable and lower costs
Exchange Online is charged on a monthly basis per user. This makes it easier for businesses to budget for their email needs in the long run.

What’s more, you don’t need to purchase dedicated servers and expensive licenses for your email platform. And since Microsoft is responsible for the infrastructure and maintenance, there are no additional costs associated with keeping the email solution running.

2. Plug-and-play simplicity
With Microsoft Exchange Server, you would have to allocate physical space for an email server, install the software, and configure user accounts manually. If you experience technical difficulties with Exchange Server, you’ll also have to troubleshoot the issue yourself.

In contrast, everything is taken care of with Exchange Online. Your cloud services provider will usually handle the hosting, management, installation, and configuration processes. That means your company can use and enjoy everything Exchange Online has to offer as soon as you sign up for a subscription plan.

3. Increased scalability and flexibility
As your business grows, you might need to add more users to your email platform. Fortunately, Exchange Online allows you to accommodate more users with ease. All you have to do is contact your provider when your server requirements change. You can add or remove users with a few clicks, and you’re only charged for what you use.

4.Greater security and compliance
What’s great about Exchange Online is you gain access to enterprise-grade security features like data loss prevention policies, intelligent anti-spam filters, and advanced malware detection. These features are constantly updated by Microsoft to ensure that your data is always protected against the latest security threats. Plus, Exchange Online stores your emails and data in Microsoft’s data centers, protected with cutting-edge network security and physical security measures.

These benefits merely scratch the surface of what Exchange Online is capable of. If you want to see how this email platform can power up your business, call us now!

Email server platforms help businesses keep track of communications, schedule appointments and meetings, and manage tasks. These platforms are typically hosted on premises, but businesses are increasingly using cloud-based versions of email servers. Microsoft Exchange Online is one of these cloud-based options, and it offers some distinct advantages for businesses.

What is Microsoft Exchange Online?

Microsoft Exchange Online is a cloud-based email server that helps businesses keep track of communications, manage calendars, and schedule appointments and meetings. Unlike with the original Exchange Server where you install the program on your own server, Exchange Online is hosted in Microsoft’s data center. This means that Microsoft provides the infrastructure and computing resources required to run the email solution. They’re also largely responsible for securing, backing up, and maintaining your Exchange Online environment.

Since Exchange Online isn’t installed locally, companies must instead sign up for the following subscription plans:

  • Exchange Online (Plan 1): $4/user/month – A standalone email server platform with 50 GB mailbox, Outlook on the web, message archiving, and focused inbox features
  • Exchange Online (Plan 2): $8/user/month – A more robust solution that includes all the features of the first plan including 100 GB mailbox, data loss prevention, automated attendant, and cloud voicemail capabilities
  • Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50/user/month – The most comprehensive plan that comes with Exchange Online, Office Online, SharePoint Online, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams

Benefits of hosted Exchange

Companies that use Exchange Online can enjoy a slew of benefits:

1. Predictable and lower costs
Exchange Online is charged on a monthly basis per user. This makes it easier for businesses to budget for their email needs in the long run.

What’s more, you don’t need to purchase dedicated servers and expensive licenses for your email platform. And since Microsoft is responsible for the infrastructure and maintenance, there are no additional costs associated with keeping the email solution running.

2. Plug-and-play simplicity
With Microsoft Exchange Server, you would have to allocate physical space for an email server, install the software, and configure user accounts manually. If you experience technical difficulties with Exchange Server, you’ll also have to troubleshoot the issue yourself.

In contrast, everything is taken care of with Exchange Online. Your cloud services provider will usually handle the hosting, management, installation, and configuration processes. That means your company can use and enjoy everything Exchange Online has to offer as soon as you sign up for a subscription plan.

3. Increased scalability and flexibility
As your business grows, you might need to add more users to your email platform. Fortunately, Exchange Online allows you to accommodate more users with ease. All you have to do is contact your provider when your server requirements change. You can add or remove users with a few clicks, and you’re only charged for what you use.

4.Greater security and compliance
What’s great about Exchange Online is you gain access to enterprise-grade security features like data loss prevention policies, intelligent anti-spam filters, and advanced malware detection. These features are constantly updated by Microsoft to ensure that your data is always protected against the latest security threats. Plus, Exchange Online stores your emails and data in Microsoft’s data centers, protected with cutting-edge network security and physical security measures.

These benefits merely scratch the surface of what Exchange Online is capable of. If you want to see how this email platform can power up your business, call us now!

Companies traditionally use on-premises servers to host and manage their email platform. However, this can be costly and time-consuming, especially if you don’t have an in-house IT team to manage everything. That’s why many companies are now using Microsoft Exchange Online for all their email needs.

What is Microsoft Exchange Online?

Microsoft Exchange Online is a cloud-based email server that helps businesses keep track of communications, manage calendars, and schedule appointments and meetings. Unlike with the original Exchange Server where you install the program on your own server, Exchange Online is hosted in Microsoft’s data center. This means that Microsoft provides the infrastructure and computing resources required to run the email solution. They’re also largely responsible for securing, backing up, and maintaining your Exchange Online environment.

Since Exchange Online isn’t installed locally, companies must instead sign up for the following subscription plans:

  • Exchange Online (Plan 1): $4/user/month – A standalone email server platform with 50 GB mailbox, Outlook on the web, message archiving, and focused inbox features
  • Exchange Online (Plan 2): $8/user/month – A more robust solution that includes all the features of the first plan including 100 GB mailbox, data loss prevention, automated attendant, and cloud voicemail capabilities
  • Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50/user/month – The most comprehensive plan that comes with Exchange Online, Office Online, SharePoint Online, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams

Benefits of hosted Exchange

Companies that use Exchange Online can enjoy a slew of benefits:

1. Predictable and lower costs
Exchange Online is charged on a monthly basis per user. This makes it easier for businesses to budget for their email needs in the long run.

What’s more, you don’t need to purchase dedicated servers and expensive licenses for your email platform. And since Microsoft is responsible for the infrastructure and maintenance, there are no additional costs associated with keeping the email solution running.

2. Plug-and-play simplicity
With Microsoft Exchange Server, you would have to allocate physical space for an email server, install the software, and configure user accounts manually. If you experience technical difficulties with Exchange Server, you’ll also have to troubleshoot the issue yourself.

In contrast, everything is taken care of with Exchange Online. Your cloud services provider will usually handle the hosting, management, installation, and configuration processes. That means your company can use and enjoy everything Exchange Online has to offer as soon as you sign up for a subscription plan.

3. Increased scalability and flexibility
As your business grows, you might need to add more users to your email platform. Fortunately, Exchange Online allows you to accommodate more users with ease. All you have to do is contact your provider when your server requirements change. You can add or remove users with a few clicks, and you’re only charged for what you use.

4.Greater security and compliance
What’s great about Exchange Online is you gain access to enterprise-grade security features like data loss prevention policies, intelligent anti-spam filters, and advanced malware detection. These features are constantly updated by Microsoft to ensure that your data is always protected against the latest security threats. Plus, Exchange Online stores your emails and data in Microsoft’s data centers, protected with cutting-edge network security and physical security measures.

These benefits merely scratch the surface of what Exchange Online is capable of. If you want to see how this email platform can power up your business, call us now!