by support@southbaysolutions.net | Nov 24, 2023 | Business Continuity / Disaster Prevention, Computers, Cyber Security, mac, Windows
There are some important changes in the world of data backup, specifically regarding the exceptional product that many of you have come to rely on – iDrive. As your dedicated IT professional consultant, it is my responsibility to keep you informed about developments in the tech landscape that may impact your digital well-being.
In recent times, iDrive, the robust data backup tool we have come to trust for its simplicity and enterprise-level capabilities, has made a necessary adjustment to its pricing structure.
From $79 a year to $99 a year any price increase may raise concerns, it’s crucial to delve into the reasons behind this decision and explore the continued value that iDrive brings to the table.
Why the Change? Understanding the Dynamics
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the costs associated with maintaining a cutting-edge product like iDrive have seen a notable increase. As the demand for advanced data protection and backup solutions continues to surge, iDrive has consistently enhanced its features, security measures, and overall user experience.
The team at iDrive is committed to delivering a product that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of both individual users and enterprises alike. This commitment involves ongoing investments in research, development, and infrastructure to ensure that iDrive remains at the forefront of the data backup industry.
The Unmatched Value of iDrive
Let’s take a moment to appreciate what sets iDrive apart and makes it an indispensable tool for all your backup needs. From seamless PC backups for everyday users to the comprehensive capabilities required by enterprises, iDrive stands as a versatile solution that doesn’t compromise on ease of use or security.
- User-Friendly Interface: iDrive’s intuitive interface ensures that even those with minimal technical expertise can effortlessly navigate the backup process, making data protection accessible to everyone.
- Enterprise-Grade Features: Behind its user-friendly exterior lies the depth and breadth of an enterprise-level tool. iDrive doesn’t just backup; it empowers businesses with features like real-time syncing, server backups, and robust security protocols.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Whether you’re on Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android, iDrive ensures a seamless experience across all major platforms, making it a reliable choice for diverse technological environments.
- Cloud Backup and Accessibility: iDrive allows users to securely back up all their computers and access their data in the cloud. This means your important files are not only protected but also easily accessible from anywhere, providing the flexibility needed in today’s dynamic work environments.
- End-to-End Encryption: iDrive takes data security seriously. With encryption at rest, your sensitive information remains private and secure, giving you peace of mind in an era of increasing cyber threats.
- Add-On Capabilities: iDrive offers powerful add-on capabilities, such as the iDrive Express (e2) service. This service extends your backup coverage to include cloud data from platforms like WordPress sites/databases, Cloud Databases, virtual machines, and even Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices like Synology. This ensures that your entire digital ecosystem is safeguarded, providing a comprehensive solution for your evolving backup needs.
- Protection from Microsoft OneDrive issue: with recent, unannounced updates to Microsoft OneDrive, a significant shift has occurred in the way files are handled, impacting user access and file management. Instead of merely backing up files, OneDrive now moves them into OneDrive rendering you no longer to access your files on your local drive. If your system is being backed up with iDrive, your local files get backed up and stay there until you delete them.
- ( If you’re a Microsoft OneDrive user, be sure to read my blog article “Navigating Changes in Microsoft OneDrive: Understanding File Movement and Access.”
- Exclusive Promos and Offers for Our Community
I know all too well changes in pricing can be an adjustment, but I am excited to share exclusive promos and offers available to you, our community. By leveraging our affiliate partnership, you can still access iDrive at a competitive rate while enjoying the same high-quality service.
- Exclusive Promos and Offers for Our Community
I understand that changes in pricing can be an adjustment, but I am excited to share exclusive promos and offers available to our community. By leveraging our affiliate partnership, you can still access iDrive at a competitive rate while enjoying the same high-quality service.
IDrive® Mini for computer users with only 100GB ($2.95 yr) or 500GB ($9.95 yr) of data. (select “Pricing” to see Mini Plan)
iDrive’s Personal 5TB to 100TB starting at $69.95 yr.
iDrive360 Endpoint Cloud Backup
iDrive’s official website – FREE 5GB for New Users!
Final Thoughts
Change is a constant in the tech world, and iDrive’s commitment to adapting and improving ensures that your data remains in safe hands. As your dedicated IT consultant, I endorse iDrive not just as a product but as a partner in securing your digital assets.
For more details on the pricing adjustment and to take advantage of exclusive offers, visit iDrive’s official website.
Thank you for your understanding and continued trust in South Bay Computer Solutions.
Best Regards, John Costa, John@SouthBaySolutions.net
by support@southbaysolutions.net | Apr 25, 2022 | Cyber Security, Tips & Tricks
If you or someone you know has a Google GMAIL account you may want to give this a quick read. “How do I get my Google gmail 8 Digit Backup Code?”
Recently, I’ve had a few people contact me who have had their mobile device/phone lost or stolen.
The finder or perpetrator accesses the device due to a weak or no password. This now bad actor has access to the device and begins changing the rightful owner’s Gmail account password, so the rightful account holder no longer has Gmail access. They then begin fraudulently charging on credit cards or withdrawing funds from the owner’s bank accounts.From this point, the rightful owner is not able to gain access to their device or sensitive accounts from even another device or PC.
Even with “Two Factor” authentication, which should always be enabled when possible, the perpetrator was able to access sensitive important accounts, as the “Two Factor” authenticator app is on the phone itself, thus sending the “keys” to unlock the door to the “Multi-Factor” authentication accounts.
To make things even more troublesome, some users had screenshots of photos and/or lists of passwords, bank accounts, credit cards, driver’s license and other important information on the phone itself unprotected by further security methods.This is not uncommon, as most of the people I’ve surveyed do not have these codes or even know they exist.
So, What is a Gmail 8-digit backup code? Why should I retrieve this Google eight-digit code immediately?
A Gmail 8-digit backup code is a unique string of numbers to recover a g-mail account.
You should retrieve the Google eight-digit code immediately before your account is compromised, you lose your mobile device or password.
*These steps are subject to change as cloud providers often change the User Interface Portal frequently.
Android – Create & find a set of backup codes
Create & find a set of backup codes
To store your backup codes somewhere safe, you can print a copy of your backup codes.
On your Android phone or tablet, open the Settings app.
- Tap Google and then Manage your Google Account.
- At the top, tap Security.
- Under “Signing in to Google,” tap 2-Step Verification. You may need to sign in.
- Under “Backup codes,” tap Continue .
From here, you can:
- Get backup codes: To add backup codes, tap Get backup codes.
- Create a new set of backup codes and inactivate old ones: To create new codes, tap Refresh .
- Delete your backup codes: To delete and automatically inactivate your backup codes, tap Delete Delete.
- Download your backup codes: Tap Download Codes .
- Print your backup codes: Tap Print .
Tips: If you think your backup codes were stolen or you run out of codes, create a new set. To create a new set of codes, tap Refresh .
When you create new codes, your old set automatically becomes inactive.
Obviously DO NOT STORE THEM ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE as an image or other file.
If you use the cloud to store files be sure it has two-factor authentication and a Vault / Private key
From <https://www.google.com/search?q=how+to+get+gmail+8+digit+backup+code&oq=get+gmail+8+digit+code&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0i22i30j0i390l3j69i64.16506j0j15&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8>
Computer – Create & find a set of backup codes
Create & find a set of backup codes
To store your backup codes somewhere safe, you can print a copy of your backup codes.
- Go to your Google Account.
- On the left, click Security.
- Under “Signing in to Google,” click 2-Step Verification. You may need to sign in.
- Under “Backup codes,” click Continue,
From here you can:
- Get backup codes: To add backup codes, click Get backup codes.
- Create a new set of backup codes and inactivate old ones: To create new codes, click Refresh.
- Delete your backup codes: To delete and automatically inactivate your backup codes, click Delete .
- Download your backup codes: Click Download Codes.
- Print your backup codes: Click Print.
Tips:
If you think your backup codes were stolen or you run out of codes, create a new set. To create a new set of codes, click Refresh.
When you create new codes, your old set automatically becomes inactive.
Find your lost backup code.
Search your computer for: “backup-codes-username.txt with your username. For example, if your username is google123, search for: Backup-codes-google123.txt. You’ll need the codes downloaded to your computer for this to work.
Sign in with a backup code
-
- Find your backup codes.
- Sign in to your Google Account.
- Click Try another way.
- Click Enter one of your 8-digit backup codes.
- Enter one of your unused backup codes.
Tip: As each code can be used only once, you might want to mark the code as used.
From <https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/1187538?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop&oco=0>
iPhone & iPad – Create & find a set of backup codes
Create & find a set of backup codes
To store your backup codes somewhere safe, you can print a copy of your backup codes.
On your iPhone or iPad, open the Gmail app -> Tap Menu
Settings -> your account name
Manage your Google Account. If you don’t use Gmail, go to myaccount.google.com.
-
- At the top, tap Security.
- Under “Signing in to Google,” tap 2-Step Verification. You may need to sign in.
- Under “Backup codes,” tap Continue.
From here you can:
-
- Get backup codes: To add backup codes, tap Get backup codes.
Create a new set of backup codes and inactivate old ones: To create new codes, tap Refresh.
- Delete your backup codes: To delete and automatically inactivate your backup codes, tap Delete
- Download your backup codes: Tap Download Codes.
- Print your backup codes: Tap Print
Tips:
If you think your backup codes were stolen or you run out of codes, create a new set. To create a new set of codes, tap Refresh.
When you create new codes, your old set automatically becomes inactive.
Find your lost backup code
Search your iOS device for: Backup-codes-username.txt with your username. For example, if your username is google123, search for: Backup-codes-google123.txt. You’ll need the codes downloaded to the device for this to work.
Sign in with a backup code
-
Find your backup codes.
- Sign in to your Google Account.
- Tap Try another way.
- Tap Enter one of your 8-digit backup codes.
- Enter one of your unused backup codes.
Tip: As each code can be used only once, you might want to mark the code as used.
From <https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/1187538?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DiOS&oco=0>
I hope you find this What is a Gmail 8-digit backup code article helpful? Why should I retrieve this Google eight digit code immediately?
If you need computer, website or technology support contact us at 424-532-1633 to get support.
by John Costa | Nov 30, 2019 | Residential, Business, Cyber Security, networking
A Managed Firewall provides protection for devices at the perimeter (local in your home or office) and/or even on your cloud network. These devices are also commonly referred to as endpoints. Most firewalls installed by your ISP or a junior technician are static or “dumb” firewalls. They provide no real time monitoring or updating as needed to anticipate the latest “in the wild” threats. They are simply configured with some local rules and then left to become outdated as soon as they are installed. Furthermore power outages and field maintenance from your cable company or internet provider often “wipe” or “reset” the firewall with no warning to you leaving you unprotected.
A “Managed Firewall” is regularly monitored, patched and maintained. Firewalls are not a point-and-click or set-it-and-forget-it technology. Like most edge devices these days, firewalls are typically installed “on-site” , however the latest trend is to use configured in the “cloud” and managed via “Remote Support” managed Firewalls.
Managed Firewall Schema
Managed Firewalls” allow live security definitions to be updated which help protect against constantly changing threats. Rules can be set in place to block certain websites and social network activity. Cloud Firewalls are virtual firewalls with all communications run through the cloud security provider.
Managed firewalls typically provide for VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) configurations which keep segments of the LAN separate from the rest of the network. For example security cameras and iOT devices are more easily hacked and there is no need for most employees to have access or even know these devices exist. So they are segregated into their own VLAN. VLAN’s can also be used to segment departments / business units like accounting, engineering, staff etc, as separate networks altogether.
Make a Virtual Managed Firewall your first line of defense.
SBCS recommends supports several perimeter and cloud manged firewall systems including Cisco umbrella, SonicWall, Untangle, Uplevel, O365 (yes, O365 has Cloud firewall capability.)
Protect your Office, Cloud and Remote Workers with a Virtual Firewall like the low Cost High Functioning Untangle. – See Untangle Fire Wall Data Sheet.
Drawing the line that separates internal and external networks, Firewall filters traffic based on IP address, protocol and port, which enables administrators to designate which systems and services (HTTP, FTP, etc.) are publicly available.
Firewall can be run as a transparent bridge to complement a pre-existing firewall and allows you to control inbound and/or outbound access to specific IPs and ports.
Firewalls are a key component in safeguarding your business from malicious threats. Managed firewalls protect not only your “edge” devices, but your “cloud” perimeter “SaaS” and “Storage” areas.
Contact Us if you would like help getting a Managed Fire Wall to protect your network.
