Calendars, task lists, and project planning are important business tools. Many people use Microsoft’s apps to power these processes. Including Planner, Microsoft To Do, and Project for the web.These tools help keep processes on track and enable task accountability. But they’re separate apps. Switching between apps can be cumbersome. It adds more complexity to a workflow.On average, employees switch between 22 different apps 350 times per day.Microsoft is putting a dent in app overload. The company is rolling out a brand-new version of Microsoft Planner in early 2024. It’s packed with exciting features designed to simplify your project management journey.What apps does the new Planner include?The new Microsoft Planner combines:The current Planner’s collaboration featuresThe simplicity of Microsoft To Do for task managementThe capabilities of Microsoft Project for the webThe automation of Microsoft Copilot (the company’s AI companion)The new Planner promises to be a powerful tool for staying organized. As well
The Internet of Things (IoT) is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s rapidly transforming industries and reshaping how businesses operate. IoT is a blanket term to describe smart devices that are internet enabled. One example is smart sensors monitoring production lines. Connected thermostats optimizing energy consumption is another.Experts project the number of connected devices worldwide to continue growing. It’s estimated to rise from about 15 billion in 2023 to 21 billion in 2026.IoT devices are weaving themselves into the fabric of modern business operations. But successfully deploying them on your existing network isn’t always easy. It can feel like navigating a maze.Have you been struggling with the integration of smart devices? This guide will equip you with the knowledge and steps you need.Step 1: Define Your Goals and NeedsBefore diving headfirst, it’s crucial to have a clear vision of your goals. Ask yourself and your team a few questions. These
With cyber threats evolving at an alarming pace, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. It’s a must for safeguarding sensitive information. Data security threats are becoming more sophisticated and prevalent. The landscape must change to keep up. In 2024, we can expect exciting developments alongside persistent challenges.Over 70% of business professionals say their data privacy efforts are worth it. And that their business receives “significant” or “very significant” benefits from those efforts.Staying informed about these trends is crucial. This is true whether you’re an individual or a business safeguarding valuable data.Here are some key areas to watch.1. The Rise of the Machines: AI and Machine Learning in SecurityArtificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are no longer futuristic concepts. They are actively shaping the cybersecurity landscape. This year, we’ll likely see a further rise in their application:Enhanced Threat Detection: AI and ML algorithms excel at analyzing massive datasets. This
Have you been hearing more about email authentication lately? There is a reason for that. It’s the prevalence of phishing as a major security threat. Phishing continues as the main cause of data breaches and security incidents. This has been the case for many years.A major shift in the email landscape is happening. The reason is to combat phishing scams. Email authentication is becoming a requirement for email service providers. It’s crucial to your online presence and communication to pay attention to this shift.Google and Yahoo are two of the world’s largest email providers. They have implemented a new DMARC policy that took effect in February 2024. This policy essentially makes email authentication essential. It’s targeted at businesses sending emails through Gmail and Yahoo Mail.But what’s DMARC, and why is it suddenly so important? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the world of email authentication. We’ll help
Have you ever seen a video of your favorite celebrity saying something outrageous? Then later, you find out it was completely fabricated? Or perhaps you’ve received an urgent email seemingly from your boss. But something felt off.Welcome to the world of deepfakes. This is a rapidly evolving technology that uses artificial intelligence (AI). It does this to create synthetic media, often in the form of videos or audio recordings. They can appear real but are actually manipulated.People can use deepfakes for creative purposes. Such as satire or entertainment. But their potential for misuse is concerning. Deepfakes have already made it into political campaigns. In 2024, a fake robocall mimicked the voice of a candidate. Scammers wanted to fool people into believing they said something they never said.Bad actors can use deepfakes to spread misinformation. As well as damage reputations and even manipulate financial markets. They are also used in phishing
Back when you were a kid, living in a “smart home” probably sounded futuristic. Something out of Back to the Future II or The Jetsons. Well, we don’t yet have flying cars, but we do have video telephones as well as smart refrigerators and voice-activated lights.But even the most advanced technology can have analog problems. Hackers can get past weak passwords. Bad connections can turn advanced into basic pretty quickly.Have you run into any issues with your smart home gadgets? Not to worry! We’ve got your back when it comes to troubleshooting several common smart home issues.Here are some of the most frequent problems along with simple steps to get your smart haven back on track.1. Connectivity WoesAre your smart gadgets refusing to connect to Wi-Fi? The main claim to fame of smart devices is that you can access them wirelessly. An internet connection is also vital to integrate several
It can be challenging to keep up with the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape. Companies need to process large amounts of data. As well as respond to incidents quickly and effectively. Managing an organization’s security posture is complex.That’s where Microsoft Security Copilot comes in. Microsoft Security Copilot is a generative AI-powered security solution. It provides tailored insights that empower your team to defend your network. It works with other Microsoft security products. It also integrates with natural language to generate tailored guidance and insights.In this article, we will explain what Microsoft Security Copilot is. We’ll explore its benefits and whether it’s the right choice to enhance your digital defenses.What Is Microsoft Security Copilot?Microsoft Security Copilot is a cutting-edge cybersecurity tool. It leverages the power of AI and machine learning for threat detection and response. Copilot aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of cybersecurity operations.Microsoft Security Copilot helps security teams:Respond to
Cloud computing has revolutionized the way businesses operate. It offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. But cloud services also come with a downside: cloud waste.Cloud waste is the unnecessary spending of resources and money on cloud services. These services are often not fully utilized or optimized. About 32% of cloud spending is wasted. This can lead to budget concerns as spendingskyrockets.But that figure also holds opportunity. It means that you can reduce nearly a third of cloud spending by optimizing how you use cloud tools.So, how can you reduce cloud waste at your business and save money? Here are some smart tactics to consider.Conduct a Comprehensive Cloud AuditBefore implementing any cost-cutting strategies, conduct an audit. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of your current cloud usage. Conducting a comprehensive cloud audit allows you to identify:Underutilized resourcesOverprovisioned instancesUnnecessary servicesUse cloud management tools to generate reports. Look at usage patterns, costs, and
We are living in an era dominated by digital connectivity. You can’t overstate the importance of cybersecurity. As technology advances, so do the threats that lurk in the online world.Often, it’s our own actions that leave us most at risk of a cyberattack or online scam. Risky behaviors include weak passwords and lax security policies. As well as thinking “This won’t happen to me.” This is why human error is the cause of approximately 88% of data breaches.The National Cybersecurity Alliance and CybSafe are working to correct poor cyber hygiene. Each year, the duo publishes a report on cybersecurity attitudes and behaviors. The goal is to educate both people and businesses. To educate them on how to better secure their digital landscapes.This year’s study surveyed over 6,000 people across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Germany, France, and New Zealand. The survey asked about several things. These include knowledge of cybersecurity
QR codes are everywhere these days. You can find them on restaurant menus, flyers, and posters. They’re used both offline and online. QR codes are convenient and easy to use. You just scan them with your smartphone camera. You’re then directed to a link, a coupon, a video, or some other online content.With the rise in popularity of QR codes comes an unfortunate dark side. Cybercriminals are exploiting this technology for nefarious purposes. Scammers create fake QR codes. They can steal your personal information. They can also infect your device with malware or trick you into paying money.It’s crucial to exercise caution when scanning QR codes. This emerging scam highlights the potential dangers lurking behind those seemingly innocent squares.Image source: Adobe StockThe QR Code ResurgenceQR codes were originally designed for tracking parts in the automotive industry. They have experienced a renaissance in recent years. As a result, they’re used as