by Felicien | Oct 16, 2021 | Education
Outages Result of DDoS Attack” Confirms Bandwidth CEO
David Morken, CEO of Bandwidth.com, has confirmed that a DDoS attack was responsible for recent outages reported on the site on September 27th. Citing that “a number of critical communications service providers have been targeted by a rolling DDoS attack” in a recent statement, Morken also apologized to those who were significantly impacted and assured users that the issue was being addressed and fixed.
As attacks such as this continue to rise, it’s important for fellow businesses to understand what exactly went wrong and if anything could have been done differently to avoid such a catastrophe. DDoS attacks and similar breaches of security can cause serious damage to business reputations and may even put companies under completely.
Let’s take a closer look at this most recent DDoS attack on Bandwidth.com — an attack that also affected several other communications service providers.
What Does Bandwidth.com Do?
Before getting into the details of the attack, let’s take a look at the company Bandwidth. Bandwidth.com is a global enterprise cloud communications business. Basically, they are a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service company.
VoIP solutions companies provide VoIP services (incoming and outgoing communications using the Internet or IP networks instead of telephone systems) to both individual consumers and businesses.
What Is a DDoS Attack?
DDoS stands for distributed denial-of-service. This type of attack essentially corrupts the attack victim’s computer services (usually a website) so that they are unusable. It does this through overwhelming the target site with sham malicious traffic. The site becomes so flooded that it’s unable to operate correctly.
What Should We Know About This DDoS Attack Against Bandwidth.com?
The DDoS attack that occurred in September of 2021 targeted Bandwidth.com, but they weren’t the only victims. In fact, cybercriminals launched several attacks — some of which reached other communications companies as well.
These companies include VoIP.ms, Voip Unlimited, and Voipfone. Several of the targeted DDoS plans included ransomware infections.
Ransomware is malicious software, or malware, that comes with a ransom threat. Effectively, the target must decide if they want to recover access to their computer systems in exchange for paying a large sum of money to the cybercriminal or if they want to figure out a fix on their own and likely risk losing original access to their networks. Sometimes, actual data is on the line, and if the ransom is not paid, data will be lost, stolen, and sold on the dark web, or permanently corrupted.
An Update on Bandwidth.com’s Status
CEO David Morken stated that Bandwidth’s team was working around the clock to minimize the impact of the attack. However, they also admitted that many of their clients and users had already been affected. Multiple MSPs and other clients who use Bandwidth as a host also stated having issues, which were affecting their own systems and clients in a catastrophic cascade effect.
After the initial phase of outages, Bandwidth.com updated its status with several more partial outages. Issues affected both outbound and inbound calling services.
Keeping Your Business Safe From DDoS Attacks
According to recent reports, distributed denial-of-service attacks are on the rise in North America and other places like Europe and Australia. Like it or not, cybercriminals are getting more creative as they target large corporations and businesses in an attempt to steal data, corrupt networks, wreak general havoc, and, of course, make money.
Although it’s not pleasant to consider, it’s best to act as if your business may be targeted by a DDoS attack in the future. Doing so can help orient your purpose when it comes to cybersecurity and will spur you to make the necessary decisions to keep your business safe. Essentially, fear is the worst.
This means reminding yourself and your employees that they should be on the lookout for signs of a cyberattack. Understand and train your staff on phishing scams and other telltale signs of cybercrime.
It also means hiring an MSP that has strength in cybersecurity. Speak to them about their preventive measures regarding DDoS attacks and similar breaches of security. What do they do to prevent these issues, and what do they do when one occurs?
No matter how small your business or what industry you’re in, you can always be the target of cybercrime. Put in the time and energy necessary to keep your business safe from harm.
by Felicien | Oct 5, 2021 | Education
What You Need To Know About The Facebook Outage
Facebook and its associated services experienced a six-hour outage on Monday.
Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Oculus suffered a major outage over the course of Monday, Oct. 4. Beginning just before noon EST, the outage lasted six hours, preventing users from accessing their social media profiles, messaging apps, and Oculus-based services.
How Did This Happen?
In a blog post issued Monday night, Facebook reported that the outage was the result of a configuration change to its routers.
This “networking traffic issue” resulted in a cascading disruption to the way the company’s data centers communicate. What should have been a routine Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) update wiped out the routing information that allows other networks to find sites like Facebook and Instagram?
This was especially disruptive to Facebook’s internal company processes because they all rely on their own platform. Staff members communicate using Facebook messenger, which was unavailable while they were trying to determine a resolution. This only further disrupted their recovery processes.
3 Lessons To Learn From The Facebook Outage
This is the worst outage Facebook has experienced since 2019 when they were offline for more than a day. While Facebook services are nonessential, they do offer a low-cost platform for small businesses, which are undoubtedly hit the hardest during outages like these.
Here are three key takeaways:
Routine processes cannot be overlooked: If something as minor as a BGP update can take a business like Facebook offline for a quarter of a day, consider what is at stake at your business. Anytime your staff interacts with business systems and data, you need to ensure they’re doing so carefully. One wrong click could result in lost data or a period of downtime.
Prepare for the worst: No matter how big or how resource-rich a business is, it can still experience crippling downtime. Make sure to invest the right time and resources in developing your business continuity and disaster recovery processes.
Always have a plan: Facebook has learned not to rely on its own platform as an internal messaging solution — do you rely too heavily on one tool as well? Make sure you have an alternative ready to go so that you don’t have to start from scratch when the worst occurs.
As always, events like this prove that IT is an error-prone and complicated part of the business world. You need to plan ahead to both prevent downtime and mitigate the effect it has on your business when it can’t be avoided.
by Felicien | Oct 2, 2021 | Education
Are You Ready For Windows 11 Official Release on October 5, 2021?
As the official release date for the free upgrade to Windows 11 nears, it is time to prepare for the new Windows experience. You can upgrade to the new operating system, depending on the eligibility of your Windows 7 or 10 PC. Microsoft announced that the new OS comes with specific system requirements for all computers running on Windows 10. On the other hand, new devices will come pre-loaded with Windows 11.
The new operating system incorporates various features capable of empowering your productivity and creativity. As of October 5, 2021, you can take advantage of the rollout, which will continue until mid-2022. Microsoft has staggered the rollout to mainstream users based on PC specifications.
For this reason, you may not immediately qualify for the upgrade but can expect to gain access to the update by mid-2022. On the other hand, Microsoft will continue rolling out some Windows 11 features after the official release date. One of the groundbreaking features for the new OS is Android app integration.
How the Windows 11 Rollout Works
The tech giant plans to implement the first rollout based on criteria, such as device age, hardware eligibility, metrics, reliability, and other considerations. New personal computers will be the first to receive an upgrade to the new operating system.
Windows 10 users will receive notifications to upgrade devices via the traditional system update feature. Alternatively, you can check when the upgrade is available for your computer via the Windows update section in the settings. Microsoft plans to introduce an improved PC Health Check app to help users determine when a PC is eligible for the upgrade.
Meanwhile, if your PC is ineligible for the upgrade, you can still have the option to install Windows 11. However, your device assumes an unsupported state. This status may or may not block your access to critical OS system security and driver updates.
Windows 11 Upgrade: Minimum System Requirements
To qualify for a Windows 11 upgrade, your device should meet the minimum required specifications. According to Microsoft, your computer’s processor should be 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 4 gigabytes random access memory (RAM). The device should have a minimum of 64GB of storage space.
Additional requirements include:
720p display
TPM: Trusted Platform Module 2.0
DirectX 12 graphics card or later (should come with a WDDM 2.0 driver)
UEFI system firmware (secure boot capable)
Windows 11 Feature Highlights
Windows 11 comes with an ultra-modern and attractive interface centered around the user’s needs. Fresh sounds complement the new design and advanced features to provide a refreshing user experience.
The operating system incorporates a revamped Microsoft Store app that streamlines content searches. In addition, you can look forward to downloading and installing your favorite Android apps, thanks to Microsoft’s partnership with Amazon and Intel. However, this feature is more likely to appear in Windows 11 sometime in 2022.
Another interesting feature is Snap Groups; it provides access to two previously snapped windows, such as an email app or browser. You can access these Windows without snapping to the previous view. Additionally, it is possible to take advantage of the revamped multi-monitor support, which automatically takes you to the previous window view on a particular monitor.
In Windows 11, the update feature displays an estimated installation time to help you choose the ideal time to install security, feature, and driver updates. As such, you can update immediately or hold off, depending on your current activities and other considerations.
The introduction of the Microsoft Teams app revolutionizes how you communicate or connect with colleagues, friends, and family via your PC. With Teams, you can call or chat with your contacts, irrespective of the device they are using.
With Windows 11, you can access widgets via the dock for added convenience. The revamped widget feature leverages artificial intelligence to adapt it based on the applications you are using and the current time. Widgets appear on the desktop if you swipe from left to right on the touch screen.
You can choose various widgets, depending on your interests. Examples of widgets available include weather, news, maps, and much more.
Microsoft also redesigned a variety of apps, such as photos, paint, and the sniping tool. The changes align with Windows 11‘s fluent design language.
by Felicien | Sep 20, 2021 | Education
Are You Planning to Download Windows 11 Free Update? Here’s a Quick Guide
Microsoft’s new operating system has generated considerable interest from users and tech experts. Windows 11 brings many key new features that enhance the overall user experience. From October 5, 2021, Microsoft will roll out the update to eligible Windows 7 and 10 users. The OS will also become standard in new devices.
Once the rollout commences, you can upgrade your personal computer using the default Windows update feature. However, the upgrade is only available for computers that meet the minimum system requirements. If your PC does not meet the requirements, you can opt to implement the recommended workaround. However, the workaround uses solutions outside of the Windows ecosystem.
On the other hand, the Windows Insider Program is already offering access to a preview build. This preview is available exclusively to Windows Insider Program members. Microsoft recently released an ISO file to allow members to install the new operating system directly. As a first build, the preview version does not come with a complete set of Windows 11 features.
Downloading Windows 11 Using an ISO File
If you opt to download the Windows 11 preview build, you can copy the operating system directly from the file to a compact disc or a USB drive. With the external drive, it becomes easier to install Windows 11 to a virtual machine, dual-boot system, or personal computer.
Since this option is only available to Windows Insider Program members, you need to register if you are not already a member. Once registered, you are eligible to download the ISO file via the Windows Insider Preview downloads page. Microsoft offers two preview versions from which to choose: the Beta channel and the Dev channel.
With the Dev channel, you gain access to the latest updates and Windows 11 features. On the downside, this preview build is typically buggier. For a more stable version, opt for the Beta channel. The downloads page allows you to choose a product language before proceeding with the download.
Installing the ISO File
The installation process varies, depending on the target device. You can install the file directly to a virtual machine using the VM application. Meanwhile, the installation process differs significantly when the target device is a dedicated PC or a dual-boot system. In this case, you need to copy the file to removable media using the Windows USB/DVD download tool. Experts recommend this utility because it makes your DVD or USB drive bootable.
It is vital to choose an external drive with adequate space to accommodate approximately 5GB. Thus, consider using a USB drive rather than a DVD. Standard DVDs typically come with roughly 4.8GB of storage space. Dual-layer variants provide up to 8.5GB of space.
Downloading Windows 11 After the Official Release Date
If you opt to wait for the official Windows 11 rollout, you can upgrade your PC the traditional way. Microsoft allows you to download the files via the Windows update feature. You simply click the install updates button in Windows 7 or check the updates button in Windows 10, and you will get a new OS.
However, the new OS may become available on your device several months after the official rollout date. So the quickest way to get your hands on the final build is to buy a new computer.
Microsoft will complete the rollout process by mid-2022. Factors that determine when Windows 11 will be available for your PC include age and hardware. In addition, the free upgrade is only available to licensed Windows 7 and 10 operating systems.
What to Expect From Windows 11
The upgrade brings many useful features, such as access to Android apps via the Microsoft Store. In addition, you can also look forward to enhanced communication capabilities, thanks to the integrated Microsoft Teams app. Windows 11 also boasts a revamped design, incorporating pastel colors, a centralized Start button, and a new startup sound.
Microsoft also introduces a wide selection of new desktop tools, including widgets. The new OS simplifies virtual desktop creation for added convenience. On the gaming front, Windows 11 leverages the full power of advanced technologies for a superior gaming experience.
Examples of the gaming technologies that unlock your device’s full gaming potential include DirectX 12 Ultimate, Direct Storage, and Auto HDR. These technologies enhance graphics quality and loading time for a captivating visual experience.
by Felicien | Sep 14, 2021 | Education
If You Own These Four Small Business Cisco Routers: It’s Time to Replace Them
A security flaw discovered in RV110W, RV130, RV130W, and RV215W Cisco routers creates significant vulnerabilities. Traditionally, these UPnP (universal plug and play) routers would receive security updates from the vendor. However, Cisco recently announced that it has no plans to release a security patch for the devices. As a result, the company recommends replacing the routers.
Security experts noted that the four devices fell victim to the remote command execution vulnerability. Improper validation of inputs triggers the vulnerability (CVE-2021-1459), which has a common vulnerability scoring system (CVSS) score of 9.8 out of 10. This issue affects the router’s management interface.
If you fail to replace the routers, you create an opportunity for a cybercriminal to execute code on the router. The remote attacker can exploit the device without authentication by delivering specially designed HTTP requests. In such cases, the bad actor assumes the root user status on the underlying operating system. As a result, it becomes easier to execute arbitrary code or launch a denial of service (DoS) attack.
Experts believe that replacing the routers forms part of a more comprehensive cybersecurity measure to harden network defenses. Failing to heed the recommendation is not an option, irrespective of company size.
End of Support
Cisco is not releasing a security patch because the routers are nearing the end of their working life. Additionally, support is ending for the devices. Although there are no known exploitation instances and proof of concept exploits, you should take risks posed by the security flaw seriously. If you need more time before replacing the devices, consider disabling the virtual private network (VPN) service. Doing so mitigates the risk of an attacker remotely exploiting this feature.
According to Cisco, you can determine the status of the VPN by opening the web-based management interface. In the Basic Settings, find the UPnP feature and tick the Disable box.
Benefits of Using a Business-Class VPN Router
A VPN router is a practical solution for small businesses looking to ensure secure communication. By investing in this type of device, you take advantage of a VPN tunnel that safeguards communication between two networks. The router can also handle secure connections for remote teams, irrespective of location.
Some manufacturers offer devices that enable your team to manage VPN functions centrally. It is also possible to configure individual routers to suit your specific needs. The ideal devices come with failover and load balancing capabilities. If you need more flexibility, opt for devices that run open-source software.
Doing so makes it easier to replace the router’s OS and create additional features. On the downside, this option is not ideal for all businesses. Thus, choose your router carefully.
Advanced routers support up to 45 tunnels and come with robust firewalls to filter traffic in both directions. They also set minimum password complexity standards and incorporate encryption keys. Vendors like Cisco offers wide-ranging VPN routers for small businesses. The devices are more affordable and secure. Some business-class VPN routers are easier to configure, while others require advanced tech skills to set up and manage.
On the other hand, mesh wireless network solutions maximize coverage using nodes and satellite modules. These modules and satellites expand coverage throughout your business premises.
How to Bolster WiFi Network Security
A business WiFi network is an essential component of doing business in today’s connected world. However, an unsecured network compromises your company’s ability to operate smoothly. Cybercriminals can launch denial of service attacks or steal sensitive business information. Thankfully, there are various ways to safeguard your WiFi network.
One of the effective ways to improve security is to keep your router’s OS up to date. Also, replace any routers nearing their end of life or support. By keeping the devices up to date, you take advantage of the router vendor’s security patches and bug fixes.
Additional measures include:
Invest in a business-class VPN router with advanced security features
Harden cyberdefenses by doubling your firewall
Store the route in a physically secure area
Employ advanced encryption protocols
Eliminate unofficial access points
Disable WiFi Protected Setup or WPS
On another level, it is crucial to ensure that your router’s firewall is active. Some routers require manual activation. The manufacturer may list the firewall under network address translation (NAT) or stateful packet inspection (SPI). You can find the feature in the device’s settings.
by Felicien | Sep 6, 2021 | Education
Do You Want to Speed Up Your Computer? Here are Top Tips
A slow computer can undermine productivity and become a source of frustration. Fortunately, there are several ways to boost speed and overall performance, irrespective of whether your computer is relatively new or older. You can achieve the desired performance by following specific tips unless your device is experiencing considerable hardware problems.
Installing the latest version of the operating system (OS) is one of the best ways to supercharge your device’s performance. Updating the OS also allows the system to search, download, and install the latest device drivers.
Here are proven ways to boost your computer’s processing power.
Uninstall Redundant Applications
Software or applications that you no longer need consume system resources unnecessarily. Uninstalling redundant apps frees up space and system resources, contributing to improved performance. Dormant apps occupy critical space in your computer’s directory structure and registry. For this reason, you need to uninstall the software properly via the control panel.
To get rid of unwanted files and other unnecessary registry entries, consider using apps like CCleaner. These programs can remove unwanted apps, even if they do not appear in the control panel. Proper removal is vital if you want to prevent them from reloading after rebooting.
Defragment the Hard Drive
Defragmentation provides an effective way to reorganize information on your computer’s hard drive. In doing so, you gather scattered pieces of data and combine them in proper order. Operating systems are constantly dealing with files being written, resized, and deleted. These activities result in considerable fragmentation. The best part about defragmentation is that you boost PC performance.
Add More RAM
Increasing random access memory (RAM) is another surefire way to speed up a slow PC. However, this option is viable on some gaming and business laptops. Most detachable and convertible laptops cannot add RAM. On the other hand, desktop computers make it easier to increase RAM to suit your needs.
Delete Temporary Files
Temporary files can hog your computer’s performance and undermine your productivity. You should consider deleting them from the PC. However, you may need to skip some files if the system prevents you from removing them. This approach frees critical space on the hard drive, boosting overall performance. Emptying the entire temporary internet files directory is possible, but you need to exercise caution.
Reduce Startup Programs
Startup processes play an integral role in your computer’s performance. Launching a high number of applications during startup eats up system resources. Thus, you should manage your PC’s startup processes to limit active programs during booting. However, it is vital to choose carefully the programs you disable.
Applications like antivirus programs deserve to launch during startup, while word processors and browsers are removable from the list. Ultimately, the final list depends on your specific needs. You can manage startup processes via the task manager in Windows 10.
Scan for Malware
Viruses and spyware can compromise your device’s performance. Thus, scan the computer regularly using antivirus programs like Comodo, Norton, Windows Defender, and Avast. You should select the ideal software carefully to avoid installing a heavy antivirus program that slows down your PC.
Ideally, you need a light program that scans the system efficiently without occupying large spaces on your computer. Some applications can protect your PC and monitor performance. These programs are capable of resolving performance issues.
Choose the Right Browser
Your choice of a browser is also crucial in achieving the desired processing speed. Browsers like Chrome are resource-intensive, compromising overall PC performance. The ideal browser does not affect your computer’s speed, even if you open multiple tabs. As a result, you also enjoy improved browsing and page loading speeds.
Opt for Startup Solid-State Drive (SSD)
A startup solid-state drive (SSD) aids your processor in handling resource-intensive tasks. In doing so, it boosts performance, allowing you to run multiple applications simultaneously. Photo and video editing software eat up a significant amount of memory. Thankfully, SSD enhances your PC’s processing power, making it easier to run these applications without undermining performance.
A solid-state drive enables resource-intensive apps to load faster and run optimally. You can install it on a desktop computer or a laptop. SSD can operate internally or externally, depending on your device’s hardware status.
External units connect to your device via a USB port. Once you install an SSD, your computer performs better at startup.
