This page contains answers to common questions handled by our support staff, along with some tips and tricks that we have found useful and presented here as questions.

• What does "Data Security" mean?

Many people think of Data Security as freedom from or protection against hackers.  We take a broader view of Data Security to include not only privacy protection, but protection of the availability and integrity of your data, hardware, and network.  Data loss, theft, and temporary unavailability due to hardware or software failures all pose risks to your business.

• How do I know if my database is secure?

You can get an idea of how secure your data is by being aware of areas of risk and failure, and knowing what steps you have taken to manage them. We classify risks into two broad categories:

1. Risk of unauthorized access or theft. These types of risks typically are managed through the use of techniques such as firewalls and encryption.

2. Risk of data loss or unavailability. There are many sources there risks including hardware / software failure, human error, and virus / spyware. Preventative measures such as hardware redundancy, backup strategies, disaster recovery plans, and firewall protection can help manage them.

• What does a Firewall do?

The task of a firewall is to protect your computer / network against unauthorized access from the outside, which often occurs via the internet. Hackers are on the lookout for private data (such as Social Security numbers, Credit Card numbers, Bank Account information, etc.) to exploit ...

Read the article "Understanding and Using Firewalls" for more details...

• What is the difference between a Software Firewall and a Hardware Firewall

A Software Firewall is a computer program whose job is to filter all connections to the internet and prevent unauthorized access to your computer / network, and any data stored there.

A Hardware Firewall has the same job as a Software Firewall, but since it is a dedicated piece of hardware that connects between your computer / network and the internet, it tends to be more effective and reliable.

One important difference is that viruses can easily disable a software firewall, while it is much more difficult for a virus to attack a good hardware firewall. When it comes to firewalls, you get what you pay for.

• How much would it cost me to achieve true Data Security in my office?

There are various levels of protection plus the size of your business is a factor, so the best answer is  it depends on what you are doing now, and how secure your data needs to be ...

• How do I know which kind of Data Security I need?

That is where Tek Team Xtreme come in. You should get an evaluation to understand your position and risks, before buying expensive equipment or services.

Any Security evaluation should show areas of concern for your business, with explanations you understand, and several levels of possible solutions.

• What is the difference between a PC used as a server, and a "Real" purpose built Server?

This is an interesting question, since so many equipment vendors don't make a distinction.

A purpose built "Server" is a machine designed to be the center / controller of a Local Area Network (LAN). To do this job it can have special features not generally found in a workstation, like: Dual Power Supplies, Dual Processors, RAID disk drives (Multiple mirrored drives), and it usually runs a Server operating system like Windows 2003 Advanced Server.

A workstation on the other hand is just like every other machine in your network with perhaps a tape drive added for doing backups. There is no comparison in terms of reliability; the workstation is not intended by the manufacturer to be a centerpiece for managing a business.

• Is financing available to do Data Security upgrades to my office?

Absolutely! The terms and conditions will vary by project, but any estimate can certainly include a financing option.

•  Whom should I contact if the security system has some problem?

We can help you get your business up and running in case of an emergency. More importantly, we work with you to prevent and manage problems before they occur. 

We stand behind any work we do. Contact us for more information.

• Can I contact you if I have other computer related problems in my office?

Of course! We will help you maintain any computer / network equipment you already have, regardless of who installed it. We are also available to help with equipment upgrades as technology advance.

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