Techcess: embracing technology and success in your business Podknows Podcasting

Microsoft has just announced an option for people to trial new features before their general release in Windows 11 This isn’t about fixes to security flaws – everyone gets those at the same time.
This is an opportunity for businesses to jump the queue to receive new features and updates first.
Sound exciting?
Yes!
Worth the risk?
Not quite.
If you want to check out our full episodes, covering everything from how to protect your business from a phishing attack, through to how you can effectively manage your patching systems, check them out here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com/episodes/
 
Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business?
 
Book a free chat with Mark!
 
Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here.
 

Do you want a phone system that won't break the bank and is dependable? Time to switch to VoIP. After all... you have to! Do you feel like you're constantly throwing money at an outdated phone system that still drops calls?
Do you struggle with poor sound quality and inefficient call routing?
It's time to take action before the PSTN switch-off leaves you without a working phone line.
In this episode, we'll help you understand the criticality of transitioning to VoIP, how it provides superior sound quality and cost savings, and give you practical steps to prepare for the switch-off.
 Say goodbye to frustration and hello to reliable communication.
Switch off of PSTN The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) has been a cornerstone of the UK's communication infrastructure for over a century.
However, with increasing demands for modern communication capabilities, the outdated system will be switched off in December 2025, as part of a nationwide initiative to transition towards a fully digital system.
Consequently, businesses currently using landlines or phone systems connected to the PSTN are urged to upgrade to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) solutions before the deadline.
Furthermore, the switch-off will impact other devices that utilize analogue phone lines, such as EPOS machines and alarm systems, which will also need upgrading.
During the episode, I, Mark Riddell, will be emphasising the cruciality of preparing in advance for the upcoming switch-off by evaluating affected devices and planning necessary upgrades, such as internet phone systems and fibre connections.
I'll also elaborate on the background of PSTN, its role in UK communications and the eventual need for modern systems like VoIP as a replacement.
Benefits of VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology offers a range of benefits over traditional landlines, which includes improved sound quality, better call routing, and significantly reduced costs.
One notable advantage is its flexibility, allowing users to make calls from anywhere across the globe, only requiring a stable internet connection.
This attribute helps support remote workers and employees who travel frequently.
Additionally, VoIP bypasses long-distance charges and other fees associated with PSTN calls, leading to considerable cost savings and increased affordability.
Lastly, the digital nature of VoIP equates to greater reliability, limiting instances of dropped and interrupted calls.
I'll also be highlighting the advantages of switching to VoIP, such as its enhanced flexibility, cost efficiency, and reliability, especially in contrast with traditional landline phones.
I'll explain how VoIP's capabilities improve business communications and sharing how your business can make the most of these benefits by upgrading to VoIP systems and fibre broadband connections.

 
Excerpt from episode 94 of Techcess (Download transcript)
"But it's not just phones that can be affected by the switch off, though. There's other devices that currently use analog phone lines, such as EPOS machines, which are card payment machines that you may have in your business, alarm systems which may be connected to an analog phone system in order to connect to like a monitoring center or an alerting system. These will also need to be upgraded, which could involve replacing the device themselves or installing new connections to the Internet. So it's worthwhile evaluating what you have within your business and your buildings to determine what is going to be affected by the switch off and when. We're talking about replacing devices, did you know that businesses typically keep the same phone system for over ten years?"
Tech Topics covered in this episode of Techcess:
 
Grasp the criticality of transitioning to a VoIP phone system before the PSTN switch-off.
Recognize the benefits VoIP phones provide, including superior sound quality, efficient call routing, and reduced cos

Cloud computing has quickly become a popular option for businesses that want to streamline their operations, reduce costs, and become more flexible. But are you swayed by the idea that cloud services are automatically better for the environment? 
Listen to this latest Tech Update to find out more about the benefits to your business of cloud computing!
 
If you want to check out our full episodes, covering everything from how to protect your business from a phishing attack, through to how you can effectively manage your patching systems, check them out here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com/episodes/
 
Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business?
 
Book a free chat with Mark!
 
Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here.
 

Finding Strength & Support During Cancer Treatment: m3's Q2 2023 charity partner - Sutton Cancer Support Centre Many struggle to find emotional support as an adult affected by cancer.
Some experience being told to just stay positive or think happy thoughts with no relief in sight. 
It's time to acknowledge the pain and frustration of ineffective actions and explore real solutions.
Join us as we delve into the crucial role of cancer support centres, specialised therapies, and the emotional and psychological strain of cancer.
Learn some real actionable techniques for regulating emotions and boosting self-assurance during difficult times.
Don't suffer in silence any longer. Listen to this episode of Techcess now.
m3 Networks' Q2 2023 charity partner - Sutton Cancer Support Centre Jackie Price joins me (Mark Riddell) from Sutton Cancer Support Centre, where she learned first-hand the power of complementary therapies, breathing and relaxation techniques, and the importance of supporting not just cancer patients, but their loved ones as well.
As the center manager at the Sutton Cancer Support Center, Jackie has both worked in the charity sector and faced her own challenges with the deadly disease.
Her personal experience and understanding of the emotional and psychological challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis make her an invaluable resource for those seeking support.
Jackie's dedication to helping others and her positive approach to life make her an inspiring figure in the cancer community.
And that's why we knew we had to get her on the podcast to talk about her work in the Sutton Cancer Support Centre and her experience around cancer, full stop.
Individualised support Each person's experience with cancer varies, so individualised support focuses on understanding and addressing the specific needs and concerns of each patient.
This tailored approach is crucial to making a positive impact on recovery, as it offers personalised guidance and coping strategies that cater to physical, emotional, and psychological challenges faced during the cancer journey.
Jackie Price talks us through the various one-to-one therapies and techniques provided at the Cancer Support Centre, such as acupuncture, reiki, and EMMET.
She emphasises how these offerings aim to help individuals manage their symptoms and feel more empowered in their cancer journey.
By understanding each person's unique needs, these support centers can provide targeted assistance to maximise its positive impact.

Mental and emotional impacts of cancer Emotional and psychological aspects of cancer are often overlooked, but they play a significant role in an individual's recovery and overall wellbeing.
The journey towards recovery from a cancer diagnosis can undoubtedly be a challenging one, where patients experience a range of emotions from shock, denial, anxiety, and depression to hope and acceptance.
Mindfulness and self-care become essential for improving mental wellbeing, reducing stress, and increasing focus and positivity during the recovery process.
During this podcast episode, Jackie Price shares her personal experience with breast cancer and highlights how vital emotional support was during her journey.
She emphasises the importance of Sutton Cancer Support's efforts in helping patients address their emotional and psychological needs throughout their battle with cancer.
Jackie believes that by creating safe spaces for individuals to share and learn from one another, cancer support centers can help ease this emotional burden.
Excerpt from episode 93 of Techcess (Download transcript)
"I knew what help was available, I knew what support was available, but it just flies out of your head completely. So if I take you through what support we give our clients, I'll do that. As my journey, I sat down with one of the experienced therapists at the center and she talked to me about what my diagnosis meant, what treatments I was going to

Airports, hotels, cafés... they offer public charging points. But should you use them? They’ve been in the news after the FBI recently tweeted advice to stop using them.
Crooks have figured out how to hijack USB ports to install malware and monitoring software onto devices as they charge.
Listen to this latest Tech Update to find out more about this latest threat to your online security!
 
If you want to check out our full episodes, covering everything from how to protect your business from a phishing attack, through to how you can effectively manage your patching systems, check them out here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com/episodes/
 
Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business?
 
Book a free chat with Mark!
 
Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here.
 

The Hidden Dangers of Relying on MFA for Cybersecurity Are you a busy business owner feeling frustrated by the lack of results from relying solely on Multi-Factor Authentication for your online security?
Do you feel like you're constantly playing catch-up with the latest cybersecurity threats?
Join us in this episode as we tackle the importance of a multi-layered approach to online security, explore the pitfalls of depending solely on MFA, and provide practical tips for creating strong passwords and maintaining good online hygiene.
Plus, discover the benefits of partnering with a security-centric IT firm for a more comprehensive defence strategy.
Don't let ineffective solutions leave you vulnerable - listen to this latest episode of the Techcess podcast, now!
Seriously! Don't rely solely on MFA!
I'm Mark Riddell, and in this episode of the Techcess podcast, I discussed the risks of relying solely on multi-factor authentication (MFA) for online security.
As a digital security specialist, I've seen how cybercriminals are constantly evolving their techniques and how relying only on MFA can create a false sense of security.
That's why I recommend adopting a multilayered approach to online security.
To enhance online security, I suggest using strong, unique passwords, staying vigilant against phishing attacks, keeping software and devices up to date, and enabling additional security features offered by online services.
Implementing security awareness training for team members can also help educate and raise awareness of potential cyber threats.
As a busy business owner or IT manager, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices.
That's why it's essential to work with a security-focused IT company that has your back.
By following my recommendations and adopting a multilayered security approach, you can ensure the security of your online accounts and data.
 

Dangers of relying solely on MFA
While MFA is a valuable and widely recommended security measure, it should not be the only line of defense for online accounts. Cyber criminals continue to evolve their tactics to bypass MFA, and a false sense of security can leave your accounts vulnerable to attack. Additionally, there is the risk of a single point of failure if access to the MFA token or device is lost or compromised. In the Techcess podcast, Mark Riddell outlines these risks and calls for caution when it comes to relying solely on MFA. He underscores the importance of adopting a multilayered security approach, which provides a more robust and comprehensive defense against potential threats.
How to protect online accounts
In today's digital world, online accounts can contain a vast amount of personal, sensitive, and valuable information.
Ensuring the security of these accounts is of utmost importance for both individuals and business owners.
There are various measures that can be taken to safeguard online accounts, including the use of strong, unique passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA), and being cautious about the information shared online.
Regularly updating account recovery information and keeping a close eye on account activity can also help in detecting and preventing unauthorized access.
I'm really hoping that after listening, you'll fully understand that relying solely on MFA for account security is not enough.
Listen to the episode to hear my suggestions for adopting additional steps towards truly protecting your business and its online assets.
In this episode, you will be able to:

Grasp the significance of adopting a multi-layered approach when securing yourself online.
Recognise the pitfalls of relying solely on Multi-Factor Authentication in safeguarding your digital life.
Master the creation of robust, unique passwords and adopting proper online hygiene practices.
Stay ahead by being aware of the most up-to-date cybersecurity threats affecting the digit