Tag: microsoft for business

  • Not ready for Windows 11? Microsoft has announced it’s possible to get free security updates for Windows 10 for a year – but there’s a catch

    Not ready for Windows 11? Microsoft has announced it’s possible to get free security updates for Windows 10 for a year – but there’s a catch

    Microsoft’s end-of-support date for Windows 10 is fast approaching: October 14th, 2025. After this date, regular security updates for Windows 10 will stop, leaving devices potentially exposed to cyber threats.

    But there’s new information that gives businesses a little breathing room. Microsoft has announced that it will offer free security updates for Windows 10 users for one additional year, providing some temporary relief for those not ready to migrate to Windows 11. However, before you put your upgrade plans on pause, you need to understand the catch.

    Historically, when Microsoft ends support for an operating system, businesses must either upgrade to a newer version or pay for Extended Security Updates (ESUs) to keep receiving critical patches. With this announcement, Microsoft is giving users a 12-month extension of free ESUs, allowing them to continue receiving vital security updates through October 2026.

    This is particularly helpful for organizations that:

    • Rely on legacy applications that don’t play well with Windows 11
    • Have hardware not yet compatible with the new OS
    • Need extra time to budget, plan, and test a smooth transition

    However, there is a catch for redeeming the free offer, you need to do one of the following steps:

    • Pay $30 in local currency.
    • Use Windows Backup to sync your settings to the cloud.
    • Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.

    So this offer is only free if you utilize Windows Backup or have Microsoft points to redeem, otherwise it’s $30 which is still less than the $61 per user that was originally reported by Microsoft (and us).

    Also, while this free security patch extension buys time, it is not a long-term solution. Once the grace period ends, businesses will need to:

    • Upgrade to Windows 11 or beyond
    • Pay for extended security updates beyond the free year
    • Risk running unsupported devices that are vulnerable to cyberattacks

    It’s also important to note that Microsoft has not promised feature updates or full support during this period, only essential security patches. Outdated software and hardware may still experience compatibility and performance issues, leaving businesses at a disadvantage compared to those who make the switch sooner.

    Microsoft’s free Windows 10 security updates for an extra year are a welcome reprieve, but they’re not a permanent fix. The safest, most cost-effective path forward is to start planning your Windows 11 migration now, rather than waiting for the clock to run out. Contact Valley Techlogic today to schedule your Windows 11 readiness assessment and avoid the risks of running unsupported systems.

    Looking for more to read? We suggest these other articles from our site.

    This article was powered by Valley Techlogic, leading provider of trouble free IT services for businesses in California including Merced, Fresno, Stockton & More. You can find more information at https://www.valleytechlogic.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/valleytechlogic/ . Follow us on X at https://x.com/valleytechlogic and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/valley-techlogic-inc/.

  • 5 ways to organize your Microsoft 365 files to maximize your productivity this year

    5 ways to organize your Microsoft 365 files to maximize your productivity this year

    If you’re a Microsoft 365 subscriber – or considering it to utilize tools like Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more in your business – you may not be taking advantage of all of the features it has to offer.

    These features include ways to help organize your files and corral your workload under one umbrella, which is useful with the deluge of information many of us are processing each day in the course of performing our job duties.

    Here are five ways to utilize Microsoft 365 to organize your files day to day:

    1. Use OneDrive for Personal Storage – Store and organize personal work files in OneDrive, using folders and tags for easy retrieval. OneDrive also allows for automatic backup and syncing across devices.
    2. Leverage SharePoint for Team Collaboration – Store shared files in SharePoint libraries, where teams can access, edit, and co-author documents with version control and permission settings.
    3. Utilize Microsoft Teams for File Organization – Upload and manage files directly in Microsoft Teams under specific channels, ensuring that relevant documents are easily accessible to team members.
    4. Tag and Search with Microsoft Search – Use metadata, tags, and keywords in file names to make documents easier to find using Microsoft Search across OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams.
    5. Automate File Organization with Power Automate – Set up workflows that automatically sort, move, or categorize files based on specific triggers (e.g., when a file is uploaded, it moves to a designated folder).

    OneDrive in particular can be very helpful in extending your computers storage and organizing files to share throughout your company and can replace more insecure methods like DropBox or emailing directly. OneDrive can even be purchased as a standalone subscription if you’re not sure about making the switch to Microsoft 365 yet (though we highly recommend it).

    Also, if exploring AI as a tool to increase productivity is one of your 2025 goals, Microsoft’s Copilot and OneDrive work together seamlessly to help you with your automatic file organization goals. Copilot can make suggestions on how you should organize your files based on their content, usage and collaboration history.

    It also gives you a hand with searching for files in a way that’s more intuitive than your average Windows file search function. You can ask it something like “Show me the files I worked on last week” instead of trying to remember specific file names for example.

    Valley Techlogic has been partnering with Microsoft for more than 20 years and we’re experts in providing businesses with cohesive solutions that help them maximize their technology investments, including subscriptions like Microsoft 365. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more.

    Looking for more to read? We suggest these other articles from our site.

    This article was powered by Valley Techlogic, leading provider of trouble free IT services for businesses in California including Merced, Fresno, Stockton & More. You can find more information at https://www.valleytechlogic.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/valleytechlogic/ . Follow us on X at https://x.com/valleytechlogic and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/valley-techlogic-inc/.

  • Apple releases their new M4 chip and it’s getting rave reviews, also considering the benefits of Apple vs Microsoft for your office

    Apple releases their new M4 chip and it’s getting rave reviews, also considering the benefits of Apple vs Microsoft for your office

    As a Microsoft partner we have to be honest, we don’t usually recommend Apple products to our clients. For us as an IT service provider the more cohesive a client’s hardware stack is the easier it is for us to recommend a concentric approach to your services. When all devices are from the same vendor and of a similar age and specifications you can take the same approach to managing them across the board.

    However, that ease is only slightly advantageous on our end, the truth is it’s better to meet a clients needs for supplying their employees with the right device for their workflow than trying to have everyone on the same type of device across the board just to make managing them slightly easier.

    For some businesses that means having more powerful devices for certain admin employees with a heavy workflow, having tiny devices for interns and those who aren’t using a computer very often, laptops for those on the go very frequently, and Apple products for those who depend on certain Apple software to do their day-to-day job (often those in creative fields) or those who just prefer the Apple UI to the Windows UI.

    With the roll out of this new M4 chip we will see broader applications for those who need a small device that still packs a big punch, while it’s currently only available on the iPad we are certain we will see lighter, faster laptops sporting this new chip soon.

    The benchmarks currently available for this chip are impressive as well, with it coming in at being a 50% increase in performance over their M2 chips and outpacing Intel’s own current top CPU, the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H while using only one fourth of the power according to reports.

    So not only will the devices sporting this chip be faster, but they will also likely have improved battery life over the competition as well.

    Of course, price is another consideration especially when trying to budget for an office, with the 11-inch iPad coming in at a starting price of $999 we anticipate laptops using this new technology will be on the spendy side as well. This is of course not unheard of when buying new tech though and something we often see with new graphics cards, new CPU’s from other makers, etc. If you want the latest in greatest in technology, you will have to be prepared to pay for it.

    According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, the first M4 MacBook Pro could launch around the end of 2024. He anticipates we won’t see a full roll out of the new product line until early 2025.

    If outfitting your office with devices that meet your employee’s needs, upgrading older devices, or just evaluating your hardware stack is something you’re considering, Valley Techlogic is able to help.

    As you can see, procurement assistance is one of the services we offer to our customers at no additional cost. Reach out today and learn more about how we can assist you in bringing your office into greater technological productivity in 2024.

    Looking for more to read? We suggest these other articles from our site.

    This article was powered by Valley Techlogic, an IT service provider in Atwater, CA. You can find more information at https://www.valleytechlogic.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/valleytechlogic/ . Follow us on Twitter at https://x.com/valleytechlogic.

  • 5 Ways Microsoft 365 Business Premium Elevates Your Operations and is the Superior Choice for Your Business

    5 Ways Microsoft 365 Business Premium Elevates Your Operations and is the Superior Choice for Your Business

    In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, having the right tools to streamline your business operations is essential. Microsoft 365 offers a suite of powerful applications designed to enhance productivity, collaboration, and security. Among its offerings, Microsoft 365 Business Premium stands out as the ultimate solution for businesses seeking a comprehensive suite of tools tailored to their needs. In this blog post, we’ll explore the five best ways to leverage Microsoft 365 Business Premium in your business and why it greatly surpasses Microsoft 365 Business Basic and Microsoft 365 Business Standard as our top choice in Microsoft 365 subscription options.

    1. Advanced Security Features

    One of the most compelling reasons we’ve found to opt for Microsoft 365 Business Premium is its advanced security features. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, protecting your business data is paramount. Microsoft 365 Business Premium offers built-in threat protection, advanced data loss prevention, and information protection capabilities. Features like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) safeguard your business from phishing attacks, malware, and other malicious activities. By investing in robust security measures, you can mitigate risks and safeguard your sensitive information effectively.

    1. Enhanced Collaboration Tools

    Effective collaboration is the cornerstone of success for modern businesses. Microsoft 365 Business Premium provides a suite of collaboration tools that facilitate seamless communication and teamwork. With Microsoft Teams, employees can chat, meet, call, and collaborate in real-time, regardless of their location. SharePoint Online enables secure document management and file sharing, allowing teams to access important resources from any device. Moreover, features like Microsoft Whiteboard and OneNote promote creativity and idea sharing, fostering a culture of innovation within your organization.

    1. Comprehensive Productivity Applications

    Microsoft 365 Business Premium offers access to a comprehensive suite of productivity applications, including office favorites like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. These applications are essential for creating, editing, and sharing documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and emails. By harnessing these productivity tools, your team can work more efficiently and deliver high-quality results.

    1. Simplified IT Management

    Managing IT infrastructure can be complex and time-consuming, especially for small and medium-sized businesses with limited resources. Microsoft 365 Business Premium simplifies IT management by providing centralized administration through the Microsoft 365 admin center. From one intuitive dashboard, administrators can manage user accounts, devices, security policies, and compliance settings. By streamlining IT management processes, you can focus on growing your business without being burdened by technical complexities. All of this can be set up by your IT provider (looking for an IT provider? Consider Valley Techlogic).

    1. Scalability and Flexibility

    As your business grows and evolves, your technological needs may change. Microsoft 365 Business Premium offers scalability and flexibility to adapt to your organization’s requirements. Whether you’re adding new users, expanding into new markets, or embracing remote work, Microsoft 365 Business Premium provides the flexibility to scale your IT infrastructure accordingly. With a predictable monthly subscription model, you can align your technology expenses with your business priorities and avoid the upfront costs associated with traditional software licensing.

    Why Microsoft 365 Business Premium?

    While Microsoft 365 Business Basic and Microsoft 365 Business Standard offer valuable features, Microsoft 365 Business Premium emerges as the superior choice for businesses seeking an all-inclusive solution that combines advanced security, enhanced collaboration, comprehensive productivity applications, simplified IT management, and scalability. By investing in Microsoft 365 Business Premium, you’re not just adopting a suite of tools – you’re empowering your business to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

    Microsoft 365 Business Premium offers a compelling value proposition for businesses of all sizes, enabling them to unlock their full potential and achieve greater success. By leveraging its advanced features and capabilities, businesses can enhance productivity, foster collaboration, strengthen security, streamline IT management, and adapt to changing business needs with ease. Embrace the power of Microsoft 365 Business Premium and take your business to new heights. Learn more today by scheduling a consultation with Valley Techlogic.

    Looking for more to read? We suggest these other articles from our site.

    This article was powered by Valley Techlogic, an IT service provider in Atwater, CA. You can find more information at https://www.valleytechlogic.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/valleytechlogic/ . Follow us on Twitter at https://x.com/valleytechlogic.

  • 10 Microsoft 365 tools you need to take advantage of TODAY

    10 Microsoft 365 tools you need to take advantage of TODAY

    Most of our clients are Microsoft 365 customers and enjoy the tools and applications they receive through their Microsoft 365 subscription. Many of these same clients were long time Office customers and were already familiar with the software benefits – such as Word, Office, Outlook, Powerpoint and Excel. These are staple products in the business community and chances are if you’ve been in business long enough you’ve had some exposure to them throughout your career.

    We have had clients who miss the days when Office was a standalone product only. While you still can purchase Office 2021 for a one-time fee, many have to weigh the value of a pretty substantial upfront cost when purchasing for many employees for a product that will at some point expire vs the subscription model that is now favored by many software companies. This is a discussion onto itself, but in a nutshell many clients choose to go with a Microsoft 365 subscription.

    There is an obvious benefit to doing so right off the bat if you choose to go with Microsoft 365 Business Premium, the security benefits of this plan are well known and touted throughout the technology industry as being the crème de la crème of security suites for Windows machines.

    However, there are many benefits to your Microsoft 365 subscription that many users are not even aware of. Microsoft 365 is much more than just an Office subscription – your plan comes with business utility programs that can make organizing and running your business better.

    Here are 10 tools you can take advantage of TODAY if you have a Microsoft 365 subscription:

    1. Microsoft OneNote: OneNote is Microsoft’s digital notetaking app, it’s a step way above NotePad with the ability to organize multiple notes (with colored tabs) and collaborate and share your notes with other.
    2. Microsoft Intune: Intune allows you to control and manage all of the Microsoft endpoints within your business from one place. This one might need an IT pro when it comes to setup and management but once you get it going it really can simplify many IT tasks for your team.
    3. Microsoft Forms: Did you know that you can create surveys, quizzes and polls with a Microsoft product? You can with forms, you can even export the data to Excel and share the forms you create on your website or social media platforms.
    4. Microsoft List: With Microsoft 365 you don’t have to go off platform when it comes to managing even the somewhat more mundane aspects of your business, Microsoft Lists is Microsoft’s solution for keeping track of well, everything. Also just like with Forms you’re able to export these lists to Excel with a click of a button.
    5. Microsoft Bookings: Microsoft Bookings is Microsoft solutions to having a public calendar where clients or colleagues can book a meeting with you, and it’s tied right to your Outlook calendar. Another benefit of Bookings is it can be added to your website for prospective clients to book time with you and eliminating the cost of an outside calendar application.
    6. Microsoft To Do: If you or your employees struggle with staying on task, Microsoft To Do is the solution for you. You can plan out your days in advance and Microsoft To Do will be your one stop place for keeping things on track.
    7. Microsoft Viva: Microsoft Viva is an addition to Microsoft Teams that adds a lot of functionality not usually found in a chat program, Microsoft Viva is a multi-faceted platform but in a nutshell it allows you to set goals for your business, provide training to your employees and see insights into their workday, as well as offering them to provide feedback to you all in the Teams application they already use.
    8. Microsoft Streams: If you already use Teams for your video conference calls then you’re familiar with how reliable Microsoft is when it comes to video streaming. Microsoft Stream takes that a step further and allows you to broadcast video outside your organization with up to 1000 participants.
    9. Microsoft Power BI: Microsoft Power BI provides a snapshot of your business’s data in the form of charts and graphs, so you can see how the data your business creates evolves and changes over time.
    10. Microsoft Planner: Finally, we bring it all home with Microsoft Planner, it’s exactly what you would expect it to be a simple visual tool for planning out meetings, business goals, marketing pitches and more all found at your fingertips with your Microsoft 365 subscription.

    Of course, if you’re considering signing up for Microsoft 365, you do have to take the cost into account. Here are the costs for the most popular plans (these costs factor in a discount for committing to an annual subscription, the costs are approximately 20% higher when you choose a monthly term).

    Interested in learning more about Microsoft 365? Valley Techlogic is a Microsoft partner, and we can walk you through the process of buying and making the most of your new subscription. Learn more today with a consultation.

    Looking for more to read? We suggest these other articles from our site.

    This article was powered by Valley Techlogic, an IT service provider in Atwater, CA. You can find more information at https://www.valleytechlogic.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/valleytechlogic/ . Follow us on Twitter at https://x.com/valleytechlogic.