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Information & Communication Technologies
Microsoft® 365
Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider
We are Certified to advice on, sell and support Microsoft 365 products.
Microsoft® Online Services
Microsoft offers several online services for businesses, both large and small. These services are part of the Subscription Plans for SMBs. Businesses of any size can take advantage of the productivity suite of applications and services provided and supported by Microsoft.
- Exchange™ Online Server:
- A robust Email Server with many capabilities and options. The platform includes Mailboxes, Calendars, Contact Lists, and Tasks. Users can use this cloud service with Outlook on PC, Outlook on the web, and Outlook for mobile. To enhance collaboration, Shared Mailboxes, Shared Calendars, and Global Address Lists are also provided. Security is applied by scanning emails for Viruses, Malware, Phishing, and other threats using the Exchange Online Protection (EOP) service.
- OneDrive™ for Business Online Storage:
- A large Online Storage solution, simple enough to be used without extra effort. Its primary use is to Sync Files on the local PC with the online storage. Additionally, it can be used directly in the cloud using a browser (On-Demand) and for storing Email Attachments to share with anyone. File protection is provided through File Versioning and the online Recycling Bin.
- SharePoint™ Online Server:
- Another Online Storage solution offering additional benefits such as using Libraries, Co-Authoring documents in real-time, and utilizing Shared Sites. It can also be integrated with the Microsoft Teams service.
- Microsoft Teams™:
- Users can be organized into Teams, a Team is a group of people working together using Chat, organizing Meetings, creating Channels (e.g., based on projects), Sharing files, and Collaborating seamlessly.
Microsoft® Online & Mobile Apps
Microsoft Online Apps and Mobile Apps are versions of the popular desktop productivity suite of Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and others. They are used to work with online documents without needing access to desktop applications; however, they do not have the full functionality of the desktop versions.
Microsoft maintains 24/7 online apps.
Acronis® Backup
Acronis Sales Professional
We are Certified to sell and support Acronis backup products.
Acronis® Cloud Backup
Acronis Cloud Backup is part of the Acronis Cyber Protect™ subscription plans, offering data protection. It is fully scalable to fit any size of business. It provides Data Backup to at least two destinations: Local and Cloud. It can be used on workstations, servers (including MS Server Essentials), NAS servers, databases, and more.
Currently, it also supports Microsoft 365 Seats, covering Exchange mailboxes in the cloud, OneDrive for Business, SharePoint in the cloud, and Teams, which are backed up directly to Acronis Cloud Storage.
Data can be recovered at any level: an email, a contact, a file, a folder, a mailbox (Granular Recovery) or Full Recovery of the entire server or workstation. It also provides antivirus and malware protection for the backup. In case of a disaster, as part of a Contingency Plan, data can be recovered onto new hardware (Bare Metal Restore) in another location.
Acronis® Online Console
Acronis offers Centralized Backup Management and Monitoring in the Cloud. With this service, backups can be configured and managed not only from the business office but also remotely.
Dual Backup to Cloud
We recommend following the 4-2-2 Rule: four copies of data including the original, two on different local media, and two copies in the cloud. Additionally, it is wise to use two fully independent backup software solutions. Most servers and NAS devices come with their own basic and free backup software. If that is not available, we suggest a free but reputable backup tool to use as a secondary backup service.
Duplicati
Duplicati is an open-source backup software that can back up data to almost any destination, including Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox. It offers enterprise-level features, such as Incremental backups to save time and space, as well as Retention Policies for efficient data management.
Cloud services with Mobile support
Mobile access to business data is as important as working in the office. All of the above technologies provide mobile-centric features for seamless productivity from the office to the road. Access and work with your business data from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection (offline data is also supported in most cases). Protect your mobile device while staying connected. Android and iOS are supported.
Electronically Sign Documents and Emails Online
About eSignatures
As time passes, the use of physical documents is diminishing. Currently, around 80% of business documents are digital, with a small proportion remaining as physical paper. Governments around the world have Established Legal Frameworks for Trusting Digital Documents. A person can Electronically Sign a Document, and the document will indisputably show whether it has been altered after signing, who the signatory is, and when it was signed. Similarly, this applies to Emails Sent from a verified email address.
To electronically sign a document, two indisputable elements are needed: a digital certificate of identity (personal or company), also known as a Digital Certificate, and a globally trusted Timestamp Server. The certificate used to sign the document must be recognized worldwide for its authenticity, meaning its root must belong to a globally trusted Root Authority. Implementing both factors makes the document Long-Term Validation (LTV) enabled.
One can purchase a digital certificate by proving their identity to an established Certificate Authority and use a desktop application to sign a document, or alternatively, use the services of a reputable online eSignature Provider by subscribing to their service.
Online eSignature Providers
Small Business Specialist
We are Certified Specialists in Small Business ICT systems, based on either Microsoft® Server Essentials™ or a Serverless environment with the Directory in the Cloud [ NEW ], supporting up to 25 users.
Intel® Technology Provider
We are recognised by Intel® for our expertise in Intel Technologies including their utilization, and for recommending Intel based systems and solutions to business and consumers.
System
A basic ICT system includes at minimum, Workstations organized into Workgroups, a Server, a Router, a Firewall, a DHCP server, and a DNS proxy. It also includes a Network Switch and Cabling, Wi-Fi Access Points, a Backup System, and peripheral devices such as Printers, Scanners, and Mobile devices. Additionally, a Telephone System with access to the PSTN, typically through VoIP is required.
In practice, ICT systems are often more complex and advanced than described above due to business requirements such as the need for a Database.
The ICT system must be configured according to Best Practices, to ensure a reliable and secure Internet Connection, a problem-free and fast Local Network, and easy connectivity for devices. Shared Assets must be consistently accessible and protected, enabling seamless use by users. All devices and services should be selected to offer the best Cost-To-Benefit Ratio suitable for a small business environment.
Security
Security is crucial for any ICT system, whether small or large. Years may pass without incident, but a single breach can be devastating for a business. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, the damage related to Cybercrime was projected to reach $6 trillion annually by 2021. Hackers don’t care how big or small a company is, they search remotely for any opportunity to Exploit Vulnerabilities.
Small businesses like enterprises must also implement Three Layers of Security: perimetral (firewall), network level, and endpoint (on each workstation and smartphone).
It is recommended to use a dedicated Hardware Firewall with Antivirus and Malware Filtering for Web and Email Traffic. The network should be secured using best practices for User Authentication and shared resources. A Directory Service, whether cloud based or local, is also recommended. Each server or workstation must have its own Antivirus and Anti-malware software.
Backup
Data Backup is the most important function in an ICT system. We recommend implementing two completely independent backups (Dual Backup) with two different destinations, local and in the cloud using Two Discrete Backup Applications. For one of the backups, the free native backup tool included with small business or standard server operating systems can be used.
Network
Ethernet technologies are used in LANs (Local Area Networks) with a Star topology and a central network Switch. Typically, Fast Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet (commonly used for servers) is used, with Cat5e or Cat6 twisted-pair cables and RJ45 connectors. Wi-Fi networks (WLAN) with managed Access Points, can be used for smartphones or guest laptops.
Since WLAN communications can be intercepted remotely, we recommend replacing LAN with WLAN in office networks only if additional security measures, such as Enterprise Mode are implemented. At a minimum if WLAN is chosen, it must be Wi-Fi 6 or higher and must use WPA3 security.
Data is transmitted using the TCP/IP protocol, including both IPv4 and IPv6. Sessions are opened using TCP or UDP ports and then closed. Several services must be correctly configured to support networking, including ARP, DHCP, and DNS.
Best Practices must be followed when setting up networks to prevent bottlenecks, network storms, and loops. LAN segments must be Secured. Techniques such as failover and link aggregation should be implemented to provide Fault Tolerance.
Internet
Interconnected Networks across the globe form a single global network, the Internet. It enables small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to connect with the world, Promote their Products and Services, and access offerings from others. It also facilitates Communication via voice and video, as well as data exchange.
To connect to the Internet, SMBs must subscribe to a Broadband service from an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The ISP provides clients with an IP address and other necessary configurations.
Essential Internet protocols and services include DNS (Domain Name Service) records, such as MX (Mail Exchange) records, as well as Email services, VoIP, and Websites. Additionally, Digital Certificates have become vital assets for establishing secure, encrypted connections and verifying an organization’s or individual’s identity globally.
Budget Alternative
For startup businesses with one or two users and a limited budget, there are affordable ICT solutions available. A small business on a tight budget could purchase a couple of Refurbished PCs, which do not need to be Windows 11 compatible, and as a result they are priced very low. These workstations should have at least an Intel i3 processor or AMD equivalent, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB Hard Drive.
A desktop version of Linux, such as Linux Mint, can be installed as the OS. It comes with LibreOffice, a suite of applications compatible with MS Word and Excel documents, all completely free. For cloud storage, Google Drive offers 15GB of free space per user. If that’s not sufficient, additional free options such as Dropbox or personal OneDrive can be used. Free Google Gmail can also serve as the email service.
Budget USB drives can be used for backups, and as for Broadband, it’s advisable to shop around for a low-cost provider; a business grade connection is not necessary at this stage.
Web Developers, Designers & Artists
Our team brings decades of experience in Internet publishing, dating back to the early days, before the World Wide Web (WWW), when Gopher was still in use. We combine strong programming skills with backgrounds in design and the arts, giving us a unique edge in developing visually engaging, user-friendly websites that perform effectively.
SEO Specialist
We are certified SEO specialists, trained by the University of California, Davis. We apply best practices in Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) in consideration of the business’s Content Marketing. We develop strategies that enhance Brand Awareness and visibility in search engine results.
Front End
The Front End of a Website is the part users interact with directly. It could include elements such as Application User Interfaces (UI), product listings in an Online Shop, Contact Forms, Presentatiosn and other promotional or informational content.
Effective Layout Design of a Webpage is essential for visual appeal and should support a smooth, intuitive user experience.
To create the desired layout, a developer first builds the Scaffolding of the Webpage. This structure is defined using HyperText Markup Language (HTML) currently at version 5, which uses hidden Tags to mark up content. Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) currently version 3 is then used, to style and design the appearance of the page.
For interactivity, developers rely on JavaScript (JS), a powerful scripting language that enables dynamic content and user interaction. JavaScript allows the creation of small modules (mini-apps) that enhance functionality and responsiveness.
Modern websites also use techniques to exchange data with the server without reloading the page. One of the most common methods is AJAX, which enables real-time updates and a smoother user experience.
Back End
Websites are hosted on the Internet by an HTTP web server, most commonly the Apache server running in a Linux environment. In the early days, Webpages where Static files stored directly on the server. Today, it’s standard practice to use a Content Management System (CMS), which allows websites to be dynamic and easier to manage. Popular CMS platforms include WordPress, Joomla, Drupal and Magento (commonly used for online shops).
To generate web pages dynamically, a CMS requires an application engine, typically built using the PHP scripting language. PHP is a robust and widely used platform, but one where security is a critical concern and must be carefully managed.
All website content, including page data, is stored and retrieved from a Database. The most common Database solution on Linux servers is MySQL.
In some cases, the Apache web server must communicate with external applications. This is often done using Common Gateway Interface (CGI) techniques, which allow developers to create CGI scripts that handle these interactions efficiently.
Natural Web Development
At Netbuddy, we use in-house Internet publishing expertise to deliver websites tailored to the business needs. Successful web development begins with consulting closely with clients, analyzing requirements, and building websites that reflect both the purpose and personality of the organization.
One who develops both the front end and back end should use proven, reliable tools. For Scaffolding, Navigation and the ‘Skin’, the Bootstrap Framework is recommended. For JavaScript functionality, jQuery or Vue libraries can be applied.
A good developer could edit stock images, icons and other graphics as needed, while also incorporating client provided pictures when required. Additionally, creating and editing short videos can enhance engagement and presentation.
Creating a responsive page layout and responsive images is essential for good web development, ensuring an optimal user experience across all devices, whether smartphone, tablet, computer, or TV. Similarly, using different image resolutions supports high-density displays such as Retina screens.
A well rounded approach to development should follow the WCAG guidelines to ensure accessibility for all users, and implement WAI-ARIA technologies to support screen readers and assistive tools. Using Structured Data in line with Schema.org standards helps search engines such as Google, to better interpret Website content and improves Brand Awareness and business visibility.
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
SEO is not an inherently part of web development; rather, it is a complementary discipline that bridges web development and marketing for the benefit of a business. This field consists of multiple sectors, including technical setup, content optimisation, and digital outreach.
To apply effective SEO, the work could typically be divided into three levels: 1) Basic SEO could be provided alongside website development and shoud include fundamental techniques to help search engines recognize and understand the webpage’s individual parts. 2) Standard SEO should be delivered, ideally as a separate project aimed at strengthening Content Marketing and Social Media Marketing efforts. 3) Enhanced SEO may include everything from the Standard level, along with ongoing research and detailed analysis using advanced analytics and metrics tools.
A well structured SEO, part of the SEO and Content Marketing, typically includes On-Page, Off-Page, & Technical optimisation. Key tasks may involve defining a target persona, selecting a focus keyword and related terms, and assessing content quality. Additionally, analysis of key SEO metrics, such as Page Authority and Domain Authority should conducted to support business ranking on Internet search results. In collaboration with the client, SEO efforts can also support Brand Awareness through Social Media, Influencer Marketing, and public engagement strategies.
