IT Standards at NEW

IT standards at NEW

With the growing threats that we face today, ensuring the security and efficiency of IT systems is crucial for any organization. At NEW, we implement a wide range IT strategies that includes Microsoft and Google solutions, robust backups, strong security measures, and dedicated client support. Here’s an in-depth look at our IT policies and protections.

Microsoft Solutions

Microsoft 365

We utilize Microsoft 365 for some client workspaces, providing access to essential applications like OneDrive, SharePoint, Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Azure and Entra

Azure and Entra are used for identity and network access management, allowing seamless user access to Windows devices. Our administrators ensure that client devices are properly joined to these networks. This setup provides:

• Secure and encrypted file storage
• Easy device reassignment for new employees
• Strict access control, disabling former employees’ accounts and revoking active sessions

OneDrive

OneDrive serves as a personal workspace for staff members to store drafts, organizational materials, and other documents. Once configured by our administrators, a user’s Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders sync automatically to OneDrive.

SharePoint

SharePoint is utilized for company-wide data storage, providing:

• Enhanced security and folder permissions
• Version control for document changes
• Real-time co-authoring for collaboration
• Encrypted file storage and powerful search capabilities
• Sites for communication and announcements

Additionally, Microsoft backs up OneDrive and SharePoint files for 30 days. We supplement this with incremental backups for extended data protection by AFI. This is explained further below. 

Google Solutions

Google Drive

Google Drive functions similarly to OneDrive, allowing staff members to store individual work files securely. Once set up, their Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders sync to Google Drive.

Google Drive Shared

Company data is stored in Google Drive’s shared folders, which offer:

• Advanced security and folder permissions
• Seamless document collaboration
• User control for specific access permissions
• Syncing shared folders with Windows File Explorer

Additionally, Google backs up files for 30 days. We supplement this with incremental backups for extended data protection by AFI. This is explained further below. 

Backup Solutions

While Microsoft and Google retain deleted files for only 30 days, we use AFI to provide incremental backups for all documents and emails. This enables us to restore files to any previously saved version.

For server and virtual machine backups, we rely on CrashPlan, ensuring full backup and recovery solutions that restore machines to their last functional state.

Security and Protection

We have partnered with Judy Security to offer a robust cybersecurity suite, covering endpoint resiliency, identity access, compliance, and threat detection across all devices. Judy Security also includes Ninjio Cybersecurity Training, educating users on how to recognize and avoid cyber threats. Apart from that, Judy Security offers an AI-powered email security solution by E-Purifier at an additional cost. 

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA is implemented across all accounts to protect against unauthorized access. Even if a hacker obtains a password, they cannot gain entry without the associated phone or authenticator app-generated code.

Client Support and IT Management

Dedicated IT Staff

Each client is assigned a dedicated IT staff member who conducts detailed evaluations of the organization’s technology, ensuring best practices are followed for:

• Device inventory management
• Backup implementation
• Licensing oversight
• Security enforcement
• Administrative access monitoring
• User access
• Quarterly client check-ins

NinjaRMM

Our IT team uses NinjaRMM for:

• Pushing software updates and installations
• Managing hardware inventory
• Providing remote assistance
• Conducting client assessments

Regular IT Assessments

We conduct annual IT assessments to review inventory, user access, concerns, and future plans. These assessments cover the following and can lead to valuable upgrades and recommendations for the following:

• Policies
• Hardware 
• Data storage
• Email and calendar sharing
• Database systems
• Network environment
• Cybersecurity measures
• Client concerns
• Unforeseen changes
• Network upgrades
• Hardware upgrades
• CRM uses
• Phone use

By continuously evaluating and refining our IT strategies, we ensure that organizations receive top-tier protection and operational efficiency. Our IT policies at NEW prioritize security, accessibility, and proactive management to keep our clients’ technology environments safe and optimized.

Written by: Brian Frederick | IT Managed Services Manager/Consultant

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