Blog

From “Oh No!” to “We Got This!”: Navigating Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery
Business Continuity vs. Disaster Recovery: A Holistic View At its core, Disaster Recovery (DR) is a subset of Business Continuity (BC). Think of BC as the overarching strategy that ensures your business can continue to function, while DR is the tactical plan for recovering your IT systems and data after a disaster. Let’s break down…

5 Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses
In today’s digital age, cyber threats are a constant concern for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses, often with limited resources, can be particularly vulnerable. A single data breach can lead to significant financial losses, reputational damage, and even closure. But don’t despair! Protecting your small business doesn’t require an army of IT experts. By…

Upgrade Your Communication: Why VoIP with Ooma and PDX I.T. Services is Your Next Smart Move
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, clear, reliable, and flexible communication is non-negotiable for both homes and businesses. If you’re still relying on traditional landlines, you might be missing out on a world of efficiency and cost savings. Enter VoIP – Voice over Internet Protocol – the modern standard for phone service. What is VoIP and…

Navigating the Digital Wild West: Understanding, Preventing, and Recovering from Cyberattacks
In today’s interconnected world, the threat of cyberattacks looms larger than ever. For individuals and businesses alike, understanding the risks, knowing how to protect yourself, and having a reliable partner in your corner are crucial. While the exact details of a cyberattack and its prevention can vary, here’s a general overview, along with how PDX…

Beyond Homelessness: A Conversation with Home Plate Youth Services
Get Ready for an Inspiring Episode of “Breaking Down I.T. with Steve!” We took our microphones out of the studio and into the heart of HomePlate in Washington County, Oregon. Join us as we talk with Executive Director Dorian and Development Coordinator Jaycie about their profound impact on young lives. Home Plate Youth, based in…

Blackout Blues: Don’t Let Power Outages Fry Your Electronics (Learn From My Fridge Fiasco!)
We’ve all been there. The lights flicker, maybe a surge, and then… darkness. While a temporary power outage might seem like a minor inconvenience, it can actually pose a significant threat to your valuable electronics. This week on the ‘Breaking Down I.T. with Steve’ podcast, we’re diving deep into this often-overlooked issue and exploring a…

The Tariff Tango: How Import Taxes Can Impact Your Computer Gear
In today’s interconnected world, the price tag on your laptop, monitor, or even that trusty keyboard often reflects a global journey of components and assembly. But what happens when governments introduce tariffs – taxes on imported goods – into this intricate supply chain? The impact on computer equipment can be significant, rippling through businesses and…

From Stumptown to Secure Town: Tech Protection for Portland Small Businesses
As a small business owner in the vibrant Portland metro area, you’re likely juggling a million things. From serving your customers to managing your team and keeping a close eye on the bottom line, your plate is full. In this fast-paced digital age, technology is both a powerful ally and a potential vulnerability. One area…

The Perils of Public Wi-Fi: Are You Browsing Dangerously? (And How a VPN Can Be Your Digital Shield)
That free Wi-Fi at the coffee shop, the airport, or even your hotel might seem like a convenient way to stay connected. But beneath that welcoming signal lies a potential digital danger zone. In this post, we’re breaking down the often-overlooked risks of using shared and free Wi-Fi networks and revealing how a simple tool…