How do I determine what data is important?

The answer to this question varies among clients. Some offices will have databases for their software which needs to be backed up at least once a day. Others will have documents, spreadsheets, and shared files. A simple rule for backing up data is that if the data is changing daily, then it should be backed up daily and in more than one location.


Why do I need an online backup of my data?

Online backup is the best way to ensure that your data never gets lost. A computer or server will not last forever, and external devices can get lost, broken, or corrupted. This is why I recommend that your most important data should exist in at least three locations - on the original computer or server, on an external device, and online.


What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is defined as a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid. When ramsonware infects a computer, it first encrpyts the data on that computer. As if that isn't enough, it looks for files that have been shared over the network (a database or a shared folder) and encrpyts everything it finds there. Then, it leaves nasty messages demanding a ransom to get the data back. Often, Ransomware comes through an email, or software that has been compromised.


Why would Ransomware target my office, I'm not a large corporation?

You might think from watching the news that only hospitals, government offices, and schools are the targets of Ransonware, but they are only in the news because they actually paid the ransom! I have personally seen ransomware infect a few small businesses and numerous individuals. None of them could afford the ransom, and only a few were fortunate enough to be able to recover their data through an online backup.

What is Preventative Maintenance?

Preventative maintenance is a best-effort attempt to reduce the probability of a computer or server having issues. My preventative maintenance plan consists of the following: a physical inspection and cleaning of the equipment; running scans that detect system compromises and hardware issues; updating Microsoft Windows, antivirus, and other important applications; and removing temporary and unwanted files that may be slowing things down.


Why is it Needed?

When it comes to computers and servers, unexpected things can happen. They start running slow, start making weird sounds, certain apps decide not to open, or the mouse cursor starts hopping all over the screen. It is not possible to prevent every possible issue. Human error will always be the leading cause of computer issues. However, having preventative maintenance done on a regular basis can greatly reduce the likelihood of issues from ever occurring. 


How Often is it Needed?

The answer to this question largely depends on your own peace of mind. My personal recommendation would be four times a year, but if your peace of mind is only twice a year, I can do that. Or, if your peace of mind is closer to once a month, I can do that also. 


What is Monitoring Software?

The monitoring software that I use is a valuable tool for detecting issues that occur on your computer. It will notify you on your screen if an issue is detected, and I will be notified immediately via email. The app also automatically updates 3rd party applications and monitors the Windows update service, ensuring your computer is always protected from vulnerabilities. Additionally, if you need to request services from me, you can do so by clicking on the app. Basically, this app is awesome, but is only available to clients who purchase a Preventative Maintenance Plan. Please be aware that the app may report issues that would cost extra if parts are needed or immediate attention is needed (i.e., a hard drive starts to fail, computer keeps blue screening, malware takes over, etc.). 

How would a website help my business, church or nonprofit organization?

Before they visit your location, people are going to want to know what you are about, what services you offer, what prices to expect, and much more. Having a website is an inexpensive way to get that information to them. Most small businesses, churches, and nonprofit organizations do not need large, complex websites. They just need a few pages to get their information out there, or maybe just a simple, one-page "brochure" style website.



What content should be on my website?

This answer largely depends on what information you want to available to those who visit your website. Information will vary among different types of businesses and organizations. Basically, information about the business or organization, services provided, and contact info are almost always necessary. Other information can include a staff directory, directions to your location, and pricing.



Can I write the content and determine the layout and look of the website?

Yes. In fact, I would prefer that! It is your website and I want you to be happy with it. This means that I will request that your write the content, provide photos and logos to be used, and help in determining the layout and color scheme of the website. You may choose from two or three templates options that I will provide that will be appropriate for your business or organization.



How long does it take for a website to be complete?

The answer to this question largely depends on you as a client. It could take a couple of day to several weeks. When hired to design a website, I will ask for the name (or names) of the person(s) who will approve the content, look and layout of the website. Once I have completed the website, the approval process begins and changes will be made as needed until it is fully approved and ready to be published. Once published, the website is "live" on the Internet and the job is considered completed.



Will you make changes to a website after it has been completed?

Changes may take place in your business or organization and you want those changes to be reflected on your website. Not a problem. Contact me and I will gladly make those changes. This service will be considered as off-site support. See pricing for small-business and church and nonprofit.


Can I manage the website after you have completed it?

Absolutely! I will gladly provide you the tools necessary for managing your own website after I have completed it. To do so, the software used for creating the website will need to be installed on a computer or laptop. It would also require a person who is capable of learning the necessary skills needed to use the software and upload the changes to the site. Training can be provided. Support fees will apply. 

What are on-site, off-site, and remote support?

On-site support is any support provided to the client that takes place at the client's location. Off-site support is any support provided to the client that takes place at my home office, with the exception of remote support. Off-site support is often needed for jobs that require a considerable amount of preperation before coming to the client's location. In this way, I can do that kind of work on my own time and not take up valuable time at the client's location. Off-site support also pertains to those incidents where it would make more sense to bring work back to my office rather then spend the time at the client's location. Remote support takes place through an app that would be installed on your device. Once installed, I can connect to and take control of your desktop computer or laptop. In doing so, I can provide the services requested as long as an internet connection is available and the device stays connectected to it. The app is designed so that access to your device is only available with a device code and a key. Everytime the app is activated, it generates a different code. In this way, I can only access your device after you have given me the key.

What is your service area for small businesses, churches or nonprofits?

The on-site service area basically covers a one-hour travel radius from my home office on the south side of Augusta, GA. If your not sure if your are within that hour radius then map the distance from Goshen Elementary School to your location. If you find your location to be just outside that radius, feel free to contact me to see if I would be available. Churches and nonprofits outside the radius are given special consideration.


What is your service area for residential clients?

The on-site service area for residential clients is much smaller than that for small business, church and nonprofit clients. However, remote support can be provided to just about anyone (see "What is on-site, off-site and remote support?" above). The service area is basically within a 30 minute radius of my home office in on the south side of Augusta. If your not sure if your are within that 30 minute radius then map the distance from Goshen Elementary School to your location.


You provide on-site support services to my church which is outside of your residential service area. Will you provide services to me also?

Remote support services is available to anyone. However, special consideration is given to residential clients that are within 30 minutes of their church. On-site support services to residential clients are only available on the same day that on-site support is provided your church. Availability of on-site support is dependent upon scheduling. 

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