Happy Holidays!

We want to wish everyone happy holidays and a wonderful new year! As we reflect on the past year, we are thankful for all of you and hope you have a wonderful holiday season. Wishing you health, happiness, and success in the new year.

Can you believe we’re already near the end of 2025?!?! Where has this year gone?!?!

In between scrambling to get ready for Thanksgiving and thinking about all the Black Friday deals you need to get, have you thought about planning out the next year for your business? Now is a good time to start the planning process, even if it’s just jotting down some goals and targets for next year.

Now you might ask, “why is a technology company writing about business planning?”. Great question. Business planning is an important part of the CBTech Support process. CBTech Support evaluates its clients’ environments on a regular basis and uses that information to help inform the business planning process. As part of the planning process, you’re looking at what you want to accomplish in your business next year, and technology will play a part in that. It’s important to know what areas of technology will have the biggest impact on your business, such as where there is a large security gap or a disconnect in your workflow, where you’d like to implement AI, or even something as simple as when you want to replace some old computers. It’s also important to know what you want to achieve so that you can make sure your current technology can help you get there; and if not, what might be needed to make it happen. The good news is you can start with small steps just to get the ball rolling. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or if you would like an introduction to someone who can help with the business planning process.

Three Lessons Your Business Can Learn About Cybersecurity

  1. Don’t assume internal means safe.
    Even if an email looks like it came from a colleague, pause and think before acting. Double-check unexpected requests by phone or chat instead of relying on the email alone.

  2. Convenience often comes with risk.
    Features that make technology easier (like letting devices send mail without a password) can sometimes create openings for attackers. It’s a reminder that “set it and forget it” isn’t a safe approach with technology.

  3. Verification is key.
    Strong checks — whether technical ones like email authentication or human ones like calling to confirm a request — make it harder for attackers to slip through. A quick moment of verification can prevent major headaches later.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Work-Life Balance

  1. Start with a Single Screen-Free Hour
    You don’t have to go full digital detox to make a difference. Try setting aside just one hour each day with no phone, no TV, and no laptop.

  2. Go Old School with Activities
    Plan one low-tech activity each week that gets you or your family interacting without devices. It’s a great way to connect, slow down, and even spark conversations that don’t involve a screen.

  3. Create Tech-Free Zones
    Designate specific areas in your home—like the bedroom, dining table, or front porch—as tech-free zones.

  4. Plan a Mini Unplugged Getaway
    Consider a day trip to refresh your energy and perspective

  5. Reflect on What You’re Reclaiming
    Journaling at the end of your unplugged time can reinforce the benefits.

Choosing the Right Computer for College

Here are the top five things to keep in mind as you shop for a computer for your child heading to college:

  1. Check the School’s Recommendations First
    Visit your child’s college website to find technology requirements.

  2. Portability & Battery Life Matter More Than You Think
    Look for something under 4 pounds with at least 8-10 hours of real-world battery performance.

  3. Performance That Lasts Beyond Freshman Year
    Aim for a Processor: Intel i5/i7 or Apple M-series (M2 or higher), and RAM: 16 GB is ideal.

  4. Durability and Warranty Coverage
    Look for a device with a reputation for build quality and consider adding accidental damage protection.

  5. Don’t Forget the Extras
    Accessories and software can make a huge difference, such as cloud backup options and noise-canceling headphones.

The Importance of Cybersecurity Awareness Training

Every employee has a hand in maintaining security and must be aware of their actions and the potential impact. Implementing a training program that regularly educates users about threats will help your company avoid many common threats that technology alone cannot mitigate. Regular training is necessary because humans are creatures of habit and have a natural tendency to help—this can lead to vulnerabilities if they’re not aware of potential threats.

Cybersecurity Insurance

Here are three compelling reasons why cybersecurity insurance is no longer optional:

  • Data breaches are no longer just a big business problem
  • The financial fallout can be devastating
  • Your clients and partners expect it

Cybersecurity insurance isn’t just about covering costs after a breach—it’s about protecting your reputation and giving your business the resilience it needs in an increasingly hostile digital landscape.

Accessing Business Resources Securely

Consider using your phone as a personal hotspot or find a secure and private network for accessing sensitive work data. Cloud-based file-sharing services, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive, offer advanced security features to ensure the protection of your data.
Enjoy your warm weather (and don’t work too much)!