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In this digital age, it’s essential to equip your team with the best communication tools on the market so that your business can grow and expand. While online collaboration platforms are becoming more and more popular for a wide range of companies, the fact remains that the classic phone call can never be replaced — however, it can be improved upon with Microsoft Teams’ phone integration system.

Businesses of all sizes can enjoy more streamlined phone communication by taking advantage of Microsoft Team’s simple phone system integration process. Our skilled professionals at Netovo Group are proud to share the 4 key steps you should follow to flawlessly integrate a phone system within Microsoft Teams.

Select Your Ideal Phone Plan

Easy to navigate and accessible for all types of businesses, Microsoft Teams is a cost-efficient, flexible communication solution that works particularly well for remote workers. The ability to access high-quality VoIP services is yet another added benefit of utilizing the Teams platform for phone communication.

To get started, simply select the telephony plan that will work best for your team: the Microsoft Direct Routing calling plan or Teams’ classic calling plan. One of the main differences between the two is that the Direct Routing plan gives businesses international calling capabilities.

Integrate New or Existing Devices

Once you have determined the best type of calling plan for your team, it is time to choose the devices that you will be using on your new Microsoft Teams integrated calling plan. It is almost always possible to integrate your team’s existing devices into your new plan. On the other hand, for simple, adapted phone communication right away, our Netovo Group experts can advise you on the best new hardware, from phones to collaboration bars and headsets.

Double-Check Your Connection

Integrating a phone system with Microsoft Teams is a fantastic way to keep remote workers on the same page. However, it is important to check that users have an adequately stable Internet connection that will not affect the quality of their calls on the platform. Ideally, the connection should be high-speed with low latency. Schedule a few test calls on your freshly-integrated calling system to ensure that users aren’t experiencing any lags or connection issues.

Stay In Touch With Conference Calling and Faxing

After verifying your Internet connection, your Microsoft Teams phone system is ready to go! You can even take advantage of convenient conference calling capabilities that come included in all Business Voice plans. Your team will receive a regional number to enjoy this useful conference calling feature.

Moreover, you can stay in touch with clients and colleagues by sending and receiving faxes with Microsoft’s UCaaS (unified communications as a service) solution. Your team can enjoy cutting-edge technology at any time, from any location.

Skip the Learning Curve With Netovo Group

At Netovo Group, we understand that you may have specific questions and concerns about integrating your phone system through Microsoft Teams. Our friendly experts are here to resolve those concerns while helping you make the most of crystal-clear phone calling and the numerous additional benefits that Microsoft Teams offers. For more information, simply connect with our Netovo Group team by calling (212) 390-1900 or filling out this quick contact form today.

How Microsoft Dataverse Helps Your Organization Store and Manage App Data Securely Microsoft Dataverse is a software as a service (SaaS) solution capable of resolving wide-ranging data management and businesses’ storage issues. As an ever-increasing number of organizations generate a large amount of data, there is a need to manage it securely and efficiently.

Microsoft Dataverse is a software as a service (SaaS) solution capable of resolving wide-ranging data management and businesses’ storage issues. As an ever-increasing number of organizations generate a large amount of data, there is a need to manage it securely and efficiently. Thus, businesses can rely on Dataverse to handle varying types of data from multiple sources.

By switching to Dataverse, organizations eliminate the need to invest in extensive infrastructure. The complexity of handling various types of data from wide-ranging sources is due to the implementation of multiple security protocols and APIs. With the data platform, it becomes easier to bolster data protection, maintain compliance, maximize scalability, and manage data more efficiently.

You can count on Dataverse to work well with all data types and business applications. It provides access to advanced analytics features, enabling your teams to glean insights from the data. More importantly, anyone can use the platform because no coding is necessary. Additionally, the platform is secure, compliant, scalable, and globally accessible.

Advantages of Using Dataverse

Dataverse comes with a wide selection of benefits, including simplifying data management, compatibility with Microsoft Power Apps, and the availability of productivity tools. The tool stores the data and metadata in cloud storage systems, which provides a convenient way to manage the data.

Security is a significant benefit of using Microsoft Dataverse. It employs role-based measures to maximize data protection. Thus, there is no need to worry about unauthorized access to tables. On the other hand, the tool allows your team to access information stored in sources like Dynamics 365. Your team leverages convenient access to building apps faster.

Rich metadata is another advantage brought about by the tool. Dataverse employs data types and relationships via Power Apps. Meanwhile, you can rely on the platform to help facilitate business processes and maximize data quality, thanks to its superior logic and validation capabilities.

Likewise, you will find it easier to define workflows, calculated columns, operational processes, and critical business rules. When it comes to productivity tools, Dataverse integrates tables as plug-ins for Microsoft Excel. The integration bolsters productivity while facilitating data accessibility.

Work With All Apps and Data Types

Compatibility with all data types and apps is one of Dataverse’s key strengths. This benefit enables you to incorporate various data technology categories to suit your company’s needs. Some major categories include images, relational, data lake, search, non-relational, and file.

Visual design features let your team create, edit, and enhance data interaction. In turn, team members easily and quickly define workflows, tables, forms, relationships, and business rules applicable to your organization. Deep integration with various cloud services and connectors provided by Microsoft is a breeze. This capability enables connection to applications, popular SaaS solutions, devices, and systems.

Integration supports various business use cases, including working with Dataverse in a blockchain network. Also, you can extract information from a spreadsheet delivered to you as an email attachment. The tool works well with virtual tables, enabling Dataverse to display external data in real-time. As such, it becomes easier to execute data operations via a link to external sources.

When it comes to compatibility with apps, Dataverse enhances functionality, thanks to the Power Apps integration. The latter leverages Dataverse’s rich metadata to help users create advanced business applications using the low-code approach. Once app development is complete, they become available on Microsoft Teams, the web, mobile devices, and desktops.

Dataverse comes with the mobile offline capability, enabling you to develop business applications capable of handling data offline. As such, users interact, query, and collect data, even when the app is offline. The tool provides access to a REST-based API, which is useful for developing applications using custom code. With the application programming interface, it is possible to integrate data from Dataverse into existing business apps.

Integrating Data Into Dataverse

App development entails working with multiple data sources. In many cases, developers collect the data and store it in a single repository for added convenience. This approach also involves one logic set used to operate and maintain the data. Storing data in a single location allows the development process to work smoothly in Power Apps.

You can also use the data in Power Virtual Agents, Power Automate, and Power BI. Regular synchronization keeps the data link working between Dataverse, Power Apps, and other apps. The tool transforms and imports data using Power Query, which plays the same role as Power BI and Excel.

If you occasionally import data into Dataverse, you can use Excel and CSV files. However, this approach is not ideal for the regular import and export of data into the tool.

Dynamics 365 and Dataverse

Microsoft Dataverse securely stores data used by various Dynamics 365 apps, including Talent, Customer Service, and Sales. For this reason, you conveniently tap into your organization’s core operational data to create advanced applications. In turn, you no longer need to worry about integration to access metadata and data.

When your team defines business rules and logic, Dataverse allows the related tables to transmit the settings to apps developed via Power Apps. In the end, your team leverages data consistency to achieve the desired objectives. The consistency applies to all business applications, irrespective of the apps and devices used to access them.

On the other hand, team members with experience using Dynamics 365 and Power Apps can employ their skills across the Dataverse platform. Some reusable skills across the three platforms include creating forms, charts, and tables.

Analytics, Reporting, and Security

With Dataverse, you can prepare paginated reports and basic charts. Interoperability with Power BI simplifies the process of creating interactive reports and dashboards. At the same time, the platform provides access to advanced analytics with artificial intelligence capabilities. Thus, it bolsters your organization’s capacity to analyze data more effectively.

The platform taps into the power of Azure Active Directory to manage users’ access rights. Doing so enhances data security and your environment. You can opt to associate access rights settings with individual users or teams and business units. Microsoft Dataverse also allows granular security controls by restricting access at the column level.

The Need for Your Business to Set Up Network Security Is Urgent In the early 20th century, if a crook wanted money, they’d rob a bank or steal a woman’s purse on the street.
 

The Need for Your Business to Set Up Network Security Is Urgent

In the early 20th century, if a crook wanted money, they’d rob a bank or steal a woman’s purse on the street. Real masterminds might devise an elaborate heist to hold up a Brink’s truck or befriend a millionaire, then make off with their riches.

Today, these crooks look much different. That’s because an increasing number of them are not out on the street taking gold, jewelry, and cash. They’re sitting behind desks, somewhere in an unknown room where they will probably never be found, hacking your data.

Why data?

If you didn’t realize it already, data is now one of the most — if not the most — valuable commodities on earth. And if you’re not protecting yours, you’re making yourself and your business a huge target for cybercriminals.

“Since when does every business need network security?”

Businesses, small and large, ask this question a lot.

“Since when do we have to have all this network security? I’m trying to run a business here. Why is everyone telling me to focus my attention on firewalls, data loss protection, adware, ransomware, phishing scams, etc.?”

We get it.

To help orient yourself to the critical importance of network security, however, you need to think of it this way: Say you own a jewelry store — a brick-and-mortar jewelry store. Are you going to pay attention to security? Are you going to invest in security cameras and highly durable doors, windows, and locks? Are you going to have a robust alarm system? Perhaps even a security guard on standby to investigate possible burglaries?

Of course, you are.

Well, the same preventive and recovery protocols need to be arranged for any business that deals either publicly or privately on the Internet.

Certainly, there was a “Wild West” phase of the Internet where cybercriminals hadn’t quite mastered their own art of hacking systems and stealing or corrupting data.

That phase is over.

Now, if you don’t have “locks on your doors and windows,” so to speak, you’re a sitting duck for a host of security issues that could bring your business to the ground.

“But my business is small/mostly offline/not in a typically lucrative industry. Do I still need network security then?”

Yes. Absolutely.

All businesses — no matter the industry or size — should have robust network security to protect their valuable IT data and network systems.

One thing to remember is that network security isn’t just to prevent hackers from stealing or corrupting your data. This is certainly a big issue that you want to prevent. However, network security also ensures business continuity.

Say, for example, a cybercriminal is able to hack your system but doesn’t obtain your data. That’s great, but they may have upended your network or impacted your ability to access your data for a time, which can severely impact your business productivity. Network security solutions incorporate data storage and critical backups that can be used if you lose access. These are crucial if you are ever hacked, but they are also useful if, for example, a technical problem crashes your system or a huge storm upsets your ability to access your network.

“What else can network security solutions do?”

Network security solutions can also improve your business’s performance. Managed service providers who know their industry inside and out have the best technologies at their disposal. Ideally, they also know your industry inside and out, so they can make recommendations on the best tools to enhance your productivity and ultimately, your profitability.

Finally, if you are in an industry that requires network security compliance (for example, if you are in possession of medical patient data or personal financial information), you already know that you need to abide by specific regulations in order to ensure personal privacy and data protection. Your managed service provider can help you establish compliance as well.

“Where should I go for the best network security solutions?”

It’s always good to look for a managed service provider in your specific industry. They’ll have experience with similar companies and be able to recommend the best technologies and security solutions for you and your company.

In addition to the many challenges the world experienced in 2020, cyberattacks proved a serious threat to companies across the globe.

Data Breaches and Cybersecurity: The Top 10 Hacks of 2020

In addition to the many challenges the world experienced in 2020, cyberattacks proved a serious threat to companies across the globe. Cybercriminals continue to extort businesses through data breaches, network infiltrations, bulk data theft and sale, malware, phishing, and ransomware outbreaks. This painful reminder shows that companies have to prioritize cybersecurity and address vulnerabilities in their networks.

If you’re still on the fence about whether or not your company really needs to implement the latest cybersecurity measures in the IT world, consider the top 10 hacks that took place in 2020.

Big Hits, Big Brands

One: Google mitigated the damage from a 2.54 Tbps (Terabits per second) denial of service attack in October, one of the largest recorded DDoS attacks. A Google engineer reported the attacks were part of a six-month campaign aimed to break Google’s server infrastructure.

Compromising National Security

Two: Three Iranian hackers were charged for hacking US aerospace and satellite companies using phishing schemes and malware, subsequently compromising US satellites.

Three: Suspects arrested in December by Italian police likely stole up to 10GB in sensitive corporate and military data from Leonardo SpA during a cyberattack against the Aerostructures and Aircraft Division of the defense contractor.

Four: The Japanese company Mitsubishi experienced a data breach resulting in stolen confidential design data of a cutting-edge missile. The company reported the potential theft of data belonging to roughly 8,000 individuals and the exposure of sensitive information.

The Value of Research

Five: The University of California at San Francisco ended up paying a $1.14 million ransom in order to save COVID-19 research from hackers who infiltrated the School of Medicine’s IT systems with malware.

Hospital Cybersecurity Threats

Six: A hospital patient died in September after being redirected away from a hospital in Duesseldorf, Germany that had recently undergone a ransomware attack. Investigating German police say they will treat it as a murder case if they find the hospital and attack downtime to be directly at fault.

Costing Companies Customer Trust

Seven: The makeup company Estée Lauder reported the exposure of 440 million internal records due to middleware security failures.

Eight: MGM Resorts suffered from a hacker who published the records of 142 million MGM guests online for sale on a cybercrime marketplace.

Nine: A hacker leaked the data of 44 million Pakistani mobile subscribers online after the hacker tried to sell mobile user records the previous month.

Ten: The consumer credit reporting agency Experian disclosed a data breach in its South African branch, which the South African Banking Risk Centre claimed impacted 24 million South Africans and 793,749 local businesses.

Addressing Your Company’s Cybersecurity Needs

Cybersecurity represents a global issue that can affect businesses of all sizes. Encourage confidence in your business’s IT and cybersecurity by partnering with Netovo Group. Our experienced engineers understand the urgency of strong, comprehensive cybersecurity. Through off-site backups, antivirus software, and secure cloud file storage that use state-of-the-art infrastructure, your business can protect its computers and networks from cyberattacks in real-time. Our team is ready to discuss cloud applications, cybersecurity offers and office network and hosting solutions, so reach out through our website or call 212-390-1900. In today’s inconsistent world, you can count on us.

SOC 2 Type 1 vs. Type 2: Here Is What You Need To Know? Cybersecurity continues to occupy a prominent spot in companies’ priority lists. As such, companies commit substantial amounts of money to bolster cyber defenses. Norton’s 2019 data breach report revealed that bad actors breached 4.1 billion records in the first half of the year.

Cybersecurity continues to occupy a prominent spot in companies’ priority lists. As such, companies commit substantial amounts of money to bolster cyber defenses. Norton’s 2019 data breach report revealed that bad actors breached 4.1 billion records in the first half of the year.
Breaches can lead to significant reputational damage and financial losses. Hence, information security is a critical concern for organizations irrespective of whether they outsource IT functions or handle them internally. Thankfully, organizations can mitigate the risks by hiring service providers with a SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2 report.
Organizations need to understand the differences between SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2.

What is SOC 2?

Service organization control (SOC) 2 reports come in two types: Type 1 and 2. They form part of an auditing framework, which helps maximize data protection by ensuring that third-party service providers adhere to standard practices when handling clients’ sensitive information. Many organizations have a mandatory requirement for reports when hiring service providers. This approach safeguards data privacy and security.

What is SOC 2 Type 1?

A Type 1 report covers the relevance of design controls and a description of a service provider’s approach. On the other hand, the Type 2 report focuses on the effectiveness of a service organization’s controls.
One of the key aspects of Type 1 is that it considers the specifics of an approach or system based on a particular timeline. The auditor presents a detailed report ‘as of’ date after reviewing relevant documentation. Software as a service (SaaS) firms need to prove that they implement best practices.
In turn, the report confirms proof of compliance to the auditing process set out by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Service organizations derive a wide selection of benefits from obtaining the report. For instance, SaaS companies gain a competitive edge, and the report assures potential clients that the firm complies with AICPA procedures.
Small and large organizations need assurances that a service provider keeps their data safe. Working with a SOC 2-compliant vendor bolsters confidence, particularly for organizations handling sensitive customers’ financial or medical information. It is no surprise that there is an ever-increasing demand for SOC 2 Type 1 reports.
Service providers receive the report immediately after completing a readiness assessment. In contrast, the process of obtaining SOC 2 Type 1 reports takes up to 12 months.

What is SOC 2 Type 2?

Type 2 reports provide superior assurance regarding the compliance of service organizations.
Vendors undergo a comprehensive assessment than with SOC 2 Type 1. AICPA procedures for Type 2 cover a service provider’s internal control practices and policies.
Thus, vendors showcase the highest compliance level when it comes to data security and control systems. SOC 2 Type 2 compliance makes it easier for SaaS firms to work with larger corporations. Vendors adhere to the best practices regarding processing integrity, availability, data privacy, and security.
Although obtaining these reports can be time-consuming and relatively pricey, service providers can stand out from the competition.

Key differences between SOC 2 Type 1 vs. Type 2

The most obvious difference between the two reports is the duration of the assessment process. While Type 1 audits cover controls for a specific date, Type 2 audits encompass an extended period ranging between six and 12 months. The latter assesses operating effectiveness for the specified period.
Type 1 audits concentrate on the design effectiveness of a service provider’s controls. Additionally, auditors assess the applicability of the vendor’s internal controls. These measures should be sufficient to achieve specific objectives.
Vendors need to commit more time, effort, and resources to obtain the Type 2 report compared to Type 1. On the upside, the extra effort can prove worthwhile on the market. Companies are happy to work with vendors that take data security and privacy seriously. Likewise, insurance firms, partners, and other stakeholders can also find this approach appealing.

Closing Thoughts

In a nutshell, the two audits cover procedures and controls implemented by service providers to ensure data security and privacy. When it comes to differences, coverage timeline is the main factor that distinguishes one from the other. Although service organizations can skip Type 1 audits and start with Type 2, experts recommend going through Type 1 as the starting point.
Attempting to obtain the SOC 2 Type 2 without undergoing Type 1 can prove complicated. During the assessment process, your team will likely struggle to showcase controls and policies while demonstrating that the controls have been functioning effectively for a minimum of six months.
Undergoing the Type 1 audit undoubtedly prepares your team for the Type 2 audit. You get a feel of how the SOC assessment process works. It becomes easier to identify areas that require improvement. In addition, you can establish control objectives.

Can You Automatically Record Microsoft Teams Meetings? If you’ve ever been annoyed by the fact that every time you start a new meeting with Microsoft Teams, you have to manually enable the program to record the meeting for later use, you’re not alone.

If you’ve ever been annoyed by the fact that every time you start a new meeting with Microsoft Teams, you have to manually enable the program to record the meeting for later use, you’re not alone.

A quick Google search will show you that this question — and the frustration that goes along with it —is all over the Internet. Moreover, with Microsoft Teams being used more now than ever before because of COVID-19, the issue has become even more pressing.

The truth is most people who use Microsoft Teams want to be able to automatically record their meetings, and why wouldn’t they? Recorded meetings can be used for follow-up studying when teaching virtual classes, and they’re often needed for legal reasons in order to ensure industry compliance. Plus, some people just like to have their recorded meetings on file in case they need to go back and revisit a topic or concern that was already discussed.

So, let’s get to the question at hand: Can you automatically record Microsoft Teams meetings?

Well, you’re probably not going to like the answer we have for you.

If you’re looking for a way to automatically record Microsoft Teams meetings, you are unfortunately out of luck. Alternatively, you’re simply going to have to wait because this feature doesn’t currently exist.

Why Can’t You Automatically Record Microsoft Teams Meetings?

This is a question we can’t quite answer, but if you do ever find out the reason why Microsoft Teams has not allowed users to automatically record meetings, please let us know.

Otherwise, you’ll have to ask Microsoft and their engineers about it.

Manual Meeting Recording: The Struggle Is Real

Naturally, the fact that you can’t automatically record Microsoft Teams meetings is a problem for many people. Even though recording is still an option if you do it manually, it’s easy to forget to set this feature up before starting the meeting. When this happens, you’re completely out of luck. Indeed, there’s no way to go back in time and record a meeting that’s already happened.

The Internet at large is frustrated with this. Any company or individual user who uses Microsoft Teams on a regular basis has probably wondered about this feature. Many of these individuals and employees have voiced their concerns on Reddit and Microsoft Teams forums. You can find lengthy back-and-forths between everyone from tech experts and software engineers, to professionals and laypeople — all trying to figure out the best way to code in this feature or use a third-party program that will enable the automatic recording.

What Should You Do if You’re Frustrated by Teams’ Lack of Automatic Recording?

For many, the only alternative is to use a different video conferencing program like Zoom.

Zoom came on the scene relatively quickly after COVID-19 caused basically everyone to start working and video conferencing from home. Many people like its easy-to-use interface and modern features — one of which is the ability to automatically record meetings.

You can go into the settings on Zoom and predestine all video conferences, meetings, classes, and sessions to be recorded. Alternatively, you can choose only certain types of meetings, conferences, etc. to be recorded.

If you like Microsoft Teams, however, or if your company or organization uses Microsoft Teams and doesn’t want to change, there’s really nothing to be done right now. You simply have to wait for Microsoft to catch up and add this feature to the program. A few commenters have hinted that there’s talk of adding the auto-record feature at Microsoft. Unfortunately, nothing firm or official has been released as of now.

For most of us, therefore, we’ll probably just continue to leave sticky notes on our screens that read “don’t forget to record the meeting!” Until the next update … fingers crossed!
 

Has Your Organization Been Breached By Solarwinds Malware? Although mainstream media coverage of the massive Solarwinds hack seems to indicate the danger is over, the sophisticated hackers may still be hiding in plain sight. Microsoft recently uncovered at least three strands of malware deployed by the alleged Russian hackers.

Although mainstream media coverage of the massive Solarwinds hack seems to indicate the danger is over, the sophisticated hackers may still be hiding in plain sight.

Microsoft recently uncovered at least three strands of malware deployed by the alleged Russian hackers. This new revelation raises alarms across industries that the Solarwinds attacks may not be over. The question business professionals need to be answered is whether their network has been breached and if cybercriminals are actively copying and selling digital assets on the dark web.

What Is The Solar Winds Hack?

Highly skilled cybercriminals reportedly penetrated a Solarwinds system known as “Orion.” These stealth hackers managed to insert malicious code into its software products that were inadvertently dispersed to the outfit’s 33,000 customers in the form of updates.

This code created secret backdoors that allow digital thieves and spies to infiltrate wide-reaching networks, including government agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security and Treasury Department, among others. The so-called Solarwinds attacks were not limited to government targets. Malicious code has been identified in private sector organizations, and the full breadth of the cyberattacks remains unknown.

So pervasive and potentially destructive is the Solarwinds attack that congress held hearings to get a handle on its business and national security implications. Under intense questioning by lawmakers, an official from the Solarwinds reportedly blamed the breach on an intern who ignored the corporation’s cybersecurity protocols. According to news reports, the intern used the weak password “solarwinds123” and posted it online. Cybersecurity experts attribute upwards of 95 percent of breaches to human error.

Who Has Been Impacted By The Solarwinds Attacks?

To say the attacks blindsided private businesses and government agencies would be something of an understatement. Government-vetted firms such as FireEye were compromised due to the sophisticated methods used to hide the malicious code in software updates. The widespread embarrassment from organizations previously considered among the most secure has led many to believe critical information continues to be withheld. Much of the information released about the devastating breaches fails to identify the organizations that have been breached.

On the one hand, working with Solarwinds as a vendor or customer does not necessarily mean that an organization suffered a breach. But by that same token, the supply chain nature of the cyber-attack suggests that outfits outside direct Orion software users could be infected right now. That’s largely because congressional hearings and investigative reports indicate the hackers possess heightened skills, appear well-funded, and demonstrate a determination to hide in networks as long as possible to pilfer off digital assets and valuable personal data. Solarwinds appears to be an ongoing cybersecurity nightmare that should worry industry leaders.

How To Know If You Suffer A Solarwinds Breach?

As Microsoft and others continue to ferret out malicious strands of code, cybersecurity responses are being developed. Industry leaders who are concerned their organization may have been compromised enjoy access to open-sourced CodeQL queries. These are being rolled out by Microsoft to investigate incidents of Solarwinds Orion Malware laying hidden in networks.

Microsoft offers concerned parties free access to its cybersecurity software that was crafted to hunt down this malware. Decision-makers would also be wise to take the following proactive measures to ensure the integrity of their digital assets.

• Enforce Strong Password Policies
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication For Employee Login
• Backup Data To Cloud & Offline Resources
• Monitor Third-Party Controls & Interactions
• Develop A Company-Wide Cybersecurity Policy
• Require Employees To Undergo Cybersecurity Awareness Training
• Maintain Enterprise-Level Firewalls & Virtual Private Networks

The Solarwinds attack highlights how clever, well-financed hackers can infiltrate seemingly impenetrable defenses such as the Department of Homeland Security. That’s why it’s essential for organizations to harden their cybersecurity defenses and deter emerging threats. However, the average business with even sound cybersecurity protections in place was no match for these Russian hackers. If you are concerned your network has been compromised through the Solawinds supply chain or by other threat actors, contact a cybersecurity expert and have your system analyzed and penetration tested.

Migrating from one technology to another is a tedious and risky process. That's why migrating GoDaddy to Microsoft 365 needs the assistance of an expert.
 

Migrate Your GoDaddy Email Data to Microsoft 365 with Netovo Group

Migrating from one technology to another is a tedious and risky process. You could mess up the switching process and lose essential data. That’s why migrating GoDaddy to Microsoft 365 needs the assistance of an expert.

But before we get to that, why would you even consider GoDaddy to Microsoft 365 migration in the first place?

A GoDaddy hosting for Microsoft 365 comes with several global admin privileges and app restrictions. Many customers see the restrictions as pretty inconveniencing, and you could be on this bandwagon. On the other hand, a Microsoft 365 environment comes with unbeatable control in functionality and licensing aspects.

And this is why most users consider the move inevitable.

How to Migrate from GoDaddy to Microsoft 365

Microsoft Office 365 migration is a complex and delicate process that will take you slightly over one hour to complete. For you to understand the process, we will divide the process into three distinct sections. They include;

Preparation

Without proper preparation, your migration process will most likely fail. It is sometimes prudent to find an expert who can guide you through this process as it involves initiating on both your GoDaddy DNS and on your target Microsoft Office 365 tenant. The process includes:

Step 1- Ensure That You Have All User Credentials

Ensure that you have the names (both first and last) and the users’ passwords. You can organize this data neatly on an Excel spreadsheet, as you will need it later to Enable Source-Side Impersonation (SSI) on GoDaddy.

Step 2- Access Your GoDaddy DNS

You need to ascertain that you can still access your GoDaddy DNS by logging into the platform.

Step 3- Backup Client Settings on GoDaddy DNS

Once you Login to your GoDaddy account, look around for Account Settings on the platform and click. You can then select the domain that you intend to work on and click DNS.

Check at the bottom of the page for the Advanced Feature section and click Export Zone File, which appears under it.

Save the file locally. Doing so provides you with a basic backup that you can use to restore the original DNS in case of an eventuality.

Alternatively, you can establish a backup by following these commands once you Log in on the GoDaddy platform using Admin credentials.

Go to Workspace Email, click Manage All, and click on the Export option. From the drop-down under Export, choose Email, and choose CSV as your preferred File format. Now, click on Export to begin the backup process. Once done, open the CSV file and create a new raw with the Username, Email Address, and Password.

Step 4- Prepare the Target Microsoft Office 365 Tenant

Before you do anything, ensure that you are a global administrator on the Office 365 tenant. You can then proceed as follows:

• Open portal.office.com and Log in.
• Create all your end-user accounts. Do this by using the address <tenantName>.onmicrosoft.com.
• Provide all the relevant Microsoft Office 365 licenses. You can contact your Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) for all the necessary licenses if you don’t have them with you.
• Ensure that you license the Global Admin account and assign these licenses to your end-users. Note that every end-user account needs licensing, at least with the Exchange Online Plan 1 Certificate.

Migrate from GoDaddy to Microsoft Office 365

Now that we are through with the preparation stage, you can implement the migration process through the following steps:

• Login to Microsoft Office Admin Center. Go to Admin Center and perform the following commands, Exchange>>Recipients>>Migration.
• You will see a + sign, click on it, followed by Migrate to Exchange Online.
• Select IMAP Migration, which is the last option on the list.
• Click on Choose File and browse your files for the CSV files you created during the preparation phase.
• Open the IMAP Migration Configuration and fill in the IMAP server details, and click Next.
• Name the batch migration as you may prefer and implement the commands Bad Item Limit>> Large Item Limit>>Exclude Folder>>Next.
• Using the Browse button, select the User (s) who will receive migration process notifications. Click on Start to commence the moving process.
• The process will be in a syncing status until all your email data move from GoDaddy to Microsoft Office 365, after which the status will change to “synced.”
• Throughout the process, you can get the status via the View details option.

Synchronization

After the migration, you can continue with the following:

• Remove the GoDaddy federation from the Windows Powershell section.
• Delete user accounts or email addresses on GoDaddy.
• Remove your domain from the GoDaddy Platform.
• Add a vanity domain and update your DNS on the new Microsoft 365 Tenant.

Of course, this isn’t very easy, but you can effectively achieve it via the following steps.

• Use your admin credentials to log in to Office 365.
• Follow Admin>> Setup>> Domains>> Add Domain.
• When prompted to Verify Domain Page, ignore and instead select the Add a TXT record option.
• Open your DNS on a different browser and add the requested TXT record.
• Wait for a couple of minutes and click Verify.
• And when prompted to Update DNS settings, ignore and instead choose “I’ll add the DNS records myself.”
• Update the DNS appropriately and remove any existing GoDaddy references.
•  Refresh the system until “All DNS records are correct, no error found” appears on your screen.

Now, you can update your primary email addresses into the new domain. Once you log in to the portal, click Users>> Active Users.

• Select one User at a time and click Edit over the email section/Username. Using the vanity domain, create an alias and click on Add.
• Continue as follows; Set as primary>> Save>> Close.
• Repeat steps v, vi, and vii for all active users.
• Once you are certain that all emails are in, run a full synchronization.
• Finally, you can test your email, reset your password, log off from GoDaddy, and update your Office 365 to the latest version.

Trust Netovo Group to Guide You through GoDaddy to Office 365 Migration

Migrating your email data from GoDaddy to Office 365 is a risky, complicated, and time-consuming process. It even gets difficult if you have appointments and calendars in your Outlook to move. You no longer have to fret about this as our experts at Netovo of all the hard work and update you through each step. Contact Us for more details.

Inclusive Work Environment Is Vital for Digital Transformation As an ever-increasing number of companies implement a digital transformation, decision-makers need to adopt viable ways to transition successfully. Creating an inclusive work environment is undoubtedly one of the best ways to achieve this objective. Many organizations find it easier to create the workplace of the future […]

Inclusive Work Environment Is Vital for Digital Transformation

As an ever-increasing number of companies implement a digital transformation, decision-makers need to adopt viable ways to transition successfully. Creating an inclusive work environment is undoubtedly one of the best ways to achieve this objective. Many organizations find it easier to create the workplace of the future by embracing diversity.

In doing so, they create a people-centric, inclusive work environment that leverages digital solutions to supercharge efficiency and productivity. The best part is that such an environment is more likely to attract the best talent in various fields.

IT experts recommend keeping things simple and implementing changes incrementally. Critical aspects like employee well-being and mental health also play an integral role in bolstering inclusivity. This aspect is vital for remote work because many workers often feel stressed and grapple with concentration and motivation challenges.

Thus, managers and executives need to foster a workplace rooted in flexibility and empathy. Successful transitions require executives to adopt bold measures capable of driving meaningful change.

Inclusion as a Top Business Priority

Although many companies stepped up diversity and inclusion efforts, there is still considerable room for improvement. According to a recent diversity report, approximately three percent of Fortune 500 companies release diversity information. This figure shows that many organizations express interest in boosting inclusion and diversity, but progress is sluggish.

To implement meaningful changes, organizations should put in considerable effort. A diverse workforce enables companies to solve problems more effectively and enhance innovation.

Your organization should reinvent its talent pool by examining future staffing requirements from a digital transformation perspective. The future requires a more diverse workforce capable of handling challenges more dynamically. Pick a team that is ready to handle the current and future digital trends. Team members should bring considerable digital competencies.

Long-term success depends on strategies that enable your company to attract the right talent steeped in digital transformation. The new talent can help existing staff embrace digital transformation while transferring critical skills. Agile talent plays an essential role in preparing your organization for the future.

The Role of CIOs and HR Managers

Chief information officers and human resources managers play a pivotal role in implementing diversity and digital transformation plans. This dynamic duo needs to work closely to ensure that employee engagement, culture, and the work environment leverage technology.

Diversity and inclusion strategies share similarities with gamification, which empowers businesses to attract and retain highly skilled professionals. Human resources departments play a vital role in implementing gamification by embracing technology. This approach is also critical when it comes to digital transformation and diversity.

Hiring digitally inclined, diverse team members is more important than just following a trend. It represents a cultural shift capable of propelling your business to long-term success. Many business leaders, including CIOs and HR managers, boost their reputation by implementing successful diversity and digital transformation policies. The cultural revolution leads to improved operating efficiency, increased productivity, and higher profits.

To achieve overall success, you need to formulate viable plans. Furthermore, it is vital to outline timelines and milestones to help your team gauge the plan’s effectiveness.

Business Cases vs. Cultural Revolution

Many organizations grapple with the idea of justifying digital transformation and diversity initiatives based on specific business cases. In the end, some businesses struggle to make progress while trying to identify business cases. Thus, the process becomes a waste of time. Experts recommend skipping the business case and focus on the cultural evolution.

Understanding the role of diversity and inclusion in overall business success helps decision-makers concentrate on the ultimate prize. Digital transformation and an inclusive work environment represent the future of work. Your team does not need to make a business case since complex organizational structures and communication systems drive today’s corporate ecosystem.

Companies gain useful insights by tapping into analytics powered by augmented reality and artificial intelligence. Companies should focus on embracing this reality without making a business case. Digital transformation encompasses various aspects of customers’ and the workforce’s activities. On the other hand, transformation requires the support of a diverse workforce capable of making meaningful contributions.

Once you consider these two aspects, your team has proven a business case. Thus, eliminating the need to spend time deliberating the topic. Experts recommend getting on board or risk missing out on a significant opportunity for your company. Additionally, assess the downsides of diversity parity and the benefits of a digitally connected work environment.

Also, consider how the entire workforce and customers benefit from the initiative. The right decision does not depend on information in spreadsheets and presentations. Focus on the human aspects.