The Benefits of Public Cloud Computing
Simplicity and efficiency are the overarching benefits of having a public cloud. Public clouds are offered as a service, usually over an Internet connection. An off-site third party provider hosts and manages the system. Users connect to the system via web applications or services. Public clouds usually charge a monthly usage fee per gigabyte and bandwidth transfer charges.
Cost: Having a cloud computing model in place, organizations can trim their IT budgets because they don't have to purchase physical hardware (which also saves on energy costs), as the servers are virtual - hosted at a third party. Organizations can customize their clouds with specific storage parameters, applications, and security options so that they only pay for what they need. Since the cloud is hosted by a third party, the organization doesn't need to spend money to have an employee monitor the system; it is taken care of by the host.
Time: In house servers take time to maintain. If hardware or software configurations need to be altered, or if a server crashes or needs to be restarted, the process can often take a couple of hours or a couple of days depending on the situation. With cloud computing, because everything is virtualized, reconfiguring the cloud takes minutes.[1]
Also - because the servers are hosted on the cloud, if one server fails, another can instantly be activated, reducing down time.
Maintenance: Due to the fact that the public cloud system is hosted off site, internal employees are not responsible for maintaining the system. The design lets users update or introduce technologies into the system at a much faster rate as everything is managed at the host company. Having a virtualized public cloud means never having to deal with a physical server; it can be maintained from a simple configuration screen.[2]
Disadvantages of a Public Cloud
Lack of Control: Due to the fact that third party providers are in charge of storing and maintaining the data systems, many feel as if they don't have enough control over their personal data.
Speed: Public Clouds are based on internet connections, meaning the data transfer rate is limited to that of the Internet Service Provider (ISP), which is usually no more than 10mbps. If an organization is storing and transferring large amounts of data (high definition video for example), a public cloud may not be the best bet.
Lack of Investment: Although a great cost saving method by reducing the need to invest upfront, renting the service from an outside provider also means that there is little capital gained. Having items such as servers and network equipment can pay off in the long run as assets and tax advantages.
The Benefits of Private Cloud Computing
Private clouds are built from software that runs on a piece of hardware at the organization. The difference between a public cloud and a private cloud is that a private cloud is controlled by the organization. The benefits of this system are that although an investment due to the fact hardware is required, it costs considerably less than traditional data management systems. The cost savings is due to virtualization in which one physical server acts as host to several virtual servers, each of which runs on a layer of software.[3]
Control: Due to the fact that the hardware is on-site, organizations have more control over their data. The organization is in charge of monitoring and maintaining the data giving them complete oversight of their data.
Performance: The private cloud is deployed inside the firewall on an organization's intranet, meaning that transfer rates are dramatically increased. Read access off of private clouds can be as fast as 100mbps, or even more if the organization has a gigabit Ethernet connection. Storage capacity is also higher with a private cloud. Private clouds usually start with a few terabytes and can be increased by adding additional disks.[4]
Disadvantages of a Private Cloud
Cost: Private clouds are more expensive than public because they require both hardware and maintenance personnel. To build a private cloud, an organization needs to invest in hardware or use already existing systems whereas a public cloud is all handled off site. Private clouds also require system administrators. However, one system administrator could easily manage a 100-node cloud with a part-time effort. [5]
Maintenance: Since the private cloud is hosted on sight, the organization needs to provide adequate power, cooling, and general maintenance. The host organization also runs the risk of data loss due to physical damage of the unit (i.e. fire, power surge, water damage).
[1] "Seeding the Clouds: Key Infrastructure Elements for Cloud Computing." IBM. Feb.2009. IBM Corporation. 26 Feb. 2010. <http://www-935.ibm.com/services/in/cio/pdf/oiw03022usen.pdf>.
[2] Fogarty, Kevin. "Cloud Computing Definitions and Solutions." CIO 10 Sep. 2009.Wed. 27 Feb 2010. <http://www.cio.com/article/501814/Cloud_Computing_Definitions_and_Solutions>.
[3] Ibid
[4] "Cloud Computing Public or Private? How to Choose Cloud Storage." Sys-Con Media. Sys-Con Media, 2008. Web. 26 Feb 2010. <http://www.sys-con.com/node/707840>.
[5] Ibid
Ben. R Howard, a Senior IT Associate at NSK Inc recently took the CISSP Certification Exam and passed, placing him among roughly 64,000 other IT professionals in the world who have the certification.
The CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) is a highly prestigious certification that requires a massive amount of training and credentials in order to be considered to even take the exam.
CISSP candidates must have at least five years of experience in information security as well as experience with two of ten domains of security before they even apply. They then have to train and prepare for a sixty page exam that lasts for six-hours.
Those who pass receive the certification. A CISSP Certified Associate knows how to formally manage an all encompassing security program. The CISSP credential is a testament to the years of experience, knowledge, and competency of information systems, these personnel have achieved.
Howard hopes to broaden NSK's ability to provide security services to its clients with his new certification. Having a CISSP Certified IT Associate, will only help NSK Inc move forward as a premier consulting firm in Boston.
The Hype of the Cloud
2009 could be called "The Year of the Cloud." The information technology sector has been buzzing with terminology such as "cloud computing" and "virtualization". So what is all the hype about? In order to see why cloud computing has taken the technology world by storm (pun intended); we need to know what it is, how it works, and why it can be beneficial.
What is Cloud Computing?
"Cloud Computing" isn't a technology, but rather a model of computing.[1]
A cloud consists of servers, networks, and applications that are available to end users via a network (usually the Internet). So anytime "cloud" is mentioned, it is referring to hardware, software, or services that are accessible from virtually anywhere, with a simple network connection.
"Virtualization" is usually in reference to server virtualization where one physical server actually hosts several virtual servers. In cloud computing, one stand alone server can make an entire data-center complete with servers, networking devices, systems management, storage, and security, look like a single computer. This lets companies buy exactly the amount of storage and security they need.[2]
Public Cloud
Public clouds are offered as a service, usually over an Internet connection. An off-site third party provider hosts and manages the system. Users connect to the system via web applications or services. Public clouds usually charge a monthly usage fee per gigabyte and bandwidth transfer charges.[3] The service is on-demand and users can add or subtract the amount of storage in their cloud simply by contacting the host provider.
Private Cloud
Private clouds are built from software that runs on a piece of hardware at the organization. The difference from a public cloud is that this system is controlled by the organization. The benefits of this system are that a private cloud, although an investment due to the fact hardware is required, costs considerably less than traditional data management systems. Deployments of a private cloud are easier as they are software based, and the system is more secure as the system is within the organization's firewall and managed locally.
Why Go Virtual
There are a multitude of factors as to why a company would want to become virtualized. The most common reason why businesses adapt the cloud model is efficiency. Cloud computing drastically reduces the amount of time, money, and maintenance needed to operate a traditional data management system. With traditional systems; a company has to buy equipment; dedicate space within the office, while providing specific power and cooling needs to house the hardware; and hire administrators to install, secure, and maintain the data system. [4]
The cloud computing model helps to maximize efficiency and minimize cost.
[1] Fogarty, Kevin. "Cloud Computing Definitions and Solutions." CIO 10 Sep. 2009:Web. 27 Feb 2010. <http://www.cio.com/article/501814/Cloud_Computing_Definitions_and_Solutions>.
[2] Ibid.
[3] Maxey, Mike. "Cloud Computing Public or Private? How to Choose Cloud Storage."Cloud Computing Journal (2009): Web. 2 Mar 2010. <http://cloudcomputing.sys-con.com/node/707840>.
[4] "Seeding the Clouds: Key Infrastructure Elements for Cloud Computing." IBM. Feb.2009. IBM Corporation. 26 Feb. 2010. <http://www-935.ibm.com/services/in/cio/pdf/oiw03022usen.pdf>.
For Immediate Release
NSK INC RECOGNIZED FOR SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS
Boston based IT consulting firm gets rave reviews from Earthworm Inc. for their recycling and conservation efforts for 2009
Boston, MA, February 24, 2010 - NSK Inc, a leader in IT consulting for small to medium businesses, has been recognized by
Earthworm Inc. for their recycling efforts over the course of the 2009 calendar year. Based in Somerville, MA, Earthworm Inc. specializes in recycling office waste materials and implementing corporate recycling programs. NSK Inc and Earthworm began a partnership in 2009 to increase the sustainability of NSK Inc's Boston office.
Over the course of a year, NSK Inc completely revamped their recycling program and made numerous positive contributions to the environment. NSK Inc reduced their carbon footprint (the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions caused by an organization) by 1.79 metric tons. Almost two tons of carbon was saved from being released into the atmosphere through NSK's green initiative, helping to reduce their carbon footprint and reducing environmental impact.
In addition to lowering carbon emissions, NSK Inc also saved 180 pounds of bottles and cans, roughly 2400 pounds of paper (the equivalent of 20 trees), and recycled 390 pounds of electronics equipment. According to Tim Lasonde, the President of NSK Inc, "Being green fits within NSK's mission of helping companies use technology to grow their businesses so that they are more efficient and productive. If we can show success and savings within our own organization, we can also help others achieve similar goals."
NSK Inc's efforts towards an eco-friendly business don't stop with the Earthworm partnership. Nancy Keddy, Founder and CEO of NSK Inc, believes that the efforts are an ongoing event. "We must always be improving our processes and considering their impact on the environment." In addition to the Earthworm program, NSK is currently transitioning their billing system to be paperless. Keddy says, "We are forward thinkers, so recycling is a must."
About Earthworm Inc.
Earthworm seeks to conserve natural resources by promoting the recycling of office waste materials. We promote recycling by operating both small and large scale commercial recycling programs, and by serving as an educational resource to the public. This combination of hands-on experience and environmentalism enables Earthworm to be a pioneer in offering sustainable, workplace recycling programs. For more information, please visit www.earthwormrecycling.org.
About NSK Inc.
NSK Inc is a leader in information technology consulting, with a focus on IT management for SMB companies. Headquartered in Boston, MA with an additional office in Palo Alto, CA, the company offers a wide array of IT services for business driven information challenges. They provide service and support for small and medium-sized businesses and groups working within large organizations. NSK Inc also creates custom software products for investment banks, equity management organizations, and other specialized industry areas. For more information, please visit www.nskinc.com.
Press Contact
For more information about NSK Inc, please contact:
Cathie Briggette
NSK Inc.
(p) +1 617 303-0480
(e) cathie@nskinc.com
By: Ryan Hickey
IT Services Manager, NSK Inc
Here are five ways hackers can get into your computer system, and the steps you need to take to stay protected.
1. Peer to Peer networking sites
These include:
• Bit torrent - open source file sharing application
• Kazaa - free music downloads
• Limewire - free music and videos
• Sharezaa - video sharing site.
Peer to Peer sites really have no place in the workplace. They are rife with viruses, eat up bandwidth, decrease productivity and open your business up to copyright lawsuits. Ideally, they should be blocked at the hardware firewall separating your network from the internet.
2. Social Networking sites including:
a. Facebook - Hold on, hold on I am not telling you to get rid of your Facebook account, I am just telling you to be very careful. Hackers have figured out how to create computer-generated Facebook profiles and are using them to trick unsuspecting users into installing malware. This means that attackers have figured out a way to crack the Facebook captcha, which is used to ensure profiles are created by humans, rather than computer scripts that automate the process, allowing attackers to create thousands of profiles at a time. Facebook engineers are doing a good job killing these fake profiles, but you still need to be careful.
i. Don't click on profiles of people that you do not know.
ii. Do not click on the ads on the side of the page, because no one is monitoring what content may be in those ads.
iii. Malware is also being circulated via Facebook messages. Do not open messages from anyone who isn't a friend or from friends you haven't heard from in a long time. Also don't open any messages that have strange subjects that don't look right such as "Maan,yyou're great!" "I found this video of you", etc.
b. MySpace - If you happen to visit the MySpace Chat Forums without the benefit of the latest security updates for popular Web browsers and media player plug-ins, your computer is likely to get lots of malware, as well as Trojan horse programs that are very hard to identify and are even harder to delete using anti-virus programs. Make sure your web browser, and media player plug-ins are installed and up to date.
c. Twitter - Malware researchers are seeing signs that Twitter is now clearly large enough for attackers to use as a mechanism for malicious software
i. Most of the Twitter malware uses beautiful women as the profile picture. Don't be fooled, that person is not really using Twitter and they really don't want to follow you
ii. Most of the Tweets are for a date, or pornographic pictures -- Do Not Click on them!
The FBI issued this advisory warning people to be wary of fraud on social networking sites.
Ideally, it would be great if all businesses could block social networking sites at the firewall but in some circumstances such as small businesses or businesses that have Marketing and Sales departments that rely on Social Networking for business use it's not so easy.
3. IM (Instant Messaging)
a. Do not click on links in an Instant Message
i. If the link is from a friend, ask them if it is OK to open or try a different method of sending the link
b. Do not open attachments unless you know who they are from and you are expecting them
c. Do not download applets (small applications that perform specific tasks) when asked while trying to view pictures or other documents
4. Email
a. Do not click on a link if you do not know the sender.
b. Never open attachments unless you know who it's from and are expecting it.
i. Never download attachments with a .exe or .scr extension
ii. Good extensions are .doc, .xls, .pdf, .jpg
c. Do not click on a link if you KNOW the sender, but the message is STRANGE. (i.e. I LOVE YOU Email message from your boss).
d. Be wary of emails saying that say they are from your financial institution asking you for information. Almost every bank, credit card company, etc. will never request personal information from you via email.
5. Web Browsing
a. Pop-Ups. Do Not believe everything you see in pop-up windows
i. Messages telling you to:
• Optimize your computer
• Protect your computer
• Saying your computer is infected with spyware and you need a specific program to clean it.
These pop-ups will always download malware into your computer that will make it unusable, steal your information, or use your computer to send spam etc.
Cancelling a pop up window sometimes is just not enough. Sometimes the way it is worded will install the program if you click cancel. If you notice that information is still being downloaded Close the pop-up using the red X in the right corner of the pop-up or go to your task manager and close the application. (ctrl-alt-delete). If you can turn off your computer without losing your work, it may be best to hard shut down your computer when you feel like you're being trapped on a website. This can be done by pressing the power button on your computer and holding it down for 5 seconds until it powers off.
b. Make sure your browser settings do not allow files to automatically download. Change the settings to ask you first about installations or updates before they happen.
If you are unsure about opening something talk to your system administrator or IT Specialist. It is better to attempt to stop something before it goes into your computer, than to try and remove it or, even worse, have to rebuild your computer.
For Immediate Release
NSK INC SELECTS AUTOTASK FOR PSA SYSTEM
Boston IT consulting firm making switch to new, web-based, professional services automation system for time and project management
Boston, MA, February 19, 2010 - NSK Inc, a Boston-based IT consulting firm specializing in small to medium businesses, recently purchased the Autotask® Software System for the company's Professional Services Automation software (PSA). Optimized for use by IT Providers, Autotask is an all in one resource for project management, billing and invoicing, and time reporting. The system runs off of a centralized cloud database and allows users to update from anywhere, a key reason why NSK chose the system.
Tim Lasonde, the President of NSK Inc couldn't be happier. "Of all the products and PSA systems we looked at, Autotask is the easiest to implement. It has all of the features we need to enhance our clients' experience." NSK will be utilizing Autotask as a way to allow technicians from NSK to log hours and report remotely from any location; a benefit for when they are on the job and not in the office. Emily R. Steinberg, Office Manager at NSK Inc says that Autotask is a step up from the current system configuration. "It will help to keep NSK better organized and allow for easier billing and invoicing, as well as employee time tracking."
The selection process wasn't an easy one for NSK Inc. "We looked at many companies over the past two months, watched many demos, and participated in a few trials," says Lasonde. "Autotask was the right choice for NSK because it allows us to improve our services for businesses in Greater Boston, streamline billing and invoicing, and measure the success of our employees." NSK will implement Autotask over the next two months, and expects to be fully transitioned to the system by the start of the second fiscal quarter.
About Autotask Corporation
Autotask Corporation is the leading provider of innovative, web-based Business Management Software and Services designed exclusively for IT Service Providers, MSPs, IT Consultants, Systems Integrators and other technology solution providers. Accessible via any PC, at any time without any downloads, Autotask helps IT professionals intuitively manage and automate the key operations for their service business and integrates seamlessly with most Managed Services software applications. For more information on Autotask please visit http://www.autotask.com or call 518-720-3500. Autotask®, Autotask Go!®, Autotask Pro® are registered trademarks Autotask Corporation. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners.
About NSK Inc.
NSK Inc is a leader in information technology consulting, with a focus on IT management for SMB companies. Headquartered in Boston, MA with an additional office in Palo Alto, CA, the company offers a wide array of IT services for business driven information challenges. They provide service and support for small and medium-sized businesses and groups working within large organizations. NSK Inc also creates custom software products for investment banks, equity management organizations, and other specialized industry areas. For more information, please visit www.nskinc.com.
Press Contact
To schedule a press briefing, please contact:
Cathie Briggette
NSK Inc.
(p) +1 617 303-0480
(e) cathie@nskinc.com
For Immediate Release
NSK INC MAKES BOSTON BUSINESS JOURNAL BOOK OF LISTS
Boston-based IT consulting firm makes Top 40 List for 2010; joins ranks of major IT firms in Boston
Boston, MA, February 5, 2010 - NSK Inc, a leader in IT consulting for small to medium businesses, has been included in the Boston Business Journal's "Book of Lists 2010." Considered a "Who's Who in Boston Business," the guide profiles some of the largest corporations in the Greater Boston Area. NSK Inc is featured under the category "Area's Largest IT Consulting Firms," showcasing forty technology companies in the Greater Boston Area.
Nancy Swan Keddy, CEO and Senior Partner of NSK Inc, is thrilled to be a part of this year's selection. "It is a privilege this year to have NSK Inc recognized in the BBJ Book of Lists, 2010. NSK has always strived to be one of the top IT firms in Boston and this notoriety substantiates this accomplishment." Keddy started NSK Inc in 1995, and the company has expanded since, boasting a workforce of almost thirty employees along with an extensive client list. According to Keddy, NSK Inc was founded on the idea that she "didn't want to assist just one, but multiple organizations in growing and/or increasing their knowledge of both Information Technology and Development."
About The Boston Business Journal
The Boston Business Journal is Greater Boston's premier business newspaper, providing breaking news and comprehensive coverage of the region's business community. Each weekly issue includes in depth articles covering a variety of industries, corporate profiles, executive spotlights, as well as our exclusive Top 25 Lists. BBJ also publishes daily business news through its robust website, BostonBusinessJournal.com, and daily email updates.
About NSK Inc
NSK Inc is a leader in information technology consulting, with a focus on IT management for SMB companies Headquartered in Boston, MA with an additional office in Palo Alto, CA, the company offers a wide array of IT services for business driven information challenges. They provide service and support for small and medium-sized businesses and groups working within large organizations. NSK Inc also creates custom software products for investment banks, equity management organizations, and other specialized industry areas. For more information, please visit www.nskinc.com.
Press Contact
To schedule a press briefing, please contact:
Cathie Briggette
NSK Inc.
(p) +1 617 303-0480
(e) cathie@nskinc.com
NSK Inc now certified in VMware vSphere 4 virtualization
Boston, MA, February 1, 2010 - NSK Inc. recently announced that one of their IT Associates, Justin Etling is now a VMware® Certified Personnel. VMware software allows system administrators to run multiple operating systems on one CPU and lets users create virtualized servers. Etling is certified in VMware's vSphereTM 4, a cloud computing application designed to manage large pools of virtualized computing infrastructure including hardware and software components. According to Etling, "virtualization is the future of the IT industry."
"Virtualization is going to be a huge project driver for small to medium businesses (SMB) in 2010," comments Timothy Lasonde, President of NSK Inc. "As small businesses begin to realize that they can get more out of their equipment by implementing these new technologies, the demand for qualified technicians who understand SMB companies and how to correctly utilize this technology is skyrocketing. Justin is leading NSK Inc in its virtualization efforts and his certification helps to position us appropriately."
In order to become VMware certified, Etling completed a fifty hour training course which culminated in a certification exam. He says the course was very beneficial and that VMware is "really easy to use and implement." Once a technician becomes a VMware Certified Professional, they are officially licensed to use, install, and configure VMware solutions. Etling claims his new credentials are a huge asset to NSK Inc. "A lot of our clients use [VMware] to save money on hardware and software costs. Our clients also use the application for disaster recovery. If a server dies, you can instantly bring it up on another server, which minimizes downtime."
About VMware
VMware delivers solutions for business infrastructure virtualization that enable IT organizations to energize businesses of all sizes. With the industry leading virtualization platform - VMware vSphereTM - customers rely on VMware to reduce capital and operating expenses, improve agility, ensure business continuity, strengthen security and go green. With 2008 revenues of $1.9 billion, more than 150,000 customers and 22,000 partners, VMware is the leader in virtualization which consistently ranks as a top priority among CIOs. VMware is headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices throughout the world and can be found online at http://www.vmware.com/.
VMware, VMware vSphere and VMware vCenter are registered trademarks and/or trademarks of VMware, Inc. in the United States and/or other jurisdictions. All other marks and names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies.
About NSK Inc.
NSK Inc is a leader in information technology consulting, with a focus on IT management for SMB companies. Headquartered in Boston, MA with an additional office in Palo Alto, CA, the company offers a wide array of IT services for business driven information challenges. They provide service and support for small and medium-sized businesses and groups working within large organizations. NSK Inc also creates custom software products for investment banks, equity management organizations, and other specialized industry areas. For more information, please visit NSK Inc
This morning NSK Inc. met with IT and Human Resources Staff from the ICA, The Museum of Science, The Boston Children's Museum, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the New England Genealogical Society to discuss the new Privacy Law that goes into effect in Massachusetts on March 1, 2010 (MGL 93H 201CMR17.00). The meeting was sponsored by and held at the ICA. Ryan Hickey and Timothy Lasonde from NSK Inc showed a Power Point presentation to everyone and explained the new law and what is required by Massachusetts companies to be in compliance by March 1, 2010.
NSK Inc would like to thank the ICA for inviting us to participate in this presentation and would like to make available for all that were present the following links to help them further in coming into compliance with this new regulation.
If anyone has any questions, or if we can help in any way, please do not hesitate to give Cathie Briggette a call at 617-303-0480 X 224.
Below are links to the information that was discussed.
Final Version of MGL 93H 201 CMR 17.00 Filed 10-29-2009
MPICA - The Assessment and What it Includes
Report on the MGL Chapter 93H Notifications
Checklist for WISP
Frequently Ask Questions for 201 CMR 17.00
Data Breach Resources
If you would like a copy of the Powerpoint Presentation that was used during this seminar, please email cathie@nskinc.com
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