As networking equipment and servers become more powerful, and costs begin to rise on their support contracts, the environment is usually the last item that is budgeted for. Today, small businesses utilize spare closets, medium businesses may have a dedicated equipment room, and larger corporations will have a custom built data room. As we safeguard our investments against file viruses, email spam, and internet hackers, we have seen in our experience, that the actual monitoring of the network room, is usually sub-par.

Although you don’t need to have an entire Cloud System in your office or a VMWare infrastructure running a server farm, most company’s will have an Active Directory Domain Controller, Email Server, and possible a dedicated File Server. While we pour resources and funds into the server management aspect to ensure we can work, and communicate, we sometimes don’t stop and realize the very basic health of the room:

(1) Multiple extension cords, surge strips, overloaded electrical outlets.

(2) Servers and Network Equipment dispense great amounts of heat that need an escape.

(3) Do we really know how much time is left on the batteries (if any at all).

Utilizing the best equipment, requires the best monitoring to ensure that your systems stay online without downtime. When installing any of the different models of APC Symetra units (Batteries, KV Power Modules, Environmental Modules), they each perform a different function and safeguard. The batteries allow the run-time to increase if you lose electrical connectivity in the building, the Power Modules increase the load capability of the unit, and the Environmental Modules monitor temperature and humidity in the room.

By accessing the web based interface of the APC/UPS Network Management Card that installed in the unit, you have a dashboard of the health of the environment at your fingertips. You can instantly see the Equipment Load, Battery Run-time, Temperature and a slew of other usual monitoring. The application allows you to setup multiple server monitoring, graceful shutdown thresholds, and the most important feature is EMAIL notification or SNMP alerting. If the device switches to battery, you are notified; if it gets too hot; you are notified. Data can be damaged if servers just power off. Equipment can be damaged if the AC unit fails or overheats.

As equipment is an investment, so should the proactive monitoring.

For a walk-through of our new data center, feel free to contact us at AMRCON, and we can schedule a meeting.

The new ODS “Virtual System Administrator” interface is almost ready for live launch. We have spent months preparing, building and testing the new function ability of this state of the art server. The entire environment is built on the proven technology of 64bit platform of Windows Server 2008, and utilizes the database scalability of Windows SQL Server 2008.

We decided to install on a HP DL380 server, Dual XEON processor, 10GB of Memory, and 2 RAID arrays, as this is a powerhouse of hardware, capable of handling some of the most system intensive programs.

The Graphical User Interface has been completely redesigned. The module tabs and function lists have been combined into a single expandable-collapsible explorer like navigation pane

Some of the new features include “Users, Scopes and Roles”, for added security and access for Master Administrators, Consultants and End Users. Computer groups have also been migrated into Organizations, Machine Groups and Departments.

The Info Center includes a new function called the INBOX. The inbox holds messages generated by other users or by the ODS System. Much like email, you can use it as a method of system notification or to communicate with other ODS users.

With a goal of minimal user interruption Live Connect gives you the tools to do anything and everything you can imagine with an agent, directly.

Complete Agent Data including procedure history

• Audit Information
• A robust drag and drop file manager for transferring files to and from the agent
• Command Prompt
• Remote Registry Editor like regedt32.exe
• Task Manager to see running processes and resource consumption
• Full Featured Event Viewer
• Ticketing interface to update active issues directly
• Chat for IM like conversations with the agent user
• Desktop Access for full interactive remote control of the agent
• Discovery is a tool to sweep the local network(s) of the agent and discover all network nodes
• Video Chat allows for fully interactive face to face video chatting with the agent user if their machine has a camera

     If Windows ever notifies you about a weak signal, it probably means your connection isn’t as fast or as reliable as it could be. Worse, you might lose your connection entirely in some parts of your home. If you’re looking to improve the signal for your wireless network, try some of these tips for extending your wireless range and improving your wireless network performance.

1. Position your wireless router (or wireless access point) in a central location
When possible, place your wireless router in a central location in your home. If your wireless router is against an outside wall of your home, the signal will be weak on the other side of your home. Don’t worry if you can’t move your wireless router, because there are many other ways to improve your connection.

2. Move the router off the floor and away from walls and metal objects (such as metal file cabinets)
Metal, walls, and floors will interfere with your router’s wireless signals. The closer your router is to these obstructions, the more severe the interference, and the weaker your connection will be.

3. Replace your router’s antenna
The antennas supplied with your router are designed to be omni-directional, meaning they broadcast in all directions around the router. If your router is near an outside wall, half of the wireless signals will be sent outside your home, and much of your router’s power will be wasted. Most routers don’t allow you to increase the power output, but you can make better use of the power. Upgrade to a hi-gain antenna that focuses the wireless signals only one direction. You can aim the signal in the direction you need it most.

4. Replace your computer’s wireless network adapter
Wireless network signals must be sent both to and from your computer. Sometimes, your router can broadcast strongly enough to reach your computer, but your computer can’t send signals back to your router. To improve this, replace your laptop’s PC card-based wireless network adapter with a USB network adapter that uses an external antenna.

5. Add a wireless repeater
Wireless repeaters extend your wireless network range without requiring you to add any wiring. Just place the wireless repeater halfway between your wireless access point and your computer, and you’ll get an instant boost to your wireless signal strength. Check out the wireless repeaters from Cisco or Linksys.

6. Change your wireless channel
Wireless routers can broadcast on several different channels, similar to the way radio stations use different channels. In the United States and Canada, these channels are 1, 6, and 11. Just like you’ll sometimes hear interference on one radio station while another is perfectly clear, sometimes one wireless channel is clearer than others. Try changing your wireless router’s channel through your router’s configuration page to see if your signal strength improves. You don’t need to change your computer’s configuration, because it’ll automatically detect the new channel.

7. Reduce wireless interference
If you have cordless phones or other wireless electronics in your home, your computer might not be able to “hear” your router over the noise from the other wireless devices. To quiet the noise, avoid wireless electronics that use the 2.4GHz frequency. Instead, look for cordless phones that use the 5.8GHz or 900MHz frequencies.

8. Update your firmware or your network adapter driver
Router manufacturers regularly make free improvements to their routers. Sometimes, these improvements increase performance. To get the latest firmware updates for your router, visit your router manufacturer’s Web site.

9. Pick equipment from a single vendor
While a Linksys router will work with a D-Link network adapter, you often get better performance if you pick a router and network adapter from the same vendor. Some vendors offer a performance boost of up to twice the performance when you choose their hardware: Linksys has the SpeedBooster technology, and D-Link has the 108G enhancement.

10. Upgrade 802.11b devices to 802.11g
802.11b is the most common type of wireless network, but 802.11g is about five times faster. 802.11g is backward-compatible with 802.11b, so you can still use any 802.11b equipment that you have. If you’re using 802.11b and you’re unhappy with the performance, consider replacing your router and network adapters with 802.11g-compatible equipment. If you’re buying new equipment, definitely choose 802.11g.

Wright Line has been a partner of AMRCON since it’s beginning. In fact I have been working with them in other businesses since 1998. Their furniture technology and lifetime guarantee were among 2 of the top reasons they were our first choice. So let me take you through a brief history. In 1999 the company that I was with purchased data center, office furniture and advanced network operation center furnishings, which were employed for several years. The solutions were second to none. It went through aggressive daily use and maintained perfect utilization and appearance. In 2008 the original company was absorbed by a company that decided to close that office. AMRCON purchased the furnishings and shipped them to Keyport, were they were redeployed into our NOC, back office and other areas. We needed very little refitting and Wright Line was happy to provide new CAD drawings on how they could be redistributed. If you’ve visited the office over the past 2 years you would have seen the solutions. Now that AMRCON is moving, Wright Line has agreed to assist us in new designs to refit the furniture once again and make certain that we are getting the maximum out of our assets.

This will now be the 3rd home for some of these pieces. The point is that even when items were damaged in shipping Wright Line was there. Even when we needed new pieces to fit new configurations, Wright Line still produced the parts. Even when we needed to purchase new solutions to add to our office and match to existing aspects, Wright Line was able to provide the solutions. We’ve always been able to get parts quickly, service to assist us in reassembly and getting new CAD drawings to get an idea of how things were going to look. The bottom line is AMRCON has a personal story to share here. We have a proven track record with an investment originally made over 10 years ago, still innovative, still providing a great solution for years to come. What do you look for in a furniture solutions provider? Are you working direct with a manufacturer or a broker/dealer? There is a difference I invite you to contact our representative with any questions at anytime Dennis Kilgariff dennis.kilgariff@wrightline.com or 215-778-5483.

So here is a peek at what AMRCON will be deploying in the new site, click on any of the drawings found on this page. Take a look around and let us know if you have any questions. These drawings and more will be available in the new office, where each CAD drawing will be posted on the corresponding walls. We will have before and after shots to give you an idea how you might be able to use Wright Line in the future.

With Windows Vista having never received more than a lukewarm reception (at best), many eyes have turned towards Microsoft’s next OS. The company says it has learned from its mistakes and promises to do better this time around with Windows 7. Since it will come pre-installed on most new desktop PCs and notebooks, Windows 7 will inevitably gain a certain installation base. The situation was different when Windows Vista was released, as many users chose to stick with Windows XP for the time being. That won’t be as much of an option this time, since most companies no longer offer XP. Of course, manually downgrading will still be possible if you have an installation disc and a valid license. On the other hand, Windows 7 is generally being seen in a much more favorable light than Vista anyway. It looks like a lot of users may give Microsoft the benefit of the doubt.

Windows Vista was harassed with many complaints and negative reviews but high hopes are set for Windows 7. Windows 7 has created hustle and bustle and has become the talk of the town. Windows 7 flags many new features that are smooth and highly finished. Many enhanced features have been introduced such as new graphical features, enhanced task bar and security that makes it safer and user friendly. Additionally, it does not demand hardware upgrades that were needed in Windows Vista. Microsoft released and made available beta and one release candidate for public testing process for Windows 7 which is the largest shareware trial period offered by any and it does not prove to be irritating as Vista was. Microsoft is providing the users with six versions of Windows 7: Starter, Home Premium, Professional, Ultimate, OEM, and Enterprise but basically three versions are being promoted by Microsoft; Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate.

The best improvements that Microsoft has made are in taskbar that features pinned program, jump lists, aero peek, aero snap, aero shake, etc. It is now quite easier to resize the windows, change theme packages. With windows media player you can stream media files, over the network, to another computer. Device stage allows you to combine printers. Native search features have also been improved in Windows 7, all the files that are added to hard drive can be easily indexed. use your fingers over mouse with new touch features. Many new features have been introduced in Windows 7 that surpasses the reputation created by earlier operating systems. Windows 7 is obviously not a Vista service pack. Windows 7 has a lot of new features and is clearly designed to fix all bad things people said about Vista. This means that Windows 7 is what Vista should have been in the people eyes. Windows 7 will totally feel like a revelation from the glassy future if you are coming from Windows XP. You’ll definitely say that Windows 7 is much better than Vista if you are upgrading your computer or laptop from Vista.

The bad effect of Windows Vista

Clearly, the public opinion of Windows Vista has left a deep impact on Microsoft. However, based on the biggest Windows 7 beta testing process in history, we can say that it sure won’t look like the upset Vista launch at all. There was a solid chance that your computer ran like crap or your programs didn’t work if you installed Vista on your PC within the first month of its release as the drivers compatible with Vista were not available. But that’s not the case with Windows 7. Windows 7 hardware requirements are basically the same as they are for Vista and it runs better than Vista on that hardware. Windows XP was a great OS of its time. Windows Vista failed to wind people hearts. But what people said about Windows 7 was that it is more fast, solid and the easiest Windows yet. Windows 7 is something people can grab without fear.

The Windows 7 Professional edition is designed for small business users.

It includes all the features of Windows 7 Home Premium, and adds the ability to join in a Windows Server domain. Windows 7 Professional offers various features that you won’t find it in Windows 7 Home and Starter editions. Additional features include features like Remote Desktop server, XP Mode, Network Backup, Offline files, AppLocker, BitLocker to go and ability to join a domain.

1. XP Mode: Windows 7 supports virtualization, so you can run Windows-XP-compatible applications. XP mode will allow you to run your existing applications on Windows 7 system. Windows XP Mode is an add-on for Windows 7 Professional and higher that comes in two parts, each of which has its own setup. The first is Windows Virtual PC, a new version of Microsoft’s free desktop virtualization platform, and the second is Virtual Windows XP itself, which is a virtual hard drive pre-loaded and licensed with Windows XP Service Pack 3. XP Mode will be available to Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate users.
2. Backup to network: Doesn’t sound like a big convenience, but beats the pants off having to provide and/or manage plug-in external USB drives when big storage or backup servers are readily available.
3. Offline files: New enhancements to this capability which controls synchronization between local and network copies of files, especially those that support policies about which ones sync and which ones don’t, may be appealing or convenient for IT professionals but probably not to end users.
4. Join Windows Domain: Absolutely, positively essential for most corporate or organizational networks. If users want to get any work done on the business network, they must first log in. If they can’t interact with Active Directory.
5. Remote Desktop Host: A great tool for IT professionals who might need to poke around on, or manage end-user computers remotely. Unless your help desk/IT staff have some kind of analogous third-party tool set, go to My PC, Remote Control Pro, numerous versions of VNC, and so on.
6. AppLocker: It is a secure, easy to use utility that enables IT professionals to determine exactly what is allowed to run on user desktops. It restricts unauthorized software while allowing applications, installation programs, and scripts that users need.
7. BitLocker & BitLocker To Go: This tool protects data on systems and provides encryption for removable drives, with manageability to enforce encryption and backup of recovery keys. Windows 7 extends BitLocker protection to USB storage devices while making the original functionality even easier to use.

Windows Mobile 7… coming soon to a PDA near you 

Apple Inc. rocked the wireless business by combining the functions of a phone and an iPod. Now, more than two years later, Microsoft Corp. has its comeback: phone software that works a lot like its own Zune media player.  The software, which was unveiled Monday at the Mobile World Congress, is a dramatic change from previous generations of the software that used to be called Windows Mobile. Microsoft’s mobile system powered 13.1 percent of smart phones sold in the U.S. last year, according to research firm In-Stat. That made it No. 3 after Research In Motion Ltd.’s BlackBerry and the iPhone. But Microsoft has been losing market share while Apple and Google Inc.’s Android gained.  All the while, the market is becoming increasingly important. People are spending more and more time on their phones, and the devices steer people to potentially lucrative Web services and ads. 

Phones with the new software will be on the market by the holidays, Microsoft said. All four major U.S. carriers will offer phones, just as they sell current Windows phones.  The new ones won’t be called “Zune phones,” as had been speculated. The software will be called “Windows Phone 7 series.” With the new software, “We really wanted to lead and take much more complete accountability than we had in earlier versions of the Windows phone for the end user experience,” CEO Steve Ballmer said at the Barcelona launch event.

 Microsoft is imposing a set of required features for Windows phones. Manufacturers must include permanent buttons on the phone for “home,” “search” and “back”; a high-resolution screen with the same touch-sensing technology as the iPhone; and a camera with at least 5 mega pixels of resolution and a flash. Hardware QWERTY keyboards will be optional.  A test device from Asus, also had a front camera and a speaker.

 Just as it did with the Zune, Microsoft has tried to avoid an icon-intensive copy of that setup. Instead, it relies more on clickable words and images pulled from the content itself. For example, if you put a weather program on the device’s home page, it shows a constantly updated snapshot of conditions where you are, rather than a static icon that you have to click in order to see the weather.  The idea of pulling information from different Web sites, like Facebook, and presenting them on the phone’s “home” screen isn’t unique to Microsoft: Motorola Inc. and HTC Corp. have created such software for their own phones.

 Windows Phone 7 Series borrows the clean look of the Zune software, departing from the more “computer screen” look of earlier Microsoft efforts. These were also reliant on the user pulling out a stylus for more precise maneuvering, while the software is designed to be used with the fingers. Most of the built-in applications complement or connect with existing Microsoft programs or services, such as the Bing search engine. The games “hub” connects to an Xbox Live account and lets players pick up where they left off with multiplayer games. They will even be able to play games against PC users. Microsoft also turns to the Zune programming for the phones’ entertainment hub, much in the way the iPhone’s music library is called iPod. And when users plug the phone into a PC, the Zune software pops up to manage music, movies and podcasts.

Migration Path: Small Business Server 2008

With the limited availability of “Down Time” in this technology dependent world, how do you upgrade old equipment, old software, or even old operating systems, without disrupting the client’s ability to work? In the past, the limitations of migrations for a Windows Small Business Server 2003 were limited to creating new separate Domain Controller Servers, new Exchange Email Servers, new Application Servers, and then having to piece all of the data back together.

Lo and behold: Enter Windows Small Business Server 2008. Microsoft has now created the Migration Mode install, which will allow a complete server to server migration of the Small Business Server. After installing the new server software, the multiple Migration “Wizards” take you through each level of transfer, to ensure that all necessary data is smoothly transitioned.

Did I mention that while this is going on, users can still work? Since it is a staged step-by-step transition, only sections of data are being moved at one time. The system creates virtual “connectors” so both servers become online at the same time.

1. After the new server is installed in “Migration Mode”, the Active Directory Schema is copied to the server (Domain information) including the same Domain Name and structure, users, computer accounts, security groups, etc.

2. Then users folders (redirection) are moved.

3. Network File Shares are moved.

4. Exchange Mailboxes are moved.

Pretty simply; a smooth transfer of information from server to server. There are some backend modifications that need to be done by the Administrator to facilitate this migration, but it is all done in stages on both the old server and the new server.

Microsoft also allows the old server to remain ACTIVE for 21 days, in order to ensure that all settings and data are moved and working successfully. Then, and only then, does the “decommission” begin on the old server. This will include, removing the server as a Domain controller from the network, removing all file shares from being accessible, removing all shared printers, and then finally removing the First Organizational Group (Exchange Server).

The Windows Small Business Server 2008 operating systems have numerous advantages for smaller businesses:

1- Utilizes the capabilities of multiple servers, usually seen in larger businesses, in an “all-in-one solution”.

2- Reduces electrical consumption of multiple servers.

3- Exchange Server 2007 integrated into the server.

For those of you not on our ODS Vital or other support plans, you need to make sure you have the right protection on your system. This will avoid expensive repair costs and possible data loss. I’m not going to dwell on that, I think if you’re already a client you’ve probably heard the importance of having it. As you might know we recommend the AVG line of products. I wanted to share with you that through AMRCON we have an offer of 30% off  if you purchase directly through AVG. I can’t beat this price if you came into our office, so if you need the security upgrade or know you need to change over from another product, take advantage of this.  If you think you would rather have a managed service through AMRCON and not have to worry about your security feel free to contact us. Either way I would rather have you protected and avoid costly repairs.

Click here for the full link: Save 30% on AVG Internet Security 9.0

Manufacturer Product Details:

AVG Internet Security 9.0 now contains an extra layer of security to protect you from identity theft as well as new and unknown malware. Your passwords, account information, credit card numbers, social security numbers and other valuables are safe from identity thieves.

• Includes Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, Anti-Spam, Firewall and LinkScanner
• Real-time security while you surf and chat online
• Top-quality protection that does not slow your system down
• Free support and service around the clock and across the globe

AVG promises you security products that are tough on threats and easy on you. Here’s how we do it:

• Trusted protection
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And we keep it that way because you, our users, tell us if we get it wrong. Our community of users is active, supportive, and vocal. You’re our greatest asset, and we hope you’ll continue to secure your PC with AVG.

Spyware is the means through which hackers gain access to your computer and your private information. Spyware is defined as any software that covertly gathers user information through your Internet connection without your knowledge, usually for advertising purposes. It watches everything you do on the Internet and sends that information, including private e-mail, passwords, and credit card numbers to the hacker invisibly, without your knowledge. No matter how careful you are, regardless of what virus protection you buy, you will always be at risk without the proper anti-spyware tools to protect you. How do you know if you have been infected? If the Start page in your Web browser keeps changing by itself, if your computer starts crashing more often than usual, or if you have tried to uninstall unfamiliar programs only to find they are still there after you restart your computer, then you are infected.

Spyware can be pretty malicious. “Key loggers” watch your very keystroke and mouse click, then records your passwords, log-ons, and account numbers. You might think you don’t need to read this column because you’ve taken steps to protect yourself. Well, if you have all the most current antivirus software, have installed Service Pack 2 for Windows XP, and have a very powerful firewall to protect you, then you would be WRONG! The fact is that all of these items do absolutely nothing to protect your computer from spyware at all, leaving you completely vulnerable to attack. Also, you know all those updates that Microsoft Windows XP installs? None of them protect you from spyware writers, who exploit ways to transparently install spyware through your Internet Explorer browser. These programs can even prevent Service Pack 2 from installing correctly. Once these programs infect you, your computer becomes very slow, because all your computer processing power is eaten up by the spyware itself. Don’t allow yourself to be lulled into a false sense of security from any one anti-spyware program that claims to provide total protection – it doesn’t exist.

Spam is the most virulent form of abuse that any Internet user must endure. The problem is so common that most people find they are forced to change their e-mail address just to avoid getting junk email. Unfortunately, changing your e-mail is worse than changing your phone number because nobody knows how to contact you. Microsoft Outlook 2003 and Eudora 6 are two of the major programs that have the ability to filter incoming e-mail as messages are received. If a message is believed to be spam, the message is filtered to the spam folder for later review. Many mail servers running on UNIX machines run a program called Spam Assassin (www.spamassassin.org) which separates messages that contain potentially unsafe attachments, match keywords representing spam or rejects messages from known spamming addresses.

Internet phishing (pronounced “fishing”) is when a hacker sends you an e-mail falsely claiming to be an established legitimate enterprise. The idea is to try to scam you into surrendering private information that will be used to steal your identity. This e-mail asks you to visit a Web site where you are asked to update your personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, Social Security number, and bank account numbers information that the legitimate organization already has. The scam is that this Web site is bogus and is set up only to steal your confidential information. You must be careful whenever you receive an email from what appears to be a trusted company. Hackers are very good at writing convincing letters that appear to be genuine. You must never ever click on a link in one of these e-mails, because even though it might look authentic, it almost always is not. It is very simple matter for a hyperlink to show one Web site and send you somewhere completely different when you click on it. These links are designed to take you to the hacker’s site. Don’t even cut and paste these links into your browser, because the hidden information in the URL takes you directly to the hacker instead of where you intended to go. When you need to go to a Web site, open a new browser window and type in the address by hand. That’s the only way you can be sure. So, if you somehow find yourself on a Web site and you just aren’t certain if it is from the hacker or not, what can you do? Well, here is a good tip. If the site asks you for personal information, just type in any random set of information. If the site says you have entered invalid information, then at least you have a good clue that it is most likely authentic. However, if the Web site lets you type in any random information and comes back to tell your information has been updated, then the site is almost certainly from a hacker designed to capture anyone’s information (no matter what they type).

Another telltale sign of phishing is when e-mails are not addressed to you specifically by name but instead say, “Dear Customer.” If an email doesn’t take the time to address you by name, something is wrong! When you receive an e-mail, ask yourself, “Why am I receiving this note?” If you are unsure, call the company directly and ask. Never assume an e-mail is authentic just because it looks like it came from a trusted company. Hackers easily spoof the “from” field of an e-mail to make it appear it is a legitimate correspondence. Never click on an attachment contained in an e-mail, because you never know what virus or spyware is lurking beneath the surface waiting to steal your private information and send it to the hacker world.

It is important when you go onto a Web site to make certain the page begins with https:// That “S” means “secure,” and, if it is not there, anything you input can be intercepted by a hacker. One of the nasty tricks hackers use when trying to redirect you to a fraudulent site is to mimic the URL of the trusted site. Hackers are very good at what they do. Sometimes you can take every precaution and still find yourself in trouble, not knowing if you are giving your information to a hacker. The best protection is your own vigilance. Don’t click, don’t open unless you feel confident about the sender.

Hi all!  My name is Mariano DiFabio, and Dee asked me to write the first guest post for his new blog newsletter.  I was honored to do so.

I’ve been working with Dee now for about a year as part of the web development group, and he’s not only got a great team working with him, he knows how to effectively use his team to solve his customer’s problems.  I’m happy I’m able to be a part of that.

What to write?

Today I’m writing to you about how you can subscribe to this new newsletter for AMRCON.  It runs on an RSS feed that we’re tracking through Feedburner.

Now, before you go running in the other direction because I’m throwing tech jargon at you, don’t worry; this stuff isn’t hard to understand.

RSS

RSS is simply short for “Really Simple Syndication,” a standardized web feed format that is produced by regularly updated web sites such as blogs, and read by RSS readers, which could be integrated into your own email client.  The feeds follow a certain set of rules in the way they’re constructed so that they can be universally interpreted by any feed reader and then displayed in the way you prefer.  This site generates a few of these feeds, the most specific of which are the newsletter articles you’re reading today.

Feedburner

Feedburner is a service provided by Google which allows web site owners to track and more easily manage their feeds.  It also integrates automated email alerts.  Let’s say, for example, you have no idea what a feed reader is but you still want to be alerted whenever the content on the site changes.  Feedburner gives us some code that allows us to display the “Subscription” box you see above on the top right side of the screen.  Entering your email address there will allow us to send you an email whenever our site is updated.

So what are you waiting for?

I know Dee is really excited to be providing some quality content for his customers, and you should be too!  If you are ready to subscribe and you have an RSS reader, click on the “Feed” link from the main navigation menu.  If you want a more traditional delivery method, enter your email on the top right of the page and click “subscribe” (a new window will open asking you to verify that you’re sure you want to subscribe).  Regardless of what you choose, it’s never been so easy to get all your managed services and technical support information from one source: AMRCON.

Resources

• Great link describing RSS and its advantages: http://www.whatisrss.com/
• More information about FeedBurner: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FeedBurner