Computer Security Advisory – Apple Quicktime

Trendmicro, one of the leading computer security firms, has issued an urgent alert suggesting Windows users should uninstall Apple Quicktime.

I won’t rehash all of the details here, but TrendMicro claims there are a couple of unpatched security holes in the product and Apple’s plans for updating Quicktime on Windows are unclear.  You can read the article for all of the details.

While I can’t find reference to the specific guidance from Apple they’re referring to about deprecating Windows support, it’s always a good idea to uninstall software you don’t use.   For details on how to remove Quicktime for Windows, see this tech note from Apple.  While you’re uninstalling Quicktime, take a look at the rest of the software listed in the Programs control panel applet to see if there are other unused software you can uninstall.

Another tool I’ve been testing personally on Windows Desktops is this Personal Software Inspector from Flexera.  It scans your computer for software that may be out of date and directs you to download the latest update from the developer.  This is a great extra step to add to regularly updating from Microsoft update or whatever patch management system your operating system of choice may use.

If you have more questions about network and computer security, feel free to comment below or contact me if you have a specific question or have interest in a security audit.

As always, surf safely!

Telecommunications contract renewal?

Is it time for your telecommunications contract to renew?  Here are some helpful hints

Shopping Around?

If you’re shopping around for a better deal, make sure to review your current contract first.  Terms vary from carrier to carrier, but most will automatically renew for a year if not notified within 30 (sometimes 60) days of your contract anniversary.  If you’re thinking of switching, make sure you understand the terms of your current contract and give notification within the proper window or you could end up paying termination charges.  If you haven’t selected a new carrier, most will allow you to switch to month to month terms, but they will also remove any discounts you may have been receiving for a longer term contract.

Consider your current and future needs

In the hustle and bustle of business, it’s easy to just renew a contract and be done with it.  But you’d be better served to take a minute and consider you current needs and any plans to expand in the future.  For example:

  • Do you really need that fax line?  Online services like eFax or on site server based fax services could save you some money and increase your productivity.
  • Do you really need a line for a credit card machine?  Consider working with your bank to switch to an online credit card processing gateway.
  • Do you really need all those lines (or voice paths)?  Look at your phone records to see if you’re fully utilizing the lines you have.   You may need to add more lines or downsize.
  • Consider having a backup SIP trunk (voice lines over the internet) with a service like Vitelity.  If you’re voice carrier has an outage, you could forward your main numbers and continue your operation until your main service is restored.

Need some help?

Row Out Consulting can work with you to determine your needs, engage carriers, and help select the carrier with the best pricing and service for your needs.  Contact us today!