Security Archives - EstesGroup

When AI Consulting Becomes the ERP Guru Behind the Gurus

by EstesCloud | Jul 27, 2024 | AI, Cloud, Disaster Recovery, Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Hosting, Managed IT Services, Prophet 21, Security, SYSPRO

In a twist of digital irony, AI is fast becoming the ultimate meta-consultant – the sage advisor to the advisors themselves. Seasoned Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and IT consultants, armed with years of experience and polished PowerPoint decks, now turn to their silicon-based counterparts for a leg up. These AI systems, tirelessly crunching data and spotting patterns that would make even the most caffeine-fueled analyst weep, are transforming from mere tools into indispensable collaborators. It’s as if the oracles of the business world have found their own oracle, one that speaks in algorithms and predictive models, even in complex areas like cybersecurity.

Brave New Cloud ERP

The consultants who once prided themselves on having all the answers are now asking AI the questions, creating a cerebral symbiosis that’s redefining the very nature of expertise. In this brave new world, the smartest person in the room might just be the one who knows how to ask the right questions – to a machine.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the business landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges. As companies navigate this new terrain, it’s crucial to understand AI’s impact and potential, especially as it transforms cloud technology. Let’s explore essential questions about AI in business, focusing on perspectives, influences, risks, and strategic planning.

Understanding AI’s Role in Modern Business

AI has become a game-changer across industries. From automating routine tasks to providing deep insights through data analysis, AI is reshaping how businesses operate. It’s essential to develop a clear perspective on AI’s potential in your specific industry and how it aligns with your business goals.

The Impact of AI on Business Operations and Workforce

AI is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a transformative force affecting various aspects of business:

Operational efficiency: AI can streamline processes and reduce human error.
Employee roles: It may change job descriptions and create new positions.
Decision-making: AI-driven insights can inform strategic choices.

Consider how AI might enhance your team’s capabilities rather than replace them.

AI Integration with Existing Systems

One crucial consideration is how AI might interact with your current Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Questions to ponder include:

Can AI enhance your ERP’s functionality?
What data integration challenges might arise?
How might AI-powered analytics complement your ERP’s reporting capabilities?

Addressing AI-Related Risks and Concerns

While AI offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential risks:

Data privacy and security
Ethical considerations in AI decision-making
Dependence on AI systems
Regulatory compliance

Enterprise Resource Planning in risky business. In AI consulting in ERP, identifying risks is the first step in developing mitigation strategies.

Developing an AI Strategy

To harness AI’s potential effectively, businesses need a well-thought-out plan:

Assess your current technological landscape
Identify areas where AI can add the most value
Set clear objectives for AI implementation
Develop a timeline and resource allocation plan
Consider the need for upskilling or hiring AI talent

Partnering for AI Success

As you embark on your AI journey, consider what you need from technology partners like Estes:

Do you need assistance in implementing AI solutions?
Are you looking for ways to mitigate AI-related risks?
Or do you prefer to navigate AI independently, with minimal external involvement?

AI Consulting in ERP Begins with ERP Consulting

AI’s role in business is continually evolving. By addressing these key questions, you can better position your company to leverage AI’s benefits while managing its challenges. Remember, the goal is not just to adopt AI, but to integrate it in a way that aligns with your business objectives and values.

What’s your take on AI in your business? Are you considering AI consulting for ERP? Reach out to our expert team of ERP and IT / Cloud consultants today to discuss how we can support your AI journey. Let’s find out-of-the-box AI solutions or customized AI tools for your business!

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How to Increase Cybersecurity with MDR and SOC

by EstesCloud | Mar 27, 2024 | Backup, Cloud, Disaster Recovery, Managed IT Services, Network Security, Security

The Power of MDR and SOC: Enhancing Cybersecurity for Businesses

In today’s digital landscape, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face a constant barrage of evolving cybersecurity threats. As cyberattacks become more sophisticated and frequent, relying solely on traditional security measures such as antivirus software, firewalls, email filtering, and basic employee training may not be sufficient to fully protect your valuable data and resources.

This is where the synergy of Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and Security Operations Center (SOC) comes into play, providing enterprise-grade security tailored for your business. Are you a manufacturer trying to adhere to rigorous compliance regulations? Are you a distributor struggling to keep up with ERP system upgrades, supply chain demands, and evolving security threats? EstesGroup maintains SOC 2 certification so that our clients enjoy peace of mind at every level.

Managed Detection and Response (MDR): Proactive Protection for Your Business

MDR is a proactive security approach that goes beyond traditional reactive measures. By leveraging advanced technologies and expert analysis, MDR provides real-time monitoring, rapid threat detection and response, instant incident alerts, and valuable insights to safeguard your data and resources. With MDR, you can rest assured that potential threats are identified and addressed promptly, minimizing the risk of a successful cyberattack.

Key Benefits of MDR

Are you looking for advanced protection? MDR employs cutting-edge technologies, such as machine learning and behavioral analytics, to detect and respond to even the most sophisticated threats. Do you need real-time monitoring? Continuous monitoring of your systems ensures that any suspicious activity is identified and addressed immediately. Are you looking for rapid response strategies? In the event of a security incident, MDR enables swift action to contain and mitigate the threat, minimizing potential damage.

Security Operations Center (SOC): 24/7 Vigilance and Expertise

Complementing MDR, a Security Operations Center (SOC) acts as a central hub for cybersecurity management. Staffed by a team of expert security analysts, the SOC provides round-the-clock monitoring, analysis, investigation, and response to potential threats.

SOC Benefits

With a secure operations center on your side, you benefit from centralized care for your entire system:

24/7 Monitoring: A dedicated team keeps a vigilant eye on your systems, ensuring that any suspicious activity is promptly identified and addressed.
Expert Analysis: A skilled security analysts leverage their expertise to investigate and assess potential threats, providing valuable insights and recommendations.
Rapid Incident Response: In the event of a security incident, your SOC team springs into action, working diligently to minimize damage and downtime, allowing you to maintain productivity.

Your Security Decisions, Your MDR and SOC

By combining MDR and SOC, you gain a comprehensive understanding of your security landscape. The insights gathered from real-time monitoring, threat analysis, and incident response empower you to make informed decisions about your cybersecurity strategy. With this knowledge, you can proactively strengthen your defenses, identify areas for improvement, and allocate resources effectively to protect your business against evolving threats.

Managed Detection and Response and a Secure Operations Center with Legacy Built on Trust

In the face of ever-evolving cyberthreats, taking proactive measures to secure your business is crucial. By embracing the power of MDR and SOC in a partnership with EstesGroup, you can enhance your cybersecurity posture and protect your business against potential attacks. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today to get started on your journey towards a more secure future. We have a long-standing commitment to delivering exceptional cybersecurity solutions. With our MDR and SOC services, you can have confidence in the security of your valuable data and resources. Ask for a free demo of ECHO, EstesCloud Hosting, to learn more about managed private cloud environments for businesses. EstesGroup provides cloud solutions for companies of all sizes, across all industries, with specialized teams built for enterprise resource planning (ERP) system needs. We are the leading independent ERP consultancy for Epicor Kinetic, Epicor Prophet 21, SYSPRO, Sage, DELMIAWorks, and more!

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EstesGroup Champions Data Privacy Week 2024

by EstesCloud | Jan 22, 2024 | Cloud, Disaster Recovery, Managed IT Services, Security

EstesGroup proudly announces its commitment to Data Privacy Week 2024 as a Champion. This initiative underscores the importance of educating businesses on best practices for data collection that respect privacy and promoting transparency in data handling.

Security Means Privacy

In addition to its commitment to Data Privacy Week, EstesGroup reinforces its dedication to data security through SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) certification. Achieving SOC 2 compliance is a testament to EstesGroup’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in information security, confidentiality, and privacy. This certification assures clients and partners that EstesGroup has implemented rigorous controls and procedures to safeguard their sensitive data.

With SOC 2 compliance, EstesGroup not only prioritizes data privacy but also demonstrates a proactive approach to ensuring the security and integrity of the systems and services it provides to all business, including the most complex manufacturers and distributors. This certification further underscores EstesGroup’s unwavering commitment to delivering reliable and secure IT and cloud solutions to its clientele.

Data Privacy Day vs. Data Privacy Week

Data Privacy Week 2024, an extended effort stemming from Data Privacy Day, takes place from January 21 to 27, 2024. The primary objective of this week-long campaign is to raise awareness about online privacy for both individuals and organizations. It aims to empower citizens by highlighting their ability to manage their data while emphasizing the significance for organizations to responsibly steward personal information

In today’s digital age, data is the lifeblood of success. At EstesGroup, we are not just embracing Data Privacy Week, we are championing it because we recognize the critical role data plays in driving business growth. Our commitment goes beyond compliance – it’s about empowering businesses with the knowledge and tools to safeguard their most valuable asset: the people behind the data. By participating in Data Privacy Week 2024, we affirm our dedication to being stewards of your trust. Together, let’s navigate the digital landscape with confidence, ensuring that your data remains secure and your business poised for lasting success.

How to Take Control of Your Business Data

As part of our commitment to Data Privacy Week, EstesGroup encourages individuals to take control of their data. In an era where online activities generate extensive data trails, it is crucial to be mindful of the information shared. This includes personal data such as Social Security and driver’s license numbers, as well as health data collected by devices like smartwatches. While complete control over data processing may not be possible, individuals have the power to make informed decisions about sharing their data.

EstesGroup offers the following steps to empower individuals in managing their personal information:

Be Informed: Understand the types of data collected about you.
Review Privacy Settings: Regularly check and update privacy settings on websites and apps.
Limit Data Sharing: Be selective about sharing personal information and consider the necessity.
Protect Passwords: Use strong and unique passwords to enhance data security.

Data Privacy Week is a reminder that digital transformation is a necessary step toward maintaining privacy and security in a world where ransomware is becoming more prevalent. EstesGroup recognizes the value of personal data and encourages everyone to be discerning about data management.

EstesGroup offers a comprehensive suite of managed IT services designed to equip businesses with the essential tools needed to thrive in today’s dynamic digital landscape. Our services encompass a wide range of critical areas, ensuring holistic support for optimal IT performance.

From robust cybersecurity measures and data backup solutions to proactive network monitoring and efficient cloud services, EstesGroup tailors its managed IT services to meet the unique needs of manufacturers and distributors. Our expert team collaborates with clients to implement cutting-edge technologies, streamline operations, and enhance overall IT efficiency.

By providing services such as IT infrastructure management, software updates, and responsive technical support, EstesGroup empowers businesses to focus on their core operations while maintaining a secure and resilient digital environment.

With our comprehensive suite of managed IT services, EstesGroup stands as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of the modern digital landscape and ensuring sustained success for our clients.

For more information about Data Privacy Week and how to get involved, please visit Data Privacy Week.

About EstesGroup

EstesGroup is a prominent ERP, IT, and cloud services firm, dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions for manufacturers and distributors. With a commitment to excellence, EstesGroup empowers businesses with innovative technologies to drive growth and success.

About Data Privacy Week

Data Privacy Week originated as Data Privacy Day in the United States and Canada in 2008, extending the celebration of Data Protection Day in Europe. Commemorating the signing of Convention 108 on January 28, 1981, the week is an annual effort led by the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) to promote privacy and data protection awareness.

About the National Cybersecurity Alliance

The National Cybersecurity Alliance is a non-profit organization on a mission to create a more secure and interconnected world. Advocating for the safe use of technology, the NCA educates individuals on protecting themselves, their families, and organizations from cybercrime. For more information, please visit National Cybersecurity Alliance.

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Connecting the Clouds: Website vs. ERP Hosting

by EstesCloud | Dec 19, 2023 | Backup, Business Consulting, Cloud, Disaster Recovery, Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, Hosting, Managed IT Services, Manufacturing Innovation, Network Security, Prophet 21, Security, SYSPRO

Manufacturers and distributors can benefit significantly from a Managed Services Provider (MSP) managing one website or kin websites as part of an integrated IT services, IT security, and enterprise cloud strategy. An external IT provider ensures that the world will view web-based company representation with optimal performance, scalability, and security, reduced downtime and enhanced user experience. Through robust IT security measures, a cloud provider like EstesGroup safeguards sensitive data, mitigating the risk of cyber threats. Additionally, integrating enterprise cloud solutions facilitates seamless data access, collaboration, and scalability, enabling manufacturers and distributors to focus on core business functions while staying agile and competitive in the digital landscape.

For businesses, websites serve as crucial repositories for sharing information, necessitating proper hosting and data management to connect with customers, ensure security, and facilitate growth. When exploring website hosting services and ERP hosting solutions, businesses encounter various cloud options, with managed hosting and shared hosting being the primary types. Understanding the distinctions in the website vs. ERP hosting conversation empowers businesses to make informed decisions aligning with their unique identities.

Is your website hosting forgotten data?

While your IT team is focusing on critical tasks, your website might go unnoticed, opening the path to vulnerability and chaos. In the realm of website hosting, discerning between managed hosting and shared hosting is essential. Managed hosting is ideal for businesses seeking comprehensive control and responsibility, with the service provider acting as a dedicated IT department overseeing all aspects of the website. Conversely, shared hosting accommodates businesses needing performance and security but may lack the size or budget for full-service management. Multiple businesses share resources like RAM and CPU under a shared server, potentially impacting performance during traffic surges. Managed hosting suits larger enterprises prioritizing ultimate performance and security, while shared hosting remains viable for budget-conscious smaller businesses.

Managed Hosting vs. Shared Hosting vs. Managed ERP Hosting

Businesses should consider several key differences between managed and shared hosting for websites and ERP hosting for enterprise resource planning applications. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you unravel your web of business data.

Resources: Managed hosting provides dedicated server resources, ensuring optimal performance, while shared hosting involves resource-sharing, potentially leading to performance issues during high traffic.
Customization: Managed hosting offers customized solutions, tailored to specific business needs, whereas shared hosting tends to be more one-size-fits-all.
Security: Managed hosting prioritizes security, protecting individual businesses, whereas shared hosting may compromise security if one business on the shared server experiences a breach.
Optimal Performance: Managed hosting eliminates performance issues associated with shared resources, providing consistent and optimized performance.
Updates: Managed hosting ensures prompt updates and security patches, while shared hosting may require businesses to schedule updates themselves.
Email: Both hosting types offer email services, with managed hosting providing premium plans for enhanced features.
Cost: Shared hosting is more affordable, making it suitable for smaller businesses with budget constraints, while managed hosting, though more expensive, offers superior performance and security.

How ERP Hosting Gets Tangled in Your Website Web

The discussion on website hosting parallels ERP hosting, where businesses can opt for a managed service provider to host their ERP software in a remote, cloud-based data center. This centralized approach provides cost-effective, secure, and scalable solutions, enabling businesses to focus on operations rather than maintaining on-premise infrastructure.

Businesses must comprehend the disparities between the many available cloud options to make informed choices for their website and ERP hosting needs. While managed hosting excels in performance, security, and support, startups or small businesses with budget constraints may consider shared hosting initially. Managed hosting proves invaluable for businesses seeking to eliminate on-premise responsibilities, allowing them to concentrate on optimization and growth.

Complex Cloud Hosting Environments

Experience seamless business operations with our fully managed ERP hosting, ensuring optimal performance, security, and scalability as we take charge of your ERP software in a secure, remote, and cloud-based environment. Ready to tackle website vs. ERP hosting? Elevate your online presence with our fully managed website hosting, where a dedicated IT team handles every aspect, providing tailored solutions for peak performance, robust security, and unmatched support. Trust EstesGroup to streamline your technology infrastructure, allowing you to focus on growth and innovation without the burden of managing complex hosting environments.

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Turning the Degenerative into Generative AI in ERP

by EstesCloud | Dec 14, 2023 | Business Consulting, Cloud, Epicor, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Managed IT Services, Prophet 21, Security, SYSPRO

Generative AI in Enterprise Resource Planning

Generative AI (GenAI) is currently revolutionizing work dynamics and interactions. Despite initial societal skepticism and perceived risks, the majority of individuals are embracing and enjoying its capabilities. GenAI holds the power to significantly enhance efficiency and streamline operations for enterprises. When seamlessly integrated into an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, GenAI can have a positive impact on overall enterprise operations and productivity.

Generative AI ERP workstation with female engineer coding

AI TriSM

For enterprises to fully leverage GenAI in their ERP systems and applications, establishing a universal level of trust and understanding is crucial. Implementing AI TriSM controls – focusing on trust, risk, security, and management – is essential to unlock the full potential of GenAI. Over the next few years, standard regulations will likely make GenAI more trustworthy and reliable. It is anticipated that organizations will incorporate TRiSM controls into their cloud and ERP system applications to minimize risk, maintain compliance, and fortify security. The capabilities and benefits of GenAI for ERP systems and applications encompass:

Creative Collaboration and Problem Solving
Elimination of Time-Consuming, Arduous Tasks
Improved Employee Performance
Increased Productivity
Automation of Data Processes
Elimination of Flawed, Irrelevant Data for Optimal Decision-Making
Risk Reduction
Heightened Security with TRiSM Controls
Digital Assistance and Software Innovation
Redefined and Enhanced Jobs with GenAI Tools

The Cloud AI Shift

Generative AI undeniably holds the potential to completely transform ERP systems, applications, and cloud management. The capabilities and benefits of this technology are clear. However, as enterprises embrace this technological shift, having a trusted guide is crucial. EstesGroup has always been your reliable source for ERP systems and cloud services.

As GenAI becomes more regulated and applicable to enterprise operations, rest assured that our company will assist you in incorporating this technology. We are committed to keeping you at the forefront of technology, innovation, and productivity. EstesGroup can also aid in employee re-skilling as roles are redefined, and we will navigate regulation and compliance to ensure optimal risk management and data security.

AI in Epicor Kinetic, Epicor Prophet 21, Sage, and SYSPRO ERP

In the realm of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds particular importance for leading systems such as Epicor Kinetic, Epicor Prophet 21, SYSPRO ERP, and Sage ERP. These platforms stand to benefit immensely from AI advancements, enhancing their capabilities and providing tailored solutions for businesses. In Epicor Kinetic, AI can optimize supply chain management, forecast demand, and automate routine tasks, resulting in more agile and responsive operations. For Epicor Prophet 21, AI can streamline inventory management, analyze customer behaviors, and enhance order processing efficiency. In SYSPRO ERP, AI can bolster production planning, inventory optimization, and predictive maintenance, contributing to overall operational excellence. Sage ERP systems, when integrated with AI, can revolutionize financial management, automate data entry, and provide valuable insights for strategic decision-making. The synergy between AI and these ERP systems represents a pivotal leap towards efficiency, precision, and innovation in enterprise management.

The Sensitive Nature of GenAI Data in ERP

Cloud hosting in a trusted data center stands as the epitome of security for ERP systems harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Leveraging the advanced infrastructure and protocols of a trusted data center ensures unparalleled reliability and resilience. The redundant systems and robust architecture not only guarantee minimal downtime but also provide a secure environment crucial for the sensitive nature of ERP data. The cloud, with its scalable resources, accommodates the dynamic computing needs of AI applications, enabling seamless integration and optimal performance.

Additionally, top-tier data centers adhere to stringent security measures, incorporating advanced encryption, access controls, and continuous monitoring. This fortified combination of cloud hosting and data center standards ensures that ERP systems not only harness the transformative capabilities of AI but do so in an environment that prioritizes data integrity, confidentiality, and accessibility with the utmost diligence.

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Unlocking the SYSPRO System Audit Query

by EstesCloud | Oct 4, 2023 | Distribution, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Manufacturing Innovation, Security, SYSPRO

System Audit Query – A SYSPRO ERP Administrator’s Go-To Report for SYSPRO Security Events

Being an administrator of an ERP system is no easy task. Thankfully, SYSPRO ships with several convenient programs that allow an administrator to actively monitor important events that are taking place within the system. One especially useful tool that stands out is the System Audit Query program (IMPJNS).

SYSPRO System Audit

What You’ll Find in the SYSPRO System Audit Query Program

SYSPRO creates security logs automatically as events take place throughout the ERP. These logs are created to assist system administrators to better manage and review security related incidents in SYSPRO. The System Audit Query program is the place where these logs can be retrieved and analyzed. The program allows you to filter a time period for various security and system health-related events such as:

Access having been denied to a company or a program
Any security changes made to Groups, Roles, or specific operators
Logins attempted and any related error messages
Multi-Factor authentication changes or errors
System setup changes and activity related to licensing

Along with information about these events, the report can tell you which operator triggered the event, any notes associated with the event, as well as the name of the computer where the activity took place.

One particularly important event that the System Audit Query program can identify for you is client-server disconnects. These are common problems reported by SYSPRO users and they can be highly complicated to investigate. SYSPRO generally has limited information about these events so the System Audit Query log is one of the few places where you can obtain valuable information about when/where they occur.

Along with the use of System Audit Query, you can investigate specific events even further by using the Job Logging Query program (IMPLOG). This program allows you to review and monitor general operator activity throughout SYSPRO.

For instance, if the System Audit Query reports technical issues relating to a specific operator, you can use the Job Logging Query program to analyze whether a specific program or user behavior is the cause of the problem. Be warned that the Job Logging Query program can take a long time to process if you choose to generate the report without filters. In a busy SYSPRO environment with a high number of daily users, the activity logs for operators will be dense and can take time to compile.

SYSPRO ERP Job Logging Query

A Day in the Life of a SYSPRO Admin

From the perspective of a SYSPRO administrator, actively monitoring the System Audit Query program is essential for ensuring the integrity of both the overall security and general stability of your ERP environment. The role of an ERP system administrator is undoubtedly challenging, requiring constant vigilance to ensure the smooth operation of crucial business processes.

Fortunately, SYSPRO equips administrators with a range of invaluable tools to actively monitor and maintain the system’s integrity. Among these, the System Audit Query program (IMPJNS) shines as a beacon of efficiency and reliability. With SYSPRO and its robust capabilities, administrators can confidently navigate the complex landscape of ERP management, ensuring their organizations operate seamlessly and securely.

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