OnForce Experiences Online Outage

(TheForceField.Net ) November 8, 2007 — OnForce experienced a system outage today when its online services went offline. Sometime after 11 AM EST OnForce Providers began to have trouble accessing the online forums. At 11:50 AM the main site went down but was back up five minutes later.

According to a customer service representative some of the subdomains went down, affecting chat, forums and the Canadian site, which went live early this fall. He was unaware that the main site also went down for nearly five minutes.

The representative was unable to provide an ETA for repair. "We are aware [of the problem] and working on it", he said.

Around 12:15 AM EST the entire site went down again. Another representative provided an ETA between fifteen and twenty minutes. The system was back online by 12:40 PM. 

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Techinsurance

Techinsurance is a web based insurance agent. The company was founded in 1997 and caters specifically to IT businesses and professionals. They specialize in general liability insurance and Errors and Omissions (E&O).

Jim Cochran, President of Techinsurance was interviewed on The Force Field Podcast in Episode 14 – Insuring Your Business .

Techinsurance
1301 Central Expy South, Suite 115
Allen, TX   75013
www.techinsurance.com

email: becky@techinsurance.com
office: (972)390-0025
toll free: (800)668-7020
direct: (469)854-3903
fax: (972)390-8484
hours: 8:00am – 5:30pm Central

Episode 7 – The Women of IT

This week we talk with two female techs and ask them what it is like to work in a field dominated by males.

Intro 1:19
Billboard 2:27

News and Comment segment 2:37
Apple recently pushed a firmware update for the iPhone to disable hacks which allowed
users to choose other service carriers. The position of Apple to lock users into proprietary service is somewhat ironic given Steve Jobs’ recent stand against DRM.

Commercial Break 1:00
Sponsored by PC Doctor Service Center 6. 1-866-BUY PCDR. Mention The Force Field podcast for $49 discount. Offer good until November 15.

Intro to calls 1:54

This week we are going to talk with two female techs, each with their own view of and experience in the IT field.

Renee Interview 7:15
Kapi Interview 12:35

Wrap up and Close :46

©2007 Savoia Computer. All rights reserved.

The Force Field Episode 7 Released

(TheForceField.net ) November 2, 2007 — After an extended hiatus from production, The Force Field with Rick Savoia™ was released this morning at 8 AM EDT. This latest episode marks the first of a new series of podcasts to include more focused interviews and streamlined production techniques. The show also marks the "official" launch of new features on The Force Field web site and a greater emphasis on topical features that tie-in with the current episode.

The show can be downloaded and heard in The Force Field podcast blog . You can even download and play it directly on your iPhone .

The Force Field is listed on iTunes and syndicated on over 20 podcast networks and directories including Yahoo, Google Base and iBizRadio . It is also listed by Small Business Trends Radio as one of the 100 Small Business Audio Podcasts .The Force Field is a proud member of The Tech Podcast Network .

 TechPodcasts.com player!

techpodcasts.com

  

podcast 100
 

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3 Tips for Making Sure Your Business Exists for Online Customers

Jacob Lee, Creative Director of eXist designs, offers 3 tips to improve visibility for small businesses on the Internet. He believes "If it's not online, it doesn't exist."

Tustin, CA (Bluehost/PRWEB ) November 1, 2007 — Jacob Lee, Creative Director of eXist designs, offers 3 tips to improve visibility for small businesses on the Internet. He believes "If it's not online, it doesn't exist."

It's no secret that the Internet has become an essential tool for most Americans. Still, it is surprising how many small businesses do not have a web presence.

The Pew Research group has recently reported that "fully 83% of online Americans say they have used the Internet to seek information about their hobbies and 29% do so on a typical day." (9/19/07, pewinternet.org)

Jacob Lee, the Creative Director of eXist designs (http://www.existdesigns.com), has taken studies like this to heart. "I realized one day that if I'm looking for something, if it's not online, it doesn't exist in my mind." eXist designs was founded several years after this realization with the purpose of providing quality, user-friendly web design and multimedia services.

"We specialize in audio, video and other forms new media that help businesses and organizations use the full potential of the Internet to communicate to their audience." Lee explained. "At eXist designs, we make sure people know your company does in fact, exist."

To cash in on the millions of Internet users who may be looking for your products or services, Lee offers three tips:

1. Make sure Search Engines can find your Site — Search Engine Optimization is one of the hottest buzz words in web design today. Basically, if a search engine can't find your website, neither can a customer. There are a myriad of tools free online and from professionals that will get your website ahead of the pack in the search engine results.
2. Use New Media — By using audio, video, blogs and other forms of new media, you can connect with your customer and build a network of brand loyalty. Your site will stand out from the competition and give users a reason to return again and again.
3. Consider a Design Update — Just like clothing, web styles fall out of fashion. If you haven't reworked your site in 3+ years or if you want to seamlessly integrate new information, you may need to have your website redesigned.

Contact:
Jacob Lee
eXist designs
Creative Director
(949) 328-0122
jacoblee@existdesigns.com

 

http://www.existdesigns.com

 

JumpBox Expands Reach With Support for Microsoft Virtualization Software

JumpBox virtual appliances are now available for Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 and Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 R2. The time required to deploy popular Open Source server based applications has now been reduced from hours or days to just minutes – all without the need to replace a users existing Windows installation.

Tempe, AZ (PRWEB) November 1, 2007 — JumpBox, Inc., a provider of virtual appliances that make using server software radically easier, today announced that its virtual appliances are now available for Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 and Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 R2. With this move, the time required to deploy popular Open Source server based applications has been reduced from hours or days to just minutes. With the help of Microsoft's virtualization platform this deployment can also occur without replacing a users existing Windows installation.

"Our ongoing commitment is to make server-based software easier for our customers to use," said Kimbro Staken, co-founder and CEO of Jumpbox, "Supporting the Microsoft virtualization platform is a natural step in making JumpBoxes even more convenient."

Users of Microsoft Virtual PC 2007, Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 and the forthcoming Windows Server 2008 will have access to JumpBox's growing library of pre-built applications that provide a simple, safe and supported way to deploy Open Source server software. JumpBoxes are free to download and currently exist for: DokuWiki, Drupal, Joomla!, MediaWiki, PunBB, SugarCRM, Trac/Subversion, TWiki Wiki, vTiger CRM and WordPress.

"Effective creation and deployment of pre-built applications and resources running in a Microsoft Virtual Server virtual machine are essential to our customers, so we're pleased that JumpBox is bringing new applications to Microsoft's virtualization platform," said Tony Bailey, senior product manager, Windows Server division, Microsoft Corporation.

About JumpBox Inc.
JumpBox was founded in 2006 with the goal of making the deployment and management of server software dramatically easier. The company's JumpBoxes are virtual appliances that make this goal a reality. JumpBoxes are simple to deploy, easy to manage and support a wide variety of virtualization platforms. JumpBox is based in Tempe, AZ. For more information, visit http://www.jumpbox.com or email info(at)jumpbox.com
All brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

MacScan 2.5 Anti-Spyware for Mac OS X Released

SecureMac has released MacScan 2.5 for Mac OS X offering spyware and privacy security protection. Mac OS X Leopard support has been added as well as the latest in spyware definitions and now scheduled scanning for auditing.

Las Vegas, Nevada (PRWEB) November 1, 2007 — SecureMac is pleased to announce the release of MacScan 2.5, SecureMac's cutting edge anti-spyware software for Macintosh computers.

The SecureMac team is dedicated to providing a secure and dependable product to the Macintosh community. MacScan 2.5 follows this commitment by providing a number of bug fixes and interface enhancements over MacScan 2.4.1 to the company's flagship software security program.

With MacScan 2.5 SecureMac continues to provide the latest spyware definitions and tracking cookie blacklist updates, as well as improved Leopard support, providing OS X 10.5 Leopard users with the same level of dependable software experienced under OS X 10.2 through 10.4.

This new version of MacScan continues in the tradition of incorporating features requested by its users, adding a highly demanded scan scheduler. With the new MacScan Scheduler, users can set specific days and times when MacScan will automatically scan for Spyware.

Upgrades from previous versions of MacScan 2 are free, and can be obtained by either selecting "Check for Updates" under the "MacScan" menu, or downloading the demo version from http://macscan.securemac.com and entering your serial number.

The demo can be registered for $24.95 using Paypal or credit card, either through the built-in registration system, or via the MacScan webstore at http://macscan.securemac.com

About MacScan:
MacScan quickly detects, isolates and removes spyware from Macintosh computers using both real-time spyware definition updating and unique detection methods. The software also manages internet-related clutter on your computer. It is designed for Mac OS X version 10.2.4 and later.
For more information, or to download a demo version of MacScan, visit http://macscan.securemac.com
About SecureMac:
Since 1999, SecureMac.com has been at the forefront of Macintosh system security. The site not only features complete Macintosh Anti-Spyware and Antivirus solutions, but also operates as a clearinghouse for news, reviews and discussion of Apple computer security issues. Users from novice to the most advanced will find useful information at SecureMac that is designed to make their computer experience trouble free.
For more information about SecureMac, visit http://www.securemac.com

 

Silanis Sets the Record Straight on Electronic Contracting Myths

A recent Silanis Webcast exposed common e-contracting myths, asserting that laws and regulations are clear on the topic, and that e-contracting requires more than a contract management system.

Montreal, QC (PRWEB) November 1, 2007 — Leading electronic signature provider Silanis Technology has posted a recording of its recent Webcast, "Electronic Contracting – Dispelling the Myths" to counter common misconceptions about the growing practice of using electronic signatures to execute contracts with partners and customers.

News Image

Silanis President and Co-Founder Tommy Petrogiannis presented the October 24 Webcast, in which he emphasized the importance of contracts in general to ensure auditability and legal enforceability.

"Contracts underpin your business, and help to mitigate risk," said Mr. Petrogiannis.

"With the right technology, electronic contracts can improve auditability and visibility into processes, and help to capture customers faster."

The need to complete customer transactions as quickly as possible is driving many new electronic signature implementations ― particularly in the insurance sector, where online prospects may abandon the application process when faced with delays and paperwork.

JD Power's 2006 Consumer Financing Satisfaction Study found that electronic contracting has a positive impact on customer satisfaction. And while adoption of e-signatures for contracting has been dramatic, said Mr. Petrogiannis, e-contracting misconceptions are still holding some organizations back.

For instance, Mr. Petrogiannis responded to one publication that had recently raised concerns over e-signatures' legality.

"The laws that enable e-contracting are not only very clear, they are seven years old," he said.

"Legally, electronic signatures as defined by ESIGN and UETA are equal to wet-ink signatures in the paper world."

Not only that, he added, but there is a growing body of case law upholding electronic records as valid evidence in court.

Silanis' document-centric solutions create a permanent link between the process, the signature audit trail and the signed record. This approach, different from many database-driven approaches, makes it easier for organizations to present convincing evidence of electronic transactions, and may discourage costly litigation.

As a licensed solution, ApproveIt also offers flexibility and customizability, so that e-signatures can seamlessly integrate with an organization's existing process and Web sites for a consistent look and feel. It allows organizations to maintain control over their mission-critical documents, and keeps total cost of ownership low.

Finally, Mr. Petrogiannis explained, e-contracts are in use across the board for high-value, high-risk processes involving insurance and mortgage, contrary to yet another widespread but mistaken belief.

To download a recording of this Webcast, please visit this link:
http://www.silanis.com/site/corporate/seminars.php?id=573

For more e-contracting information, please contact Silanis toll-free at 1-888-SILANIS, or visit the following link: http://www.silanis.com/site/solutions/solution.php?topic=econtracting

About Silanis
Founded in 1992, Silanis Technology Inc. is the largest and most experienced provider of electronic signature solutions. More than 1,400 government and commercial organizations, representing two million users, depend on Silanis' solutions to accelerate operations, improve service and reduce costs.
The company's solutions not only eliminate the inefficiencies of paper; they provide reliable and auditable business records needed to demonstrate compliance with applicable laws, standards, regulations and policies.

UID Data Management White Paper Published by A2B Tracking

A2B Tracking Solutions Inc. has published a new White Paper titled "Data Management Excellence – Eradicate UID Compliance Errors with Data Management," aimed at Department of Defense (DoD) contractors and military personnel who must report legacy and government furnished property to the DoD's IUID Registry.

Portsmouth, RI (PRWEB) October 30, 2007 — A2B Tracking Solutions Inc. has published a new White Paper titled "Data Management Excellence – Eradicate UID Compliance Errors with Data Management," aimed at Department of Defense (DoD) contractors and military personnel who must report legacy and government furnished property to the DoD's IUID Registry.

The purpose of this latest White Paper is to clarify what goes into managing the data behind the compliance process. To that end the document enumerates automatic identification technology (AIT) best practices that must be employed to ensure accurate data in the IUID Registry database of DoD-owned items. It also argues for precise and "fail-safe" data management, including the collection of good data that remains associated with pedigree information throughout an item's lifecycle.

UID Comply!® product manager, Jim Daniels, says "This White Paper needed to be written. While UID compliance may seem simple in concept, successful implementation calls for precise data management throughout a complex, multi-step process. Readers of the document will want to weigh the evidence it presents carefully, in order to avoid a minefield of potential errors."

The new White Paper will be featured in the Fall Edition of A2B's newsletter, UID Quarterly, due out the first week of November. Anyone wishing to receive an early copy may do so by emailing pchasse@a2btracking.com. Put White Paper in the subject line.

About A2B Tracking Solutions Inc.
A2B Tracking Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of total solutions for bar code tracking. Most recently A2B has developed UID Comply!® a total solution software suite that streamlines the UID compliance process. Since it was founded in 1994, A2B has lead the bar code industry movement into mobile computing, developing a state-of-the-art mobile tracking system for one of America's largest parcel delivery companies. Principals of A2B include founders of the bar code industry who have lead innovations in applications for 40 years. To date, A2B has completed more than 2,000 tracking installations around the world. For more information about A2B Tracking, visit www.uidsolutions.com or phone 800-733-7592.

Dantel Announces E2A over IP Solution to Convert from Analog to TCP/IP

Innovative approach allows users to leverage existing infrastructure while increasing alarm network reliability and reducing operating costs.

(PRWEB) October 30, 2007 — Dantel, Inc. the leader in network surveillance and management systems, announced today the availability of its E2A over IP solution to seamlessly convert existing E2A alarm equipment from analog to TCP/IP networks.

"Dantel recognizes that service providers face a challenge with tight capital and limited personnel to update alarm networks," said Dave Lauger, director of business development for Dantel, Inc. "To address these issues, Dantel has developed an E2A/IP solution to leverage investments in existing alarm systems. This solution allows service providers to easily transition from legacy analog networks, which are expensive to operate and maintain, to TCP/IP networks."

Dantel's innovative approach will increase alarm network reliability while reducing operating costs. Existing E2A equipment, Dantel or other types, may be easily and quickly adapted to IP transport using two Dantel E2A/IP components. In addition, the company's solution does not poll the equipment at remote sites, since polling may not always synchronize alarm events with the host resulting in errors and missed alarm notification. Dantel's approach ensures the highest level of communication reliability.

Dantel's design consists of an E2A subassembly at remote sites and the Dantel WebMon Matrix at the host site. This combination delivers a clean and reliable conversion process that has been extensively tested with NMA. Further, no configuration changes are required at the host.

"At remote sites the E2A/IP subassembly directly replaces an existing analog modem, therefore no additional relay rack space is required. The existing alarm shelf can be IP ready within a matter of minutes," added Lauger.

WebMon Matrix
The WebMon Matrix modular construction allows end users to customize their remote monitoring with a blend of discrete, analog, and event based intelligent auto control functions for service assurance. Applications for the Matrix include but are not limited to Central Offices, Switch Sites, Cellular or WiFi Sites, and Head Ends.

The Matrix may be populated with up to six modules. Modules may include discrete inputs, 8, 16 or 32 per card; analog inputs 8 per card; discrete outputs 5, 8, or 10 per card; and terminal server ports 4 per card. Optional features include Ethernet Switch, fiber interface, and cellular modem.

The WebMon detects events, converting and reporting the information in various protocols including SNMP v1, v2c and v3 traps and v2c informs, TL1, ASCII and DCPF, and interfaces to HP Open View, IBM Tivoli Net Cool®, CA SPECTRUM or Dantel's VisionMaster™ or VisionMaster CS (Client Server) Network Management System.

About Dantel, Inc.
For over 35 years, Dantel has been a recognized leader in the design, development and manufacture of surveillance and management solutions for critical infrastructure protection. As a Microsoft® Certified Partner we provide our customers with advanced solutions and benefits unsurpassed in our industry. Today's business climate demands cost-effective, secure and reliable methods for remote monitoring. Today, more companies are demanding Dantel.
For more information on Dantel, call 800-432-6835, or visit us at www.dantel.com.