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Waypoint Technology Solutions has been serving the Erie area since 2011, providing IT Support such as technical helpdesk support, computer support, and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses.

Why a Comprehensive IT Strategy Matters

Jasper_2024-12-03T183A153A53.094Z Putting the pieces together.

The landscape of business is intrinsically tied to technology, and as companies evolve, so does the complexity of their IT requirements. From cybersecurity threats to remote work infrastructure, businesses face constant challenges that demand more than just reactive solutions. To stay competitive and secure while fostering growth, developing a well-thought-out IT strategy is no longer optional—it’s essential. 

A well-planned I.T. strategy must think beyond today, it must consider where the business is going, and use the experience of an IT expert to streamline how technology aligns with the business. At a minimum, a strategy should consider the next 5 years.

This blog will walk you through the importance of a comprehensive IT strategy, why it goes beyond individual components, and how aligning technology with business goals is key to long-term success.

What Is an IT Strategy?

An IT strategy is the foundation of how your business uses technology to achieve its objectives. It’s a roadmap designed to align your IT systems, resources, and processes with your company’s goals and values.

But it’s not just about choosing the latest software or hardware. A successful IT strategy takes a holistic view, ensuring that every decision integrates seamlessly across systems, applications, and teams. This alignment ensures resources are used efficiently, risks are minimized, and the business operates at its peak potential.

Why a One-Dimensional Approach Isn’t Enough

Imagine you’re implementing a cybersecurity initiative for your company. The immediate focus might be tightening firewalls or improving encryption protocols, but stopping there is a mistake. Without considering the overall IT environment, you risk creating inefficiencies or leaving gaps that a singular focus can’t address.

For example, have you thought about how your workforce accesses company apps and data? Are they working locally, nationally, or even internationally? Are current systems compatible with the new cybersecurity measures, or will adjustments be needed at the architecture level?

Taking a myopic approach to IT leaves room for costly errors. Instead of looking at isolated projects, businesses need strategies that encompass every layer of their technology system.

The Key Components of a Strong IT Strategy

1. Comprehensive Cybersecurity Framework

Cybersecurity isn’t just about safeguarding data—it’s about ensuring the entire IT ecosystem is secure. A robust strategy evaluates multiple facets, such as how employees log in remotely, data storage protocols, and threat prevention technologies.

Example: You might discover cost-saving opportunities by changing how employees connect to your network. Transitioning from traditional VPNs to Zero Trust network models can reduce recurring expenses while increasing security.

2. System Architecture Alignment

A cohesive IT strategy evaluates how your current systems and architecture interact. Outdated systems may bottleneck productivity or lead to costly inefficiencies. Aligning architecture with business goals ensures that IT supports—not hinders—growth.

Example: Transitioning to cloud-based systems can integrate better with remote work initiatives and scale as your company expands, future-proofing your infrastructure.

3. Remote Workforce Support

The shift to remote work has added layers of complexity to IT requirements. Previously, allowing employees to work exclusively from local offices simplified security and data access needs. Now, companies need strategies tailored to hybrid or fully remote teams spread across different regions.

Considerations include:

  • Ensuring uninterrupted and secure access to company applications.
  • Adjusting to time zone differences for global teams.
  • Managing compliance with international data laws.

4. Proactive Cost Management

Many businesses handle IT reactively, addressing issues only when they arise. This approach often leads to higher costs over time. Instead, a proactive IT strategy evaluates opportunities to reduce expenses without sacrificing functionality or security.

For example, rather than repeatedly investing in new security solutions, reevaluating how users access systems might deliver similar results at a lower cost. Virtual solutions like desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) could provide significant savings compared to traditional setups.

5. Employee Training and Adoption

No IT strategy is complete without ensuring team members are equipped to use the tools you implement. Providing ongoing training not only improves efficiency but also prevents security vulnerabilities caused by human error. A plan that accounts for the human element will always outperform one that doesn’t.

6. Regular Review and Optimization

Technology evolves at lightning speed, making yesterday’s cutting-edge tools obsolete tomorrow. A reliable IT strategy isn’t static—it’s fluid and adaptable, scaling as your company grows and evolves alongside new technological advancements.

Think of it as an iterative process. Reviewing and revising your strategy ensures it remains aligned with both your current needs and the changing tech landscape.

Real-World Impact of a Comprehensive IT Strategy

Businesses that adopt holistic IT strategies gain a competitive edge in several ways:

  • Enhanced Productivity - Synchronized systems reduce workflow disruptions, and employees spend less time working around technological inefficiencies.
  • Reduced Downtime Risks - Keeping architecture and security updated minimizes risks of data breaches and unplanned system outages.
  • Cost Savings - Proactively managing IT eliminates the need for emergency spending and optimizes resource use.
  • Stronger Competitive Positioning - Staying technologically agile improves both customer satisfaction and operational scalability.

For instance, several organizations that partnered with IT consultants to create customized strategies reported 30% faster project completions and up to 50% lower cybersecurity costs over just one year. These results emphasize the tangible value of IT planning.

Partnering for IT Success

Developing a comprehensive IT strategy can feel overwhelming. That’s where a reliable IT partner comes in. At Waypoint, we don’t see ourselves as just a service provider. We’re an extension of your team, offering insight, expertise, and proactive solutions tailored to your unique challenges.

Here’s how we help businesses like yours succeed:

  • Diagnostic assessments of current IT systems to identify inefficiencies or risks.
  • Customized roadmaps for integrating or overhauling technology infrastructures.
  • Ongoing support for employees during transitions to new tools or processes.
  • Aligning IT with long-term goals to ensure sustainable growth.

Take the Next Step

Technology is no longer just a support tool—it’s the backbone of business operations. Without a thoughtful IT strategy, businesses risk falling behind competitors, overspending, and increasing operational vulnerabilities.

At Waypoint, we believe every organization deserves an ally to help them navigate the complexities of IT, enabling them to thrive in today’s digital world. Whether you’re just beginning to form your IT strategy or need help optimizing your current systems, we’re here to guide you.

Book a consultation with our Waypoint team today and discover how we can help align your IT systems with your business goals.

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How to Choose the Right MSP IT Service Provider for Your Business

You're at a crossroads with your current "IT Guy" or Managed Services Provider (MSP) because you're spending money and continually having problems. Well, you're not alone... When looking for an IT partner, you're looking for competence. Someone who can speak to your industry and your business, help translate the IT talk, and keep your systems running while helping guide you into the future.

 Frustration

How do you decide what type of IT partner you need?

Selecting the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) for your business is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your operations and overall success. A study found that over 90% of MSPs generate less than $1 million in annual gross revenue, which implies that many of these providers consist of just one or two individuals. At the same time, this may seem appealing due to the potential for personalized service or the false perception of a lower cost. A small team often lacks the resources and expertise to consult, guide, and implement comprehensive solutions tailored to your business needs. The single "IT Guy" MSPs do have a purpose; they mainly work on the "break-fix" model, which means you call when something breaks, and they fix it. They work well in boutique businesses, say a Dentist's office or a Retail store, where they don't need to be an expert but just technical enough to keep their clients running. These guys may not fit your needs if you're in a more technical, regulated, and process-driven industry.

When considering larger MSPs—with 15 or more employees—weighing the pros and cons is essential. Larger firms typically possess a broader range of expertise, rigorous processes, and greater scalability, allowing them to handle complex IT environments effectively. However, many larger Managed Services Providers (MSPs) are service teams in a more prominent technology solutions company. These companies can be $50-500 million dollar organizations that work in the enterprise organizations and are owned by venture capital companies. These organizations tend to be more sales-focused and often operate nationally, meaning a team member in a different state could address your issue when you call for support. Depending on the provider's structure, this can lead to delays in service and a lack of personalized support or tribal knowledge of your business. Additionally, they often must restrict service to increase profitability and rarely act in your best interest.

Then there is Waypoint. At Waypoint, we focus on service, value, and customized IT solutions that fit your industry, strategy, and budget. We don't consider ourselves your IT Service Provider but an extension of your team, looking out for your best interests and focused on a long-term relationship built on trust. We have experienced IT experts in many fields and a network of consultants across the globe.

When choosing an IT provider, it's not about how large or small the company is; it's about competence and resourcefulness.

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How-to: Email Security User Guide - Barracuda Threat Protection

Barracuda Email Protection is a cloud-based email security service that protects both inbound and outbound email against the latest spam, viruses, worms, phishing, and denial of service attacks. The Barracuda Email Security Service web interface includes the Message Log from which you can manage your quarantined messages. Additionally, you can set account preferences based on features enabled for your account by the administrator.

 

To access your Email Security user account, log into the Barracuda Email Security Service corresponding to your region:

 

Permissions may include:

  • Modify quarantine notification report settings. Set email receipt frequency with a list of messages in your quarantine account. Once received, you can select whether to delete or deliver these messages to your email address.
  • Create exemption (accept mail from), Block, or quarantine policies for email addresses, domains, and users.
  • Manage quarantine inbox delivery or delete quarantined messages.
  • Change password (manually added users only)
  • Link Accounts. Use the current account as an alias and add additional email addresses in the same domain for which the quarantined email is to be forwarded to this account.

Login IDs

Unless otherwise communicated, your Windows account is synchronized to the Barracuda Email Protection Portal. You will not need to create an account, but in some cases, you may be prompted to verify your Microsoft 365 Credentials. 

Message Log

The Barracuda Email Security Service web interface includes the Message Log, which you can use to manage your quarantined messages.

Quarantined Mail

When enabled, you are notified regularly when you have quarantined messages. Your Waypoint administrator sets the default quarantine notification interval, or if you have permission, you can set the interval on the Settings > Quarantine Notification page.

Please Note that quarantined messages are deleted after 30 days. For more information, see Quarantine Notifications.

The links in the Actions column allow the user to:

  • Deliver – Click to deliver the message to your regular inbox.
  • Allow List – Click to allow the sender. All future messages from the sender are allowed and go directly to the user's regular inbox.
  • Block List – Click to have the sender added to the block list.

Figure 1. Sample Quarantined Email Notification

essQuarantineDigest1.png

Manage Mail

Use the Message Log to manage mail. The Message Log page displays all email messages from the Barracuda Email Security Service to your account. You can filter messages by All, Allowed, UI Delivered, Not Allowed, Blocked, Deferred, or Quarantined using the drop-down menu. Note that messages are deleted after 30 days.

Figure 2. Filter Messages in the Message Log

messageFilterOptions.png

Messages are blocked due to the following:

  • Spam and virus policies set by your administrator for the domain and
  • Your administrator sets email address or domain block policies and emails from other users for the domain. 

Messages are deferred for various reasons. Click the Help icon on the Message Log page for more information and details on searching for and filtering messages.

Select one or more messages from the Message Log page, then click on an action. To select all messages, select the check box at the top of the Message List.

Depending on the message filter, once you select one or more messages, you can take the following actions:

  • Allow List – Senders of selected messages are added to the allow List; note that you cannot add blocked messages to the allow List.
  • Recategorize – You can change the category when one or more categorized emails are selected. For example, if the message is categorized as Corporate but should be categorized as Marketing Materials, you can change the category via the Recategorize drop-down. This action submits this email message for recategorization to your selected category. If you select Other and enter a custom category, the category updates for that particular email message. For more information, see Email Categorization below.
  • Export – Selected messages are exported to a CSV file. When prompted, enter a file name and select whether to save to your local desktop or network.
  • Deliver – The service attempts to deliver the selected messages to your mailbox; note that you cannot deliver messages blocked for Advanced Threat Protection (ATP). If a message is successfully delivered, the Delivery Status changes to Delivered. The mail remains in the log until you select the message and click Delete. A notice will be displayed in your browser window if the mail cannot be delivered, and the Delivery Status will not change. If messages are not delivered to the recipient's mailbox, it may be due to a filter on the mail server or a service on your network catching the mail as spam. Check with your system administrator for more information. Additionally, check your local trash/spam folder for the mail.

Figure 3. Message Actions

messageActions.png

Email Categorization

If the Reason for a message in your Message Log displays as Email Categorization, the email from this sender is categorized as not necessarily spam but something that you may have subscribed to at one time but no longer want to receive—for example, newsletters and memberships, or marketing information. Email Categorization assigns some of these emails to specific categories, which the administrator can decide to allow, Block, or quarantine. Supported categories display in the Message Log Reason field as:

  • Email Categorization (corporate) – Emails sent by a user at an authenticated organization from an MS Exchange Server that involves general corporate communications. Does not include marketing newsletters.
  • Email Categorization (transactional) – Emails related to order confirmations, bills, invoices, bank statements, delivery/shipping notices, and service-related surveys.
  • Email Categorization (marketing) – Promotional emails from companies such as Constant Contact.
  • Email Categorization (mailing lists) – Emails from mailing lists, newsgroups, and other subscription-based services such as Google and Yahoo! Groups.
  • Email Categorization (social media) – Notifications and other emails from social media sites like Facebook and LinkedIn.

View Message

To view the message source, headers, and available options, double-click the message; the message content will be displayed. You can take the following actions:

  • Click Source to view all headers
  • Click Allow List to allow the sender
  • Click Block and select whether to block the message Domain or Email
  • Click Download to download the message to your local system or network
  • Click Deliver to deliver the message to your regular mailbox
  • Click Delete to remove the message. (This option is available for quarantined messages only.)
  • Click Report as Incorrectly Blocked for a message that should have been delivered to your regular mailbox. This includes messages that are not spam. (This option is available for quarantined and blocked messages only.)
  • Click Report as Incorrectly Delivered for a message that should have been blocked. This includes spam messages.

Alternatively, you can use the Settings > Sender Policy page to exempt or block senders. See Set Exempt and Block List Policies later in this article for additional information.


Figure 4. Message Source with Headers

Source_Details.png

Set Quarantine Notification Interval

Quarantined messages are deleted after 30 days.

You can direct the Email Security Service to notify you by email when you have quarantined messages. When set to Yes, messages that would usually be blocked are instead quarantined. This setting does not apply to messages blocked by Sender or Content policies. On the Settings > Quarantine Notification page, select Scheduled. Click and drag in the Schedule notification intervals section to set the day and time for quarantine notification email delivery. Click to clear a selection. Alternatively, select Never if you do not want to receive quarantine notifications. Click  Save Changes to save your settings.

Figure 5. Set Quarantine Notification Interval

User_Quarantine_Notification.png

Set Exempt and Block List Policies

Use the Sender Policy page to specify whether to block, allow, or quarantine messages from a specific sender or domain. These are called exempt/block list policies. To create a new policy:

  1. Go to Settings > Sender Policy page, and enter the email address or domain in the Sender field.
  2. Select whether to BlockExempt, or Quarantine the sender from the Policy drop-down menu.
  3. Optionally, you can add a comment to indicate why you created the policy.
  4. Click Add to save the policy:
    Sender_Policies.png
  5. To remove a policy, click Remove in the Actions column for the sender policy you want to remove.

ink Quarantine Accounts

You can add additional email addresses in the same domain for which the quarantined email will be forwarded to this account. From the Settings> Linked Accounts page, enter the email address in the Account field, select whether to Link the account without verification and click Add

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How-to: Send Encrypted Messages with Barracuda Add-in

Send Encrypted Messages

Encrypt outbound messages for secure message transmission. 

This feature is only for use with the Barracuda Email Threat Protection platform.

To encrypt an outbound message:

  1. Log into Outlook or OWA, and select to create, forward, or reply to a message. The compose message pane opens.
  2. Click the Encrypt Message Add-In

    Encrypt_Msg.png

  3. The Encryption Window will display. (By default, Encryption is off) 

  4. add-in-encryption-off.png

  5. Click to toggle Encryption to on. The encryption attachment is added to your message.

    Do not delete the attachment. If deleted, the message will not be encrypted.

    add-in-encryption-on.png

  6. Complete and send the message.

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How-to: Use Barracuda Email Protection Add-In

In this article, you will learn how to use the Barracuda Email Protection Add-In to  block emails, mark them as unwanted spam, 

NOTE:

The Microsoft 365 authorization pop-up may temporarily appear after you take action with the Add-In. This briefly confirms your credentials and then disappears. There is nothing you need to do.


ir-authorizing.png

 

How to Handle Reported Email

Once a message has been reported as suspicious, it will be sent for further analysis and moved out of the Inbox to a selected folder. To determine which folder you prefer:

  1. Log into Outlook or OWA and select a message. The read message pane opens.
  2. Click the Barracuda Email Protection Add-In at the top of the window to open the actions panel.
    add-in-on-menu-bar.png
  3. The Report Email screen is displayed.
    add-in-report-email.png
  4. Click More at the bottom and select Settings.
    add-in-settings.png
  5. Click on Move email and select the account folder that will receive reported messages (i.e. Deleted ItemsJunk Email, a custom folder, etc.)

Report Suspicious Email

Report emails as suspicious and send to Barracuda Networks for further analysis.

  1. Log into Outlook or OWA, and select a message you want to report. The read message pane opens.
  2. Click the Barracuda Email Protection Add-In at the top of the window to open the add-in's actions panel.

    add-in-report-email.png
  3. Click the Report email button and select the reason that best describes the email.

    add-in-select-reason.png
  4. Click the Submit button.

    add-in-reported-success.png

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