If you’re a Mac device junkie like many of us and have a Mac at home, a PC at work, an iPhone in your pocket and an iPad in your car, check out MobileMe. This software allows you to store email, contacts, and calendars — even shared ones — in the cloud and automatically keeps them in sync across all your devices.

Other cool features include the ability to remotely locate a lost iPhone or iPad. And if you’re certain it fell into less-than-honest hands and you don’t think you’ll be getting it back any time soon, you can remotely wipe the device clean of all your data.

The Gallery enables you to create a beautifully displayed online gallery of your photos and share them with others in just a few clicks, allowing your friends and family to add photos of their own. And the iDisk app gives you the power to store and share large files online as well as access them remotely.

MobileMe costs only $99 for a year’s subscription and $149 for a family pack that gives you one individual account with 20GB of storage and 4 family accounts with 5 GB of storage. Not sure if it’s right for you? Then sign up for a free 60-day trial at: www.apple.com/mobileme.

1. Don’t leave it lying around. Although this is common sense, you’ve probably violated this rule more than once. iPads are easy targets for thieves; so don’t let it out of your sight when in a public place – and don’t leave it in plain view in your car or you might end up with a broken window in addition to a stolen iPad.
2. Use a passcode. Although it’s not 100% hacker proof, it will slow or block unauthorized users from accessing your information.
3. Consider enabling automatic data erasing. You can configure your iPad to erase your data after 10 failed passcode attempts. Clearly this is not a good solution for anyone who constantly forgets a password or those who have kids who might try to endlessly log in to use your iPad.
4. Sign up for MobileMe. As mentioned opposite, this software will allow you to locate a lost iPad for free and, if it’s not recoverable, you can remotely wipe the device of your private information.
5. Limit its capabilities. You can set your iPad to restrict certain functions such as access to Safari, YouTube, installing applications, and explicit media content using a passcode. In the corporate world, an IT administrator could set these restrictions for company devices. At home you can use this to restrict what your children can do with your iPad.
6. Install software updates. As with all software, make sure you have the latest security updates and patches installed to protect against hackers and viruses.
7. Only connect to trusted WiFi networks. Public WiFi networks are open
   territory for hackers and identity thieves. Whenever you connect, make sure it’s a legitimate, secure connection.

With hundreds of cell phone companies and countless cell phone models available, no two cell phones go head to head more often than these two. The iPhone (by Apple) and the BlackBerry (by Research in Motion) are hands-down the two most popular phones sold today. So, how do you know which one is right for you? See how each one ranks in the following categories to help you decide:

Applications – If having lots of software options on your phone is important to you, the iPhone is your clear choice. The iPhone has thousands of application options available and easily trumps the BlackBerry’s very small list of programs that only include a word processor, a spreadsheet, and a PDF application. Granted, many of the iPhone applications are frivolous, like the “How Old Are You In Neanderthal Years?” calculator, or the daily horoscope update; but some are actually useful for business purposes, such as the available project management, time tracking, or financial calculator software. Both the BlackBerry and the iPhone have software that allows you to use them as mini computers; but if you want to be able to convert your phone into a remote for your stereo, only the iPhone can do that.

Durability – From all the research we’ve done online, the BlackBerry wins in this category. The BlackBerry was actually created with business users in mind and therefore is a sturdier phone. If you have traveling sales people or remote users who need to stay connected to the office, the BlackBerry is less likely to get damaged than the iPhone. Although the iPhone has made definite strides in this area; however, dropping that phone on its face assures that you’ll have to get a new one.

Business Functionality – In the not too distant past, the iPhone didn’t have the business functionality of the BlackBerry. However, iPhones now integrate with Microsoft Exchange, which is one of the most common e-mail applications for small and mid-sized businesses. Both the BlackBerry and the iPhone have the ability to synchronize your contacts, calendar, and e-mail. Apple is also making attempts to ramp up the security of their iPhone; and as it stands today, the BlackBerry is the most secure of the two phones.

Phone Service – iPhones are available through Verizon and AT&T wireless while BlackBerrys are available with more carriers. Some business owners are happy with the wireless service they currently have and do not want to risk “dropped calls” or dead zones that may come with switching. Most carriers provide a very extensive network and are constantly improving their coverage; but if you don’t like Verizon or AT&T, then iPhone is NOT the phone for you.

Apple Tips from BeckITSystems, Inc. www.BeckITSystems.com

Let’s face it…computer problems affect EVERYTHING—your ability to get work done at a fast pace, to meet deadlines, bill customers, complete projects, and communicate internally. If not set up and secured properly, your computer network can fail causing you to lose irreplaceable client files that could cost thousands in extended downtime, emergency recovery, and cleanup costs. This even affects YOUR stress levels and the morale of your employees. That’s why it is so important to get the RIGHT company supporting your computer network.

While providing good, reliable and honest computer support doesn’t seem like an amazing concept, I’m shocked at how many business owners struggle to find someone they can trust. Because of their lack of technical knowledge, they often find themselves at the mercy of an IT person, frustrated with the poor service, but fearful about hiring someone new.

This audio file discusses critical questions you should ask any IT person before giving them access to your network as well as common, costly mistakes business owners make when it comes to installing, supporting, and growing their IT infrastructure.

Cloud Computing is a phrase heard more and more in business circles.  The economics are compelling.  Most organizations today have computers and networks that do not use the full capacity of the systems and for good reason.  Any system must have the “elasticity” to change and meet tomorrow’s demands of your business.  Is there any other area of business where you consistently pay for 80-90% more than you need?  Office space?  Phone service?  Utilities?   Certainly NOT!

Cloud Computing allows organizations to use what they need when they need it and pay for it at the end of the month.  That is the compelling economic proposition!  Owners and their companies no longer need to pay large amounts of money for new servers and software.  Now the best technology is available for use in the Internet “cloud” for a fraction of the cost freeing CAPEX funds to go to other critical needs like sales, marketing, training, new staff, and more.

Cloud Computing comes in different types so it is critically important to work with a small business computing specialist to design and launch the best and most economical cloud computing model to server your company’s needs.  To determine whether you have a business computing specialist who can meet your needs, find out three things about them before you consider working together:

1. Has the specialist implemented cloud computing in their own organization and for how long?  If they are new to cloud computing or don’t use it, you will be paying them to learn.  How could you expect your company to benefit from their lack of experience and expertise?
2. Does the specialist focus on your business processes and not the technology?  The value of cloud computing is found in the degree that it saves money on CAPEX and automates your critical business processes in the “Cloud” and in your offices.
3. Does the specialist require a long-term commitment or do you have the option to make changes as your business needs dictate?  A major value of cloud computing is the “elasticity” of the technology to meet changing and temporary needs.  Long term commitments lock in a model that fits today and may need to change next week.  Retain your ability to be flexible and even make a total change if needed.

There are more key considerations, but these three will provide a clear indication of whether you are making a good investment of your time to go deeper into cloud computing with the specialist.

Contact BeckITSystems for a free copy of the new book, Small Business Cloud Computing and the opportunity to try cloud computing for 30 days FREE Call 703.433.0730; or email us, cloud@beckitsystems.com