Ray Wesner Jr

03/02/2025

If you haven’t tried Together Mode in Microsoft Teams yet, you’re missing out on a clever way to make your meetings more engaging.

Together Mode takes everyone in a meeting and places them into a shared virtual space, like a cosy auditorium or a creative boardroom. It’s designed to help your team feel more present, reducing the boredom of staring at video grids.

But what if setting it up feels intimidating?

No worries. Teams will now guide you through every step, with simplified icons on the toolbar. You’ll get clear instructions to set the scene, assign seats, and apply the view for everyone on the call.

Together Mode isn’t just about creating a cool virtual space for your meetings, either. It’s great for team morale, brainstorming sessions, and keeping everyone focused during presentations.

The better your virtual meetings feel, the better everyone works in your business.

Have you tried Together Mode yet in Teams? Could this make your next meeting more fun and productive?

Feel like you’re in person during virtual meetings with Microsoft Teams together mode, which places all participants together in a shared background.

03/01/2025

Holding on to old tech can feel like a smart way to save money, especially when it’s still working just fine.

But did you know outdated devices can become a serious security risk for your business?

Scammers are constantly changing their strategies, and older hardware and software often can’t keep up. Manufacturers stop releasing updates, vulnerabilities go unpatched… and suddenly, that reliable device you’ve been using for years becomes an open door for cyber attacks.

Think about it: If your router, laptop, or even smartphone isn’t receiving security updates, it’s no longer protecting your data - or your customers'.

And it’s not just about the devices themselves. Old tech can make your entire network vulnerable, potentially giving scammers access to your business systems and sensitive information.

Upgrading may seem like a hassle, but modern hardware isn’t just about shiny features; it’s about staying protected in an ever-changing landscape.

When investing in new tech for your business, look for devices that offer long-term support, strong security features (like encryption and Secure Boot), and compatibility with the latest software.

These upgrades aren’t just an expense, they’re an investment in your business’s future.

Are there any apps or devices in your office that might be holding you back? Maybe it’s time to say goodbye to the old and hello to smarter, safer tools.

If you’re not sure, my team and I can help you find the most suitable tech for your business. Get in touch.

https://www.pcworld.com/article/2531985/your-beloved-old-tech-is-a-security-risk-its-time-to-let-go.html

02/28/2025

Remember Clippy, the paperclip-shaped assistant from Windows of yesteryear?

It was always there to offer “helpful” advice when we needed a little assistance (and sometimes when we didn’t…).

Microsoft waved goodbye to Clippy in 2007 - but now, the cheery paperclip some of us loved to hate has been immortalized in song.

A Finnish artist and DJ who goes by the name “Windows95Man" dropped a track called "Paperclip". And it’s a love letter to the tireless assistant we all remember from the early days of Microsoft Office.

The ode to Clippy mixes of ’90s rave with nostalgic nods to Clippy’s legacy, and the music video even features WordArt… because how could it not?

It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s a reminder of how far Windows has come.

Today, Windows is a powerhouse platform for businesses, helping millions of us get work done. But it’s probably fair to say nobody loves it quite like Windows95Man.

If you’re curious, "Paperclip" is available to stream on Spotify.

Did Clippy make your workday better or drive you up the wall?

https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/streaming-video/clippy-is-my-best-friend-windows95man-drops-another-banger-dedicated-to-everyones-favorite-office-assistant

02/27/2025

Ever heard of the Apple Newton operating system?

Apple discontinued it on this day in 1998, along with their MessagePad series.

Back then, this was a bold move.

The Newton was one of the very first handheld devices, offering features like note-taking and email. But let’s face it, it was ahead of its time and struggled to find its place in the business world.

Axing the Newton allowed Apple to double down on their core product, the Macintosh. It was a decision that set the stage for the company’s future success, paving the way for innovations like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad - devices that have revolutionized how we work and connect.

For businesses, there’s a lesson to be learnt here: Sometimes, it’s better to focus on what you do best and let go of what’s not working.

It’s not just about having great ideas; it’s about timing, strategy, and knowing when to pivot.

What bold decisions could help you to focus your business and thrive in the future?

https://thisdayintechhistory.com/02/27/apple-discontinues-the-newton/

02/26/2025

You and your team don’t use consumer messaging apps like WhatsApp for work, do you? If you do, you might want to think twice.

WhatsApp recently fixed a flaw in its "View Once" feature (where you can set messages to disappear once they’ve been read), which had allowed some people get around it.

While the fix is a step forward in protecting sensitive data, general-purpose messaging apps still aren’t ideal for business communication. Sure, they might be convenient, but it’s just not worth the risk of your data falling into the wrong hands.

Tools like Microsoft Teams are built specifically for businesses, with advanced security measures designed to keep your data safe and private. From encrypted chats to secure file sharing, Teams helps make sure your business information stays exactly where it belongs - away from vulnerabilities like this.

When it comes to protecting your business, is it time to rethink how you’re communicating?

We can help you find more secure tools to help give you peace of mind. Get in touch.

https://www.techradar.com/vpn/vpn-privacy-security/whatsapp-has-fixed-its-view-once-feature-but-has-left-more-of-your-data-at-risk

02/25/2025

Microsoft Copilot is a fantastic AI tool for businesses. It’s designed to help you quickly gather information from Teams messages, Word documents, emails, and the rest of your Microsoft 365 suite.

Copilot is great for boosting productivity and helping you work smarter. But as powerful as it is, some businesses have raised concerns about how it handles sensitive data.

For example, if files don’t have strict enough access settings, it could accidentally put confidential information in front of the wrong people.

Data security should be a top priority for every business, so it’s understandable that these questions have been raised.

The good news? Microsoft's taking action.

It's introduced new tools in SharePoint and Purview to help businesses tighten permissions and control what Copilot can access. From detecting “overshared” files to adding sensitivity labels, these updates are designed to give you confidence in using AI without compromising security.

With privacy concerns being actively addressed, Copilot has even more potential to transform how businesses work.

Do you already use AI tools like this in your business, or do security worries hold you back?

https://www.computerworld.com/article/3616459/microsoft-moves-to-stop-m365-copilot-from-oversharing-data.html

02/24/2025

Microsoft Teams is about to get even better: A new “Take Control” feature is on its way that lets participants interact with shared content during meetings.

Imagine being able to step in and take control of a shared screen, make live edits, fix issues, or walk your employees through a process step by step. It’s a smarter, faster way to collaborate.

This upcoming feature will boost productivity, letting you and your team work together more seamlessly.

For example, if someone accidentally shares sensitive information during a call, you can quickly step in to resolve it and get on with the meeting.

Or let’s say you need to demonstrate something - you’ll be able to take control of the shared screen and show everyone else, instead of just trying to explain it.

Of course, the meeting presenter will be able to approve (or deny) any requests for screen control first.

While this feature is currently being tested, it’s worth waiting for the full rollout before using it in your business. Once it’s fully available, it’ll be yet another reason Teams is now the most popular collaboration tool used by businesses today.

Do you think a feature like this could improve your meetings?

https://www.neowin.net/news/you-can-now-take-control-during-screen-sharing-in-teams-for-the-web/

02/23/2025

More big news for Windows: Files Preview is now available in the Microsoft Store. If you’re looking for a smarter, sleeker alternative to File Explorer, this is worth checking out.

What is Files Preview?

It’s a feature-packed app that takes file management to the next level. Think of it as a turbocharged File Explorer for Windows 10 and 11.

The latest version (3.8.1) includes great updates like better drag-and-drop, improved shortcuts, and a more user-friendly properties window. Whether you’re organizing projects, sharing files, or accessing archives, Files Preview makes everything easier.

For businesses, this could mean better productivity and fewer headaches when managing files as part of your daily work. And now that it’s available directly from the Microsoft Store, it’s even easier to get started.

The Files Preview app is free if you download it from the developer’s website. But if you get it from the Microsoft Store for $8.99, you’re helping support the continued development of the app. A win-win.

What do you think? Is it time to upgrade how your team manages files?

https://www.neowin.net/news/files-preview-is-now-available-in-the-microsoft-store-with-improved-details-pane-and-more/

02/23/2025

Have you heard of the dark web? It might sound like a far-off concept, but its dangers are closer than you think.

If you aren’t familiar, the dark web is a hidden layer of the internet where criminals can anonymously engage in all kinds of illegal activities - from buying and selling stolen data to sharing confidential business files.

Unlike the websites we use daily, the dark web isn’t searchable or easily accessed. You need special tools and specific browsers to get there.

The dark web actually started as a secure communication platform, developed by the US government. Nowadays, it’s a notorious illegal marketplace where scammers trade information that can harm businesses.

And if you think the dark web could never impact your business, think again. Data breaches can expose sensitive information, like customer details or internal documents, and share it on these hidden forums.

Scammers can even use leaked credentials to access your business systems, steal money, or bring operations to a halt.

So, what can you do to help protect your business?

Start by accepting that some of your information may already be out there. Regularly scan for leaked data, and track mentions of your business or dark web activity tied to it.

It’s also important to be proactive with your security measures, and to make sure your team understands the risks of the dark web.

If you’d like more advice or need help keeping your business secure, get in touch.

https://www.techradar.com/pro/dark-web-dangers-arent-as-hidden-as-you-think

02/21/2025

Do you remember searching for names in the phone book? Long before smartphones and the internet, this was how you’d track down contacts.

It was on this day way back in 1878 that the first ever phone book was published, in New Haven, Connecticut... and it contained just 21 names.

But it revolutionized communication in its time, helping people to stay connected in an entirely new way.

Fast forward to today, and while the book is mostly a thing of the past, its spirit still lives on in modern communication tools.

For businesses, tools like Microsoft Teams have replaced bulky directories, meaning you can call, message, or video chat - whether you're on the other side of the office or the other side of the world.

With built-in features like shared files and team chats, communication has never been faster or more integrated than it is today.

It’s amazing how far we’ve come since that little list of 21 names.

What are your go-to tools for staying connected in your business?

https://thisdayintechhistory.com/02/21/first-telephone-book-published/

02/20/2025

Ever heard of the Microsoft Excel World Championship?

It’s part of Excel Esports, where competitors have to solve game tasks using spreadsheets.

The most recent battle revolved around a simulation of the hugely popular online role-playing game, World of Warcraft.

Players used spreadsheets to track things like experience points, gold, and even raid stats like armor and healing ability.

Competitors didn’t just crunch numbers, either - they had to think fast, solve bonus puzzles, and even tackle Excel challenges like counting specific letters in quest descriptions.

Adding to all the excitement, players with the lowest scores got eliminated every five minutes; until Canadian Excel wizard Michael Jarman took the victory (and a pro-wrestling style champion’s belt).

If you ever needed proof that spreadsheets can be both nerdy AND epic, this is it.

This story is also a great reminder of the power of skill mastery, don’t you think?

Even if you aren’t planning to use Excel for a virtual raid involving dragons and orcs, knowing your way around the tools you use in your business puts you one step ahead of the game.

What do you use Excel for in your business? Could you and your team improve your skills?

https://www.pcworld.com/article/2548148/excel-world-champion-solves-warcraft-spreadsheet-to-win-crown.html

02/19/2025

How much attention do you pay to the web addresses of the sites you visit?

You might want to start being more careful… especially if the link ends in something like .shop, .xyz, or .top.

Why?

Because these newer domain names are becoming a favorite tool for cyber criminals. They’re cheap, easy to register, and look convincing enough to fool you, even if you’re already aware of cyber threats.

While alternative domains can be genuine, there has been a rise in scammers using them to set up fake websites and send phishing emails (where they pretend to be a company or person you know). They're trying to trick you into giving away sensitive data or even money.

Imagine receiving an email that looks like it’s from a trusted supplier, with a link to a .shop website. It’s easy to assume it’s legit - until it’s too late.

Phishing attacks jumped by nearly 40% last year, and steering away from mainstream domain names has offered scammers a low-cost, high-reward strategy.

So, how can you help to keep your business safe?

Always double-check links before clicking on them, even if you think the sender is someone you know. Also, make sure your employees know how to spot the latest phishing scams.

Have you ever spotted a suspicious link in your inbox? What tipped you off?

https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/new-domain-names-such-as-shop-and-xyz-are-proving-popular-for-cybercrime

02/18/2025

Watch out for fake Google Calendar invites.

Cyber criminals are targeting inboxes with phishing scams disguised as meeting invitations. These emails look legit, often appearing to come from a known contact, and include a calendar file (.ics) or links to what seem like Google Forms or support pages.

But clicking through leads to a fake site designed to steal your personal and business information - or worse, financial details.

To stay safe, double-check every invitation.

If the sender isn’t someone you’ve interacted with before, it’s a red flag. Google’s “known senders” feature in Calendar can help - it alerts you to invites from unfamiliar sources.

If you’re unsure about an invite, don’t click any links. Instead, reach out directly to the sender by phone or text to confirm it’s genuine.

Cyber criminals are getting smarter, but you and your team can too.

Have you ever spotted a fake email or invite before? How did you handle it?

https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/watch-out-that-google-calendar-meeting-invite-could-be-dangerous-malware

02/17/2025

If you have a Microsoft 365 Enterprise subscription for your business, heads up: The transition to new Outlook will begin next year.

It’s already happening for Business Standard and Premium subscribers. And it will come around to those on the Enterprise plan from April 2026.

It might feel like a long way off, but it will be here before you know it - and it’s better to be prepared. Why wait until you're forced to switch?

Shifting away from the old Outlook app now will give you time to get comfortable with new Outlook and enjoy its benefits. Improvements include a sleek and modern design, smart time-saving tools (like pinning and snoozing emails), and built-in AI magic via Copilot.

All these features are designed to make your inbox less stressful and help your day run more smoothly.

If you’re worried you’ll miss some of the features from classic Outlook, Microsoft's already actively addressing any concerns. And waiting until the last minute could leave your team scrambling... so why not get ahead of the curve?

What’s the biggest challenge you face when it comes to adapting to new tech in your business?

https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/12/08/microsoft-365-enterprise-will-migrate-outlook-classic-to-new-outlook-on-windows-11/

02/16/2025

Did you know you can easily change your keyboard layout in Windows 11?

Whether you use multiple languages in your business or you just prefer a different setup (like the Dvorak layout, which is supposed to help you type faster), it’s a helpful feature to know about.

To add a new layout:

*Head to Settings
*Click on "Time & language"
*Click “Language & region"
*Find your chosen language
*Click the three dots next to it
*Select "Language options"

From there, you can add a new keyboard layout under "Installed keyboards”.

Switching between layouts is also easy. Look for the keyboard icon in the taskbar (bottom right). Click on it, and you’ll see the layouts you’ve added - just pick the one you want. Or, for an even quicker option, hit “Windows key + spacebar” to toggle between layouts.

It’s super simple and can make a big difference if you and your team need to type in different languages or want to use different formats.

What keyboard layouts do you use? And if you’ve ever tested out Dvorak, is it faster than QWERTY?

https://www.windowscentral.com/how-change-keyboard-layout-windows-11

02/15/2025

A recent report has revealed a shocking 614% rise in a type of cyber threat known as “Scam Yourself” attacks.

What are they?

Scam Yourself attacks are a clever but scary new tactic that cyber criminals are using to trick you into compromising your own systems.

These scams can come in many forms, from malicious links that look harmless to fake Captcha pages (those “I’m not a robot” puzzles you’ve probably done a thousand times).

Scammers are even using fake YouTube tutorials, where they encourage you to disable your security filters to trick you into downloading malware.

These attacks are effective because they use such common, familiar tools. You click on links and Captcha buttons all the time, right? So you aren't likely to question anything - and that's what scammers count on.

The problem is this: Once malicious software is on your devices, it can have devastating consequences. Ransomware can lock you out of important files, and infostealers can grab your confidential business data.

For business owners, the risks are huge. And it’s not just data you could lose. These attacks can cause you to lose customers, take a big financial hit, and even end up in legal trouble over data breaches.

To help protect your business, invest in strong security tools, train your employees to recognize scams, and always have your security software switched on.

How confident are you that your team could spot a “Scam Yourself” attack?

https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/scam-yourself-attacks-have-fooled-millions-heres-how-not-to-fall-victim

02/14/2025

Imagine you have to combine two random objects from your office to make something useful. Can you think of anything?

An engineer and maker called Jón Schone recently came up with the idea of combining a hot glue gun with a 3D printer. And his creation isn’t just a quirky experiment; it’s a clever way to explore new possibilities, especially when it comes to handling materials that traditional printers struggle with.

Schone’s project could be used to create custom prototypes with softer materials, or it could even lead to more sustainable processes through the use of wax or recycled materials.

Why should this matter to business owners?

Thinking outside the box like this is what drives innovation. By making new use of affordable, everyday tools, we see that with a little creativity, even low-cost solutions can lead to high-value results.

Had any new ideas for your business lately that you want to put into action?

https://www.tomshardware.com/3d-printing/enthusiast-builds-a-3d-printer-that-uses-a-hot-glue-gun-heavily-modified-dremel-glue-gun-surprisingly-good-at-printing-objects

02/13/2025

On this day in 1980, the revolutionary tech company Apollo Computer was incorporated in the US.

If you’ve never heard of them, Apollo led the way in the world of networked workstations from 1980 to 1987. They created powerful machines that transformed how businesses shared information and worked together.

Apollo’s success caught the eye of Hewlett-Packard, and they acquired the company for a whopping $476 million in 1989.

What made Apollo special was their vision: To bring advanced computing to the workplace in a way that made teams more productive and connected.

Sound familiar? It’s the same mindset that drives modern tools like Microsoft 365 and OneDrive.

While Apollo’s brand name may have faded out over time, their influence lives on in the way businesses use technology to work smarter today.

How is tech helping your business to innovate and collaborate?

https://thisdayintechhistory.com/02/13/apollo-computer-incorporated/