The Virtual Office Checklist

Here are some things to consider when choosing SMB Solutions that enable you and your colleagues to work from anywhere.
Adding a VPN and firewall enables the security you need. The technology behind remote access is called a "virtual private network," or "VPN," and it establishes a private, secure network connection over a public network, such as the Internet.VPNs use secure firewalls and well-tested security measures at every network point of entry, to help stop worms, spyware, or hackers from attempting to disrupt your business network or steal sensitive information.

Here's the beauty of a VPN

Once it's installed, you can add as many employees in as many places as you need. You don't have to worry about expensive provisioning in each branch offices store or site; a PC and an Internet connection will do the trick. The VPN software handles all security and user authentication.

There are several types of VPNs from which to choose

Azlan can help you evaluate your business requirements and present the most appropriate solution for your business needs today and provide a growth path that will meet your business needs tomorrow.  Even on the road, your data is safe. With a VPN, you're essentially creating a secure private network, or "tunnel," over the Internet. This way, only valid users can access the VPN, and then only by using industry-proven methods of user authentication.

Meanwhile, strong encryption technologies, which translate information into a secret code, help ensure the data is unintelligible to anyone attempting to intercept VPN communications-even over Wi-Fi networks.You'll lower networking costs. Because a VPN provides a direct link to your business network, you don't necessarily have to install network equipment at each office or location in your business. A computer and Internet-connection can be all you need to access information, applications, and resources if working remotely. Your phone and conferencing system is available to those who may need it the most: remote and mobile employees.

Azlan SMB Solutions for voice and conferencing on a data network enable you to communicate easily and meaningfully with out-of-the-office workers, partners, suppliers, customers, and others. You can expand your recruitment reach. With this kind of flexibility, you can attract and retain employees from any geographic region. You can hire executives or professionals with special skills wherever they live and have them join the company network quickly and easily.

According to several human resources studies work/life benefits, such as teleworking and flex time, are among the most valued benefits a company can offer.

Building Your Network for Growth and Innovation

Is your business growing? You can have a new location or employee up and running in the amount of time it takes to flip open a laptop computer and connect to the Internet. You can even let your partners and customers tap into your network resources on their computers without worrying about security breeches.

Azlan's SMB Solutions provide the foundation you need to extend your network in the future. You'll be able to take advantage of wireless networking, advanced communications (such as video conferencing) and other technologies when you need them. For example: Improve your just-in-time supply and inventory management with wireless access to databases from the shop or warehouse floor. Employees can use handheld bar code readers to track packages, inventory, and supplies. Set up kiosks in retail locations so customers can browse your catalog or service offering, check item availability, or select color and size choices. You can even provide additional information, such as indicating which items are available by mail order or are available in other store locations.

Speed delivery and reduce delivery errors by allowing delivery vehicle personnel to access the company database for updated delivery and customer information from their vehicles. Extend your telephone and Web customer service hours cost-efficiently by hiring customer service reps who can work from home-which reduces costly office space and allows you to have workers located in multiple time zones. Enhance customer service by integrating an IP communications system with a customer-relationship management (CRM) system. Your employees will immediately have access to important information about a customer, displayed on an IP phone or computer screen the moment a customer calls.