Exchange Server Zero-Day Threat

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On March 3, 2021, Microsoft issued an emergency Microsoft Exchange Server patch alert for multiple zero-day vulnerabilities that are being exploited by a nation-state affiliated group. The order impacts on-premise Exchange Servers 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2019. Older editions are past end of life and do not receive security updates. Microsoft highly recommends that you take immediate action to apply the patches for any on-premises Exchange deployments. The first priority is servers which are accessible from the Internet (e.g., servers publishing Outlook on the web/OWA and ECP).

To patch these vulnerabilities, you should move to the latest Exchange Cumulative Updates, followed by the relevant security updates on each server.

The vulnerabilities and risk do not exist for any version of Microsoft Exchange Online. The risk does not impact any version of Microsoft 365 or Microsoft Office 365.

As discussed in past posts, one of the benefits of cloud-based solutions is the integrated management of the environment. You are not depending on how well your IT provider of staff keep up with maintaining your systems and your security updates. Moving your infrastructure to the cloud shifts the burden of maintenance and operations, letting your team focus on activities that help your run and grow your business.

Want to learn more, contact us and schedule a complimentary Cloud Advisor session.

Cumulus Global Recognized as a Pioneer on CRN’s 2021 MSP 500 List

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CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has again named Cumulus Global to its 2021 Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list in the Pioneer 250 category. The annual list recognizes leading North American solution providers that demonstrate innovative and forward-thinking approaches to managed services. These services help businesses and their teams improve operational efficiencies and navigate the ongoing complexities of new IT solutions while maximizing their return on IT investments. CRN’s 2021 MSP 500 list identifies the market’s key managed services players who are setting themselves apart with best-of-breed solutions that provide the business outcomes customers need.

“We are grateful for the award as a continued recognition of our commitment to helping small and midsize businesses attain their goals and objectives,” stated Cumulus Global CEO Allen Falcon. “With the added challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, our success, and our customers’ success, would not be possible without creative and innovative solutions, robust vendor relationships, and a team that puts our customers first.”

With cutting-edge approaches to delivering managed services, Manage Service Providers (MSPs) are an integral part of the success of businesses worldwide. They help empower organizations to leverage complex technologies, keeping a strict focus on their core business and balancing priorities and budgets.

“Effective MSPs enable companies to focus on their core objectives while improving the quality and reliability of their cloud computing capabilities,” said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. “The solution providers on CRN’s 2021 MSP 500 list deserve recognition for their innovative and forward-thinking approaches to managed services, and the ability to optimize operational efficiencies and systems to maximize return on investments.”

Cumulus Global, as a Managed Cloud Solution Provider, matches the best aspects of MSP services with a “cloud-first” perspective. Leveraging the economies of cloud computing, Cumulus Global offers robust, secure, productivity and digital transformation services more cost effectively than traditional IT services for small and midsize businesses.

The MSP 500 list will be featured in the February 2021 issue of CRN and online at www.CRN.com/msp500.

About The Channel Company (www.thechannelcompany.com)
The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace.

Chromebook Market Update

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Google for Education PartnerWith the onset of COVID-19, schools and districts scrambled to move to remote and hybrid learning models. Demand for Chromebooks, netbooks, cameras, and other accessories skyrocketed. At the same time, the pandemic severely disrupted the supply chains. Manufactures struggled to get components from suppliers, to staff and run their assembly lines, and to ship product to customers.

Schools that waited to order Chromebooks and other devices sat on waiting lists for backorders. Some districts have yet to receive all of their devices.

Market Outlook

While many parts of Asia are emerging from the pandemic ahead of the United States, we still see significant potential challenges with Chromebook and netbook availability this spring and summer.

  • Supply is still limited. The supply chain for parts, assembly, and delivery are not fully back to normal.  While most assembly plants are back in operation, many are still operating at reduced occupancy and capacity. Additionally, backlogs for components still exist as the supply chain struggles to recover.
  • Demand will be up. We expect a significant increase in demand for Chromebooks as districts unable to purchase enough new devices in 2020 now have a larger, pent-up demand. Some districts kept older models in service beyond their planned refresh cycle. Other districts still lack the number of devices they need for 1:1 learning.

Recommendation

Given the supply and demand dynamics, we strongly urge schools to initiate your Chromebook ordering process early. Specifically you should:

  • Have us pre-register your intended purchase with your preferred manufacturer, for your preferred models.
    • With pre-registration, we can often negotiate better pricing.
    • You are also more likely to be assigned your allocation of units, increasing the likelihood of timely delivery.
  • Have us bid specs to multiple vendors, if you do not have a preferred make and/or model.
    • This process creates price and availability competition, which can work to your benefit.
  • Order Chrome Education Upgrade licenses.
    • Avoid March 9, 2021 price increase.
  • Prepare to issue Purchase Orders by the end of February or mid-March.
    • In 2020, all of the schools that ordered before mid-March received their devices in time for the fall term.

Contact us for more information, to discuss your needs, or to request quote.

Learn more about our Google for Education and ChromeCycle services.

Chrome Education Upgrade – Price Increase

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ChromeOn March 9, 2021, the list price for Chrome Education Upgrade (aka Chrome Management License/Service) will increase from $30 per device to $38 per device. As key component of your Google for Education services, this price increase may significantly impact your budget.

If you are planning on purchasing Chrome devices this spring, or for the 2021/2022 school year, you can:

  1. Purchase your Chrome Education Upgrade licenses now:
    • Take advantage of Cumulus Global savings
    • 10%, or more, off the current $30/device price
  2. Add the licenses to our G Suite for Education or G Suite Enterprise for Education subscription
  3. Apply the licenses to your Chrome devices as you purchase, receive, and deploy them

Contact us for more information or to request quote.

 

Service Update: Datto SaaS Protection

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Service Update: Datto SaaS Protection. The latest Datto SaaS Protection platform is now available to all of our costumers. For more recent customers, you are already on the newest platform.  For our longer term SaaS Protection (aka Backupify) customers, the transition process will begin as early as February 1, 2021. The process will complete before May 31, 2021.

Benefit:

With this move, all Datto SaaS Protection customers will have access to the latest features. These include protection for Microsoft Teams and Google Shared Drives, and the Daily Backup Success Report.

Process:

To ensure a smooth transition, any data on the legacy platform will be archived in one of Datto’s secure Microsoft Azure instances. A fresh backup set will initiate on the new platform. We can assist you in exporting your legacy backup data if you prefer to not have it stored by Datto on Microsoft Azure.

There are some unique aspects of the transition for some of our customers, our Service Team will contact you as needed to discuss your transition.

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

Cumulus Global Goes Green with Renewable Energy Commitment

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October 1, 2020 (Westborough, MA). Cumulus Global announces today that the company is now using renewable energy for 100% of its internal electricity needs. This change is part of the company’s on-going sustainability efforts. Cumulus Global switched to electricity producers using only renewable sources, directly and via Massachusetts Level 1 Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). The company participates in a Community Electricity Aggregation Program, known as Westborough Power Choice, that negotiates electric rates based on consumption across all residential and commercial users. With highly competitive rates, moving to 100% renewable energy does not materially impact cost.

“We are proud to continue our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint and lower the impact of our business on the environment and climate,” stated Cumulus Global CEO, Allen Falcon. “This change demonstrates that small businesses can make changes for the better that also help their bottom line.”

Moving to 100% renewable energy is one part of the company’s sustainability efforts. The company has modified workflows to reduce paper. Employees participate in an active recycling program.  And, the company tracks the sustainability efforts of its key vendors and partners.

“Google and Microsoft have been carbon neutral since 2007 and 2012, respectively, and continue to pursue aggressive sustainability goals,” notes Falcon. “We partner with vendors that plan and act to protect the environment.”

The efficiency of cloud computing shifts the use of energy from computers, networking equipment, and HVAC systems in your business, to cloud data centers designed for efficiency.  Leveraging cloud computing helps small and midsize businesses reduce their carbon footprint while enabling their businesses to thrive and grow.

For more information about Cumulus Global and the company’s sustainability efforts, please contact us at info@cumulusglobal.com.

 

About Cumulus Global

Our core belief is that IT should clearly help you achieve your business goals and objectives. Cumulus Global successfully helps small and midsize businesses get more value from existing IT and new cloud computing services. By first understanding your business, we design and deploy secure, cloud forward solutions that empower your team and create a competitive advantage. We partner with Microsoft, Google, and dozens of vendors to match you with the right technologies. We stay with you for the long haul, supporting your team and keeping your IT systems in sync with your changing business needs and priorities.

Cumulus Global Recognized on CRN’s 2020 MSP 500 List

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CRN MSP 500 Continued Recognition of Cumulus Global as Pioneer in Managed Cloud Services

Cumulus Global, the Cloud Forward service provider, announced today that CRN® a brand of The Channel Company has named Cumulus Global to its 2020 Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list in the Pioneer 250 category. The MSP 500 identifies North American solution providers that deliver operational efficiencies, IT system improvements, and a higher rate of return on investments for their customers.

“MSPs are the critical bridge for customers looking to assess, implement and migrate their IT and cloud solutions to drive efficiencies, lower costs and secure your environment,” said Bob Skelley, CEO of The Channel Company. “On behalf of our team at The Channel Company, I want to congratulate the accomplished companies on CRN’s 2020 MSP 500 list and thank them for their commitment to finding innovative solutions that move the IT channel forward.”

For the second consecutive year, Cumulus Global is being recognized for its managed cloud services that deliver desired business outcomes to small and midsize businesses, local governments, and K12 schools. Beyond deployment, training, and support, Cumulus Global helps organizations and teams fully utilize their IT and cloud services for the best value and greatest impact.

“We are honored for the continued recognition as an industry leader,” noted Allen Falcon, CEO of Cumulus Global. “I am proud of our team members who measure our success by measuring our clients’ success.”

The MSP 500 list is available in the February 2020 issue of CRN and online at www.crn.com/msp500.

Please contact us for more information or to schedule a complimentary Cloud Advisor session.

Customer Notice Update: Email Advanced Threat Protection

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Data ProtectionGiven the demand and need to improve your protection from the devastating impact of ransomware, crypto attacks, and other forms of cyber attacks we are extending the Advanced Threat Protection Priority Opt-in discount period through March, 2020. We understand that adding a service, even a critical service, impacts your budget and costs. Our Priority Opt-In discounts, and other measures (see below), intend to minimize the impact.

Email Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) and Multi-factor authentication (MFA) are necessary, baseline services for protecting your business. 

Beginning April 1, 2020, we require Advanced Threat Protection for all of our customers’ email service, unless you specifically opt out. Opting out is appropriate if you already have an advanced threat protection service in place.

If you opt out, the cost of our data recovery efforts will not be covered under our unlimited support plans (See our Support Services SLA). When we add ATP to your service, we will discuss with you when we can add MFA.

We will mitigate the cost.

We are sensitive to your budget.

  • ATP requires a technical setup and typically incurs a setup fee along with the monthly or annual subscription.
  • We are discounting both the setup and subscription fees for all customers. For customers requesting Priority Opt-In, we will waive the ATP related setup fees completely.
  • MFA implementation is covered by our support plans as an administrative change.  If you do not have on of our support plans, we will provide an affordable, discounted quote for the project.
  • For customers without an unlimited support plan and/or those that choose to Opt-Out, we will discount our hourly fees for recovery work.

For more information on specific discounts and pricing, and to let us know if you want to Opt-In, to have Priority Opt-In, or to Opt-Out, please visit this web page and complete the form.

We realize that this is a significant change for most of our customers.  We also understand the importance of these protections.  Please contact us with questions or concerns

Thank you for being part of our community,
Allen Falcon
CEO & Pragmatic Evangelist

Customer Notice: Email Advanced Threat Protection

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Data Protection

(Updated January 20, 2020)

We continue to witness the devastating impact of ransomware, crypto attacks, and other forms of cyber attacks on our customers.  The recovery cost and frequency of attacks are increasing at alarming rates. The average cost for a small or midsize business (SMB) to fully recovery from a cyber attack has increased to between $145,000 and $180,000. This includes loss of direct business, remediation costs, damage to reputation, and employee downtime.  At the same time, the number of ransomware attacks so far in 2019 has doubled when compared with the same period in 2018.

As a managed cloud service provider, you have heard from us that you “should” have more protections in place. Our position is changing: these protections are a “must”.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and email Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) are necessary, baseline services for protecting your business. 

Beginning April 1, 2020, we will require and will begin adding Advanced Threat Protection to all of our customers’ email service unless you specifically opt out. If you opt out, the cost of our data recovery efforts will not be covered under our unlimited support plans (See our Support Services SLA). When we add ATP to your service, we will discuss with you when we can add MFA.

We will mitigate the cost.

We are sensitive to your budget.

  • ATP requires a technical setup and typically incurs a setup fee along with the monthly or annual subscription.  We are discounting both the setup and subscription fees for all customers. For customers requesting Priority Opt-In, we will waive the ATP related setup fees completely.
  • MFA implementation is covered by our support plans as an administrative change.  If you do not have on of our support plans, we will provide an affordable, discounted quote for the project.
  • For customers without an unlimited support plan and/or those that choose to Opt-Out, we will discount our hourly fees for recovery work.

For more information on specific discounts and pricing, and to let us know if you want to Opt-In, to have Priority Opt-In, or to Opt-Out, please visit this web page and complete the form.

We realize that this is a significant change for most of our customers.  We also understand the importance of these protections.  Please contact us with questions or concerns

Thank you for being part of our community,
Allen Falcon
CEO & Pragmatic Evangelist

Recognition for Excellence in Managed IT Services Drives New Direction for Cumulus Global

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Pioneer 250Westborough, MA, November 5, 2019 – When CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, named Cumulus Global to its 2019 Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list back in February 2019 in the Pioneer 250 category, Cumulus Global accepted the recognition as a challenge. While appreciative of the inclusion on the annual list of North American solution providers with innovative approaches to managed services for the SMB market, the team at Cumulus Global recognizes that this is just the beginning.

“In February, we were recognized for our innovative shift in focus towards business outcomes,” noted Cumulus Global CEO Allen Falcon. “This early recognition validates our view that managed cloud services and emerging cloud-enabled technologies are powerful tools only when they are used to support desired business goals and objectives.”

Managed service providers are integral to the success of businesses. As a managed cloud service provider, Cumulus Global helps businesses implement and operate complex technologies while staying within budgets and keeping focus on their core business. 

“Capable MSPs enable companies to take their cloud computing to the next level, streamline spending, effectively allocate limited resources and navigate the vast field of available technologies,” said Bob Skelley, CEO of The Channel Company. “The companies on CRN’s 2019 MSP 500 list stand out for their innovative services, excellence in adapting to customers’ changing needs and demonstrated ability to help businesses get the most out of their IT investments.” 

Embracing the challenge, Cumulus Global has launched a series of new and expanded services that empower individuals and enable organizations to do more. 

“We are excited to help our clients overcome challenges, advance business objectives, and simplify IT,” stated Falcon. “By getting more value from cloud forward solutions and emerging technologies, our clients gain more value from their current systems and new solutions.”

The MSP500 list is published in the February 2019 issue of CRN and is available online at www.CRN.com/msp500.