Do you doubt if anyone could hack into your network? It’s the 21st century, and technically that means nothing is impossible. So if you think your network connection has been compromised, it’s probably true. But how can you tell for sure? Can you spot a hacked network connection?

Hackers love to keep their operations stealthy for as long as possible, so it’s unlikely that a compromised network would seem obvious.

When in doubt about your network connection security, sometimes you have to trust your instincts and run a security check, or you could watch out for these signs.

#1- Decreased speed on your Wi-Fi network.

People opt for personal Wi-Fi networks to retain maximum connection speed and total security. A sudden and unexplainable decrease in one’s Wi-Fi connection speed usually is the first sign of a compromised network.

Of course, slow network connections could result from other factors like harsh weather conditions. However, a continuous decrease in your connection speed could be due to a hack in your network.

Before you panic, you should check the list of devices connected to your router. Usually, people connect multiple devices to their Wi-Fi, and hackers like to take advantage of this.

Most hackers use familiar brand names to conceal illegitimate connections to your Wi-Fi. So do well to scrutinize your list of connected devices to confirm the legitimacy of every connected device on your network.

#2- Unknown access request.

Certain computer programs will ask for an administrator’s permission before executing a task, and that’s normal. The anomaly happens when such requests keep coming from an unknown or uninstalled program.

Such requests are often indicators of a hacked network. Here’s why.

When a hacker gains access to your bandwidth, he’d likely plant malware in your computer and try to get you to install it.

These installation requests are sometimes camouflaged as unknown program permission requests and website redirects.

What can you do to push hackers out of your network?

If you’ve confirmed a hack in your network, you can take these steps:

1. Reset and reconfigure your router.

All wireless routers come with a reset button. A push on that button would restore its default settings and scramble every access to the network, and then you can reconfigure your router to suit your security needs.

2. Cancel all remote administration features.

Remote administration on Wi-Fi routers is useful for certain scenarios, but it’s also an open window for potential hacks. Deactivating this feature will invalidate and logout all active remote administration control.

Would you like more information about network security and spotting a hacked network connection? Reach out to our team at AiNET, and we’ll get you started on everything you need to know.

Organizations work better when working on strategies, especially if they are efficient. One strategy is data center consolidation, also known as “IT consolidation”.

In this blog, we will talk about what data center consolidation is, its benefits and, the steps and when we think is a good time to think about consolidation.

What is data center consolidation? 

As we mentioned above, data center consolidation, which also goes by IT consolidation, signifies the strategies that provides a better and more efficient IT architecture for your organization. By efficient, we mean both:

• In a physical sense, consolidating multiple data centers together.
• Organizing in a way where a single large data center runs on fewer resources in a more effective way.

By consolidating, you are simply improving your entire IT system, focusing on improving the data storage resources and building better systems.

The benefits of data center consolidation

Data center consolidation has one main purpose, and that is to decrease the costs while improving performance, security and efficiency. If you look at the statistics, there’s a reason behind the growing trend of data center consolidation. Let’s take a look at the benefits which helped data center consolidation to become the next big thing:

Less cost: Consolidating results in reducing costs. Let me tell you why!

When reducing multiple locations, their operational expenses will also reduce. Therefore resulting in lower energy consumption, lower maintenance cost and even lower rent cost.

Consolidating also results to lower software licensing cost since fewer systems are used.

Better security: Data centers with no or little security always end up ignored and even forgotten. Consolidating a data center provides security improvements and in many different ways.

Given the reduction of the multiple physical locations, you will have less area to cover which will help you in reducing weaknesses. You will also have a smaller number of programs and systems to secure thus making your security level higher.

Less errors: Data center consolidation simplifies the processes, and with simplification comes less errors. Instead, consolidating will result in productivity improvement, redundance improvement, better flexibility and better IT asset usage.

What are the steps needed?

Before getting into the steps, it is important to know that data center consolidation affects every single department in the organization. When executed improperly, it comes with high risks, which is why it is important to carefully implement it.

The steps for data center consolidation are:

1. Planning

Planning starts with knowing the exact map of your current environment and evaluating the current equipment. You have to take into consideration that these evaluations will be the blueprint of your future plans. After a proper evaluation is done, it is time to plan out both present and future needs.

Note to self: Always make sure you plan a disaster recovery system.

2. Designing

Now that you have planned, you are ready to set up the architecture process. Do not worry, you don’t have to come up with a brand-new data center blueprint. Instead, you can use a referenced design which can help you save time and money. No referenced design meets your needs? No worries, you can always alter in and make your data center the best fit for you.

3. Building

After all the effort and time, you put into planning and designing, it is time to build. You might need architects and contractors, project management and energy consultants, legal and real estate counsels, data center specialists and so on.

However, this is not the end. During the construction process, the team should continue the monitoring process and ensuring that the expectations are met.

AiNET has more blogs for you, all you have to do it just click on our link and it will guide you to the land of blogs about data center.

Optical fibers Background:

The evolution of optical fiber – enabled communications networks has taken place over time. In the early 1980s, telephone companies predominantly built optical fiber, and the benefits were obvious. Optical fiber could transmit large volumes of data and light signals over great distances – several times longer than copper.

Fiber’s potential to revolutionize telecommunications became obvious almost immediately after its invention and widespread deployment. The fiber was first used exclusively for international subsea cabling as well as national and regional backbones due to its high cost. As costs were reduced, operators began to include fiber in:

• Metro.
• Access networks.
• Data centers.
• Within offices.

How does it work?

Fiber optics, unlike traditional transmission technologies that use metallic-based systems to convey data, are not electrical. The transmission device sends light signals to a receiver via a fiber. Fiber optic connections, unlike other transmission techniques, do not degrade over time, which is why they are so popular.

Optical fibers and cutting-edge technology

Because fiber optic cables carry light (DUH!), their capacity for carrying information is significantly superior to wires or coaxial cables. Light beams traveling via optical cables have a frequency of roughly 200 trillion cycles per second.

Optical fibers are low-cost to manufacture, do not conduct electricity, are not affected by lightning storms, and are compact.

Optical fiber changed communication technology by allowing higher data volumes to be transmitted over significantly longer distances with significantly less interference than older copper technologies.

The Future Shines Brightly

Present youth is unlike any previous in terms of connectivity. Over 5 billion kilometers of optical fiber are currently in use around the world. Connecting people, businesses, communities, governments, and continents.

The ability to communicate voice, data, video and applications like file-sharing, online gaming, video on demand, and HDTV immediately and globally is driving communications networks to expand and evolve. We’ve continued to develop and supply new generations of optical fiber technology since inventing the first low-loss optical fiber, enabling the global development of broadband access.

Optical fiber has the flexibility to evolve and adapt to future communication needs. That is due to its compatibility with other technologies and practically limitless bandwidth capacity. We pioneered the optical fiber revolution and will continue to lead the industry in developing next-generation technology for today’s and tomorrow’s communications networks.

Check out AiNET for the best optical fibers!

Are you looking to digitize your business, but your core IT staff does not have the resources or expertise to navigate the cloud infrastructure? Well, Partnering with managed cloud service providers is an ideal choice for you!

To start with, a managed cloud service refers to leasing cloud-based solutions to assist your company all the way through. You can rely on a trusted managed cloud service provider to handle all aspects of cloud security, data handling, integration, and supplier relations.

This article will fire your way right through the top 4 perks of using a managed cloud service provider for your organization. Let’s dig in!

1.  Budget Control

Firstly, managed cloud service providers minimize costs in a longer time frame. They take care of any developmental or operational costs for sustaining the cloud network infrastructure.

In addition, you’re also relieved of the burden of finding and employing qualified employees to look after your network. You only have to compensate the managed cloud service provider for your cloud network maintenance.

2.  Restoration from a Massive Failure (DRaaS)

Secondly, when you use managed online services for backup and recovery, you may rest easy knowing that your data remains safe and secure in the event of a catastrophe. Most cloud service providers are likely to cover the complete IT infrastructure. The DRaaS includes operational software and programs, documents, or even current settings.

Fast-moving developments need adaptable, modular security mechanisms that quickly adapt to changes. Cloud-based DRaaS makes it possible to swiftly switch to a backup copy of your present circumstances.

3.  A Sharp Response Time

Besides addressing infrastructure issues, managed cloud service providers offer support services. With a managed cloud service provider, businesses are assured 24-hour assistance.

In addition, experts and IT specialists are immediately accessible to troubleshoot any problems or difficulties you may face with the system. You can negotiate an agreement on nearly any issue you encounter.

4.  Security Is Guaranteed

Last but not least, while using cloud services, it is pivotal to keep your network secure and safeguard it from cyber-attacks. However, with the ever-increasing numbers and ways of security breaches, your security risk can be challenging to mitigate.

Managed cloud service providers take the liberty of doing this legwork for you. They are specialists with significant knowledge of shielding your critical data and strengthening your security perimeters.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, digital transformation is not easy for most businesses. They lack resources, knowledge, time, and energy to change to a digital model. Therefore, to alleviate the workload for such establishments, AiNET saves the day with its managed cloud services. In addition, they cover all levels of cloud infrastructure, ensuring your business operations run smoothly — staying on top of the game!

Cloud computing is everywhere, and it’s available to almost everyone. As a business owner, moving your operations to the cloud might prove innovative if you utilize the Cloud technology properly.

Cloud technology helps maximize vital systems like storage, networking, database, analytics, designs, intelligence, and algorithms.

The cloud’s sphere is limitless, affordable, and dynamic. However, some organizations move to the clouds for renovating purposes only.

Why is that?

Well, operating on the Cloud, for such organizations, is an attractive and trendy strategy as it gives off an appeal of sophistication to both old and prospective clients.

But as you must have guessed, there is so much more to it.

The benefits that Cloud computing offers are tied to its architectural components. Understanding how these components work is vital to making the most out of any Cloud computing service.

Here’s a summary of Cloud computing architecture.

Cloud computing architecture is a mix of event-driven and service-oriented programs. The services enabled by Cloud technology are user-led—an arrangement where users’ goals serve as the nexus of computer applications.

So, the architecture come in two major categories:

Front End

Back End.

Front End.

To start with, the front end serves as the gateway to Cloud computing platforms. It allows users access, via a graphical interface, to computing services. A typical example of a front-end gateway is the Google Chrome browser.

Good front-end designs tend to boost users’ experience. So, if you’re looking to serve your clients via the web, make sure you have an uncomplicated and well-structured user interface.

Back End.

Secondly, the back end is strictly for service providers. Think of it as a behind-the-scenes setting. Here, resources are pooled and optimized to make sure every application and tool users interact with are of optimal quality and, of course, delivers.

Through the Back End system, service providers can manage security, data, storage, algorithms, traffic, servers, and on goes the list.

Both front-end and back-end mechanisms stay connected via the Internet. However, it takes a stable Internet connection on both ends (provider and user) to maximize these programs.

A complete overview of cloud computing architecture should include the following components.

• The Client infrastructure (graphical interface)
• Application (software and platforms)
• Service: SaaS, PaaS, IaaS
• Runtime environment
• Storage
• Infrastructure (software and hardware)
• Security
• Web management system
• Internet connection.

As mentioned earlier, Cloud computing is limitless in terms of storage and runtime, but an even better feature of cloud technology is its flexibility. Therefore, as a business owner, you can design the perfect mechanism for your company’s operations with this technology.

So, to get a standard and customized Cloud computing setup, contact our experts at AiNET, and we’ll get you started in no time.

To start with an important question, are you doing everything in your power to protect your data from losing? If you answered no, it is best to start doing so since hackers are becoming more and more smart and finding ways to break in. However, it is also my duty to tell you your data loss doesn’t only come from hackers and low cybersecurity. There are many ways one can lose their data, and today we will list 4 of the most common reasons.  

First and foremost, what is data loss?

Data loss, as the name states, is when you lose your data or when it becomes destroyed or deleted, no longer allowing you to read to it. Data loss doesn’t always happen because you weren’t paying attention. Sometimes your data gets destroyed by accident, and some other times… yes, it’s your fault. Data loss is and should be a very important topic to keep in mind. For companies and organizations, losing data can cause a lot more damage than you can think of, given they include a lot of sensitive information. Some of this information can be:

• Client credit card information
• Addresses
• Telephone numbers
• Account details
• Personal information
• Information about the company

If any of this information falls into the wrong hands, the reputation of the entire company will be damaged along with its future. So you understand why data loss can be considered a serious topic.

How can one lose data, even after protecting it entirely with passwords?

1. You can accidentally delete them.

Yes, this has happened and will happen if you are not so careful. (Do not ask me how I know). In fact, 29% of the time, people lose their data due to human error. I mean, no human is perfect and sometimes lack concentration so is it really a surprise that we make mistakes like these sometimes? However, the real trouble begins when people mistakenly delete their data… with no backup whatsoever. This why it is always important to back your data up any chance you get.

2- Viruses might take over.

We all know what viruses are, right? a program that replicates in one’s device and “infects” it similarly to viruses in our bodies. these viruses can take complete control over your programs and data and can even affect the functioning of your device. After being replicated, viruses can block your entrance to your data, resulting in data loss. Do not be afraid, there is a lot of antivirus software which is capable of solving these problems if kept up to date.

3- Natural disasters

Now this one is completely out of your hands, but they are also very rare. Natural disasters include earthquakes, tornados, lightnings, floods, hurricanes, natural fires and more! You can always minimize the risk even tho natural disasters can have a great impact not only on your devices where information is stored, but also your entire business.

Sure, I mentioned before those natural disasters are not in your hands, however, what’s really in your hands is backing up the data. You never know when disaster might hit, but you can always be ready for it.

4- Thieves and hackers.

Laptops, phones, hard disks and many more devices get stolen almost every day. No matter how securely you protect your devices, thieves can take it out of your hands without your notice. What’s important to remember here is that sometimes the files and folders found in your devices can have much more value than the laptop itself, therefore it is important to always be aware. Think about it, you can replace your laptop, your phone, or any type of device you use, but can you replace sensitive and crucial data?

Want to learn more? We are waiting for you to visit us on AiNET and enjoy our blogs. See you there!

 Just a few blogs before, AiNET wrote a blog explaining what fiber networks are and what different advantages it provides. However, we will explain it to you once again to make it easier for you.

Fiber network, also known as fiber-optic communication, is a method where information is transformed from one point to another, in a very fast speed (as fast as 70% the speed of light). This transmission happens in the form of pulses of infrared light and happens through optical fiber. Fiber networks are considered to be one of the most reliable internet connections. In addition, they are said to be the best for upload bandwidth. It is known that fiber internet reaches as fast as 940 to 1000 Megabits per second (Mbps).

The Different Types:

Now that we know what fiber networks are, what are the different types? To start with, there are two basic and commonly known fiber types.  Each providing a unique purpose the types of fiber optic cables are:

• single mode
• multimode

The three different types of fiber cables vary differently. Starting from their construction way to the benefits they provide. In our previous blog about fiber network, we mentioned that the fiber networks are as thin as the strands of your hair.

1- Single-mode Fiber Network

Only deriving the explanation from its name, single mode fiber cable is a single strand that has a diameter of maximum 10 microns. Do not be fooled by its narrow diameter, a single mode fiber can carry, compared to multimode, a higher bandwidth (which we will explain next). Single mode fiber networks also have other names, for example mono mode fiber and uni-mode fiber. When using a single mode fiber network only one cable is needed, and it travels a much longer distance that goes up to 100km! Now you may look at this in an optimistic way, however, keep in mind that electronics like this cost much more.

2- Multimode Fiber Networks

A multimode fiber network carries multiple light rays. Due to its wide diametrical core, multimode fiber networks are able to carry multiple modes of light. It is no surprise when I tell you that this creates the ability for more data to pass through in a period of time. Now of course, the transmission of more data in a given time is beneficial. However due to the high dispersion rate the quality decreases over a certain distance.

To summarize the difference between these two; A single-mode fiber network is mostly used for longer distances. Whereas a multimode fiber network is used for shorter distances (only 400 m).

If you want to learn more, you know where we are. Visit AiNET and learn more!

Machine Learning Network— Fiber Optics vs. 5G Network

Fiber optics or 5G Wireless Network? That is the question.

If you logged on to a search engine and typed in the question, “Does artificial intelligence require the Internet?”  You’d likely see answers on how some bots don’t need the internet to function. Well, the emphasis is on some. The fact is, most artificial intelligence bots only work with a strong internet connection.  The dawn of the 5th Generation network came with a lot of fuss and buzz, and it brought about some breakthroughs in the cyber world. For instance, sometime in 2019, a Chinese cyber-tech company unveiled a 5G remote-controlled vehicle.

 Now, an internet-controlled machine isn’t the most recent tech wonder in the world. However, internet-controlled vehicles are redefining as they push further the introduction of artificial intelligence into our everyday lives.  While you may agree that there’s no limit to the opportunities the internet brings, it’s also worth wondering what you can do with the internet at its current peak.

The Internet’s top speed.

How fast can the internet go? 20Gbps? 50Gbps?

Many factors dictate how fast your Internet speed can go, but what matters most is choosing the type of internet connection that best suits your needs.

If you intend to try Machine learning, you’d need the fastest internet you can get. Here’s why?

Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence that helps computer programs, without explicit command, use data in accurately predicting results. It processes data in real-time and constantly requires massive data exchange.

Note the key points. “Real-time processing and massive data exchange.” That cements the need for a fast internet connection to enable a smooth and quick processing flow.

The two top dogs of internet connection speed as we know it are the 5G wireless network and the fiber optics.

Which do you need?

A quick comparison will help you decide. The 5G network works with radio waves for data exchange.  Although in its early stage of development, the 5G network does possess a great deal of speed that can go as fast as 20Gbps.  Another interesting fact about the 5G network is its reach.  At 10Gbps to 20Gbps, a 5G station can stretch a little over 100 meters.

How about fiber optics?

Fiber optics use light in transmitting data through special wires known as fiber optics cables. It’s undoubtedly today’s fastest Internet connection with an optimal speed of 100Gbps.

It might take an inch in your personal space to set up, but it’s worth it. Fiber optic cables can carry a signal 100km far.

You’d agree that fiber optics is the best option for artificial intelligence operations. Would you like more information on how fiber optics work? Here’s a brief on the sweet science of fiber optics.

So, what is a Carrier Hotel?

Have you ever heard of a term called “carrier hotel”? No, it is not the establishment tourists spend the night to sleep while traveling. Although it would be extremely fun to talk about hotels, today we are talking about carrier hotels also known as “colocation centers”. Sounds familiar right? That means you have been paying attention to our blogs on AiNET where we talk in detail about interesting topics related to data centers!

I’m sure you have some information about what a colocation data center is, where storage and bandwidth are provided for customers. However, what do we mean by carrier hotels? Why do they have a different name? Are they something entirely different or are they just another name of data centers? Read more if you want to find out!

Let’s start off by saying that there isn’t much difference between the two terms, carrier hotels and colocation data centers. They are often used interchangeably. A carrier hotel is a data center where crucial equipment is provided for their customers. Some of these tools and equipment are space, bandwidth, internet, physical security, cooling systems, power, and other necessary networking equipment.

There are many responsibilities that the carrier hotels remove from the IT department’s shoulders. First and foremost, it is important for a carrier hotel to provide both data security and physical security for their customers. Although the IT department of a company controls what happens to their equipment, the colocation data center must pay close attention to the health of the equipment. Apart from that, any software update or issues should be taken care of by the carrier hotel. There are many ways that carrier hotels can help you, which is why more and more companies are choosing to work with them.

The Benefits That Carrier Hotels Provide:

To talk about the benefits in summary, carrier hotels provide you:

• Security (protection from hackers, physical security, disaster recovery systems.)
• Reliability (99.9% uptime, managed downtimes, fast issue resolving.)
• Acceptable pricing plans.
• Increased network performance.
• Straightforward maintenance.

A smart company recognizes that these colocation data centers play a crucial role in the success of their business.

Let’s close off this blog with one more important fact about carrier hotels. These hotels lease their spaces in huge chunks, which means not rack by rack (or a rack unit) but floor by floor. They are generally ran by large companies, which is why it is considered “one step higher on the food chain.”

If you want to learn more about colocation data centers, then AiNET is your place to be!

Photos, videos, documents, personal information, business data, etc. The list is endless when it comes to the kinds of data we have to store. There is no sign of data declining. Data is increasing every day by almost 1.2 trillion MB. Where will all this data be stored? How many types of cloud storage are there? How will individuals and companies house this overwhelming amount of data?

Cloud storage is one of the most used form of data storage around the world for companies and individuals. Statistics show about 50% of all corporate data is stored on the cloud. There are billions of users of cloud storage today as it solves many data storage issues. Cloud storage is when a company creates a data center filled with servers that can store your data which can be accessed by you through the internet.

Types of Cloud Storage

• Public Cloud

Public cloud storage is when data is stored on a server in the providers premises. This storage server is also shared by other individuals or companies. The client’s data that is stored on the cloud can be accessed by having an internet connection. With public cloud storage services, you do not have control over the servers that your data is stored in. Also, since it is shared with other individuals it is a bit unsafe as compared to other cloud services. These cloud storage services are rather scalable and cheap too.

• Private Cloud

Private cloud, as the name entails, is a private server provided to companies or individuals who need more control and security over their storage systems. The structure of the private cloud is designed specifically to the needs of the consumers. This allows them to have more flexibility, security, and control over the servers their data has been stored upon. The infrastructure can either be in the service providers premises or in the premises of the client, depending on what the client needs.

• Hybrid Cloud

This type of cloud storage allows you to have the best of both worlds with private and public cloud services combined. Companies can store their confidential data in private servers which are more protected and secure, while keeping less important data in the public cloud servers. For example, a company can store data that the employees can access on a public cloud. The more confidential data of the company can be stored on the private cloud separately for only the managers to access.

For you to access information and services of cloud services you can visit AiNET. Get the best cloud storage services and much more at AiNET and fix all your data related issues today.