November 2005

Exchange 2003 Service Pack 2 is out. Microsoft Exchange is their email server. It is a part of Small Business Server as well. The service pack fixes numerous bugs, and adds some important enhancements, including better spam filtering and new features for mobile smart phones / PDA’s.

To fully benefit from spam filtering, you need Outlook 2003 with Office SP2.

I recommend that everyone with Exchange get this installed. www.microsoft.com/exchange

SQL 2005 and Visual Studio 2005 will be released Nov. 9.  Both are major upgrades.  

www.microsoft.com/sql  www.microsoft.com/events/2005launchevents

Free stuff when you buy a PC with Windows XP from a local reseller: http://localpcbuilder.windowsmarketplace.com/redeem

TV moves to the web. NBC News and other programs are now available via the web. Over 50% of the population now has a broadband internet connection. Expect to see more media moving to the web. http://www.technologyreview.com/articles/05/11/wo/wo_110405hellweg.asp?trk=nl

Another wireless internet provider – focusing on Voice over IP.  www.citynetwest.com

Recycle those old monitors and computers. Free Recycling at Best Buy Nov. 16, Office Depot Nov 17, Home Depot Nov 16 10AM to 2 PM.  Normally there is a fee for recycling, and it is illegal to dump them in the trash.

We have been using www.zoneedit.com for DNS services. They are easy to use, large and stable, (with servers all over the country) and inexpensive. 

There are some important firmware updates for Linksys routers and wireless access points. If you have an older firewall (more than 3 years old) consider a replacement.  www.linksys.com/download

QuickBooks 2006 is due out this month. New features include easier navigation, support for 15 users, new inventory tools. Free online seminar for accountants: http://accountant.intuit.com/training_cpe/quickbooks/seminar_accountant_06update.aspx?lid=l

Test drive http://accountant.intuit.com/practice_resources/testdrive/index.aspx?lid=body1

Free Seminar on Security Nov. 29. This will cover the basics of firewalls, protecting your network, and planning for security.  Sponsored by the Small Business Development Center.

For more information: www.toriangroup.com/events

Tim Torian

Torian, Group, Inc.

http://www.toriangroup.com