Author Archives: lagreca

How to share a UPS from a Synology NAS to a Windows computer

Problem: I want to share a UPS between a Synology NAS and a Windows machine. They are both plugged into the UPS but only the Synology NAS is plugged into the serial port of the NAS. So only the Synology would know when the power went out and when to shutdown. I need the Windows computer plugged into the UPS to know when it is time to cleanly shutdown.

Solution: I found this blog post:

But it was for a previous version of WinNUT, so I’m letting you know how I got it working with WinNUT 2.0.4.0.

The solution is to install WinNUT client on the windows machine and configure it to talk to the Synology network UPS server.

  • Enable network UPS server on synology by going to the Diskstation control panel -> Hardware & Power -> UPS tab. Check the “Enable network UPS server” box.
  • Click on the “Permitted DiskStation Devices” button and add the windows IP address to the Synology UPS network server “Permitted diskstation devices” list:
  • Install WinNUT on the Windows computer.
  • Click on the “Settings” menu and go to the “Connection” tab
  • “Nut host” is the IP address of your Synology
  • “NUT Port” is the default of 3493
  • UPS Name is: ups
  • Login is: monuser
  • Password is: secret
  • These variables can be adjusted by editing this file “/usr/syno/etc/ups/upsd.users” on the synology
  • You can then click on the “Calibration” tab and adjust settings accordingly. In the USA, these are the settings that work for me.
  • On the “Miscellanous” (yes, the app dev misspelled it) tab I chose to “Minimize to tray”, “Start Minimized”, “Close to Tray”, and “Start with Windows” options. This way WinNUT starts and hides itself when Windows starts up.

This is what it will look like in the end when everything is functioning!

Are your passwords secure?

Is this how your passwords are stored?  

The 2 most important ways to keep your IT infrastructure secure is

  • Keep your software patched
  • Using good password practices

If you subscribe to our MSP plan, you are already ahead of the game and your systems should be updated/patched. But what about your passwords?

The BIGGEST problem is passwords REUSE. Let me be clear, reusing passwords ANYWHERE is the security kiss of death. Password reuse attacks occur when a hacker gets their hands on the password for one compromised account, then tries using it to sign in to other websites. This means you need to use a UNIQUE PASSWORD FOR EACH LOGIN. But that will generate a huge amount of credentials, how do you keep track of them all? The answer is simple: USE A PASSWORD MANAGER!

Not only will a password manager store your credentials securely, but will also allow you to generate complex and unique passwords. You can also enable MFA (Multi Factor Authentication) where allowed, and store this code in your password manager.

Password sharing is also easy and secure when using a password manager. Big Net Online keeps a separate password vault for each customer, and shares it with them so they always have their most up to date information.

Password managers also have mobile apps, so you always have your secure information, no matter where you are, on your phone, tablet, or laptop.

If you aren’t currently using a password manager, PLEASE STRONGLY consider using one ASAP! Big Net Online uses and recommends 1Password. If you have questions or need help setting up or using a password manager, please feel free to contact us.

Google recently released their my account website, where you can "Control, prote…

Google recently released their my account website, where you can "Control, protect, and secure your account, all in one place"

If you use any of Google services, I suggest you go to this website and do at least the security check up and the privacy check up.

Best practices would be to do this at least twice a year.


Sign in - Google Accounts
accounts.google.com

Problem to be solved: I'm having a hard time convincing people on OS X to use F…

Problem to be solved: I'm having a hard time convincing people on OS X to use FaceTime instead of other, less efficient, conferencing solutions. The reason is that there is no super simple way to initiate a call. AKA, they always forget how to start a call...

Solution: Here is a quick tip on how to make FaceTime speed dials in OS X. These can either be placed in your Dock, Desktop, or Safari browser.


Quick tip: Create FaceTime URL shortcuts
gigaom.com
On both iOS and OS X, there exists an URL scheme that Safari supports that will launch FaceTime directly. It’s a great way to let you provide others with a quick and easy way to get in touch via video chat, or to manage FaceTime contacts.

This eBay seller is having a sale on certified lightning cables for $5 right now…

This eBay seller is having a sale on certified lightning cables for $5 right now...


Certified Lightning USB Data Charging Cable for Apple iPhone 6 5 5S 5C iOS 7 8
www.ebay.com
They are certified for use with iOS 7 and iOS 8. New High Quality Lightning to USB Charge/Sync/Transfer Cable for Apple iPhone 5 5S 5C 6 6 Plus, iPod Touch 5, iPad 4th Gen, iPad Mini, and iPad Air.

Get a free 8×10 print at Walgreens. Choose in store pickup to avoid shipping cha…

Get a free 8x10 print at Walgreens. Choose in store pickup to avoid shipping charges. Valid until Saturday, Nov. 29th. Use code BIGPICFREE at checkout.


Digital Photo Printing and Free Online Photo Sharing at Walgreens Photo Center
photo.walgreens.com
Visit Walgreens online for digital photo printing, free online photo sharing and unlimited storage. Order digital prints and share your online photo albums with friends and family from Walgreens.