PROTECTION AT EVERY LEVEL

Multi-layered Cybersecurity Services To Protect Your Business

Customized Security Plans

Protect your business with our comprehensive cybersecurity services. We offer a full suite of solutions, including threat detection, prevention, and response, ensuring your IT environment remains secure.

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Threat Detection and Prevention

Utilize advanced threat detection technologies to identify and mitigate risks before they escalate. Our proactive approach ensures your business stays ahead of potential cyber threats.

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Incident Response and Recovery

In the event of a breach, our rapid response team acts swiftly to contain the threat and minimize damage. We help you recover quickly and strengthen your defenses against future attacks.

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Security Awareness Training

Empower your employees with the knowledge to recognize and respond to cyber threats. Our comprehensive training programs get your first line of defense ready—your people.

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Compliance and Risk Management

Navigate the complex landscape of data protection regulations with our expert guidance. We ensure your business complies with industry standards and manages risk effectively.

Focus on Your Business,

We've Got Your Cybersecurity Covered

Cyber threats evolve. They evolve every day. It's like playing four dimensional chess and you are never sure where the threat is coming from. Having a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy is crucial. At CMIT Solutions, we believe the most important components include data compliance, tailored software products, cyber threat awareness, risk mitigation plans, and continuous monitoring of cyber activities. These elements work together to prevent data loss, reduce risks, and ensure compliance with regulations.

Not to worry. We've got you covered.

Customized Security Plans

Every organization is unique, and so are its cybersecurity needs. That's why we tailor our strategies to align with your specific business goals and regulatory requirements. Whether your business benefits from the practical guidelines of the CIS (Center for Internet Security) framework or must adhere to the strict standards set by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology), we adapt our services to meet you where you are.

Our approach ensures that your cybersecurity measures are both effective and compliant, addressing what is practical and what is required to protect your operations.

Multi-Layered Security Solutions

Implement a robust, multi-layered defense system designed to protect every aspect of your IT infrastructure. From endpoint security to network monitoring, email and cloud services; our solutions cover all the bases.

Cyber Hygiene

According to Barracuda Networks and UC Berkeley, 91% of all cyberattacks start with an email. Phishing, spearphishing, whaling, and Business Email Compromise (BEC) are just a few of the threats that can infiltrate your inbox. Email security is about more than preventing spam—it's about protecting your business from the devastating consequences of clicking on the wrong link. Our cyber training programs will equip your team with the awareness and skills needed to recognize and avoid these threats, and what to do about them.

vCISO

CMIT Solutions of Dallas vCISO practice brings decades of cybersecurity leadership and experience that aligns information security programs with business objectives to measurably improve public and private organizations' security posture.

Free Cybersecurity Assessment

*It takes less than an hour!

Complete the form below and a member of our team will contact you to schedule your free 16-point cybersecurity assessment.

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A graphic titled "7 Important Considerations Before You Buy Smart Home Tech." It features a holographic image of a house made up of digital binary code, symbolizing a smart home. To the right of the house, there is a smartphone with an upward-pointing arrow on its screen, indicating connectivity and integration. Surrounding the house are various icons representing smart home devices, such as cameras, light bulbs, and thermostats, all interconnected by digital lines. The background is a deep blue, giving a high-tech, futuristic feel to the image.

7 Important Considerations Before You Buy Smart Home Tech

August 29, 20244 min read

Is Your Smart Home Turning into a Smart Mess? Matter is the Solution

Smart homes seem like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. Lights respond to your voice commands, thermostats auto-adjust, and robot vacuums clean your floors while you relax.

It's all very tempting. But before you rush out and buy the newest gadget, there are some crucial considerations. Here are 7 essential things to ask yourself before diving headfirst into new smart home tech.

1. Does it Solve a Real Problem?

Not all smart home devices are created equal. Some offer genuine solutions to everyday problems. Others might be more novelty than necessity. Think critically about your daily routine and identify tasks that you could streamline with smart technology.

Do you constantly forget to turn off the lights when you leave a room? Smart bulbs with motion sensors could be a game-changer (CNET). But a smart toaster might not be the most practical addition to your kitchen, especially if your mornings are already a hectic rush.

2. Is It Compatible with Other Devices?

The world of smart home devices can be a bit like a high school cafeteria. Not all device brands play well together. Many smart devices rely on a central hub or app to function. Ensure the gadget you choose is compatible with the ones you already have or plan to buy.

Mixing and matching brands can lead to a frustrating user experience. Devices may refuse to communicate or need several apps to manage. Researching compatibility beforehand will save you a lot of headaches (PCMag).

PS: Help is on the way in the future. A new Matter standard aims to address cross-brand compatibility (CSA-IOT).

3. Is Your Wi-Fi Up to the Challenge?

Smart homes are like data-hungry beasts. They rely heavily on a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection to function properly. Is your internet slow, unreliable, or have limited bandwidth? If so, your smart home dreams might quickly turn into a frustrating nightmare.

Potential problems with a weak Wi-Fi connection include:

  • Smart lights flickering on and off

  • Thermostats refusing to adjust

  • Voice assistants lagging behind your commands

Before investing in smart devices, consider upgrading your Wi-Fi router or internet plan. This helps ensure it can handle the increased data traffic (TechHive).

4. Privacy Concerns Deserve Attention

Smart home devices collect data on your habits and routines, from the times you turn on the lights to the temperature you prefer in your home. These gadgets are constantly gathering information. Some companies may use this data to personalize your experience, but others might sell it to third-party vendors (usually advertisers).

Before bringing a smart device into your home, take time to read the device's privacy policy. What data does it collect? How is it used? Do you have any control over how your data is shared? If the privacy policy raises red flags, it might be best to look for a different device with stronger data protection practices (Consumer Reports).

5. Security Matters: Protect Your Smart Home

The convenience of smart homes comes with an increased security risk. These devices connect to your Wi-Fi network, making them vulnerable to hacking attempts. Hackers could potentially gain access to your home's controls, adjust settings, or even steal sensitive data.

To mitigate these risks, choose devices with strong security features such as encryption and two-factor authentication. Additionally, keep your devices updated with the latest software patches to address any known security vulnerabilities. Consider creating a separate “guest” Wi-Fi network for your smart home devices to isolate them from your personal computers and other data-rich devices, providing an extra layer of security (Kaspersky).

6. Future-Proofing Your Smart Home

Technology evolves at a rapid pace. What's cutting-edge today might be obsolete tomorrow. Before investing in a smart home device, consider the manufacturer's reputation for software updates and long-term device support. Will the company continue to provide security patches and updates in the years to come?

If a device lacks a history of consistent software updates, it might be wise to look elsewhere to ensure your smart home doesn't become outdated quickly (Digital Trends).

7. Start Small and Scale Up Gradually

Don't get carried away and try to automate your entire home overnight. Smart home technology can be a significant investment. It's wise to take things slow. Start with a few key devices that address specific needs or pain points in your daily routine.

For example, consider starting with smart lights or a smart thermostat. These can help you experience the benefits of smart home technology before diving into a full-blown home automation setup. This measured approach allows you to assess the usefulness of smart home devices and identify any issues before committing to a larger investment (TechCrunch).

Carefully consider these 7 essential questions before buying smart home devices to ensure your foray into the world of home automation is a success.

Need an Expert to Help with Smart Home Setup & Security?

Those “DIY” smart home setups are not always as easy (or secure) as they may sound. If you need help from a friendly technology expert, give us a call. We can help you craft a smart home that’s connected, secure, and truly helpful.

Contact us today to schedule a chat.

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Jamie Rodriguez

As the leader of CMIT Solutions of Dallas - White Rock and Highland Park, I am passionate about relieving you from IT headaches so you can focus on your business. Our team leverages extensive experience and the expertise of over 1000 CMIT professionals nationwide to provide the right solutions, proactively reduce risks, and prevent future issues. We deliver the local service you deserve, backed by the technological depth of a nationwide firm. Tired of IT jargon and no real solutions? We’re here to help.

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CMIT Security Solutions

There is no cybersecurity silver bullet.

Cyberattacks can take many forms, from infected emails to compromised admin accounts.

Defending against these threats requires a layered approach, where if one defense fails, another can identify and stop the attack.

This includes keeping people routinely trained and informed about the latest threats

Our security checklist identifies 15 recommended strategies, tailored to align with CIS and NIST frameworks.

This comprehensive approach ensures robust protection suited to your business's security posture, covering all bases to keep your business safe.

"CMIT has given me peace of mind in my business by providing me with ongoing protection, monitoring and an invaluable resource of providing technical help 24/7 if needed. They have assisted me with various technical needs in my business and I appreciate small businesses supporting other small businesses in our community."

Swiss Learning Center

"CMIT sent Leslie out to deal with my computer issue - which she handled so fast I can't remember now what it was! Leslie was patient, informative, and engaged me with confidence and relief. She did not talk down to me as if I didn't have a modicum of sense - electronically - but instead was in a teaching mode. I'm so glad to know I can call CMIT whenever I have a problem and allay my fear!"

Shari

"Every business NEEDS Carmen and Jaime with CMIT Solutions. They have taken my business to the next level and I am so grateful to have them on our team. It's like having our own personal IT department. We are more productive, more professional, and ready to worry about things other than IT. As a construction company - it is not in our wheelhouse to manage this side of the business and as a small business it's not super easy to know who to contact. They are affordable and knowledgeable and can easily take any business to where they envision. They come with my highest recommendation."

Ashley R.

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