Our Learning Center Video Library is designed to provide answers to questions that we are most frequently asked. Since we have so many videos, we have separated them out into categories to help you navigate to the video that will best answer your questions. We also have a search feature on each page.
If you’ve ever used a computer, smartphone, or tablet—you’ve used software. But what is it really? In this video, we break down what software actually is, how it works, and why it’s the invisible backbone of your technology.
Ever wondered how typing a web address like https://www.simplex-it.com magically brings you to the right website? The answer is DNS, the internet’s phone book. In this video, we’ll break down, what DNS is and how it works behind the scenes, why it’s critical for websites, emails, business operations and more!
A desktop PC and a server may look similar on the surface, but they serve very different purposes and are built with different priorities in mind. While both servers and desktop PCs are integral to computing environments, they are optimized for different purposes.
Remember the 1990s ERP craze? Companies thought installing software would magically fix everything and up to 60% of implementations failed. Fast forward to today, and AI is following the same path. According to a recent MIT report highlighted by Fortune, 95% of generative AI pilots fail. Why?
You use them every day, but do you really know what a URL is? In this video, we explain URLs and why having clear, secure, and user-friendly URLs is essential for maintaining a strong online presence—and how it can impact your customers’ experience.
As AI tools like ChatGPT become more common in the workplace, it’s essential for organizations to set clear rules around how these tools are used. That’s where an AI Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) comes in.
Everybody knows AI is the next big thing, and it's huge. It's going to have a heavy impact on the job market. But are there examples in history that give us an idea of how things could play out? Turns out, yes. Let's talk about telephone operators and bank tellers.
Bloatware is the annoying software that comes pre-installed on new computers, phones, and tablets often without your permission. In this video, we break down what bloatware is, why it can slow down your device, and how to remove it for good.
In this video, we break down the basics of proxy servers, how they function, and why they’re important for online privacy and security. Whether you're an IT professional or just curious about internet infrastructure, this is a great place to start.
Windows 10 is officially reaching end of support on October 14, 2025. After that date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, patches, or support for any version of Windows 10. Continuing to use Windows 10 after the deadline exposes your business to major risks
USB-C is a small, oval-shaped port designed to replace older USB connections. For businesses and everyday users, that means fewer cables, faster charging, and smoother workflows. Whether you’re backing up data, running presentations, or just charging your phone, USB-C makes the process simpler and more efficient.
If you’ve ever plugged in a digital camera, printer, or external hard drive to your computer, you’ve probably used a USB connection. But what exactly is a USB, and why has it become such an essential part of our modern tech lives?
In this video, we break down Rich Communication Services (RCS), the modern evolution of text messaging that’s changing the way we communicate. Whether you're a curious smartphone user or a business owner looking to upgrade customer engagement, this guide is for you.
MSPs, you know the pain. New tech that promises simplicity but delivers setup marathons and firmware purgatory. Not this time. We got our hands on the Microsoft Windows 365 Link and were fully expecting the usual frustrations. But to our surprise? It. Just. Worked.
Ever wonder what a domain name really is and why it’s such a big deal? In this video, we explain domain names in simple, relatable terms. You’ll learn what they do, why they’re important, and how to choose one that strengthens your business's online presence.
Printers are essential in every office, but fixing them can feel impossible. Why are printers so hard to deal with? In this video, we break down the reasons printers often cause frustration. Printers may be complicated, but with a little extra care, you can avoid many common issues and keep things running smoothly.
Wondering why your PC won’t upgrade to Windows 11or if it even can? In this video, we walk you through exactly how to check your computer's compatibility using Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool. Plus, we explain common issues like unsupported processors, missing TPM 2.0, Secure Boot problems, and more.
A browser is software that’s used to access the internet. The most popular web browsers are Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, and Edge Ever wondered what a browser actually is and why it matters? In this video, we break down the basics of internet browsers and which one might be best for you.
Think hitting "delete" means your files are gone forever? Not quite. In this video, we break down what really happens when you delete data, both on your local devices and in the cloud. If you’re storing personal or business data, understanding the truth behind file deletion is essential.
Ever wonder what a data server actually does, or if you need one? A data server is like a digital file cabinet that stores and shares your most important information, customer records, financial data, inventory, and more. Servers make sure everyone has access to what they need, when they need it.
If you've ever heard the term "network" and felt your eyes start to glaze over, you're not alone! But understanding what a network is doesn't have to be complicated. At its core, a network is just two or more computers (or other electronic devices) connected together so they can share resources
Ever wonder how websites are built? At the core of nearly every page you visit is HTML—Hypertext Markup Language. It’s the essential code that gives structure and meaning to web content. Whether you’re brand new to web development or just curious about how websites work, this video is the perfect place to start.
USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 are two versions of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard that differ significantly in performance, power, and overall functionality. Understanding the nuances between these two standards can help you make better decisions when purchasing or using devices that require USB connections.
Operational Technology (OT) is the hardware and software that control physical devices and processes within a business. From manufacturing robots to utility control systems and medical devices, OT is what keeps industries running smoothly. How is OT Different from IT?
Starting May 5, 2025, Microsoft is enforcing stricter DMARC compliance for domains sending more than 5,000 emails a day. And if you're not ready, your messages could end up in the Junk folder, or worse, get blocked entirely. Don’t wait until emails start bouncing. Now’s the time to prepare and protect your deliverability.
In today's world, businesses are turning to artificial intelligence tools to boost productivity, improve customer service, and gain a competitive edge. But with so many options available, how do you know which AI platform or tool is the best fit for your business?
Remember when Microsoft automatically upgraded Outlook? Well, they’re back at it, this time with a new Windows feature called Startup Boost, rolling out in May. It promises faster launch times for apps like Edge, Word, and Excel by preloading them in the background when your PC starts up. Is this feature a performance booster or just more bloat?
A critical update is essential for fixing serious software issues that disrupt functionality but aren’t related to security. Your software plays a vital role in daily business tasks like managing finances, tracking customer data, and team communication. Ignoring critical updates can lead to frequent software crashes, slower performance and more!
Looking for a better way to communicate and collaborate with your team? Meet Microsoft Teams – your all-in-one solution for messaging, video calls, file sharing, and project collaboration! With so many apps out there, keeping your team connected can feel overwhelming. But Microsoft Teams brings everything together in one place.
At its core, Bluetooth is a wireless technology that enables devices to communicate over short distances, acting like an invisible cable connecting your phone, headphones, or car stereo. It facilitates seamless data transfers, such as music or files, without the need for physical connections.
While most people have heard of IP addresses, many aren’t aware of the crucial distinctions between public and private IPs. A public IP address is your device’s unique identifier on the internet, and visible to the world. In contrast, a private IP address is used within a local network.
Effectively prompting AI is crucial for getting the results you want, and it’s more than just typing in a simple question or request. To get tailored, accurate responses, it's important to craft your AI prompts with clarity and structure.
The temptation to cut costs by purchasing low-priced IT products is common, especially for businesses trying to stick to a budget. But while saving money upfront might seem like a win, the truth is that opting for the cheapest IT products can end up costing your business more in the long run.
Windows 11 launched in October 2021 with several exciting changes, including a modern, streamlined design and performance improvements. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, but after that, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or bug fixes.
Are you wondering if you can continue using OST and PST files in the new Microsoft Outlook? Historically, these file types were used by Microsoft Outlook to store data locally (PST files) or synchronize with the cloud (OST files). However, with the transition to Outlook 365, Microsoft has moved away from these older formats.
Is Microsoft forcing you to switch to the new Outlook? Yes, starting January 2025, the classic version of Outlook is getting a makeover—whether you like it or not. Here's what you need to know, including tips to navigate the transition smoothly, and if there are features you're missing or you just like the old version, how you can go back and forth to your heart's content.
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to the use of smart sensors, devices, and systems in industrial environments to collect and analyze data in real-time. Unlike the consumer-focused IoT (Internet of Things), IIoT is designed specifically to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity in sectors like manufacturing, energy, and transportation.
Business critical devices are the essential IT hardware that keeps your business running smoothly. Whether you're a business owner or IT professional, understanding these devices can help you mitigate risks, avoid costly downtime, and ensure your operations stay up and running.
Ever wondered how the internet evolved into what it is today? From its early days as a military experiment to becoming an integral part of our daily lives, the internet has come a long way! In this video, we take you on a fascinating journey through the history of the internet, covering key milestones.
Curious about what a hard disk drive (HDD) is and how it works? In this video, we break down the basics of HDDs—an essential storage device for computers and electronics. Learn how HDDs store and retrieve data using spinning platters and magnetic heads, and discover the advantages of using HDDs for large-scale data storage.
A solid-state drive (SSD) is a data storage device known for its speed, reliability, and efficiency. Unlike HDDs that use spinning disks, SSDs rely on flash memory chips to store data. This key difference results in faster performance and enhanced durability.
In today's digital age, choosing between cloud storage and local storage is crucial for managing and securing your data. With the ever-evolving cyberthreat landscape, understanding the key differences between these storage methods can help you make informed decisions.
Feeling overwhelmed by a mountain of data and unsure where to start? You're not alone. This common issue, known as decision paralysis, can affect even the most seasoned professionals. Fortunately, Microsoft Copilot is here to help! What is Microsoft Copilot? Microsoft Copilot, integrated into Microsoft 365, acts as a virtual data expert
In today’s remote work world, accessing company data securely is more important than ever. But what’s the best way to do that—especially when you’re moving away from traditional office setups? Enter Microsoft’s Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Windows 365. Both offer cloud-based workstations, but how do they differ?
SMS is a text messaging service that allows the exchange of short messages—up to 160 characters—between mobile devices using cellular networks. Unlike messaging apps, SMS doesn’t require internet access; it only needs a cellular signal. This makes SMS incredibly useful in areas with poor or no internet coverage
XML, or Extensible Markup Language, is a flexible and structured language designed for storing and transporting data. Unlike HTML, which focuses on displaying data, XML is all about the data itself. It uses tags to define different parts of the data, and the best part? You can define your own tags, making XML incredibly extensible.
If you've been an IT client of ours for a while, you've probably asked yourself, "how does our windows patching work? There have been some questions about Windows Patching, especially about that little popup that shows up on your screen. Here’s the deal.
Are shiny new tech tools draining your business profits instead of boosting them? Investing in advanced technology promises increased efficiency and a competitive edge, but without proper employee training and change management, it can lead to costly mistakes and decreased productivity.
In today's digital world, smooth IT operations are crucial for businesses, but interruptions can pose challenges. High Availability addresses this by ensuring IT systems operate continuously and reliably, even during failures or heavy usage.
Explore how Microsoft is transforming small and medium-sized business productivity with Copilot for Microsoft 365! Initially exclusive to larger enterprises, Copilot is now available to businesses of all sizes using Microsoft 365 Business Standard or Business Premium.
Discover the latest AI innovations in Microsoft Copilot and how they're revolutionizing productivity in Microsoft 365. From Word to Excel, PowerPoint to Teams, Copilot integrates smart features that enhance collaboration and efficiency. Learn how Copilot accelerates document creation
Imagine a business ecosystem where devices, machines, and systems interact seamlessly to perform various tasks. By connecting these devices to the internet, they can communicate, collect data, and make autonomous decisions. This interconnected network is what we call the Internet of Things (IoT). How Does IoT Work?
Think of the browser cache as a temporary memory storage system. When you visit a website for the first time, your browser downloads all the necessary files needed to display the webpage properly. These files can include HTML documents, images, CSS stylesheets, JavaScript files, and more.
What is the difference between 3G, 4G, 5G? Let's break down the differences between 3G, 4G, and 5G in a simple way, without getting too technical. 3G was the third generation of mobile networks, providing faster data transfer speeds compared to its predecessor, 2G.
A Single Point of Failure is a potential risk caused by a flaw in the design, implementation, or configuration of a system. It’s the one fault that can shut down an entire system. This could be in your cybersecurity, networking, and similar aspects.
So you have a computer, and you want to do various tasks like writing documents, browsing the internet, or playing games. To make these tasks possible, your computer needs something to manage and coordinate all the different parts inside it. This is where the operating system (OS) comes in.
RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a dynamic player in the world of computer memory. Unlike storage devices, RAM is volatile and acts as the computer's short-term memory, storing actively used and processed data. Imagine your computer's RAM as a desk – the larger it is, the more tasks and processes it can handle simultaneously.
In recent years, technology has rapidly changed the way we interact with the digital world. There are two terms that have been used over the past few years that may sound familiar. VR, Virtual Reality, and AR, or Augmented Reality. One you probably haven’t heard of as much is MR, or Mixed Reality.
What is a cookie? Besides being a wonderful little dessert, a cookie is also a tech term. Imagine you're at a party, and the host gives you a sticker with your name on it. This sticker helps the host remember your name throughout the party, so they can greet you by name and offer you things you might like.
A BCDR device stands for Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery device. It's a specialized tool that helps businesses protect their data and IT infrastructure in case of unexpected events like natural disasters, power outages, cyber attacks, and hardware failures.
A server, in the IT world, is a specialized, powerful computer that serves a specific purpose. A server is a super-smart, super-organized computer that does important jobs for other devices, like your regular home computer or phone. It's not meant for browsing the internet, playing games, or watching videos.
Think of your home or office as a city, and the internet as a vast network of roads connecting different cities. Now, think of a router as the traffic cop for your city. A router is a device that helps your computer or other devices connect to the internet. Here's how it works!
“Bring Your Own Device” - or BYOD – is a policy where employees use their personal devices (phones, laptops, tablets, etc.) for work, rather than company-provided devices. It has become more popular recently for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the desire for reduction in device maintenance for companies – and the associated cost.
Microsoft Teams Exploratory is essentially a 12 month free license for your organization to use Teams. 12 months later Microsoft is going to tell you how it's expiring and you should do something about it. What they don't do is they don't bother to take a look and see whether or not the organization is already using Teams.
Short answer, it depends. Some common policies that are important for all companies to have are: - An acceptable use policy that defines what employees are allowed to do and not to do in the organization – especially around how they use technology.
BI stands for “Business Intelligence”. Like all acronyms in IT, the definition varies. But I like this definition: BI is a collection of software that allows organizations to analyze existing data and receive meaningful results. Think for a minute about your organization. How it collects data as part of its business.
This question is tougher than it sounds. The simple answer is “try running your organization without IT”. But that’s lazy. Here are several types of improvements that IT can bring to most organizations. Of course, your mileage may vary.
These are just a few examples of how AI can be used in manufacturing. By leveraging the power of AI, manufacturers can gain insights into their operations that might otherwise go unnoticed, and make more informed decisions to improve their processes and products.
DNS, or “Domain Naming Services or System or Server”, is why stuff works on the internet. When you go to our website, “Simplex-IT.com”, how does your browser know what server actually hosts that web site? DNS..
A static IP address is a fixed address assigned to a computer or other device by an Internet service provider (ISP). It does not change and is used to provide the same address every time a device connects to the internet.
WiFi is a wireless technology that allows devices to connect to the internet or other networks without the need for physical cables. It uses radio waves to transmit data between devices, similar to how a radio station broadcasts music.
An IP address, short for Internet Protocol address, is a unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. This Protocol was created by the Internet Gods back around 1985.
Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a secure connection between two or more computers or devices that allows data to be transmitted and received over the internet without being exposed to malicious actors. It is commonly used to protect personal information, such as passwords and financial data.
Ok, this one is mostly an excuse to tell a true story that happened to me back in the mid-80’s. Because…well, I’m old.
What’s my point here? It’s great to create processes and procedures to use in an emergency. Documents that identify processes to be followed and resources to be involved.
Simplex-IT has had a busy year this year, from Tradeshows to our big office move, to our Annual Party at Quarter Up to our new Content Creation Team to our Awards, here are the Top 10 Moments of 2022.
OneDrive is a Microsoft cloud storage service that lets you store your personal files in one place, share them with others, and get to them from any device connected to the internet. There are personal and business versions of OneDrive.
You may have heard the term "Tech Debt", aka "Technology Debt", "design debt" or "code debt". It's a term that is commonly used to describe a situation where an organization is using a technology solution that...well, isn't the best available. But what does it mean, and is it a specific definition?
An algorithm is simply a set of instructions given to precisely define a sequence of some kind. That's pretty much it! Usually, we're talking about instructions given to computer systems to allow them to do their thing.
How expensive is downtime? "The Server is down." Yeah, we hate to hear that. Because downtime is expensive. But how expensive? That's a really important number that we ignore way too much. Downtime.
Technically, the “Dark Web” is simply areas on the Internet that require specific credentials or software or configurations to access. Resources on the Dark Web do their best *not* to show up on search engines.
Shadow IT is a term given to IT resources...hardware, software, subscriptions, services...that are used by an organization without the knowledge of whoever’s handling IT or cybersecurity for the organization.
SSL stands for "Secure Socket Layer" and are important in IT. Companies purchase SSL Certs from 3rd party resellers like GoDaddy or Network Solutions. These 3rd parties verify that the company is who they say they are.
Are IT Certifications worth it? Bob discusses advantanges for the individual, the hiring company and the employer for receiving IT Certifications.
Let's talk about IT certificates. There are 2 types: Vendor oriented and Vendor Neutral.
What is Infrastructure as a Service or IaaS, Software as a Service or SaaS, and Platform as a Service or PaaS?
What is the Difference Between Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery? And which would you want for your business?
So how much does the cloud cost? Well it depends on the size and complexity of what you want to use the cloud for. The price will increase when you start including things like VMs, replication, backups, and other applications.
Azure is Microsoft’s version of a cloud service. Other companies like Amazon and Google also have their own versions of cloud services to choose from.
People are always asking us, "Why is IT so hard?". We love to make it as easy as possible by simplifying the complex. If all of these IT terms overwhelm you, then consider getting a partner for your organization to help you through it.
There are 3 types of clouds: Public- Private- Hybrid. Learn which option is best for you and your organization.
Why do I need to manage Passwords? Because passwords are a pain! Why do I need a Password Management system for my organization? Because passwords and users are a bigger pain!
So, what the heck is the cloud? In the tech industry, the joke is that the cloud is somebody else’s computer. But to break it down, the cloud is taking the server in your office and migrating it to a resilient data center that you access over a private network or internet.
5 ways organizations can get IT support. Depending on the complexity of your organization, you actually might be using more than one! But if your organization uses Abdication or Seagulls, we need to talk.
Multifactor authentication is another layer of security beyond a password and there are many ways to introduce additional authentication methods.
