UK web hosting for your business

For less than £20 per month, your business can have a professional UK web hosting package for its online presence. A good web hosting business package should include a webspace of 5000 MB, free domain name with annual hosting. Think that your growing business will need more online space, so you should make sure the webspace you have covers all your needs.

Pickaweb offers also unlimited emails - you can create email addresses for all your departments and employees, webmail and POP3 e-mail accounts like: yourname@yourdomain.co.uk.

What is reliable is the uptime guarantee of 99% so that your visitors and clients are able to access your website at any time. If you intend to sell online, more important is that you can have also Agora shopping cart and OS Commerce shopping cart view. Another useful feature is cPanel which allows you to add or remove email accounts easily, without being necessary to call the customer service in order to have the changes operated in your email accounts.

Using the Free Website Builder, you can build, publish and maintain your professional looking website and the online wizard will help you have 100% control of your page. If you want to add a special paragraph mentioning a special offer or a new product, you can make the changes in a few minutes.

On top of all these, the pre-installed scripts will prove to be very handy for installation of guestbooks, forums or product reviews and rating.

Better ScanSafe than sorry

Everyone is looking to start an online business. It's the easiest way to get started, and it seems to cost the least amount of money. However, there are some other problems that come with having an online business. The main problem is, of course, online viruses and other malware that can threaten your business and all of your customers. In 2009, according to ScanSafe, the threat of these kinds of problems is going to be increasing.

The problem with online businesses is that you need some kind of hosting provider and domain registrar to get up and running. ScanSafe has warned people of a boom of web delivered malware that they think is going to hit next year. They said that this internet malware is most likely going to attack hosting providers and their customers, meaning that it could actually affect anyone that has an online business.

ScanSafe is now asking its consumers and others to beef up their defenses now before the “boom” hits. Many have said that 2008 has just shown us that most online businesses do not do enough to keep themselves protected. This was concluded after a survey showed a huge increase in the number of online criminal activity.

The overall goal for 2009 is to send a very strong message to the criminals of the web that online businesses refuse to be victims. Everyone is pushing for tighter security in defending against this growing threat. Of course, the tighter security may not be good news for online businesses either. Many think that a lot of online advertisements could be blocked in order to protect against this growing threat.

Ups and downs of online business

Working from home can be very rewarding. In fact, one of the biggest attractions to owning an online business is all of the flexibility you have. Not only because you can stay at home, but because you can work from anywhere. It is possible for you, unlike other businesses, to make money 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. On top of all that, you can target worldwide customers. Most local businesses can only target people who live in their area.

Another great thing about an online business is the fact that it does not cost as much to start up as an actual store. Although you do have to worry about things like shipping, you will more than make up for that cost in the number of people you are able to serve.

Although running an online business is great, it does have some hard things that go with it. For example, one of the main problems that you are going to have with an online business is trying to get some traffic to your site. After all, there could be thousands of sites out there that are just like yours. So you have to make people want to visit your site over other sites. Why would someone want to buy from you instead of someone else? That is the question that you have to answer. If you are not able to answer that question, then you are not going to get your online business off the ground.

The good news is, at least there are a ton of great tools out there that can help you.

The right headset for business

In a regular office setting, headsets are often the ignored electronic device since everyone could just use the phone or use IM (instant messenger) to get in touch with an individual. But as technology is advancing and communication is getting easier with lesser cost, the use of VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) is gaining in importance. Since communication with the client is vital, a good headset should be in place to ensure client's loyalty as well as ease of acquiring new business partners.

Quality = Pricing

Quality headsets unfortunately, doesn't come cheap. Headsets with noise cancellation ability and better microphones will cost you. But this is just a small investment if you want to ensure that communication with your client is possible without interruption. You don't want your client to ask you to repeat what you said because the headsets are not working properly. You can't just blame technology if you lose your client.

Wireless vs. Wired

Wireless is always a good thing as this will lessen clutter in your workspace. But they are not the ideal headset. Wireless devices may save you from clutter but you become susceptible to other signals which could scramble the voice quality. If everyone is using wireless headsets, the possibility of signal scrambling especially if you are on a limited space is always there.

Single vs. Dual Ear

Although there are single ear headsets, it is highly recommended to have dual ear headsets. Aside from clarity, dual ear headsets will also prevent ear damage since noise and volume will be evenly distributed to both ears.

Bluetooth tips for businesses

Businesses should always find a way of boosting productivity through technology. Although humans can still improve in their productivity, technology will ease some of their tasks which will make them concentrate on more important functions. One of those technologies that should be harnessed by businesses is Bluetooth - a wireless data transfer protocol that will ease communication and other functions.

Most see Bluetooth as a device used mainly for mobile phone headsets. While Bluetooth is undoubtedly popular as a wireless headset device, there are other users for Bluetooth that has been proven efficient for businesses.

Ease in File Transfer

File transfer could always be done online or through LAN (Local Area Network) but when LAN is not available and data transfer online is very expensive. Bluetooth could become the protocol of choice. Bluetooth devices could transfer files without any problem. This is ideal when you are on the road and you need to transfer or receive files from a client or a business partner.

Access to Other Devices

Aside from using Bluetooth for file transfer, the device could also be used to connect to other devices without any cord. For example, you can have wireless keyboards and headsets in your computer for VOIP with the use of Bluetooth.

Security Concerns and Limitations

On the other hand, there are limitations that should be tackled constantly by Bluetooth users. The maximum transfer rate of Bluetooth is only at 1Mbps which is significantly lower. Bluetooth based attacks such as anonymous sending of documents with viruses should also be a point of concern. But these could be addressed as long as the user is conscious of other users and limiting access to recognized devices only.

The importance of web pages in business

Every company should need a good looking website. Your website is your face to the world and anything wrong with it will be criticized.

This is a little bit harsh for small businesses considering they are basically using free services in their websites (such as hosting) to properly inform their customers of what they do. They are practically saving money when they opt to use free tools and services on their websites.

But those who use free website hosting for their company are actually losing a lot more than saving. There are companies that offer web hosting for as little as $10 a month. For that amount, you can develop a good website and earn clients.

When you use paid web hosting, you will also have the advantage of having your domain. Companies or clients that want to work with you could easily remember your website. For example, a client will find it hard to remember a website named ultimatecleaners.multiply.com. But when you’re using only ultimatecleaners.com, your client can just type it in without having to remember the multiply part.

A free website is good for a personal blog or a personal website wherein you can share some pictures or updates. But a company, no matter how small it is, should always consider paid services for its website.

Linux OS: the ups and downs

Because of the disaster of Vista OS and the popularity of UMPC (Ultra Mobile Personal Computers), Linux has been placed in a spotlight like never before. Different versions of Linux are being released and they offer the freedom of selecting the experience that you want for your computers and laptops.

If you are looking to slash costs in your business, you should consider using Linux as your OS in your computers. Linux will provide you Operating System and supporting applications that you need without having to shell out a single cent. Using Windows as an operating system in your computers is great in terms compatibility but every installation in a local gadget will cost you at least $300 for standard configuration and applications (Windows OS and Microsoft Office). A small business could be saving thousands of dollars if they use Linux as an OS.

Security is also optimal in Linux. Most of the viruses and spyware today are OS specific which means attacks are usually geared towards Windows computers. In fact, if you think there are viruses in your flash drives or any removable storage device, you just have to plug it in to a Linux based computer and open it. All the viruses will be gone and your storage device is as good as new.

The downside of Linux is that it will require more than just simple familiarity of computers. You need to have an expert so that your computer will be properly configured according to your need. Networking is also a little bit challenging as you need more than just simple networking configuration.

Linux has its ups and downs. Just make sure you have enough knowledge to handle this particular type of OS to ensure success.

BlackBerry Storm to compete with iPhone 3G

Almost every six months, something new from the mobile world comes out to challenge the powerful iPhone 3G. A few months ago, specs on the upcoming Nokia 5800 XpressMusic were released and different reviews from the actual usage were released in no time. The verdict: it’s good but it’s still not here.

On the other hand, the Blackberry Storm was just released and early reviews have been impressive that most have come to say that it’s a possible iPhone crusher. Available in US through Verizon and Vodafone in Europe, Blackberry Storm has something no other phone has: ClickThrough technology. This technology senses the pressure of the fingers and reacts accordingly – too light and it will just browse through and click is implemented with a little additional pressure. It also has a very impressive multimedia feature which includes 3.2 megapixel camera, support for a slew of video formats (including H.264) and ability to work in both GSM and CDMA.

If there’s one thing lacking in Blackberry Storm, it’s Wifi. This is a little bit unfortunate since Storm has such features that could easily stump the iPhone 3G. Without the Wifi, everything else seemed to be a lot difficult since you are not able to browse through the internet. Aside from the lack of Wifi, the Blackberry Storm is currently priced at $199 after the mail in rebates from Verizon – the same as the 8GB version of the iPhone 3G.

Although it might not knock out iPhone 3G, it still packs a powerful punch with its multimedia features and ability to handle GSM and CDMA (which makes unlocking a great possibility).

Soccer nets on the network

Soccergoalzinc.com is an online store dedicated to goals for soccer and hockey. Different types of goals and soccer nets – from standard to kids’ rebound goal could be purchased from this website. Their prices are competitive and they are also heavy duty because of very sturdy materials included in the frame. They offer flat rate shipping for any type of goals which will give any customer especially those who are ordering the standard-sized goals, great savings.

But aside from goals that offer savings with high quality, the website offers actual pictures of the things they are selling. Most online stores provide processed pictures of their products but Soccergoalzinc.com offers something more. Most of the products on the website are photographed with users. You will see kids and adults playing in front of the soccer goals. These pictures of Soccer Nets give the buyer a good idea of the size and look of the goal.

The layout of the website is very simple that first time users could easily navigate through the pages. The information on each product is also very impressive as the size and as well as features of the goal is included. Check out their resources page as the website provides additional information on the goals and websites where you can find more sports equipment.

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Internet ad business increased despite economy

Internet advertising posted double digit growth for the third quarter this year. A growth of 11% was posted from the reports of Interactive Advertising Bureau. This double digit increase is significantly high given the global economy is fearing for a massive recession. This increase was compared to the third quarter performance last year.

Internet advertising posted total earnings of $5.9 billion this quarter. Not only this increase is significant compared to last year, this growth is also the second highest since the Interactive Advertising Bureau was established in 1996. The total revenue this year until the third quarter was reportedly at $17.3 billion. The figure represent an increase of a whopping 14% when compared to last year's revenues which was only $15.2 billion. Internet advertising has continued to face the challenges of tough economic times. Businesses and large corporations have realized that efficiency of internet advertising as it virtually knows no bounds. Internet advertising is also cost effective as companies could present a lot of data and information online without having to spend too much on production costs.

This data also presents a slow shift from traditional advertising to online advertising. As countries with established economies are quickly adopting digital services, online advertising is seen as a rising business and there are no indicators that it will die down considerably even with the tough economic times. The Internet Advertising Bureau is part of the New Media Group - a company owned by PricewaterhouseCoopers. Their data is considered the most credible for online advertising today.

Time and money in online business world

One of the most fundamental equations in physics relates energy and matter. It was created by Einstein and it basically says that matter and energy are interchangeable. You can have one or the other. If we borrow this equation and use it in the world of online business it still makes sense only matter and energy are replaced by money and time respectively.

This is simply a fancy way of saying that money and time tend to be interchangeable in the world of online business. You can spend time doing a particular task or you can spend money getting someone else to do the same task for you so that you can spend your time on something else. A good example of this is advertising. There are many free methods of advertising such as article and blog marketing that are just as effective over the long term as paid methods of advertising but the catch is that they tend to require a lot of time to pull off. Something like pay per click advertising on the other hand is very effective and takes practically no time at all to set up but at the same time requires a monetary investment.

Whenever you are figuring out tasks for your online business, you should be thinking not only in terms of time and money but also in terms of where the two can be interchanged. You can meet all of your goals for the month in your business even if you are short in one of the two just by increasing the amount of the other you invest into the system. Can't afford all your advertising goals? Spend some time doing free advertising instead.

Bleak future for Windows Vista

As soon as Vista came out as the next big OS of Microsoft Corporation, reviews from tech bloggers and regular users were available online and most of them are never satisfied with the latest offering of Microsoft. Even with the hyped commercials featuring Bill Gates and Jerry Seinfeld didn’t helped at all. Microsoft even played “dirty” by renaming the OS as “Mojave” but the rose by any name would still smell as sweet. These actions didn’t help to meet the expected sales for the first quarter.

Some would blame the popularity of netbooks – smaller laptops that sacrifice specs and real estate on screen for portability. Since the processors and RAMs are relatively smaller, Vista would have a hard time running in these smaller devices. The increasing popularity of Linux and the chic (with high security) appeal for Mac has also placed a dent on Vista.

But tech bloggers pointed out that the main reason why Vista’s sales didn’t improve as expected is the non-adoption of businesses. XP has been in the market for years now and its relevance to modern computing is still there. Aside from the business perspective, adoption for regular XP users tends to be expensive. Although Vista has come out with SP2 to fix different bugs, it may be too late for Vista to gain momentum in sales.

Seeing the sales of Vista, Microsoft may have raised their white flag on the latest OS. Windows 7 is currently being hyped by Microsoft and early Alpha release will be available for developers soon.

Online business - handle with care

The current economic situation has really created problems for many online businesses. With money being at an all-time low for many of the people in the developed areas of the world, families and individuals are being forced to cut down on many costs. One of the costs is of course supplementary purchases and for the most part if you run an online business then you are in the business of selling supplementary items in one form or another. Therefore the downturn has likely affected you as well but there are steps you can take to make sure your online business is able to weather the downturn with a satisfactory end result.

The first thing you should do is try to cut down on your business expenses as much as possible. This means that you might consider downgrading your hosting plans to more affordable options that still get the job done while at the same time cutting down on advertising methods that cost you money. Instead of PPC advertising maybe you should do extra article marketing as the latter is free. That is just one example of many in ways to reduce your expenses without significantly cutting down on your inflows and it is solutions like that which ultimately help businesses weather tough economic periods.

Expansion into other free areas of marketing is another option you might consider but you need to be very careful about how you go about it in order to ensure that you do not become overextended. Overextension is the enemy of the online business and in the end it is a mistake that could prove fatal.

Online casinos: a safe way to play

I always considered online games safer than real life ones. Maybe because all I ever lost when playing was virtual money or some points. And of course I closed the page before becoming addicted to it. However, I like to live an “adventurous” life every now and then, so gambling web pages with free games are the right place. No need to travel or no need to fight for a machine with another person. Anyway, if you want to play with real money you can also do that online and choose poker, baccarat or any other game you would find in a real casino. There are also guides for beginners which will try to answer all your questions about online casinos, so that you can play safely.

Personally I prefer the free slots because they don’t require any strategy or sunglasses to be cool in front of your opponents. There are also few rules to obey and the machine will do the maths for you. You click the handle, the things start spinning and you see what you’ve got. You might even win and that will top up your balance and allow playing more.
We are living hard times. Maybe your budget is tight or insufficient for entertainment, so why not choose the online free alternative? You will find a slot game you’ll like to play at www.casino.de.

BT: Break Time

In London, if the need to communicate strikes you, better use the traditional ways: smoke signs, mural painting, envelopes sent through pigeons or mounted messengers. Forget about telephone, internet, fax or any other modern means of communication.

Forget about BT, mainly. Because BT forgets about you. Or they don’t even know you exist even if you have called them to ask for someone to come and install the telephone landline.

They say they will come next week, but there are so many future weeks in your life if you have an optimistic approach on it. If you are lucky you get someone coming later than agreed, do half the job then leave you with hope in your heart and a small hole in your wall. And then you have to call again and beg for someone to be sent and finish the work and give you the telephone line you want.

If their excuse is they don’t have enough staff, there are so many Eastern European boys out there looking for jobs and willing to pull some cables to make customers happy.