Common IT Myths Debunked by Managed IT Service Providers

If you look hard enough, you can find a myth in almost every topic you come across. From old wives’ tales to things that parents would tell you to get you to stop doing something, myths are part of common conversation. We decided to investigate what myths are talked about regarding IT and technology. Here is the truth about some myths about technology and IT, debunked by managed IT service providers.

Myth 1: Software and Hardware Are Practically the Same Things

This is a myth; hardware and software are two completely different things. Hardware deals with the physical parts of the computer, such as RAM, CPU, and motherboard. It is the outer parts of the computer that make it function. Software is the internal programs that are used on a computer. These include things like browsers (Safari, Google Chrome, Firefox) and operating systems (iOS, Windows, macOS).

Myth 2: Anyone Can Avoid Viruses with Common Sense

While having common sense can help in situations of not clicking on a link or identifying scams, there are still ways that malware can infect your computer and network. Some hackers sneak their way into your servers and can threaten the security of your system through even the smallest gateway. Talking to managed IT service providers to install anti-virus software is the best bet to protect against any threats. Professionals can install top-of-the-line security and monitor your network 24/7 to ensure the safety of your data.

Myth 3: Private Browsers Make You Anonymous

46% of Americans have used the incognito or private browsing windows at least once in their lifetime. However, that 46% is still tracked on the websites that are visited. Using a private window does not automatically make the user invisible; it only erases local data used within the window. External sources are still able to see your activity in the private window, such as websites, online services, and external monitoring tools.

Myth 4: Phishing Attacks Can Be Avoided If You Enter the Address Manually

A phishing attack is a strategy hackers use to steal personal data. Most commonly, phishing attacks are in the form of an email posing as a family member or a higher-up at work asking for personal information, or to click on a link. The myth is that if you type in the link in your browser instead of clicking on it, that the hacker will not be able to get your data. However, using the link in any way, shape, or form can cause your data to be compromised. The links are designed to steal data from anyone who reaches the site, whether it is clicked on or typed in.

Myth 5: It is Mandatory to Use The “Safely Remove Hardware” Feature for USB’s

When you have a USB in a device, there is a safe remove option that pops up. Many people have been told that it is essential to use the safely remove hardware option when unplugging the USB. It is a good idea to use, but it is not mandatory. Taking the USB out of the device without using the safety feature will not delete any data or corrupt your computer. The only effect it may have is that data may be lost if it is still transferring. If there is no data being transferred, you can safely remove the USB without having to use the safety feature.

So, there you have it. Five common myths debunked by managed IT service providers. Are there any myths we missed? Contact us today to see how we can show you how to keep those myths afterthoughts.