If you grew up in the 1990s, you probably remember your first typing class, which either took place on an actual typewriter or an old-fashioned computer complete with a mechanical keyboard. According to cybersecurity service firm ImageQuest, these were replaced in the late 90s and early 2000s by membrane-style keyboards, partly because they are cheaper to manufacture. But, the clicky-clack you remember is back in style, and ImageQuest explains why.

Q: What is the difference between a membrane and mechanical keyboard?

ImageQuest: A mechanical keyboard has a faster response and offers tactile feedback when typing. A membrane keyboard feels a bit like pushing into a deflated balloon filled with sand. Mechanical keyboards are often larger, and they can be fully customized for each user with things like larger letters, lights, and special shortcut keys.

Q: Why would anyone want a louder keyboard?

ImageQuest: It’s easy to wonder why you would not want something completely silent while you work. But, if you’ve ever worked in cybersecurity service, IT, or writing, you know the satisfaction of the feedback from the keys. Gamers, especially, like the quickness and precision of mechanical keyboards. IT professionals across the globe treat them as prized possessions, often showing them off in the office as something to be envied.

Q: What are the drawbacks of a membrane-style keyboard?

ImageQuest: A membrane keyboard has advantages, for sure. However, when you type more than just a few minutes each day, it’s easy to see that your productivity goes down. Membrane keyboards typically offer a less pleasurable tactile experience and, due to the innate design of the equipment, they are actually much less accurate for people who type quickly.

Q: Are there any safety considerations to allowing my employees to bring their own mechanical keyboards to the office?

ImageQuest: There can be, yes. Mechanical keyboards often come pre-equipped with gaming software or additional USB ports. If you are one of our cybersecurity service customers that strictly adhere to our recommended “Zero Trust” security model, you should implement procedures and safeguards that prohibit employees from using these ports or installing software.

Q: Where can I get a mechanical keyboard?

ImageQuest: There are many different ways that you can buy a mechanical keyboard for yourself or for your staff. We recommend Nashville-based Mechanical Keyboards.com, which offers fully assembled keyboards as well as materials that let you build your own.

Curious about the Zero Trust security model? A cybersecurity service expert from ImageQuest can fill you in and help you take control of your company’s digital security. Visit ImageQuest.com for more information.

It’s true; you never know what you have until it’s gone. Cyber security works the same way. There are a lot of unknowns in the world of cybersecurity and cyberattacks, but here at ImageQuest, we are determined to introduce answers about these critical factors. We have a lot of companies from Nashville asking us all about cybersecurity; we figured answering them here will help provide information! 

Q. What is the first step I should take in protecting ourselves from cyberattacks? 

A. Use 2-factor authentication. As simple as this may seem, it does more than many would believe. Having a 2-factor authentication on any website or extension with a password will help further your security. Most apps and websites have this option to use, and there is no reason why you should not use it!

Q. How can I make sure my home network is secure? 

A. There are a lot of steps to take when securing your home network. The first step is making sure you have a secure firewall to protect your data. The second step is to change the password on your WiFi router after installation from the default password initially on the device. be entirely certain that each of your devices has antivirus software installed. Next, make sure you have the latest personal device security. We recommend a Next-Generation Anti-Virus program, which can help block ransomware and other attacks. Finally, make sure you are updating your devices whenever a new software update is released. Many devices offer automatic updating, which is often installed when the device is turned on and charging. 

Q. How do I build a secure network if I can’t remember all of my passwords? 

A. Password managers. These are becoming lifesavers for both families and businesses because installing these apps creates a password for each website and saves them for you. We recommend two password managers. The first one is 1PASSWORD, which has a yearly rate of $36 for an individual subscription. It may seem expensive, but in the grand scheme of things, if a cyber-attack happened in Nashville, you may be protected because you went to extreme lengths to make sure every password is secure. The next one is Dashlane, also costing around $60 per year with a free option for just one device only. Do your research to find which one will be best for you, your family, and your business. While this option is beneficial, it makes the world of remembering your passwords so much easier! 

Q. My IT team has a ton on their plate, and I’m afraid to add this onto them- how do I make sure I have the top cybersecurity without burning out my team? 

A. We love this one because we can help them out directly. We have worked in Nashville for many years, helping each company thrive in their cybersecurity, and we continue to see it pay off. At ImageQuest, we take pride in putting in the work that some businesses don’t have time for regarding their network security. In today’s world of technology, you cannot afford not to have good protection in your devices. Save the hassle and your companies’ privacy by having ImageQuest help you out today!

Whether you are building your business or just now realizing the importance cybersecurity is for your local Nashville business, we would be delighted to help you out at ImageQuest. Technology is a complicated, evolving world that challenges us as we seek to protect the information we willingly give each platform we are on. 

Contact us HERE today!

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