Skip to main content
Services
Co-Managed IT
Cybersecurity
Data Backup & Recovery
Disaster Recovery Planning
FTC Compliance
IT Compliance
IT Help Desk
Hardware as a Service
HIPAA Compliance
Managed Websites
Outsourced IT Support
PCI Compliance
Structured Cabling
vCIO
VoIP Phone Systems
Why LeadingIT
About Us
Reviews
Careers
Blog
Referral Program
The NetWork
Free Tools
Contact
Book a Call
Support: 815-308-2095
Sales: 815-788-6041
For Support:
815-308-2095
New Client
815-788-6041
Services
Cybersecurity
Data Backup & Recovery
IT Help Desk
Co-Managed IT
Disaster Recovery Planning
FTC Compliance
Hardware as a Service
HIPAA Compliance
IT Compliance
Managed Websites
Outsourced IT Support
PCI Compliance
Structured Cabling
vCIO
VoIP Phone Systems
Why LeadingIT
About Us
Blog
Careers
Case Studies
Client Reviews
Free Tools
Referral Program
The NetWork
Industries
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Banks
CPAs
Distribution, Transportation, and Logistics
Fire Protection Districts
Law Firms
Manufacturing
Municipalities
Nonprofits
Private Schools
Professional Services
Contact Us
Book a Call
Blog
Stay informed on the latest news, cybersecurity threats, and tips in IT that affect your Chicagoland business.
Latest Post
The 5 Types of Ransomware Every Business Owner Should Recognize (2026 Guide)
In this article:Ransomware is not one thing. It is a category of attacks that includes at le…
Previous Blog Posts
Topics:
All
AI
Backups
Budget
Cloud
Cybersecurity
Data Breach
Hardware
IT Consultant
LeadingIT
News
Software
Tech(know)logy
Tech Careers
Tech News
Uncategorized
Work From Home
The 5 Types of Ransomware Every Business Owner Should Recognize (2026 Guide)
10 Famous Ransomware Attacks: Real-World Case Studies Every Business Should Know
What Is Immutable Backup? Immutable and Air-Gapped Backups Explained for SMBs
The Vulnerability Management Process: How SMBs Move from Scan Reports to Fixed Risk
Data Breach Response Plan: A Step-by-Step Template for Small Businesses
EDR vs. Antivirus: What’s the Difference? An Honest Decision Framework for Businesses
WannaCry Ransomware: The 2017 Attack That Changed Cybersecurity Forever
Firewall vs. Antivirus: What’s the Difference and Do You Need Both?
Firewall vs Router: What’s The Difference? An Honest Answer for Business Owners
Stateful vs Stateless Firewall: What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?
Hardware Security vs Software Security: What’s the Difference and What Does Your Business Need?
Cyber Insurance Requirements for Businesses: The 2026 Guide
How to Fill Out a Cyber Insurance Application Without Disqualifying Your Business
What Does Cyber Insurance Not Cover? (And Why Claims Get Denied)
MFA Requirements for Cyber Insurance: What Carriers Actually Want in 2026
Ransomware Insurance: What It Covers and What It Requires
Security Updates: What a Security Update is and Why Delaying It May be Costly
Software Patch vs. Update vs. Firmware: What’s Actually the Difference?
What Is Coaxial Cable Used For in 2026? (Is It Obsolete?)
UTP vs. STP Cable (Shielded vs Unshielded): Which One Should Your Business Actually Use?
Fiber Optic Internet Explained: Installation, Cost, and What to Expect
RG6 vs. RG11 Coaxial Cable: Which One Does Your Business Actually Need?
Dark Web vs Deep Web vs Darknet: A Plain-English Guide for Business Owners
Is the Dark Web Illegal? What You Need to Know
What is Patch Tuesday and Why Does Microsoft Release Monthly Windows Patches? What Your Business Should Do
Patch Management Policy, Process, and Lifecycle: Patching Policy Best Practices for SMBs
Spear Phishing Attacks: What They Are, How to Spot Them, and How to Stop Them
Business Email Compromise (BEC): What Every SMB Needs to Know
What to Do If You Click a Phishing Link: The 15-Minute Incident Response Checklist
What Is Smishing? How SMS Phishing Attacks Target Businesses and What you Can Do
What is Vishing? How to Spot it and What you Can Do
Ethernet vs Wi-Fi: Which Is Faster, More Reliable, and When to Use Each
What is PoE (Power over Ethernet)? A Guide for Business Owners
Cat5e vs Cat6 vs Cat6a vs Cat7 vs Cat8: The Complete Ethernet Cable Comparison
What Is Phishing? A Complete Guide to Modern Phishing Attacks
What Does DMARC Do? A Practical Guide to Domain‑Based Message Authentication
Why Would an Email Fail at DMARC? (And How to Fix DMARC Fails)
How Do I Add DMARC To My Email? (Step‑By‑Step 2026 Guide)
DMARC vs DKIM: Which Email Authentication Protocol Is Right for You?
Chicago Freight Fraud: Inside the $10M Phishing Scheme and What Every Business Should Learn
From Tivoli Storage Manager to IBM Storage Protect: What SMBs Need to Know
Free Vulnerability Scanners: What They Deliver and Where They Fall Short
LDAP Distinguished Names for Admins: Reading CN, OU, and DC Without Guesswork
SCCM vs Intune for Growing Businesses: Choosing the Right Endpoint Management Platform
What Is a Private Branch Exchange (PBX)? A Complete Guide for SMBs
OU vs. Security Group in Active Directory: When to Use Each and Why It Matters
Managing Trusted Root Certificates on Business Devices: What to Audit, Keep, and Remove
MSP vs BPO vs Staffing MSP: Untangling the Three Things People Call ‘MSP’
Endpoint Security for Businesses That Hold or Transact in Cryptocurrency
How to Detect Malware on Company Endpoints: A Practical Checklist for IT Leads and Business Owners
Who Must Comply with HIPAA: A Decision Framework for Covered Entities and Business Associates
PBX vs VoIP vs UCaaS: Which Business Phone System Is Right for Your Company?
The 5 R’s of Cloud Migration: Security Considerations for SMBs
The Major Certificate Authorities: A Vendor Comparison for SMBs
VAPT vs SOC vs Pen Testing: Which Security Service Does Your Business Actually Need?
What Is SVC? Software, Mainframe, and Storage Definitions Explained
The Worst Malware Attacks in History and the Lessons Every SMB Should Take Seriously
Primary vs. Additional Domain Controllers: What SMBs Need to Know in 2026
Industrial and Vertical Management Servers Explained: AVEVA, Milestone VMS, and When SMBs Encounter Them
Is Using a VPN Illegal in the U.S.? A Business Owner’s Guide to Compliance
Free Antivirus for Business: Why ‘Free’ Costs SMBs More Than They Think
From SMS to SCCM to MECM: The Microsoft Systems Management Lineage Explained
Does Malwarebytes Have Antivirus? A Business Buyer’s Guide
Cisco DNA vs Meraki vs ACI: Choosing the Right Network Platform for Your Business
CVE, CWE, and CVSS: How to Read Vulnerability Reports and Prioritize Remediation
Android Antivirus for Business: Why MDM and Mobile Threat Defense Beat Consumer Apps
Cisco DNA Center (Catalyst Center) Explained: Is It Worth It for a Mid-Sized Business?
What Is Digital Network Architecture? A Practical SMB Guide
How Long Can a UPS Last Without Power? A Runtime and Sizing Guide for SMBs
Is the Flipper Zero Banned in the US? What Business Owners Need to Know
Security Operations Center (SOC) Structure: A Guide for SMB Leaders
What Is a Domain Component? DC, CN, and OU in Active Directory Explained
What Is a Certificate Authority? SSL/TLS Certification Guide for Businesses
Tor Browser in the Workplace: What SMBs Need in Their Acceptable Use Policy
IT Certifications That Actually Matter When Vetting Your IT Provider or Hire
SAN Storage for Growing Businesses: When a SAN Volume Controller Makes Sense
What Is a System Management Server?
The 18 HIPAA Identifiers of PHI: What Your Business Needs to Recognize, Protect, and De-Identify
VPN vs VPS vs Proxy vs VPC: Clarifying Network Acronyms for Businesses
What Hackers Do with Stolen Business Social Media Accounts?
What can you do with a Flipper Zero? Keeping Your Business Safe
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Systems for Business: A Complete Guide for SMBs
The Dark Web Guide to Threats, Exposure, and Response for Businesses
What is an Organizational Unit? A Guide for SMBs
What’s the Most Affordable Vulnerability Scanner for SMBs? How to Choose the Right Scanner for Your Business
ShinyHunters Claude Mythos Cybersecurity Supply Chain Breach: What Happened, What We Know, and What It Means for Your Business
Is It Safe to Bank on Public Wi-Fi in 2026?
Is Public Wifi Safe on iPhone? (2026 Guide)
Is Hotel WiFi Safe? A Traveler’s Guide to Staying Secure on Hotel and Airport Networks
Is Public Wi-Fi Safe With a VPN? What a VPN Really Protects on Public Wi-Fi, and What It Doesn’t
Cybersecurity
Is Your Social Security Number (SSN) Leaked? How to Know If your SSN is Stolen, What Can Happen, and What to Do Next
Tech(know)logy
Keyboard Shortcuts That’ll Make You Look Like an Office Wizard: A Comprehensive Guide
Data Breach
Revoking Employee Access: How to Ensure Former Employee Data is Secure
Cybersecurity
Administrative Access Explained: Risks, Best Practices, and How to Manage Admin Rights Securely
Cybersecurity
Is Dark Web Monitoring Worth It? What It Is, How It Works, and Why Your Business Needs It
AI, Cybersecurity
AI Cybersecurity Threats in 2026: How Attackers Use Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Models Against Your Business
Backups
Disaster Recovery Planning: How to Manage Data Backup for Businesses
Hardware, Tech(know)logy
How to Stop Them from Tracking Your Phone: A Complete Privacy Guide
Cybersecurity
Why Is the Internet/Wi-Fi So Slow? Hidden Causes, Quick Fixes, and Long-Term Solutions for Your Business
Cybersecurity
Ethical Hacking, Penetration Testing, and IT Security Audits: How White Hat Hackers Protect Your Business
Cybersecurity, Data Breach
What Does HTTPS Stand For? Why You Should Have https:// in your URL and the Importance of the S.
AI
How To Integrate AI Into Your Business: Copilot, Claude, ChatGPT, and the Tools Reshaping How Companies Operate
Cybersecurity
4 Ways Hackers Can Infiltrate Your Business Using Email and Signs You May Be Compromised
Cloud
Cloud Security for Business: Best Cybersecurity Practices, Challenges, and How to Protect Your Cloud Environment
Cybersecurity
Computer System Upgrades: When to Replace and How to Approach Upgrading a Business PC
Tech(know)logy
Shared Drive Folder Structure Template: The Best System for Organizing Shared Files Across Departments
Uncategorized
What Is IaaS? A Business Owner’s Guide to Infrastructure as a Service
Cybersecurity
How To Protect Your Business From Ransomware: Understanding How It Works, the Costs, and What to Do
What Is Scalability? A CEO’s Guide to Scalable Technology Solutions
What Is a Network Operation Centre/Center (NOC)? Why Businesses Need 24/7 Network Monitoring
Bits vs Bytes: Understanding Your Internet and Data Speeds
Cybersecurity
How to Report Phishing Emails: Avoid and Report Scam Email in 2026
Cybersecurity
Remote & Hybrid Work Security: Home Networks, Devices & Teams
How to Choose a Managed Service Provider (MSP): The Managed IT Guide Every SMB Needs
Hardware
How Long Do Laptops Last? Lifespan by Brand, Longest Lasting Models, and When to Replace [2026 Guide]
Cybersecurity
Third-Party Vendor Security: How to Identify, Assess, and Mitigate Vendor Risk
Tech Careers
What Are the Duties of a vCIO?
Cybersecurity
How Much Should Your Business Spend on Cybersecurity? Average Costs & Budgets (2026 Guide)
Cybersecurity
Can Someone Hack Your Email Without the Password? How Hackers Get in, Their Plan, and What You Can Do
Uncategorized
IT Lifecycle Management: What is the ITLM Process?
Managed IT for Nonprofits: Is It Worth the Investment?
Cybersecurity
How to Find Out if Cybercriminals are Targeting Your Company: The Signs Your Business Needs Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity
What is a Software Patch? Types of Patches, Risks, and Why Patching Matters
Tech Careers
Is There Any Growth in Technical Support? Strong Growth Ahead for Chicagoland Businesses
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Best Practices: A Complete Strategy Guide for SMBs
Cybersecurity
AI-Powered Cybersecurity: How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Threat Detection and Defense
IT Consultant
How Much Does an MSP Cost? A Pricing and IT Budgeting Guide for Managed Services
Cybersecurity, Tech(know)logy
Why Are Password Changes Required? A Complete Guide to Passwords and MFA for Businesses
Budget, Hardware
TCO Comparison for Hardware Procurement: Comparing Total Cost of Ownership Differences Between OS/Refresh Cycles
Tech(know)logy
Hardware-Based Security for Your Business: Physical Hardware Security Measures and Best Practices
IT Consultant
What Do Information Technology Professionals Do?
Cybersecurity
What are the Different Types of USB Cables? A Complete Guide
Hardware
The 4 Types of Network Cables: A Guide for Businesses
LeadingIT
Why We “Secure By Default” (And Why You’ll Be Glad We Do)
Cybersecurity, IT Consultant
Protecting Donor and Tuition Data: IT Security Tips for Private Schools
Data Breach
Why Cybercriminals Are Saving Your Data for Later
Cybersecurity, IT Consultant
Blueprints to Backups: How AEC Firms Can Protect Their Project Data
Budget
How to Secure Donor Data Without Breaking the Bank
Cybersecurity, News
The Largest Student Data Breach in U.S. History: What Schools and Parents Need to Know
Data Breach
Medical Identity Theft: Are You a Victim?
Hardware, Software
5 Options If Your Windows 10 PC FAILS The Windows 11 Compatibility Test
Data Breach
Was Your Information Compromised From The National Public Data Breach?
Hardware
How to Choose the Best Hardware for Your Growing Business
Cybersecurity
Understanding the Importance of Cybersecurity in Schools
Cybersecurity
Protecting Student Data: Cybersecurity Best Practices for Educational Institutions
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Essentials for Municipalities: Safeguarding Public Data
Cybersecurity
Advantages/Benefits of CCTV Camera Systems
Cybersecurity
Managed IT vs. IT Support: Understanding the Key Differences
Cybersecurity
The Human Factor: Educating Employees on Cybersecurity Best Practices
Cybersecurity
The Hidden IT Risks Threatening Your Manufacturing Operation
Cybersecurity
IT Solutions to Minimize Downtime and Maximize Uptime
Cybersecurity
The Importance of Secure Web Design: Why Your Website’s Security Matters
Cybersecurity
Reduce Security Risks With A Hacker Mindset
Cybersecurity
LeadingIT Makes Third Acquisition in Two Years Strengthening Chicagoland Presence
Tech(know)logy
Four Benefits of Implementing a Structured Cabling System
Cybersecurity
The Rise Of Ransomware Has Dire Consequences For Education
Cybersecurity
The Benefits Of Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity
Cheap is Expensive: Cutting Corners in Cyber Security Will Backfire
LeadingIT
What Our Dura-Tech Enterprises’ Acquisition Means for Your Business
LeadingIT
LeadingIT Acquires Dura-Tech Enterprises Further Expanding Chicagoland Presence
Cybersecurity, Data Breach
Resolve To Secure Your Data In The New Year
Cybersecurity
Protecting Your Fire Department Against Cyberattacks
LeadingIT, News
LeadingIT Achieves Top 2% Worldwide Diamond Partner Status with Datto
Uncategorized
LeadingIT Named as a Top 250 Cybersecurity MSSP Worldwide
Cybersecurity
Invest In Cybersecurity Or Risk Closing Down
LeadingIT
Is Your Trusted IT Services Company Really Doing Its Job?
Tech News
What Does The NIST SP 800-53 Update Mean For Your Chicagoland Organization?
LeadingIT
LeadingIT Acquires CLASS Computing to Expand Chicagoland Presence
Data Breach
Low Confidence In The US Government As One-Third Of Americans’ Personal Data Accessed Illegally
LeadingIT
LeadingIT Teams Up With Extra Life To Raise Money For Sick Children
Work From Home
Cyberattacks Are Causing Severe Problems For Organizations During Pandemic
LeadingIT
LeadingIT Celebrates 10 Years Of Service In Chicagoland
Work From Home
How Internet Connectivity Will Shape The Future Of Learning And Its Implications On Learners
LeadingIT
Press Release: LeadingIT Ranked Among World’s Most Elite 501 Managed Service Providers
Tech News
These Hackers Warned Congress The Internet Was Not Secure. 20 Years Later, Their Message Is The Same.
LeadingIT
Client Showcase | Catching Up With Blackwing Meats
Cybersecurity
Wave Of Payroll Direct Deposit Phishing Attacks
LeadingIT
How We Kept Our 80 Client Networks And Over 2500 End Users Safe During The Latest Cybersecurity Attack
Tech News
Don’t Fall For Firefox Banking Trojan Named “HoeflerText”
Tech(know)logy
Credit Card Fraud Is Rampant – How To Keep Your Money Safe
Tech(know)logy
ONE Thing Your IT Company CANNOT Protect You Against That Could Cost You Thousands (Or Worse)!
Tech(know)logy
Your Firewall Is Useless Unless You Do These 5 Things
Tech(know)logy
Not All Backups Are Created Equal – What Questions To Ask
LeadingIT
LeadingIT Lands On MSPMentor Top 501 List
