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How NYC Real Estate and Property Firms Benefit from Local IT Support

NYC IT Providers: New York City real estate never stops moving. Deals are fast, deadlines are tight, and access to information must be immediate—whether you’re in the office, at a showing, or finalizing terms over lunch. For brokers, property managers, and development teams, technology isn’t just a backend function. It’s the infrastructure that keeps deals alive. Yet many real estate firms rely on outdated systems, fragmented support, or remote-only IT services that can’t keep up with the city’s pace. When a contract won’t load, an email server stalls, or a network goes down during a closing, the consequences are real. That’s why local, responsive IT support matters—especially in NYC’s high-pressure property market and it’s why local firms are seeking out better NYC IT providers.

new york city real estate it professionals

Speed Is the Difference Between Won and Lost Deals

In a competitive environment like New York, the ability to act quickly often makes or breaks a deal. Systems must be fast, reliable, and secure at all times. When issues arise, IT support must be immediate. Real estate professionals can’t afford to wait hours for ticket resolution or offshore callbacks. Providers with local presence and rapid response capability provide the confidence that business won’t grind to a halt when something goes wrong.

Reliable Access Across Devices and Locations

From agents on mobile devices to administrative staff in the office, real estate firms require seamless access to listings, contracts, CRMs, and communications. Downtime or sync issues can delay a closing or lose a client. The best NYC IT providers ensure mobile access is secure and dependable—supporting cloud services, file access, mobile email, and VOIP tools without compromising performance.

Document Security and Compliance

Contracts, financials, and personally identifiable information flow through real estate systems every day. With increased regulatory scrutiny and cyber risk, protecting those documents is no longer optional. Local IT teams that understand the security needs of NYC real estate firms can implement encryption, secure file sharing, and data backup systems that protect against loss and breach—while keeping workflows simple.

Support for Specialized Platforms

From Dotloop and DocuSign to Yardi, Buildium, and custom CRMs, real estate firms rely on a growing mix of tools. Many of these platforms require integration, permissions management, or on-demand support when something breaks. A generalist IT provider might not recognize these systems—or understand how agents and staff actually use them. A more specialized team with real-world experience in the property sector can make a tangible difference.

Why Proximity Still Matters in Real Estate IT

While many providers claim to serve NYC, few are equipped to show up quickly when hardware fails, routers need to be replaced, or a site office needs setup. Providers like Cost+, located just over the George Washington Bridge, offer full IT support—including fast on-site service—without the overhead and delays of larger city-based firms.

In Summary

In New York City real estate, time is everything—and IT systems need to support that urgency. The right NYC IT provider doesn’t just fix problems. They keep transactions moving, documents secure, and teams connected wherever they work. For real estate and property firms that need speed, security, and local access, a responsive IT partner isn’t a luxury—it’s a competitive advantage.

To learn more about how your real estate firm can benefit from dependable, fast IT support, visit our New York City IT services page.

By Thomas McDonald
Vice President

2025-06-21T21:40:29-05:00August 18, 2025|

The Hidden Costs of Delaying Windows Server 2012 R2 Upgrade

Although extended support for Windows Server 2012 R2 ended on October 10, 2023, many organizations continue running critical systems on it—often unaware of the full scope of windows server 2012 r2 upgrade risks. These outdated systems no longer receive free security updates, leaving businesses open to rising threats, regulatory fines, and inflated long-term costs.

windows server 2021 end of life discussions and delay

What Happens Now That Support Has Ended?

According to Microsoft’s official lifecycle documentation, Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 are no longer supported unless enrolled in the Extended Security Update (ESU) program. This means no more free security patches, bug fixes, or technical support. ESUs are a temporary fix—available through Azure or on-premises licensing—but they’re costly and expire in 2026.

The Growing List of Windows Server 2012 R2 Upgrade Risks

Delaying your upgrade isn’t just about missing out on new features—it’s about actively increasing your business risk. Some of the most pressing concerns include:

  • Cybersecurity exposure: With over 1,000 known vulnerabilities affecting core services like RDP, SMB, and IIS, unpatched systems are a prime target for ransomware and remote-code attacks.
  • Compliance violations: Many regulatory standards require supported, up-to-date software. Running end-of-life servers can trigger audit findings, fines, or insurance denial.
  • Loss of vendor support: Software vendors may drop support for applications running on unsupported operating systems, limiting access to updates and troubleshooting.
  • Unpredictable costs: ESUs can cost up to 75% of your original license annually. Over time, they may exceed the cost of a proper upgrade—without providing any future benefit.

Why Businesses Postpone — and Why It’s Risky

Some IT leaders delay upgrades due to perceived complexity, legacy app dependencies, or budget constraints. But the real cost comes from a false sense of security. Just because a system is still running doesn’t mean it’s safe—or recoverable if it fails.

Downtime caused by outdated infrastructure is difficult to recover from quickly. As other systems evolve, older servers introduce incompatibility with newer platforms, APIs, and cloud services. This not only adds friction—it creates operational drag.

Four Steps to Take Now

1. Conduct an Infrastructure Audit

Take inventory of all physical and virtual machines running Windows Server 2012 or 2012 R2. Categorize them by business function, criticality, and replacement options. Don’t forget backup servers or test environments that may have been overlooked.

2. Choose an Upgrade Path

Organizations typically upgrade to Windows Server 2019 or 2022—or move workloads to Azure, which includes free ESU until October 2026. Microsoft’s cloud model often makes the migration cost-neutral when considering avoided ESU fees.

3. Build a Phased Rollout Plan

Start with lower-priority systems to test compatibility and performance. Then address high-availability environments and mission-critical workloads. Don’t skip dry runs or backup validation before major migrations.

4. Reassess Risk and Compliance Profiles

Work with legal and compliance stakeholders to evaluate the audit implications of continuing to run unsupported infrastructure. For some industries, even a single unpatched server can result in liability exposure.

What You Gain by Upgrading

Beyond resolving windows server 2012 r2 upgrade risks, migrating to modern platforms enables better performance, stronger security baselines, and deeper cloud integration. Features like secured-core server, improved virtualization, and hybrid support offer long-term operational advantages.

Need Help Navigating the Upgrade?

Cost+ can help you create a customized transition plan aligned with your security, compliance, and budget goals. Our Support+ team and Compliance+ experts work together to modernize your infrastructure with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Bottom Line

The longer you postpone, the greater your windows server 2012 r2 upgrade risks. Unpatched vulnerabilities, mounting costs, and operational gaps only compound over time. Treating upgrades as a strategic necessity—not a technical nuisance—is the key to protecting business continuity and preparing for what’s next.

By Thomas McDonald
Vice President

2025-06-21T21:35:09-05:00August 17, 2025|

Why It Might Be Time to Replace Your Firewall

Firewalls have long been a network security cornerstone—but aging devices may now pose hidden risks. Effective firewall replacement planning is essential for business leaders who depend on security, performance, and compliance. Whether your firewall is struggling with modern threats, lacking visibility, or incompatible with cloud workloads, it may be time to evaluate your next move.

Leaders talking about replacing aging firewalls

How Firewalls Got Behind

Many businesses still run appliances that are 5–7 years old with outdated signatures and limited TLS/SSL visibility. These firewalls often can’t decrypt modern encrypted traffic, inspect emerging malware, or integrate with cloud-based tools—leaving blind spots in your network defense.

Key Signs You Need a Replacement

  • Performance degradation: Users experience slow access, failed remote connections, or increased latency during peak workloads.
  • Feature limitations: Look for missing support for TLS 1.3, advanced intrusion prevention (IPS), or web application controls.
  • Outdated firmware: Vendors no longer support software patches or security updates on older models.
  • Cloud and remote work demands: Traditional firewalls may not support SD-WAN, SASE, or secure VPNs with zero trust policies.
  • Compliance gaps: Industries requiring PCI, HIPAA, or SOC2 may now require stronger inspection and reporting capabilities.

Risks of Postponing Replacement

  • Increased breach risk: Unpatched IoT and encrypted traffic can allow malware to bypass defenses.
  • Productivity issues: Latency and performance delays frustrate users and impact business operations.
  • Regulatory exposure: Compliance violations due to lack of appropriate logging and control increase audit risk.
  • Rising support costs: Investing in extended support contracts may exceed the cost of new hardware over time.

How to Approach Firewall Replacement Planning

1. Conduct a Security and Performance Audit

Review current firewall loads, firmware versions, available features, and threat logs. Identify blind spots—including encrypted traffic and cloud-access traffic—that the appliance cannot inspect.

2. Define Requirements Based on Business Needs

Create a checklist of what you need: high-speed SSL/TLS 1.3 support, intrusion prevention, advanced threat intelligence feeds, secure remote access, centralized management, and cloud integration (SD-WAN/SASE).

3. Compare Modern Options

Look at current firewall solutions like Palo Alto Next-Gen, Fortinet FortiGate, or Cisco Secure Firewall. Evaluate virtual appliances and cloud-based platforms for hybrid or remote environments.

4. Plan a Phased Rollout

Replace firewalls in stages—starting with the most vulnerable or critical segments. Perform parallel testing to confirm configurations and policies are consistent with existing setups.

5. Measure ROI and Performance Gains

Track metrics like throughput, threat events blocked, uptime, and user satisfaction before and after replacement. Show dramatic improvements in efficiency or risk reduction to stakeholders.

Outbound Resource

Gartner’s latest report on next-gen firewall market presence outlines why appliances without TLS 1.3 and central management are being deprecated. Read more at:
Gartner: Magic Quadrant for Network Firewalls

Where Cost+ Can Help

Cost+ provides strategic guidance through our Security+ service, assisting with audit, vendor selection, phased deployment, and configuration management—ensuring your new firewall delivers enhanced security without disruption.

Bottom Line

Aging firewalls can leave your organization exposed and hamper performance. With **firewall replacement planning**, businesses can upgrade with purpose—ensuring better visibility, stronger security, cloud compatibility, and compliance readiness. Now is the time to assess whether your perimeter defense is up to today’s standards.

By Thomas McDonald
Vice President

2025-06-21T21:32:13-05:00August 14, 2025|

Saint Augustine, Florida Computer Support for Business

Introduction

Like the enduring walls of the Castillo de San Marcos, your business technology requires a robust foundation to thrive in Saint Augustine’s dynamic economy. Reliable Saint Augustine, Florida computer support is critical for small-to-medium-sized businesses navigating the challenges of this historic city. Whether you’re operating a retail shop on St. George Street or a professional office along US-1, expert IT services ensure your systems remain secure and operational, supporting your growth without interruptions.

Tech Challenges for Saint Augustine Businesses

Saint Augustine’s vibrant tourism industry creates unique IT demands for local businesses. During peak seasons, such as the Nights of Lights event, network congestion can disrupt point-of-sale systems for retailers on King Street, leading to lost revenue. Florida’s hurricane-prone climate further complicates operations, with power outages threatening data integrity for firms near the Bridge of Lions.

Cybersecurity risks are a growing concern for businesses in this coastal community. Small retailers and hospitality venues in the Historic District are frequent targets of phishing attacks, which can compromise customer data and damage reputations. For example, a restaurant near Flagler College might face costly downtime if its booking system is breached during a busy weekend.

These challenges underscore the need for proactive computer support in Saint Augustine. Without reliable IT solutions, businesses risk operational setbacks that could hinder their success in this competitive market.

How Cost+ Services Solve Local IT Problems

At Cost+, we provide tailored IT solutions designed to address Saint Augustine’s unique challenges. Our Support+ service delivers comprehensive IT management, including 24/7 monitoring and rapid on-site support. This ensures businesses near the St. Augustine Lighthouse maintain seamless operations, even during high-traffic tourist seasons.

Cyber threats require robust defenses, especially for tourism-driven businesses along A1A. Our Security+ service offers advanced cybersecurity, including firewall management, threat detection, and employee training to prevent breaches. This protects sensitive data for retailers and offices, maintaining customer trust and compliance.

Hurricanes pose a significant risk to data continuity in Saint Augustine. Our Recovery+ service provides automated backups and disaster recovery plans, enabling businesses near Lincolnville to quickly restore operations after storms. This minimizes downtime and ensures continuity, even in the face of unpredictable weather.

Local Expertise Meets Technical Authority

Our team combines deep expertise in cybersecurity, computer repair, and IT management with a strong understanding of Saint Augustine’s business landscape. We’ve helped businesses along US-1 upgrade their networks to handle seasonal surges, ensuring uninterrupted service during events like those at Flagler College. By adhering to industry best practices, such as regular software patching, we prevent vulnerabilities that could lead to costly disruptions.

We stay connected to the community through resources like the City of St. Augustine government website, which helps us anticipate local needs, such as infrastructure updates during tourist seasons. This commitment builds trust and ensures our solutions are relevant to the area’s unique challenges. Our experience includes securing payment systems for restaurants on St. George Street, protecting them from cyber threats.

Here are key IT challenges we address for Saint Augustine businesses:

  • Hurricane Preparedness: Robust backup systems to safeguard data against power surges and flooding.
  • Tourist Season Downtime: Network optimization for high-traffic periods along King Street and A1A.
  • Cyber Threats in Retail: Encryption and monitoring to protect customer data in busy districts.
  • Operational Continuity: Rapid response to system failures for offices near the Bridge of Lions.

Why Cost+ Is the Right Choice for Your Business

As a trusted provider of computer support in Saint Augustine, Cost+ blends local insight with technical expertise. Our solutions are as reliable as the St. Augustine Lighthouse, guiding your business through technological challenges. We prioritize factual, expert-driven advice, such as implementing multi-factor authentication, which prevents 99% of account compromises, ensuring your operations remain secure.

By referencing local landmarks and roads, we tailor our services to feel like an extension of your Saint Augustine business. Our goal is to empower you to focus on growth while we handle your IT needs with precision and care.

Conclusion

Effective Saint Augustine Florida computer support is vital for businesses facing cyber risks, seasonal surges, and weather-related disruptions. With Support+, Security+, and Recovery+, Cost+ provides solutions that keep your business running smoothly. Don’t let IT challenges slow you down in America’s oldest city—schedule your free consultation today here.

2025-08-14T14:11:48-05:00August 14, 2025|

Citrix NetScaler CVE-2025-6543 Exploits Active: How to Safeguard Your Network Gateways

Citrix NetScaler CVE-2025-6543, a critical vulnerability in NetScaler ADC and Gateway products, is under active exploitation, threatening businesses with network disruptions and potential data breaches. This memory overflow flaw allows attackers to crash systems or gain unauthorized control, impacting organizations that rely on these solutions for secure remote access and application delivery. This article explains the threat, its current status, and practical steps business leaders can take to protect their networks and maintain operational continuity.

What Is CVE-2025-6543 and Why It Matters

Citrix NetScaler ADC and Gateway are widely used to manage secure access to applications and balance network traffic. The CVE-2025-6543 vulnerability, disclosed on June 25, 2025, by Citrix, is a memory overflow issue that can lead to denial-of-service (DoS) attacks or unintended system control. With a CVSS score of 9.2, this flaw is classified as critical due to its potential for remote exploitation without authentication, as noted in the Citrix Security Bulletin.

For businesses, this vulnerability poses serious risks. A successful attack could disrupt remote work environments, halt critical applications, or allow attackers to install malicious software, compromising sensitive data. Organizations in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, which heavily rely on NetScaler, face heightened exposure.

Current Status: Active Exploitation and Zero-Day Concerns

The Dutch National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC-NL) confirmed on August 12, 2025, that CVE-2025-6543 was exploited as a zero-day since early May 2025, nearly two months before Citrix’s disclosure, as reported by The Hacker News. Attackers targeted critical organizations in the Netherlands, deploying web shells to maintain remote access. These sophisticated actors erased traces of their activity, complicating detection and recovery efforts.

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) added CVE-2025-6543 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog on June 30, 2025, signaling active exploitation globally. Over 4,100 unpatched NetScaler devices remain vulnerable, according to Shadowserver data cited by BleepingComputer, increasing the urgency for businesses to act.

How the Vulnerability Works

CVE-2025-6543 affects NetScaler ADC and Gateway when configured as a Gateway (e.g., VPN virtual server, ICA Proxy, CVPN, RDP Proxy) or AAA virtual server. The memory overflow occurs when attackers send specially crafted network traffic, overwhelming the system’s memory buffers. This can crash the device, causing a DoS condition, or allow attackers to manipulate the system’s control flow, potentially executing malicious code.

In real-world attacks, adversaries have planted web shells—malicious scripts that grant remote access—on compromised devices. These shells enable attackers to maintain control even after patches are applied, making immediate action critical. The NCSC-NL noted that attackers often cover their tracks, making it hard to detect breaches without thorough investigation.

Business Impact of CVE-2025-6543 Exploits

A successful exploit could disrupt business operations, especially for organizations dependent on NetScaler for remote access or application delivery. For example, a DoS attack could disable employee access to critical systems, halting productivity. More concerning, unauthorized access could lead to data theft, ransomware deployment, or supply chain attacks, as seen in past Citrix vulnerabilities like CitrixBleed in 2023. Regulatory fines and reputational damage further amplify the stakes, particularly for industries handling sensitive data.

The Dutch Public Prosecution Service reported a breach on July 18, 2025, linked to this vulnerability, which disrupted operations for nearly a week, per BetterWorld Technology. Such incidents highlight the real-world consequences for unprepared organizations.

Practical Steps to Mitigate CVE-2025-6543

Business leaders must act swiftly to protect their networks. Here are actionable steps to mitigate the risks of Citrix NetScaler CVE-2025-6543:

1. Apply Patches Immediately

Upgrade to the patched versions released by Citrix: NetScaler ADC and Gateway 14.1-47.46 or later, 13.1-59.19 or later, and 13.1-FIPS/NDcPP 13.1-37.236 or later. End-of-life versions (12.1 and 13.0) are unsupported, so upgrade to a supported version. Check the Citrix Security Bulletin for detailed instructions. Apply patches within 24–48 hours to minimize exposure.

2. Terminate Active Sessions

Patching alone doesn’t remove existing compromises, such as web shells. Run the following commands to terminate active sessions, as recommended by NCSC-NL:

  • kill icaconnection -all
  • kill pcoipConnection -all
  • kill aaa session -all
  • kill rdp connection -all
  • clear lb persistentSessions

Contact Citrix Support at Citrix Support for assistance with FIPS/NDcPP builds.

3. Scan for Indicators of Compromise

Use the NCSC-NL’s GitHub script to detect malicious web shells or unusual files (e.g., unexpected .php files or duplicate filenames). Monitor for newly created accounts with elevated privileges. If suspicious activity is found, contact your national cyber incident response team, such as CISA at CISA’s incident reporting page.

4. Enhance Network Monitoring

Deploy tools to detect unauthorized access or abnormal traffic. Segment your network to limit the spread of an attack. Regularly audit configurations to ensure no missteps expose your systems. CISA’s Shields Up initiative provides free tools and guidance for improving network security.

5. Train Staff on Cyber Hygiene

Educate employees to avoid phishing attempts, which attackers may use to gain initial access before exploiting CVE-2025-6543. Use resources from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) at NIST’s cybersecurity training page to build awareness.

Next Steps for Business Leaders

Convene your IT and leadership teams to assess your NetScaler deployment. Verify that all systems are patched and sessions are terminated. Allocate resources for ongoing monitoring and staff training to prevent future vulnerabilities. If your organization lacks in-house expertise, consider partnering with a managed security provider to ensure robust defenses.

Stay informed by monitoring updates from Citrix, CISA, and NCSC-NL. The active exploitation of CVE-2025-6543 underscores the need for vigilance. By acting now, you can safeguard your network gateways and protect your business from costly disruptions.

2025-08-14T13:48:23-05:00August 14, 2025|
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