top of page


Understanding the Scope of NIST and CMMC Compliance for Your Organization
Meeting cybersecurity standards is no longer optional for organizations working with sensitive information, especially those in government contracting or handling controlled unclassified information (CUI). Two key frameworks that often come up are the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines and the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Understanding the scope of these compliance requirements is critical for organizations to protect data a

John W. Harmon, PhD
13 hours ago3 min read


The Role of Employee Cybersecurity Education in Protecting Your Business
In today’s digital world, protecting your business from cyber threats is more important than ever. You might have the best firewalls and antivirus software, but your security is only as strong as your weakest link. Often, that weak link is human error. That’s why employee cybersecurity education is a critical part of your overall security strategy. When your team understands the risks and knows how to respond, your business becomes much harder to breach.

John W. Harmon, PhD
2 days ago3 min read


The Importance of Compliance: Why You Should Care Even If Nobody Checks
You might think compliance is just a box to tick, something that matters only if a regulator shows up at your door. Maybe you believe that since no one is watching closely, you can afford to cut corners. But ignoring compliance can cost you more than fines or penalties. It can damage your reputation, disrupt your operations, and even threaten your business’s survival. This post explains why compliance matters for your small or medium-sized business, even when it feels like no

John W. Harmon, PhD
2 days ago3 min read


A Beginner's Guide to Incorporating AI into Your Business
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword for large tech companies. Small and medium-sized business owners can now use AI tools to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer experiences. If you are wondering how to start incorporating AI in your business, this guide will walk you through practical steps to get started without overwhelming your resources. Understand What AI Can Do for Your Business before adopting AI, it helps to know what AI can re

John W. Harmon, PhD
3 days ago3 min read


The Importance of Compliance: Why You Should Care and What It Means for You
Every small and medium business owner faces countless challenges daily. One critical area that often gets overlooked is compliance. You might wonder why compliance matters so much or if it even applies to your business. The truth is, ignoring compliance can lead to serious consequences that affect your reputation, finances, and ability to operate. This post explains why compliance is essential, what it means for your business, and how you can manage it effectively.

John W. Harmon, PhD
3 days ago4 min read


Effective Cybersecurity Strategies to Combat Today’s Digital Threats
Cybersecurity threats continue to evolve rapidly, targeting businesses of all sizes with increasing sophistication. Every day, companies face risks from ransomware, phishing attacks, data breaches, and insider threats. Protecting your business requires more than just basic antivirus software—it demands a comprehensive approach that adapts to modern challenges. This post explores proven cybersecurity strategies that help businesses stay secure in an ever-changing digital lands

John W. Harmon, PhD
4 days ago3 min read


Navigating the Essentials of Small Business Cyber Insurance
Small businesses face growing risks from cyber threats. Data breaches, ransomware attacks, and online fraud can disrupt operations and cause serious financial damage. Many small business owners believe cyber insurance is only for large corporations, but that is not true. Understanding small business cyber insurance can protect your company from costly setbacks and help you recover faster after an incident. Why Small Businesses Need Cyber Insurance. Cyberattacks do not discr

John W. Harmon, PhD
5 days ago3 min read


Navigating the Complex Landscape of Data Privacy Regulations
Data privacy has become one of the most pressing concerns for businesses and individuals alike. With increasing amounts of personal information being collected, stored, and shared, understanding the rules that govern this data is essential. For small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), the challenge is even greater. They often lack the resources of larger corporations but still face the same legal responsibilities. This post will guide you through the complex world of data pr

John W. Harmon, PhD
Jan 94 min read


Effective Continuity Planning Strategies for Your Business
Running a small or medium-sized business means juggling many priorities. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, is preparing for unexpected disruptions. Whether it’s a power outage, cyberattack, or natural disaster, having a solid plan in place can make all the difference. I want to share some effective continuity planning strategies that will help you keep your business running smoothly, no matter what comes your way.

John W. Harmon, PhD
Jan 84 min read


Empowering Staff with Employee Security Training
In today’s digital world, your business’s security depends on more than just firewalls and antivirus software. It hinges on your people. When your staff understands cybersecurity risks and how to avoid them, your business becomes a much harder target for cybercriminals. That’s why employee security training is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have.Let’s explore how you can empower your team with the right knowledge and skills to protect your business.

John W. Harmon, PhD
Jan 84 min read


Effective Continuity Planning Strategies for Your Business
Running a small or medium-sized business means juggling many priorities. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, is preparing for unexpected disruptions. Whether it’s a power outage, cyberattack, or natural disaster, having a solid plan in place can save your business from costly downtime and lost customers. Today, I want to share some effective continuity planning strategies that will help you protect your business and keep things running smoothly no matter what hap

John W. Harmon, PhD
Jan 73 min read


The Transformative Role of Edge Computing in Modern IT Solutions for SMBs
In the rapidly evolving landscape of IT, edge computing has emerged as a game-changer for businesses, especially for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). This technological advancement addresses critical challenges faced by small business owners, such as data management, latency, and compliance with regulatory standards. As we dive deeper into the role of edge computing in modern IT solutions, we’ll explore its benefits, applications, and how it empowers SMBs to thrive i

John W. Harmon, PhD
Jan 66 min read


Zero Trust Security: A Practical Guide for Small Businesses in 2026
Learn how to implement Zero Trust Security to protect your small business from cyber threats. Discover a practical, phased approach that fits your budget.
Eugene Arnold
Jan 64 min read


Small Business Cyber Insurance: Your Essential Shield Against Digital Threats
In today’s digital world, running a small business means you’re more connected than ever. But with that connection comes risk. Cyberattacks are no longer just a problem for big corporations. Small businesses in Marion and Abingdon, VA, face these threats daily. That’s why understanding small business cyber insurance is crucial. It’s not just a safety net; it’s a shield that protects your business from costly cyber incidents. Why Small Business Cyber Insurance Matters More Th

John W. Harmon, PhD
Jan 53 min read


Understanding the Tactics Cyber Criminals Use to Hack Your Accounts
Cyber criminals constantly develop new ways to break into online accounts. For small business owners, the risk is especially high because a single breach can lead to financial loss, damaged reputation, and operational disruption. Knowing how hackers try to access your accounts helps you build stronger defenses and protect your business. Warning message on laptop screen indicating a hacking attempt How Cyber Criminals Target Accounts Cyber criminals use a variety of methods to

John W. Harmon, PhD
Jan 33 min read


The Future of Cybersecurity: Best Practices for 2025
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical priority for all businesses—especially for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). As our reliance on technology continues to grow, so too does the sophistication of cyber threats. Small business owners must stay ahead of the curve to protect their sensitive data, maintain compliance with evolving regulations, and ultimately safeguard their companies against potential breaches. This article e

John W. Harmon, PhD
Jan 16 min read


The Rise of Quantum Computing: A Game Changer for Small Businesses
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, one of the most groundbreaking advancements is undoubtedly quantum computing. As this revolutionary technology gains momentum, small businesses and their owners are beginning to realize its potential implications. Whether you're a small business owner or an enthusiast of IT topics, understanding quantum computing and its effects on compliance and operational efficiencies is critical. In this blog post, we will delve into the rise o

John W. Harmon, PhD
Dec 29, 20256 min read


NIST Compliance Essentials: Ensuring NIST 800-171 Compliance for SMBs
When it comes to protecting sensitive information, small and medium-sized businesses often feel overwhelmed. You might wonder how to keep your data safe without breaking the bank or hiring a full IT team. That’s where understanding NIST 800-171 compliance comes in. This set of guidelines helps businesses like yours secure Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and meet federal requirements if you work with government contracts or handle sensitive data. In this post, I’ll

John W. Harmon, PhD
Dec 29, 20254 min read


Building Cyber Resilience Through Awareness: Cyber Resilience Strategies for Your Business
In today’s digital world, cyber threats are not just a possibility - they are a reality. As a small business owner, you might feel overwhelmed by the complexity of cybersecurity. But here’s the good news: building cyber resilience is within your reach. It starts with awareness and practical strategies that protect your business from cyberattacks and help you bounce back quickly if something goes wrong.

John W. Harmon, PhD
Dec 28, 20254 min read


Guarding Your Digital Fortress: Data Security Essentials for Small Business Owners
In the digital age, data security has become paramount for small business owners (SMBs) striving to protect their business and customer information. With the rise of cyber threats and stringent compliance regulations, it is crucial for SMBs to stay informed about data security essentials. This blog post outlines fundamental practices that every small business should implement to bolster their defenses against data breaches and cyber attacks.

John W. Harmon, PhD
Dec 28, 20257 min read
bottom of page
