Author: Sherry Howe

IT Resilience and Disaster Recovery
Backup and disaster recovery services, Disaster Recovery, IT Consulting, Security

Disaster Recovery Corpus Christi: What Businesses Should Be Doing Now

Written by Sherry Howe Published

As hurricane season approaches, South Texas businesses face real risks—and in 2025, the outlook is even more urgent than usual.

⚠️ Update – May 12, 2025:

Local businesses are facing a 70% chance of storm impact this hurricane season. If your systems went down today, would your data be secure? Would your team know what to do? In 2025, an early and active season means disaster recovery preparation can’t wait.

Forecasts are now signaling that the first storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season could form before June 1, weeks ahead of schedule.¹ A broad area of low pressure is expected to develop near Central America and the Caribbean, driven by a weather pattern known as the Central American Gyre—often a trigger for early tropical storms.

This early activity, combined with CSU and Weather Channel projections of 17–19 named storms, makes it clear: South Texas businesses should not wait until June to prepare.

Now is the time to:

  • Review your disaster recovery plan

  • Secure off-site backups

  • Set up remote access for critical team members

  • Confirm your IT provider has a continuity plan in place

Need help? Schedule a free consultation today → https://l1n.com/contact-us

¹ Source: NY Post, May 8, 2025 – “First Storm Could Form Before Hurricane Season Officially Begins”

According to a recent forecast from Colorado State University, the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to bring 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes, nearly doubling the historical average.¹ For businesses along the Coastal Bend, including Corpus Christi, this translates to a 70% chance of being impacted by a named storm.

If your systems went down today… how fast could you bounce back?

🌪️ The Risk Is Rising—But So Is the Opportunity to Prepare

At Layer One Networks, we’ve launched Storm-Ready IT Support—a proactive service package designed to help businesses weather the storm. It includes:

  • ✔️ Disaster recovery planning

  • ✔️ Secure cloud backups

  • ✔️ Remote access setup for critical staff

  • ✔️ Power and internet redundancy options

  • ✔️ Compliance and risk consultation (HIPAA, PCI, and more)

And right now, we’re offering free IT consultations for South Texas businesses looking to prepare.

✅ Quick Hurricane IT Readiness Checklist

Here are 5 things your business should do today to minimize downtime during hurricane season:

  1. Back up essential files to secure cloud storage

  2. Confirm your disaster recovery plan is up to date

  3. Verify contact info for all staff and vendors

  4. Enable secure access to business systems from remote locations

  5. Review backup power and internet solutions for continuity

If you’re not 100% confident in your setup, let us help—before the next storm rolls in.

🎯 Free Consultations + Promo Code Offer

Layer One Networks is offering free IT readiness consultations to help local businesses evaluate vulnerabilities and create a clear continuity plan.

📍 Based in Corpus Christi
📞 (361) 653-6800
🌐 l1n.com/contact-us

Mention promo code:

  • From Google: SNAPL1N

  • From Chamber: CCCHAMBER-L1N

💬 Not Sure Where to Start?

You don’t have to overhaul your IT infrastructure overnight. But you do need a plan—and a partner who knows what’s at stake for Coastal Bend businesses.

Let’s talk. We’ll assess where you stand and help you build a storm-ready IT environment, one layer at a time.

¹ Source: Colorado State University Hurricane Forecast – April 2025 via bkvenergy.com

📊 Forecasts Confirm a Higher-Than-Average 2025 Hurricane Season

Multiple respected forecasts point to a significantly more active hurricane season than usual — especially for the Gulf Coast and Texas:

🔹 Colorado State University (CSU)

“The 2025 hurricane season is expected to produce 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes.”¹
CSU predicts a 33% chance of a major hurricane making landfall along the Gulf Coast — up from a 21% historical average.
🔗 Source: CSU Tropical Meteorology Project

🔹 The Weather Company & Atmospheric G2

Forecasts 19 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes. Their model shows above-average U.S. landfall threat.
🔗 Source: The Weather Company via Weather.com

🔹 CBS News

“Activity is expected to be roughly 125% of the 1991–2020 average.” CBS confirms CSU’s forecast and highlights Gulf risk.
🔗 Source: CBS News

🔹 Houston Chronicle

Texas has a 70% chance of a named storm coming within 50 miles of the coast — 10% higher than average.
🔗 Source: Houston Chronicle

Continue reading "Disaster Recovery Corpus Christi: What Businesses Should Be Doing Now"
Is Your Business Ready for Windows 10 End of Life? | Layer One Networks
Desktop as a Service, IT Consulting, IT services, IT support services, Managed IT Services, Security, Windows 10 End of Life

Is Your Business Ready for Windows 10 End-of-Life?

Written by Sherry Howe Published

Can Your Current PCs Upgrade to Windows 11?

As Windows 10 End of Life approaches in October 2025, businesses must start planning for a major technology transition… But before you buy new computers, check if your current PCs can handle Windows 11. A quick scan today could save you thousands tomorrow.

✅ Quick Ways to Check:

  • Run Microsoft’s free PC Health Check tool to find out in minutes if your PC is ready for Windows 11.
    ➔ If you already have it installed:

    • Click the Start menu

    • Search for “PC Health Check“

    • Open the app and click “Check now”

  • If you don’t have it installed:
    ➔ Download the PC Health Check tool from Microsoft here.
    (Scroll down to “Check for compatibility” and download the app.)

  • Manually verify:

    • ✔️ 64-bit processor (1 GHz or faster, 2+ cores)

    • ✔️ TPM 2.0 security module enabled

    • ✔️ UEFI Secure Boot capability

    • ✔️ 4 GB RAM minimum (8 GB+ recommended)

    • ✔️ 64 GB storage minimum

Tip: Older devices that can’t upgrade will need full replacement before Windows 10’s end-of-life.

⚡ Quick Tip:

  • If your computer already has Windows 11 installed, it might just show you basic system health, battery, and storage info.

  • If your computer is Windows 10, it will run a full Windows 11 upgrade eligibility check.

Windows 10 End-of-Life:

Why Windows 10 End of Life Means It’s Time for a PC Refresh

Windows 10 is approaching its official end-of-life on October 14, 2025 (PCWorld), and businesses must prepare for a major PC refresh cycle. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, patches, or feature enhancements, creating significant risks for companies that delay upgrading.

At the same time, a new generation of AI-powered PCs is emerging, offering powerful benefits like faster performance, smarter battery management, and advanced security features. In this article, we’ll explore why the refresh cycle is starting now, the risks of delaying, and how to transition smoothly with the help of an IT provider like Layer One Networks. Plus, we’ll provide an actionable checklist to help you prepare.

Why Businesses Need to Start Planning Now

Windows 10 End-of-Support Aligns with Hardware Aging

Millions of PCs around the world are aging out. Many were purchased during the 2020 remote work rush and are now reaching 4–5 years of service (source). With Windows 10 support ending, the timing naturally aligns with the hardware refresh cycle.

Industry experts report that over 70% of enterprise PCs are considered aging or obsolete by modern software standards (source). Companies must act soon to avoid falling behind — both from a security and productivity standpoint.

New AI-Powered PCs Are Driving the Next Upgrade Cycle

PC makers are optimistic:
Leaders from Dell, HP, and Lenovo predict a massive PC refresh driven by Windows 10’s retirement and the introduction of AI-enhanced PCs (crn.com).

New machines come with dedicated AI processors that optimize cooling, extend battery life, and enhance video conferencing with features like smart framing and real-time translation (dell.com). Upgrading isn’t just about replacing outdated hardware — it’s about empowering your teams with smarter, faster, more capable technology.

Why Older PCs Can’t Keep Up

Hardware Compatibility with Windows 11

Windows 11 requires stricter hardware standards:

  • 64-bit processors

  • TPM 2.0 security modules

  • UEFI Secure Boot
    (pcoutlet)

Many older machines simply cannot upgrade in-place. If your PCs show the dreaded “Your PC can’t install Windows 11” message, they will need full replacement.

Hardware limitations are a major reason why the refresh cycle can’t be ignored. Businesses that delay will face mounting risks as software incompatibility and vulnerabilities grow.

⚠️Risks of Not Upgrading Before 2025

Waiting to replace aging PCs brings real dangers:

  • 🔒 Security Vulnerabilities: Without updates, Windows 10 will be an easy target for cyberattacks (anderscpa.com).

  • 📜 Compliance Violations: Many industries require supported, secure operating systems to meet regulations (anderscpa.com).

  • 🐢 Reduced Productivity: Older PCs slow down, crash more, and cause software conflicts over time (andercpa.com).

Reminder: Cybercriminals actively target unsupported systems. Don’t leave your business exposed.

How to Plan a Smooth Transition

(with Help from Your IT Provider)

Upgrading dozens or hundreds of machines is no small feat.
Partnering with an IT provider like Layer One Networks can make the process smooth and stress-free.

Here’s how they can help:

  • Conduct a Hardware and Software Audit: Identify which PCs can be upgraded and which need replacing.

  • Plan and Budget Strategically: Create a phased rollout based on your team’s needs and financial planning.

  • Procure the Right Equipment: Ensure you’re buying business-grade, AI-capable PCs that are ready for the future.

  • Minimize Downtime: Handle backups, migrations, and pre-configurations to make switchover seamless.

  • Support Training and Adoption: Educate staff on Windows 11 and new features to boost productivity from Day 1.

Early planning prevents rushed decisions, downtime, and last-minute mistakes.

Windows 10 Upgrade Preparation Checklist

Start preparing today with this simple checklist:

  • Audit your current systems: Identify Windows 10 devices and check Windows 11 compatibility.
  • Budget and timeline: Allocate resources and plan a phased rollout.
  • Choose future-ready hardware: Look for PCs with AI acceleration and extra security features.
  • Back up and migrate data safely: Protect files and ensure smooth transitions.
  • Schedule deployments smartly: Minimize disruptions with phased rollouts.
  • Provide employee training and support: Ease the transition and boost confidence.

Following these steps will make your move to Windows 11 smooth, secure, and future-proof.

Final Thoughts:

Don’t wait until it’s urgent, or supplies are short.

The end of Windows 10 isn’t just a deadline — it’s an opportunity to re-fresh, re-secure, and re-vitalize your business technology.

Partnering with a trusted IT provider like Layer One Networks can turn this transition into a major advantage — not a last-minute scramble.

Start planning your PC refresh today, and move confidently into the AI-powered future of business computing.
Layer One is here to help you audit, upgrade, and protect your systems — so you’re ready for whatever comes next.

🚦 Contact Layer One Networks today to schedule your free consultation.

Sources:

Continue reading "Is Your Business Ready for Windows 10 End-of-Life?"
3D Point Cloud Reality Capture Flythrough of Residential Roadway
IT Consulting, Managed IT Services

Unlocking the Power of 3D Point Cloud Reality Capture for Surveying and Construction

Written by Sherry Howe Published

At Layer One Networks, we’re exploring how 3D point cloud reality capture for surveying and construction can improve efficiency, accuracy, and communication. Our latest flythrough showcases how this technology transforms project planning, monitoring, and documentation. One powerful example is the use of 3D point cloud flythroughs for residential roadways—offering a highly detailed, immersive view of a project site.

Our latest video flythrough showcases how reality capture technology is transforming project planning, monitoring, and communication in the construction, surveying, and urban planning industries.

Reality capture technology, like the one used in this flythrough, is becoming essential in construction and surveying. Learn more about what reality capture is and how it’s used in the industry.

Key Benefits of 3D Point Cloud Reality Capture for Surveying and Construction

1. Enhanced Visualization & Communication

A 3D point cloud flythrough provides a realistic, immersive view of the roadway and surrounding environment. Moreover, it enhances communication by making complex project details easier to understand.

  • Non-technical stakeholders, such as homeowners and city officials, can quickly grasp project plans.
  • In addition, these flythroughs serve as valuable tools for public presentations, project proposals, and approvals.
  • You can learn more about how Leica Geosystems generates fly-throughs from point cloud data for surveying and engineering projects here.

2. Improved Project Planning & Design

3D point cloud capture allows engineers and planners to assess road conditions, drainage, and terrain with precision. As a result, they can address potential issues before they become costly problems.

  • Engineers can identify grading challenges, utility conflicts, or sightline obstructions early in the design phase.
  • Additionally, teams can optimize roadway design by simulating different layouts and making data-driven decisions early in the process.
  • Learn more about how Leica Geosystems generates fly-throughs from point cloud data for surveying and engineering projects here.

3. Efficient Progress Monitoring & Documentation

Reality capture technology helps teams monitor project progress effectively.

  • For instance, a 3D flythrough provides a historical record of the roadway’s condition at a specific time.
  • Teams can compare pre-construction and post-construction conditions, ensuring the project aligns with design specifications.
  • Furthermore, flythroughs support as-built verification, confirming that the final build matches the original design.

4. Cost & Time Savings

By using 3D point cloud reality capture, teams reduce the need for multiple site visits. Consequently, this saves both time and labor costs.

  • In addition, early detection of design issues prevents expensive rework.
  • Project teams can share data remotely, which expedites decision-making and enhances collaboration.

See Reality Capture Technology Live in Action!

If you’re excited about the potential of 3D point cloud technology and want to learn how to integrate it into your projects seamlessly, join us at our upcoming:

📅 Reality Capture Lunch & Learn
🗓️ February 25, 2025 | 🕦 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Blanco BBQ, San Antonio, TX
🍽️ Lunch provided – Seats are limited!

At this event, you’ll get:

  • Live demos of the latest Leica scanners
  • IT solutions to eliminate bottlenecks in reality capture workflows
  • Exclusive insights from Geo Week 2025

🎟️ RSVP today! https://l1n.com/event/reality-capture-done-right/,

At Layer One Networks, we’re committed to helping you make the most of your technology investments—from cutting-edge reality capture tools to the IT infrastructure that supports them.

Learn more about how Layer One Networks’ IT solutions can enhance your surveying and construction projects [here]

Continue reading "Unlocking the Power of 3D Point Cloud Reality Capture for Surveying and Construction"
Reality capture tools for surveying and engineering.
IT Consulting, IT support services, Managed IT Services, Uncategorized

Kicking Off Smart Tech Conversations for Surveyors & Engineers in San Antonio

Written by Sherry Howe Published

On January 29, 2025, we launched our first Lunch & Learn event in San Antonio under the theme:

“Reality Capture Done Right: Smart Investments and Key Technologies.”

This event, tailored for land surveyors, engineers, and contractors, focused on the intersection of hardware, data processing, and IT infrastructure—three essential pillars for efficient and secure operations in the reality capture space.

Key Takeaways from the Event

Surveying & Engineering Firms Need More IT Support Than They Realize

Many professionals in attendance shared common pain points:

  • Large data files slowing down operations
  • Slow processing speeds impacting project deadlines
  • Security risks in handling sensitive reality capture data

The discussion made it clear—having the right IT infrastructure isn’t just a bonus; it’s a necessity for modern surveyors and engineers.

The Storage Discussion Stood Out

One of the biggest highlights? How to store, access, and manage large reality capture files.

Our breakdown of on-prem vs. cloud vs. hybrid storage solutions sparked strong interest. Several attendees mentioned that their current storage setup is a major bottleneck in their workflow.

Partnerships with G4 Geomatic Resources and Spectrum Strengthen the Conversation

Having G4 Geomatic Resources showcase their surveying hardware solutions set the stage for deeper conversations about how IT can support reality capture workflows.

Spectrum was also in attendance, providing insights into networking and connectivity solutions that ensure reality capture technology operates at peak performance.

What’s Next?

📅 The next Lunch & Learn is set for February 25, 2025.
We’re refining the content to be even more interactive and focused on real-world case studies.

🤝 Follow-up meetings are in progress!
If you missed the event but want to discuss your firm’s IT needs, reach out today!

📍 Are you in the San Antonio area and work in surveying, engineering, or construction?
Let’s talk about how better IT infrastructure can streamline your reality capture workflows.

📢 Sign Up for the Next Lunch & Learn

👉 Reality Capture Done Right – Register Here

Continue reading "Kicking Off Smart Tech Conversations for Surveyors & Engineers in San Antonio"