Madgig Logo

5 Wi-Fi issues and how to fix them

It’s difficult for businesses these days to operate without a good Wi-Fi connection. Having a fast, secure, and reliable connection enables quick response times and customer satisfaction. But what if your Wi-Fi refuses to work? Let’s take a look at five common Wi-Fi issues and how you can easily resolve them.

Range constraints

Wi-Fi works via radio waves that are typically broadcast from a device known as a router. To avoid a weak signal in your office, make sure that your router is placed in a centralized location and not hidden in the farthest corner of your facility. The Wi-Fi antennas must also be either in a fully horizontal or vertical position for optimal signal distribution.

Note that Wi-Fi range constraints can also be due to interference, so if your office is situated in a highly populated area, try changing your router’s channel.

Slow internet speed

Despite having high-speed or fiber optic internet, slow load times can still occur from time to time. To eliminate this, try the following:

  • Place your router in the same room as your computers.
  • Add more routers to better accommodate a high number of connected devices.
  • Limit the use of bandwidth-intensive applications and websites such as Skype, Dropbox, YouTube, and Facebook.
  • Disable your router’s power-saving mode.
  • Create a new router channel to avoid network bottlenecks.

Connection issues

It can be frustrating when the Wi-Fi network shows up on your device but you just can’t seem to connect to it. To solve this issue, try these fixes:

  • Determine whether your Wi-Fi connection or internet service is the problem. To do this, plug in an Ethernet cable directly to your laptop. If you get a connection, then the issue is on your end.
  • Reset your router. Use a paperclip or a pen to hold down the reset button for about 30 seconds.
  • Reboot your device.
  • Call your internet service provider if none of these fixes work.

Unstable connection

Random Wi-Fi connection drops can happen occasionally. If this is a constant nuisance in your office, try moving your router to a different spot or room. Avoid having multiple routers in the same location as well, as this can confuse your device.

Network not found

Your Wi-Fi network may not appear on your devices if your router is glitching. To fix this issue, try disconnecting the router from the power source and waiting at least 30 seconds before reconnecting it. You may also need to check how old your router is. If it’s more than three years old, then that may be what’s causing the connectivity problems. Replacing your router with a newer model should solve the issue.

Implementing these tips will help you avoid serious downtime caused by Wi-Fi issues. However, if you prefer to have a dedicated technology provider handle these for you, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.

Tips for keeping company mobile devices secure

Cybersecurity has long been paramount for businesses that utilize digital solutions, but it’s even more essential for today’s distributed workforces. As cloud and mobile technologies continue to prove their value, it’s important that you take proactive steps to manage and protect company mobile devices. Here’s what you should do.

Ensure mobile OS is up to date

The updates to Apple and Android operating systems (OS) improve overall user experience, but their most important function is to fix security vulnerabilities. Reduce your business’s exposure to threats by installing updates for all devices as soon as they become available. Don’t delay updates, as doing so gives cybercriminals ample time to exploit vulnerabilities on devices that run on an outdated OS.

Install business applications only

Downloading apps seems harmless. However, lenient policies on what should and shouldn’t be downloaded on company mobile devices could lead to staff installing non-business-related apps, many of which are notorious for malicious advertising codes and other threats. It’s imperative that employees download and install only business applications necessary for their work on their company-issued mobile devices.

Be careful when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks

Emergencies may compel your staff to use password-free Wi-Fi networks in hotels, airports, cafes, and other public places. Connecting to an open network can expose your confidential information and sensitive company data to cybercriminals connected to the same network.

You can avoid this by providing a practical internet data plan, preferably one that includes roaming services, for remote workers. And if connecting to a public Wi-Fi network is really necessary, using a reputable virtual private network (VPN) can help protect your sensitive data. A VPN creates a direct, secure connection for data from your end to your intended point on the internet.

Enable phone tracking tools

Losing a company-issued mobile device is unfortunate. Devices can be misplaced or stolen, but enabling Find My iPhone for iOS devices, GPS Phone Tracker for Android, or any device-tracking app helps users locate lost phones. Some also have the option to delete data on stolen devices. Downloading and setting up such an app takes only a few minutes and it will give you peace of mind knowing that even if your phone is lost or stolen, its contents will not be compromised.

Screen SMS carefully

SMS phishing can be used to trick you into clicking malicious links. Cybercriminals send messages purporting to be from someone you know, asking you to urgently disclose confidential information. Should you encounter such an SMS, you can either delete it or alert your IT department. You can also block unknown senders without even opening their messages.

Mobile devices are becoming more critical to operations. And with more devices open to attacks, businesses must bolster their cybersecurity efforts. Malicious actors will exploit every possible vulnerability and that includes those in unsecured smartphones and tablets. Get in touch with us if you need comprehensive security solutions for your business.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

Why you should update your firmware

These days, cyberattacks are inevitable for any and all businesses, regardless of size or sector. Businesses that use computers with outdated firmware are particularly vulnerable to an attack and all the security risks associated with it.

What is firmware?

Firmware is a basic type of software that is embedded into every hardware component in computers, computer peripherals (e.g., keyboards, mice), printers, mobile devices, and Internet of Things devices. It’s also found in some household appliances and gadgets such as TV remote controls, as well as everyday objects like traffic lights.

Essentially, firmware controls the device it’s installed on, sending instructions for how the device communicates with its different hardware components. It is only compatible with the make and model of the particular hardware it is installed on, and it cannot be uninstalled or deleted.

Why is updating firmware important?

According to Microsoft’s 2021 Security Signals report, firmware attacks are on the rise. These attacks involve injecting malware into computer systems to tamper with the firmware on motherboards or hardware drivers. From there, cybercriminals can do any number of things to the infected computers, including remotely controlling the devices, disabling the antivirus software, exfiltrating data, and blocking access to the devices and the data they contain.

Experts recommend installing firmware updates as soon as these become available to effectively protect against firmware attacks and other threats to your business’s cybersecurity. Users will also enjoy increased speed and enhanced performance with a firmware update.

How to install firmware updates

The method for updating firmware differs from device to device. For instance, you can simply download and install firmware updates on both iOS and Android devices. However, for devices such as routers, you will have to apply firmware updates from the manufacturer’s website or administrative console.

Keep in mind, however, that updating firmware can be tedious and time-consuming. In some cases, a firmware update can reset your devices and restore factory settings, causing you to lose custom configurations on your computers, routers, and the like. And if you fail to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter, you risk damaging your systems.

It’s therefore best to leave the installation of firmware updates to the experts. For more information about firmware security and how to safely install firmware updates, or for any questions related to business IT, give our specialists a call today.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

Reduce your PC power consumption

Nowadays, there’s a computer in almost every home and office. A typical desktop that’s switched on 24/7 for a whole year releases carbon dioxide equivalent to what an average car releases in an 820-mile drive. To save energy, you don’t need to make drastic changes. You can start by making small adjustments that will ultimately lead to significant savings.

1. Unplug your computer when not in use

When you’re not using your computer, it’s best to shut it down and unplug it. This is because a plugged-in PC — even when switched off — still consumes standby power.

2. Disconnect external devices

When they’re connected to your PC, devices such as printers, headphones, and webcams consume power even when they’re not in use. This is why you should disconnect or remove external devices from your PC once you’re done using them.

3. Alternatively, use a smart strip, especially for computers you cannot turn off

A smart strip is a series of several electrical outlets in one strip, with circuits to monitor and maximize your gadgets’ power consumption. It can electronically unplug any device so that they stop drawing current, which saves energy. By connecting your PC and peripherals (e.g., printers, scanners) to the smart strip, you won’t need to unplug your equipment when you’re not using them.

4. Adjust your computer’s energy settings

Adjusting your PC’s power settings will help you consume less energy. For example, you can opt to put your hard drive and monitor into sleep mode when they’re left idle for a few minutes. Lowering the brightness of your screen also saves electricity.

5. Use a charger only when your laptop is charging

When we charge our laptops, we tend to forget about them, leaving them plugged in for hours. Unfortunately, overcharging degrades the battery over time. Leaving the charger plugged in — even if it’s not connected to your computer — also consumes standby power.

To save energy, make sure to unplug your laptop charger once you’re done charging. Alternatively, you can use a wall outlet with a timer or plug your charger into a smart strip.

6. Choose an Energy Star-compliant PC

Energy Star is the US Environmental Protection Agency’s symbol for energy efficiency. Every product that earns the Energy Star symbol is guaranteed to deliver both quality performance and energy savings. The more stars a product has, the more energy-efficient it is. Studies show that a single Energy Star-compliant computer and monitor can save between $7 and $52 per year in electricity bills.

These tips should help you lower your electricity costs and make smart hardware choices. If you need assistance in choosing the best hardware for your specific needs, give us a call. We’ll be glad to help.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

Productivity-boosting tips for PC users

Business gurus emphasize the importance of time management and taking breaks to improve one’s productivity and avoid burnout. But aside from motivating yourself to work efficiently, you can also use tools that help increase your daily output. If you work in front of a computer all day, these productivity-boosting tips will be incredibly useful.

Monitor productivity levels

Start by tracking how much work you complete on an average day. There are many useful apps for this. For example, Google Chrome has an extension called RescueTime, which records your most frequently visited sites and tracks how much time you spend away from your computer. This app will provide you with a productivity rating and a detailed log of how you spend your time at work.

If you discover you’re wasting a huge portion of your day on social networking and other online productivity killers, you’re more likely to make conscious adjustments to how you manage your time.

Block sites that waste your time

Visiting non-work-related websites hinders productivity. A quick five-minute break to check your Facebook feed may not seem like much, but a few of those per day add up to a lot of time.

If you and your employees have trouble staying away from social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, then it’s a good idea to block access to them using URL filters.

Alternatively, you can use browser extensions like StayFocusd or Strict Workflow, which allow you to set a limit on how long and how often users can visit non-work-related sites.

Get rid of clutter

You can also decrease distractions and increase your output by deleting old files, uninstalling unused programs, and organizing documents into appropriately labeled folders. Doing so makes finding files easier and improves your computer’s performance as well.

As for the clutter in your email inbox, Gmail and Outlook both have features that filter out unimportant messages. Simply enable Priority Inbox on Gmail or Clutter on Outlook to get a clean, spam-free inbox.

Stay on track with to-do lists

To-do lists help you break down large projects into manageable, bite-sized tasks. Plus, crossing things off the list is surprisingly satisfying since it gives you a sense of accomplishment and total visibility over your progress.

You can choose from a wide variety of digital to-do lists like Google Tasks or Trello, which allow you to set deadlines for small tasks and write clear instructions for each. What’s more, they’re incredibly easy to use and are great for keeping track of your workflow.

Use keyboard shortcuts

Mastering keyboard shortcuts makes it easier and faster to perform functions you’d typically do with a mouse. There are more than a hundred useful shortcuts, but here are the most common shortcuts you should keep in mind:

  • Ctrl + C, Ctrl + V, Ctrl + X – copy, paste, and cut selected items
  • Ctrl + Z – undo an action
  • Alt + Tab – switch between open apps
  • Alt + F4 – close the active app

For more of these, take a look at this updated list of advanced shortcuts for Windows.

In this digital age of short attention spans, focus is key to achieving business success. Drop us a line today if you’d like to know more about how tech can help improve focus and overall productivity for you and your business staff.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

How to keep your business safe from hackers

At a time when cyberattacks are more sophisticated than ever, data security and privacy should be every small-business owner’s top priority. The good news is you don’t have to be a tech wizard to make it happen. Here are some practical ways to shield your company from hackers.

Cover your webcam

If Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, former FBI Director James Comey, and National Security Agency whistleblower Edward Snowden all believe their webcams could be compromised, there’s no reason you should feel safe. This is because cybercriminals can use your webcam to spy on you.

They can examine your surroundings, determine your location, and spy on the people you’re with. The attackers can record intimate and vulnerable moments and use these to blackmail you.

Fortunately, guarding yourself against this danger is easy. Covering your webcam should do the trick. You can use regular tape or you can purchase a cheap webcam cover online. Check as well if your webcam has a dedicated kill switch, as this disables the hardware, making it impossible for cybercriminals to spy on you.

Use a privacy shield

Also known as a privacy guard, screen, and filter, a privacy shield is a thin transparent sheet you apply on your computer, laptop, or smartphone screen to limit viewing angles. Once installed, anyone trying to look at your screen from anywhere — except straight on — will see nothing.

Privacy filters are commonly used to protect work devices that display or contain critical files with sensitive data or confidential information. However, work and personal devices are both vulnerable to “shoulder surfing,” the act of peeking at someone else’s screen, with or without ill intent. This is why it’s ideal to use protectors on all the devices you and your staff use.

Get a physical/biometric authentication key

Requiring more than one set of credentials to access sensitive resources has become the standard practice for established websites and applications. With multifactor authentication (MFA) in place, you can gain access to your account only after you’ve entered an authentication code.

Before, two-factor authentication relied mostly on text messages sent to mobile phones. But IT experts now discourage the use of SMS authentication because of the following reasons:

  • Text messages aren’t encrypted (i.e., these can be seen in plain text), and can be intercepted in man-in-the-middle attacks.
  • Text message notifications may display one-time pins (OTPs) that can be seen by unintended viewers.
  • Cybercriminals may redirect text messages to their own devices.
  • OTPs can be stolen via SIM swapping.
  • Users can be tricked into entering OTPs in a fraudulent login page.

If you’re looking for authentication services that can’t be easily neutralized, try a hardware key like a USB or Bluetooth key that you can always carry around. You can also use biometrics such as a fingerprint, retina, or facial scan. It’s difficult to copy a person’s fingerprint or facial features, making it a secure authentication method.

If you need help setting up two-factor authentication or IT security services, contact our experts. We’ll help you get peace of mind from knowing that your business IT is in good hands.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

Make your hardware last longer with these tips

Hardware management may seem daunting to many, due to the constant changes and developments in the world of tech. But computer upkeep is simpler than it seems. Make hardware management a breeze by following these pointers.

✓ Clean your computer components

Wipe down monitors with a clean, static-free, non-abrasive fabric such as computer component-specific microfiber cloth. You can use the same type of cloth to wipe down mice and other peripherals, but for those tight nooks and crannies such as your keyboard surfaces, a can of compressed air will do the job.

Regular wipedowns are good because dust buildup can block computer air vents and affect their performance. Also ensure that your workstations are getting adequate ventilation and don’t get direct exposure to sunlight and other heat sources.

✓ Manage your cables

If you’re not giving your computers’ cables the attention they deserve, now’s a good time to do so. Aside from wiping the thick coat of dust off of computer cables, consider using cable management solutions that unclutter and untangle messy wires. Cable organizers don’t just organize and secure your cables, they also help ensure your PCs run quieter and are less prone to overheating as a result of blocked air vents.

Planning to relocate or upgrade in the near future? Organizing your computers’ cables now will make future relocation and upgrading processes much easier.

✓ Review and update your inventory

Keeping stock of all your hardware helps you manage hardware life cycles and purchases, identify items that are near their end of life, and ensure you avoid duplicate purchases of items already in stock.

Your inventory list should include all owned and leased devices: PCs and laptops, printers and scanners, tablets and smartphones, and modems and other network hardware. Update all your assets’ serial numbers and keep track of their respective users and location.

✓ Maintain your printers

Clean the interiors and exteriors of your printers, including paper trays, which are sure to have accumulated dirt from years of use. You should also repair and/or replace parts and accessories such as print heads and cartridges that are no longer in good condition. Should you decide to do a complete printer maintenance, check for the latest software updates for your printers and install them immediately.

✓ Implement a hardware policy

This is also a good time to create a technology guideline that your employees can follow to ensure they work efficiently. These guidelines reduce the need to spend on unnecessary repairs, keeping the succeeding year’s checklist shorter. With clear instructions on the proper use, replacement, and storage of your hardware and devices, you’ll be better able to manage your hardware for years to come.

With a more organized IT hardware inventory, you have one less thing to worry about. Want to get more in-depth hardware management advice? Call our experts today.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

3 Questions to ask before replacing your servers

Your company’s servers will eventually need to be replaced. To conserve and maximize your resources, you need to anticipate the best time to do this, as well as consider alternatives that offer the same — if not better — outcomes for your business.

When do my servers need to be replaced?

This is a difficult question, but there are two factors you will want to consider: age and performance. The useful life of a server is around three years. While it’s not unheard of for servers to function properly beyond year three, relying on them past this point can be risky, as hardware problems may occur more often. This means you will have to deal with costly repairs and possible sudden downtime.

In terms of performance, it doesn’t make sense to keep your servers around until year three if they are slow and too costly to maintain. It’s important to compare how much money you will lose in repairs and downtime versus the cost of buying new hardware.

Do I have an alternative to buying new servers?

Believe it or not, the answer to your server problems might not necessarily be purchasing more physical servers. One solution is to embrace server virtualization. This process allows your servers to be stored and maintained off-site, with all your resources being delivered to your office via the internet.

There are two notable benefits of virtualizing your servers. First, you don’t have to spend a ton of money on new equipment. Second, virtualization is a scalable technology, meaning you only pay for the data capacity you use. For instance, you can have just two and a half servers, if that’s all your business needs. This is in contrast to having physical equipment, which would require your business to either make do with two servers or splurge and buy a third one even if you didn’t need all of that space.

Of course, there are a few things you need to consider before making the switch to server virtualization. One of the biggest issues is security. Ask yourself if you feel comfortable keeping all of your data off-site. While this isn’t a concern for some companies, others may not see this as palatable. There are several workarounds to this issue, including the hybrid option where you keep sensitive data on-site and everything else off-site.

Can I do anything to prevent a full-scale server replacement?

Yes. It’s certainly possible for you to buy some time and give your current servers additional life, but these are short-term fixes, not long-term solutions. Server upgrades are a good place to start if your servers are less than three years old but are performing poorly. Installing additional CPUs or memory may increase server performance at a fraction of the cost of buying new servers.

It’s also possible to extend the life of servers that may have four or five years of wear-and-tear on them via repurposing. Instead of swapping out all of your servers, use the old ones for non-critical processes and purchase new ones to handle critical workloads. This will help you get a better ROI on your technology while avoiding a wholesale hardware purchase, which could cripple your budget.

If you have any questions about your servers and how you can increase their performance, get in touch with us today. We can help you procure new hardware or explore other alternatives such as server virtualization.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

What makes a keyboard great

Just like a new smartphone or car, new keyboard models can also garner “oohs” and “ahhs” from people. But novelty fades, and you may end up asking this question: What is the best one for me? Whether your keyboard is used for business or leisure, a great model will make a difference. When it’s time to shop for a new keyboard, the following can help you make the right purchase.

Ergonomics

To keep carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive stress injury at bay, use an ergonomic keyboard. Such keyboards keep your hands in a neutral position while typing. Not only do these provide greater comfort, but they also reduce joint and tendon stress. This prevents inflammation and pricey surgical procedures. Ergonomic features range from simple padded wrist-rests to elaborate curved and sloped keyboards.

Connectivity

If your computer mouse can go wireless, your keyboard can too. Wireless ones are powered by batteries and normally connect to your computer via Bluetooth or a radio frequency, whereas wired models draw power and transmit typed input via a USB connection.

Your choice of keyboard will depend on what you’ll use the keyboard for. Gamers tend to prefer wired over wireless because they don’t have to deal with the lag and interference issues that the latter is prone to. On the other hand, people who like to switch locations or have to work remotely are likely to appreciate the portability of wireless keyboards. Some tablet users may find these to be more affordable or more pleasant to use than the keyboards specifically designed for their tablets.

However, even if your computer is at a fixed location, a wireless keyboard — together with a wireless mouse and wireless headset — is great for creating a clean and modern look. Most models can be connected to your PC via a 2.4-GHz wireless dongle that can also be used for cordless phones and Wi-Fi, providing connectivity to multiple devices at once. And if you have a large enough screen, you can lie on the couch and type from across the room.

The right type of key switches

This aspect of keyboard design is widely mentioned in reviews, yet many people overlook the importance of the type of switches used for individual keys. Although the intricate mechanisms that hide beneath the keys may not excite you, the difference you feel from each type will.

The three main types of key switches include silicone dome, scissor, and mechanical switches. Newer keyboards generally use silicone-dome switches, where two dimpled layers of silicone membrane form a grid of rubber bubbles that acts as the switch for each key. This requires you to press the key hard to type a letter, gradually diminishing its springiness and responsiveness over time.

The newer laptops and ultrabooks use scissor switches, which have a mechanical stabilizer for uniformity. Moreover, under each keycap is a plunger that allows for shorter key travel. This causes scissor switch keyboards to have a shallow typing feel, making them more durable than silicone dome switches.

What keyboard enthusiasts can’t get enough of are mechanical switch keyboards. Their advantages lie in the spring-loaded sliding keypost beneath each key. Several variations are available with slightly different sensations or sounds. Mechanical switches generally provide enhanced tactile feedback and have a clicking sound. Thanks to their sturdy switch mechanisms and durable springs, these keyboards last longer and can easily be repaired. Furthermore, each keystroke registers quickly, making them ideal for touch typists.

It won’t take long to examine your current keyboard and see how well it works. Do not settle for anything but the best. If you need help finding the right keyboard, email us or drop us a line. We’re more than happy to hear from you.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

What’s causing your mobile phone’s slow internet?

It’s normal to expect your mobile device’s internet browser to be lightning-fast. When it’s not, you might automatically think it’s because you haven’t updated your device’s OS or the browser app. In lots of cases, however, it’s due to slow mobile internet speed. Find out the most common causes for sluggish internet connection on your mobile device.

Wi-Fi noise

Did you know that home electronic appliances emit wireless signals at a frequency similar to your router’s (2.4 GHz)? So when deciding where to place your router, determine whether there are any electronic devices nearby, as they emit signals that can interfere with your router’s signal. For example, even if the ideal location for your router is in the middle of your house, you shouldn’t place it there if a cordless phone is nearby.

You can also set your router on a 5 GHz band, as this frequency is less prone to interference from other appliances. But before you start tuning it, make sure your phone supports 5 GHz; otherwise, it won’t be able to connect to the router.

Router location

One simple yet overlooked reason why your Wi-Fi-connected phone may be experiencing internet lag is because of your router’s location. Although Wi-Fi has a range of up to 230 feet, the signal gets weaker the farther you are from the router. Large objects like doors and walls situated in between your phone and the router can also weaken the transmission.

It’s recommended to place your router in a centralized location, preferably away from concrete and masonry walls or other big objects like a chimney. As the router signal radiates from all sides, blocking any side with big objects will impact your Wi-Fi’s signal quality, and consequently impede your phone’s internet speed.

Slow network

Another reason for your phone’s slow internet connection could be fluctuating network speeds. Ask yourself these two questions to discover the cause of this problem:

  1. How many devices are connected to the router?
  2. What are these devices using the internet for?

You should increase your router’s internet bandwidth speed if you discover you have many users and all of them are either streaming movies or downloading computer games or software updates. This will allow every phone connected to your network to enjoy faster internet speeds.

If you’re outdoors and connected to a public Wi-Fi network, consider using your mobile data instead. You won’t have to share your internet when you use mobile data, enabling you to experience faster connectivity at all times as long as you have a high-speed data plan.

Too much cache

Last, check your smartphone’s cache if fixing your router, network, and positioning doesn’t improve your device’s internet speed. Your phone’s cache saves data from earlier searches in order to display faster results of similar searches in the future. Although your phone becomes more efficient for that particular search, it also makes your phone much slower when you do other things that require the internet.

You can clear out your cache manually or use a cache cleaner app to get rid of useless cache and optimize your phone’s internet speed. If you decide to download a cache cleaner app, make sure that it is trustworthy so you don’t accidentally download a malware-infected program.

There are more reasons for your phone’s lagging internet speed. If your business relies heavily on a speedy mobile internet connection and you’re unable to fix the problem, call our experts today. We’re always ready to help you.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

Guide For Managed WiFi For Multi-Tenant Units

WIFI IS REVOLUTIONIZING HEALTHCARE!

Wireless Connections For The Near
Future Whitepaper

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Professional Services To Grow Your
Business Whitepaper

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Experience Guide Hybrid Workforce United

Embrace Change 4 Ways To Prepare For Whats Next

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Madgig Embrace Change a 4-step Plan

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.