Boost Your Property Value with Advanced Managed Wi-Fi 

In today's digital age, tenants crave more than just four walls and a roof. Reliable, high-speed internet is a top priority and can impact rental decisions. But how can you, as a multi-dwelling unit (MDU) owner or property manager, leverage this need to not only improve resident satisfaction and occupancy rates but also boost your property’s value? Vision Net's managed Wi-Fi solutions offer a comprehensive set of advantages tailored to meet the specific needs of property owners and managers: 

  1. Reliable Connectivity: Vision Net understands the frustration of dead zones and signal disruptions. Our managed Wi-Fi solutions ensure consistent coverage throughout the property, eliminating these issues and enhancing tenant satisfaction. Whether residents are streaming movies, conducting video calls, or working from home, they can do so seamlessly, contributing to a positive living experience. 
  1. Cutting-Edge Security: In shared living environments, protecting personal data and ensuring privacy are paramount concerns. Vision Net's managed Wi-Fi solutions prioritize security through advanced encryption and network segmentation. These measures not only safeguard residents' sensitive information but also fortify the property against cyber threats, providing peace of mind for both tenants and property owners. 
  1. Streamlined Management: Managing Wi-Fi networks in multi-unit properties can be complex and time-consuming. Vision Net simplifies this process with our centralized management platform, allowing for efficient real-time monitoring, troubleshooting, and configuration adjustments. By minimizing the need for on-site IT support, we ensure that the Wi-Fi network operates optimally, saving valuable time and resources for property owners. 

Beyond the Basics: Value-Added Perks with Vision Net 

Vision Net goes beyond simply providing top-tier internet access. We offer additional services that further elevate the resident experience and future-proof your property: 

See the Difference: A Real-World Example Sucess Story 

A real-world example of the impact of Vision Net's managed Wi-Fi solutions can be seen in the success story of Aurora Apartments, a premier residential complex developed by Farran Realty Partners. Their partnership with Vision Net transformed their Wi-Fi experience. Residents now enjoy blazing-fast speeds, seamless coverage, and individual network control, all factors contributing to a more desirable living space.  

Partnering for Enhanced Property Value 

Vision Net understands that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work for connectivity solutions. Our experienced team will assess your property, understand your needs, and recommend a cost-effective solution that maximizes your return on investment. Contact our experts today for a consultation here. 

Which Solution is Ideal for Your Business: Cloud or Colocation? 

At Vision Net, we understand the critical role technology plays in enterprise communication. Choosing the right infrastructure solution – cloud or colocation – is fundamental to keeping your operations running smoothly and securely. Both offer distinct advantages, and the optimal choice depends on your specific needs. 

Cloud: Scalability and Agility 

The cloud's defining characteristic is its elasticity. Cloud resources like storage and processing power are readily available on-demand, allowing you to scale up or down effortlessly. This is ideal for businesses with fluctuating workloads, such as seasonal demands or new product launches. Additionally, cloud providers handle server maintenance and security, freeing up your IT team to focus on core initiatives. 

Here's when cloud might be the perfect fit for your business: 

Colocation: Control and Security 

Colocation offers a high degree of control over your physical IT infrastructure. Your servers reside in a secure data center facility, providing peace of mind for businesses handling sensitive data. Additionally, colocation often offers lower latency and higher bandwidth connections, which can be crucial for real-time communication applications. 

Consider colocation if these align with your priorities: 

The Final Decision: A Tailored Approach 

Cloud and colocation aren't mutually exclusive. Many businesses leverage a hybrid approach, utilizing the cloud for flexible resources and colocation for mission-critical applications. At Vision Net, we can help you assess your IT needs and recommend the optimal solution or a strategic combination to keep your communication at the forefront. 

Next Steps: Partnering for Success 

Contact Vision Net here for a complimentary consultation. Our experts will work with you to understand your specific requirements and develop a customized solution that empowers your business to thrive in the ever-evolving technological landscape.  

How Next-Generation 9-1-1 is Transforming Emergency Response 

Imagine an emergency: a fire breaks out at your home, or you witness a car crash on the highway. Every second counts, and a clear line of communication with emergency services is crucial. Thankfully, 9-1-1 systems are constantly evolving to meet the demands of our increasingly mobile and tech-dependent world. 

Gone are the days of clunky landlines and unreliable call routing. Today, Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) technology is transforming emergency response, offering a lifeline with features that would have been science fiction just a decade ago. 

Here's what NG9-1-1 brings to the table: 

"NG9-1-1 is a game-changer for emergency response," said Bill Daniels, Vision Net's 9-1-1 Supervisor. "The increased data and situational awareness gives dispatchers and first responders a major advantage in saving lives. We're working hard to make sure that our PSAPs, people, and networks are ready for the challenges NG-911 brings." 

The Future of 9-1-1 

NG9-1-1 is rolling out across the United States (as well as around the world), but the potential is limitless. Imagine a future where dispatchers can receive real-time medical data from wearable devices during a medical emergency, or even utilize AI-powered translation services to bridge language barriers. 

These advancements are a testament to the ongoing efforts to improve emergency response systems. With NG9-1-1, help is truly just a tap or message away, giving you peace of mind knowing that even in the most critical situations, you have a reliable lifeline to connect with those who can help. 

Vision Net is at the forefront of implementing NG9-1-1, ensuring communities across the state and beyond benefit from this life-saving technology. Contact us here to learn how we can help your community on the road to NG9-1-1. 

Employee Spotlight: Virginia Berg

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Virginia Berg, our new Administrative Assistant at the Great Falls office. Originally hailing from Athens, GA, Virginia brings with her the charm of a Southern Belle. With a rich background, including raising six beautiful children and nearly 10 grandchildren, she pursued her education in accounting while balancing family life. Although she's had a few job experiences that were relatively short-lived, Virginia sees her role at Vision Net as the culmination of her career journey—a position she anticipates being her last and most fulfilling.

We're thrilled to have Virginia join our team, and we look forward to the valuable contributions she will make here at Vision Net!

What made you choose Vision Net?  

Vision Net is a stable and successful company who really cares about their employees. 

What are some of the responsibilities you have in your role?  

I help with records management, open the mail, post checks, prepare deposits, and assist the accounting team. 

What is an exciting aspect of your role?  

Having a variety of responsibilities and knowing what I am doing makes a difference for everyone else. 

What is your favorite movie?  

I honestly do not know / do not have one. 

What is your favorite food? 

BBQ ribs.

What is your favorite thing about living in Montana?  

The wide-open space and the views.

Do you have any talents or hobbies?  

Cooking. I used to sell plates on the weekends, and I had many regular customers!  

We are thrilled to welcome Virginia to the Vision Net team. Her experience and warmth are invaluable additions to our team, and we're excited about the contributions she'll make. Welcome, Virginia!

Aurora Apartments Selects Vision Net as Exclusive Provider for High-Speed Internet and Advanced Wi-Fi Services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GREAT FALLS, MT – October 12, 2023 – Vision Net, a leading network and telecom services provider headquartered in Great Falls, is excited to announce its strategic partnership with Aurora Apartments, a premier residential complex developed by Farran Realty Partners. Vision Net will serve as the exclusive provider of high-speed internet and Wi-Fi services specially designed for Multi-Dwelling Units (MDUs), delivering unmatched connectivity, and enhancing the resident experience in this unique living space.

Jim McLeod, Managing Partner at Farran Realty Partners, stressed the vital role of high-quality Wi-Fi in today's interconnected world, stating, "Delivering top-notch Wi-Fi was paramount for our vibrant, technology-driven community. Vision Net's exceptional capabilities made them the natural choice to establish a secure and efficient network while staying within our budget."

Vision Net has built a distinguished reputation for its robust network infrastructure and telecom services, with a specific focus on enhancing connectivity for commercial buildings. Rob Worden, CEO of Vision Net, expressed his excitement for the partnership, saying, "We're excited to bring Aurora residents lightning-fast speeds and seamless coverage that matches their expectations. Our solutions align perfectly with Aurora's goal of delivering a modern, connected living experience."

Vision Net transforms the residential experience by granting each resident their private Wi-Fi network, enabling complete control over device prioritization, content filtering, and more. Additionally, their state-of-the-art Network Operations Center (NOC) ensures 24/7 monitoring and support tailored for the unique challenges of a Multi-Dwelling Unit setting.

Jim McLeod further highlighted the benefits for residents, stating, "The ability for residents to move in and instantly access the internet significantly enhances their living experience. Partnering with Vision Net enables us to provide ultra-fast and dependable Wi-Fi throughout Aurora Apartments, backed by exceptional local support."

Michelle Dahl, Vision Net's Account Executive, played a pivotal role in establishing this partnership. McLeod noted, "Working with Michelle was a fantastic experience. Her expertise and responsiveness streamlined the process and made it exceptionally efficient."

This partnership highlights Vision Net's reputation as a trusted network provider, and its commitment to empowering Montana businesses with secure, scalable solutions. As Vision Net continues expanding its footprint, this milestone underscores the company’s dedication to the communities it serves, cementing its position as a leader in the industry.

For more information about Vision Net and our services, click here to contact our team!

About Vision Net

Vision Net, founded in 1995, is a Montana-based telecom company delivering a wide range of cutting-edge communications solutions. With offices in Great Falls, Billings, Helena, and Missoula, Vision Net is committed to providing businesses with the most reliable, secure, and scalable telecom solutions.

About Aurora Apartments

Aurora Apartments is a new premier community constructed by Farran Realty Partners in Great Falls, MT. With thoughtful amenities and design, Aurora offers residents a comfortable, connected lifestyle.

For more on Aurora apartments: https://www.auroragreatfalls.com/

Media Contact:

Thaisa Souza

(406) 467-4720 

Top 5 Data Center Security Risks: How Vision Net Protects Your Data 

In the fast-paced world of data management, security is paramount. As a Montana-based telecom company with state-of-the-art data centers, Vision Net understands the critical importance of data center security. In this blog post, we will discuss five data center security risks that every business should be aware of and how Vision Net's cutting-edge facilities can help mitigate these risks. 

1. Physical Intrusions 

Risk: While cyber-attacks grab most of the headlines, physical breaches of data centers remain a real threat. Data centers hold sensitive data and equipment that is attractive to thieves. Ensure strong physical security measures like multiple access controls, video surveillance, and on-site security guards. 

Security camera

Mitigation: Vision Net's data centers feature multiple layers of security, including burglar and motion intrusion detection alarm systems, CCTV cameras, and vehicle intrusion bollards. Biometric access controls with Two-Factor and Three-Factor Authentication ensure that only authorized personnel can enter the facility and specific customer areas. 

2. Power Interruptions 

Risk: Power outages or fluctuations can disrupt data center operations, potentially causing data loss or downtime. 

Mitigation: Vision Net's facilities boast highly reliable commercial power with redundant generators and UPS backup systems. A and B uninterruptible power circuits ensure continuous operation, even in the face of power disruptions. 

3. Environmental Threats 

Risk: Environmental factors like fires, floods, storms, and earthquakes can pose serious threats to data center equipment and data integrity. 

Forest Fires, Natural Disaster

Mitigation: Vision Net's data centers offer an extremely low geolocation risk, reducing the chances of natural disasters. Furthermore, our facilities are equipped with dry pipe fire suppression and zoned heat/smoke detection systems, including Very Early Smoke Detection Apparatus (VESDA) detection. Redundant HVAC systems with hot/cold aisle configurations maintain ideal environmental conditions for data center equipment.

4. Network Vulnerabilities 

Risk: Weak network security can expose data to cyber threats and unauthorized access. 

Padlock icon lock and unlock.

Mitigation: Vision Net offers ultra-low network latency and implements robust security measures like Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Three-Factor Authentication (3FA) to safeguard against network vulnerabilities. 

5. Compliance and Regulatory Risks 

Risk: Failure to comply with industry-specific regulations (e.g., SOC 1 Type 2 and PCI DSS SAQ) can result in legal and financial consequences. 

Guarantee concept Certification and Manufacturing iso standards audit checklist. High quality photo

Mitigation: Vision Net's data centers are fully compliant with industry standards, ensuring that your critical data operations meet regulatory requirements. Maintaining SOC 1, Type 2 compliance involves a periodic, rigorous, independent audit of Vision Nets policies and procedures related to physical security, facility, and environmental protection, customer account management, logical security, and operations. The audits are conducted to help assure our partners that the Data Center is operated appropriately to ensure maximum security, reliability, and customer uptime. 

Plus, with zero sales tax and low business property tax in Montana, you can save on operational costs. 

At Vision Net, we provide the ideal solution for maintaining your critical data operations while freeing up premium resources that can be dedicated to your core business. Our state-of-the-art facilities, carrier neutrality, and commitment to security make us the trusted choice for data center services across all industries. 

Schedule a Call with Our Experts Today! 

VoIP vs UCaaS: Which one is best for your business?

For over 20 years, small to medium-sized businesses have embraced VoIP to replace outdated phone systems and as technology has improved, VoIP has evolved into a next-generation technology that provides seamless integration between internet and voice.

Developed in the 1970s, VoIP technology began to be widely used in the 1990s, leading to the development and practical application of UCaaS for next-generation voice, video, and more.      

Vision Net provides VoIP, UCaaS, and Microsoft Teams Integrated services and since no two businesses have the same needs, we design robust and secure systems and work with our clients to find the right technology solution.

Many organizations have strategic reasons for unifying their business communication with a cloud-based solution and will see the best ROI with Vision Net’s UCaaS. However, other businesses have unique needs that are best met by Vision Net’s VoIP.

As a business telecommunications company in Montana for over 28 years, Vision Net understands the needs of small and medium sized businesses throughout the region. We work with our clients to find the best solution for their needs and within their budget, and we’re here to help you determine the best solution for your business.

Vision Net’s VoIP is implemented on-site through your broadband connection, rather than outdated telephone cables. VoIP services can be managed in-house or delivered as a cloud-based service; Vision Net’s agility allows businesses to determine their best management method.

5 Reasons Why VoIP Is Ideal for Businesses Seeking Simple and Affordable Phone Calling:

  1. Significant cost savings on interoffice calling, long-distance, and international calling.
  2. Simple phone line management.
  3. Cost-effective management.
  4. Automated call distribution, voice recognition, and remote phone lines management.
  5. As your business grows, you can scale from VoIP to UCaaS.

UCaaS is defined by as-a-Service apps that are hosted and delivered by a cloud communication tool and as a Unifying communication tool for a streamlined user interface. Vision Net’s UCaaS is delivered through our Unified Communications platform. Adopting Vision Net’s UCaaS will lead to remarkable cost savings and productivity gains.

UCaaS: The Top 5 Needs It Addresses for Businesses:

  1. Video features including video conferencing, web conferencing, and screen sharing.
  2. Simple communication and management across multiple sites or locations.
  3. Developing strong business continuity and disaster management processes including broadcast via voice phones, instant messages, text, and email.
  4. Increase productivity and decrease error by integrating data across apps.
  5. Improve the customer experience by unifying channels including chat, email, and phone.

One of the most practical features of UCaaS missing from VoIP are video communications. If your employees work remotely, travel expenses are a concern, or teams work in different offices, video has benefits that will deliver a strong ROI. 93% of communication is nonverbal, so video could mean fewer miscommunications, 30% less on business travel, and greater collaboration between teams. For many companies, video is the deciding factor between VoIP or UCaaS since video conferencing lets your employees conduct interactive meetings, share screens, connect with and help clients troubleshoot issues in record time.

VoIP and UCaaS both provide flexibility that businesses need. UCaaS offers extensive flexibility in services, especially if you partner with vendors who offer dedicated port connection and with VoIP, you can instantly add and subtract phone lines, and offer features to employees on an as-needed basis. We built our VoIP and Unified Communication Suite on our network with reliability and redundancy as priorities with a knowledgeable staff to ensure your network is proactively monitored and threats are eliminated before they can attack your network.

As an additional feature to the Vision Voice suite of products Vision Net offers Microsoft Teams integration where Vision Net handles the call origination and termination through MS Teams rather than relying on Microsoft as your phone provider. The benefits are our redundant network optimized for call and video applications and the ability to overlay services and advanced features such as call center, hunt groups, call recording, call reporting and faxing.

Still not sure which option will work best for your business? Contact Vision Net to learn about the functionality that will work best for your business.

Empowering Business with Reliable Connectivity

Connectivity may seem like just another utility, but having the right network is now an indispensable part of running a successful business. As companies shift more operations online and customer expectations for seamless digital experiences continue to rise, reliable internet and phone systems have evolved from being mere conveniences to absolute necessities.

But not all connectivity is created equal. Laggy video conferences, spotty VoIP calls, and sluggish cloud application performance can wreck workflows and frustrate employees and customers. That's why at Vision Net, we custom design communications solutions focused on maximizing uptime, speed, and reliability.

Here are three ways we empower organizations with solutions they can build their business on:

1. Proactive Infrastructure Monitoring

We don't wait for outages to occur. With our round-the-clock, year-round network management, we proactively identify and address vulnerabilities before they can disrupt services.

2. Redundant connections

We provide failover and alternative routing so if one connection goes down, traffic instantly shifts to another. This prevents downtime.

3. Reliable connectivity

It's just as important as other utilities like electricity and water. But unlike those services, your network infrastructure can either empower your business or constrain its success.

Let's discuss how Vision Net can customize a connectivity solution to make your business more resilient and productive. With the right telecom partner, you can count on the network support your organization needs to thrive and stay competitive.

The connectivity your business truly deserves is just a phone call away! Reach out to us at 406-384-6320.

Employee Spotlight: Sam Leigland

Please join us in welcoming Sam Leigland, our new Installation Tech at the Great Falls office. Sam graduated college with an AAS in Cyber Security. He has worked at Scheels for the last 5 years. In late September, Sam and his wife are expecting a baby boy to join the family. We are excited to have Sam join our team here at Vision Net!

What made you choose Vision Net?

I felt like this company really cared about their employees and provided the best service to their clients.

What are some of the responsibilities you have in your role?

I am the Network Installer so I will be dispatching to sites to install any new hardware, replace old hardware, or just perform any required maintenance on existing hardware.

What is an exciting aspect of your role?

I am excited for a change in career that transitions me over to something that I got my degree for.

What is your favorite movie?

Step Brothers.

What is your favorite food?

Spaghetti.

What is your favorite thing about living in Montana?

Being able to be outdoors year round.

Do you have any talents or hobbies?

My hobbies include riding dirt bikes, snowboarding, skiing, hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, wildlife photography, archery, and precision long range shooting.

Vision Net Taps internal Talent, Gary Evans takes charge as COO. 

We are happy to announce the appointment of Gary Evans as Vision Net's new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Gary's exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication as interim CEO during the executive transition have earned him this well-deserved role. 

"I'm honored to take on this new role and lead operations at a company I deeply believe in," said Gary Evans, newly appointed COO of Vision Net. 

A Journey of Excellence

Gary Evans, our esteemed Operations Manager, has been an invaluable asset to Vision Net for nearly two decades. Joining us in 2002 with an engineering degree and previous experience with Triangle Telephone Cooperative and Heberly Engineering, Gary's journey with Vision Net has been nothing short of extraordinary. His deep understanding of our organization and its evolving needs has been key to his success. 

A Partnership for Success

As the newly appointed COO, Gary will work in close collaboration with our CEO, Rob Worden, to drive Vision Net's growth and success. In the words of Rob, "Gary's exceptional leadership and dedication have been instrumental in our continued growth. I am confident in his ability to drive operational excellence and propel Vision Net to even greater success."  

A Montanan at Heart

Gary's roots run deep in Montana, being a 4th generation Montanan. Alongside his professional accomplishments, Gary takes pride in his family life. He resides in the picturesque Highwood mountains with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children, Regan and Riley. Gary's love for his home state and the community is reflected in his dedication to Vision Net's mission of providing top-quality telecommunications services to Montana and beyond. 

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Gary Evans on his appointment as Vision Net's Chief Operating Officer. With his exceptional leadership skills, Gary will play a crucial role in supporting our CEO and driving Vision Net's success.