Category: IT Support

Laptop Screen Repair: When Should You Replace a Cracked Laptop Screen?

Posted on by Marley Watson

A cracked laptop screen can instantly disrupt your productivity, whether you’re working remotely, studying, gaming, or managing business operations. Even minor screen damage can worsen over time, affecting visibility, touchscreen functionality, and overall device performance.

At Andromeda Solutions, we specialize in professional laptop screen repair and replacement services, helping businesses and individuals restore their devices quickly and cost-effectively.

Common Causes of Laptop Screen Damage

Laptop screens are among the most delicate components of any device. Some of the most common causes of screen damage include:

1. Accidental Drops

Dropping a laptop can cause immediate cracks, shattered glass, or internal display damage.

2. Pressure Damage

Closing a laptop with an object inside or placing heavy items on top can create pressure points that crack the screen.

3. Impact Damage

Knocks, bumps, and transportation accidents frequently lead to broken displays.

4. Manufacturing Wear and Tear

Over time, hinges and internal display connections may weaken, causing screen issues.

5. Liquid Damage

Spills can affect both the display panel and internal components, leading to screen failure.

Signs You Need a Laptop Screen Replacement

Not all screen damage is obvious. Watch for these warning signs:

Cracked or Shattered Display

Visible cracks are the clearest indicator that replacement is required.

Dead Pixels

Black spots or permanently discoloured pixels can spread over time.

Flickering Screen

Persistent flickering may indicate internal display damage or failing screen components.

Lines Across the Display

Horizontal or vertical lines often signal panel damage.

Touchscreen Failure

If your touchscreen becomes unresponsive, the digitizer may need replacement.

Dim or Black Screen

A damaged LCD or LED panel can result in poor brightness or complete display failure.

Why Professional Laptop Screen Repair Matters

Many users consider DIY screen replacement, but professional repairs offer significant advantages:

Accurate Diagnosis

Not every display issue requires a screen replacement. Professional technicians can identify whether the problem lies with:

  • The LCD panel
  • Display cable
  • Graphics hardware
  • Motherboard components
  • Backlight system

Quality Replacement Parts

Using high-quality components ensures:

  • Better display clarity
  • Longer lifespan
  • Manufacturer compatibility
  • Improved reliability

Reduced Risk

Incorrect DIY repairs can cause:

  • Additional hardware damage
  • Warranty issues
  • Data loss
  • Increased repair costs

The Andromeda Solutions Laptop Screen Repair Process

At Andromeda Solutions, we follow a structured repair process to ensure every device is restored to optimal condition.

Step 1: Device Assessment

Our technicians inspect:

  • Screen condition
  • Internal display connections
  • Hinges and frame
  • Graphics functionality

Step 2: Fault Diagnosis

We determine whether the issue is caused by:

  • Physical screen damage
  • Hardware failure
  • Cable faults
  • Backlight problems

Step 3: Professional Screen Replacement

We carefully remove the damaged display and install a compatible replacement screen.

Step 4: Quality Testing

Every repaired device undergoes extensive testing to ensure:

  • Full display functionality
  • Proper brightness levels
  • Colour accuracy
  • Touchscreen performance (where applicable)

Step 5: Customer Collection or Delivery

Once testing is complete, your laptop is returned ready for use.

Benefits of Repairing Rather Than Replacing Your Laptop

Many people assume a damaged screen means purchasing a new laptop. However, repair is often the smarter option.

Cost Savings

Screen replacement typically costs significantly less than purchasing a new device.

Faster Turnaround

Most screen repairs can be completed much faster than migrating to a new system.

Data Protection

Repairing your existing device helps maintain access to your files, applications, and settings.

Environmental Benefits

Repairing rather than replacing reduces electronic waste and supports sustainability.

Industries We Support

Andromeda Solutions provides laptop screen repair services for:

Business Users

Minimise downtime and maintain productivity.

Education Sector

Keep students and educators connected with reliable device repairs.

Remote Workers

Ensure uninterrupted workflow from home or hybrid work environments.

Healthcare Organisations

Support critical devices used in healthcare settings.

Individual Consumers

Affordable and professional repair services for personal laptops.

How to Prevent Future Laptop Screen Damage

Follow these simple tips to protect your investment:

  • Use a padded laptop bag during transport.
  • Avoid placing heavy objects on your laptop.
  • Close the lid carefully.
  • Keep liquids away from your device.
  • Use screen protectors where appropriate.
  • Store laptops in safe, stable locations.

Preventative care can significantly extend the lifespan of your device.

Why Choose Andromeda Solutions?

Businesses and individuals trust Andromeda Solutions because we provide:

✅ Experienced IT repair specialists
✅ Fast turnaround times
✅ High-quality replacement components
✅ Comprehensive device diagnostics
✅ Reliable customer support
✅ Cost-effective repair solutions

Our goal is to help customers get back to work quickly with minimal disruption.

Get Your Laptop Screen Repaired Today

A cracked or damaged laptop screen doesn’t have to mean replacing your entire device. Professional laptop screen repair can restore performance, improve usability, and save you money.

Andromeda Solutions offers dependable laptop screen replacement services designed to get your device back to full working order quickly and efficiently.

Contact our team today to arrange a diagnostic assessment and discover the most cost-effective solution for your laptop repair needs.

Robust Server Security North East | Andromeda Solutions

Posted on by Marley Watson

Why Robust Server Security is Non-Negotiable for North East Businesses

When it comes to protecting your business operations, digital firewalls and antivirus software only tell half the story. The physical and infrastructural security of your hardware is just as critical. Whether you are housing sensitive client data, managing extensive internal communications, or running resource-heavy applications, implementing robust server security in the North East is a non-negotiable step for modern businesses.

At Andromeda Solutions, we understand that true security requires a multi-layered approach—locking down both your network and your physical hardware.

The Anatomy of Complete Server Protection

The image above—featuring a server rack tightly bound in chains and secured with an Andromeda Solutions padlock (reference: Andromeda Solutions (9).jpg)—is a powerful visual representation of how seriously we take your IT infrastructure.

A compromised server isn’t just an IT headache; it’s a critical threat to business continuity. Effective server security protocols must cover all vulnerabilities:

1. Physical Hardware Security

It is easy to focus entirely on software, but unauthorized physical access to a server rack can bypass the most expensive firewalls in seconds. Ensuring your hardware is physically restricted, locked, and monitored is the absolute baseline of infrastructure management. Every server room should be treated as a high-security environment.

2. Network Infrastructure & Hardware Integration

Your server is only as secure as the network switches and routers it connects to. Utilizing enterprise-grade networking equipment—such as Cisco C9300 switches and highly secure rack configurations—ensures that data packets are managed efficiently and securely. Proper cable management, secure rack mounting, and rigorous hardware auditing prevent both accidental outages and deliberate tampering.

3. Proactive Threat Monitoring

Modern server security means identifying a threat before it breaches the perimeter. This involves 24/7 monitoring of server loads, unusual login attempts, and unexpected data transfers. By actively managing your server environment, vulnerabilities are patched before they can be exploited by malicious actors.

Local Expertise, Enterprise-Level Security

Managing complex IT environments requires hands-on, highly responsive support. Operating across a wide region means we can deploy rapid, expert assistance precisely when you need it. We provide comprehensive server setups, maintenance, and security auditing for businesses spanning Middlesbrough, Redcar, Teesside, Newcastle, and Leeds.

Having a reliable IT partner nearby means that if a physical hardware issue arises or an urgent security patch is required, expert engineers are immediately available to resolve the problem. We ensure that your hardware is not only running at peak performance but is fortified against all vectors of attack.

Secure Your Infrastructure with Andromeda Solutions

Don’t wait for a data breach or a critical hardware failure to evaluate your server setup. Whether you are looking to upgrade your existing server rack, improve your network topology, or implement a rigorous new security protocol, our engineers are ready to build a fortified IT environment for your business.

Ready to lock down your data? Visit www.andromedasolutions.co.uk today to speak with our technical team about securing your IT infrastructure.

IT Support, Dispensed Instantly: Elevating Your Enterprise Technology

Posted on by Marley Watson

Imagine a world where upgrading your office network, replacing a broken laptop, or fixing a critical server issue was as simple, quick, and reliable as grabbing a snack from a vending machine.

In the modern business landscape, waiting hours—or even days—for IT support isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a direct threat to your bottom line. Every minute of downtime translates to lost productivity, frustrated staff, and potentially lost revenue.

At Andromeda Solutions, we believe your enterprise technology should empower you, not slow you down. That’s why we’ve built our services around a simple promise: IT Support, dispensed instantly. ## Why “Instant” Matters in Modern Business

Technology is the backbone of your day-to-day operations. When it works perfectly, it’s invisible. When it fails, everything grinds to a halt. Traditional IT support models often involve submitting a ticket into a black hole and hoping someone gets back to you before the end of the day.

We take a different approach. We proactively monitor your systems to stop problems before they start, and when you do need assistance or new equipment, we deliver it with unmatched speed and precision.

Everything Your Business Needs, On Demand

If you look at our “IT Vending Machine,” you’ll see exactly what we mean. We don’t just fix computers; we provide comprehensive, enterprise-level solutions tailored to your specific business needs. Here is what we deliver instantly to our clients:

1. Premium Hardware Provisioning

From high-performance Dell workstations to sleek Apple MacBooks, your team needs the right tools to do their best work. We handle the sourcing, setup, and deployment of top-tier hardware, ensuring it’s ready to go the moment it hits your desk.

2. Seamless Network & Communications

A slow connection is a productivity killer. We design and install robust Wi-Fi 6 networks that can handle the heavy demands of a modern office. Furthermore, our advanced VoIP phone systems ensure crystal-clear communication with your clients, whether your team is in the office or working remotely.

3. Essential Peripherals & Accessories

Lost a mouse? Need a new headset for a sudden influx of video calls? A keyboard stopped working? We ensure you have access to all the essential peripherals—from reliable networking cables to ergonomic accessories—without the hassle of dealing with consumer retail stores.

4. Fully Managed IT Support

Behind the hardware is our dedicated team of experts. Think of us as your invisible, highly skilled in-house IT department. We manage your servers, secure your data, backup your files, and provide instant remote or on-site support whenever you need it.

The Andromeda Solutions Difference

Based in Middlesbrough and serving businesses across the region, Andromeda Solutions bridges the gap between massive corporate IT and local, personalized service. We bring enterprise technology solutions to businesses of all sizes, ensuring you have the infrastructure to scale and succeed.

You shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to get your tech working. You deserve IT support that is as immediate as pressing a button.

Ready to Upgrade Your IT Experience?

Stop settling for sluggish support and outdated technology. Let Andromeda Solutions streamline your IT infrastructure today.

Is Your Hardware Holding Your Business Back?

Posted on by Marley Watson

The Hidden Cost of Slow Computers

In the fast-paced business landscape of Middlesbrough and the wider North East, time is quite literally money. If your team is spending ten minutes every morning waiting for their PCs to boot up, or if “frozen screens” have become a regular office occurrence, your hardware isn’t just old—it’s a liability.

At Andromeda Solutions, we believe your technology should work as hard as you do. But when should you repair, when should you upgrade, and when is it time to start fresh?

1. The Power of the “Quick Fix”: Hardware Upgrades

As seen in our latest graphic, sometimes all a system needs is a little expert “magic.” You don’t always need to buy a brand-new fleet of machines to see a massive boost in performance.

  • RAM Upgrades: Just like our robot friend is installing, adding more memory allows your computer to handle more tasks simultaneously without stuttering.
  • SSD Transitions: Swapping an old spinning hard drive for a Solid State Drive (SSD) can make an old PC feel five times faster.
  • Professional Cleaning: Dust is the silent killer of office hardware. A professional internal clean can prevent overheating and hardware failure.

2. Security Beyond Software

Many North East business owners focus on antivirus software but forget that outdated hardware is a security risk. Older machines often cannot support the latest security patches or operating systems (like Windows 11), leaving a “backdoor” open for cyber threats.

Managed IT support ensures that your hardware is always compliant and capable of defending your data.

3. Scalability with Andromeda Solutions

Why struggle with screwdrivers and RAM sticks yourself? Our team acts as your in-house IT department without the in-house cost. We provide:

  • Proactive Monitoring: We spot hardware failure before it happens.
  • Strategic Planning: We help you budget for hardware refreshes so there are no “emergency” costs.
  • Local Support: Based in Middlesbrough, we’re on-site fast when you need us most.

Ready to Speed Up? Don’t let a slow PC be the bottleneck in your business growth. Whether you need a single repair or a full office overhaul, Andromeda Solutions has the expertise to get you back to peak productivity.

Contact Andromeda Solutions Today for a hardware health check.

Building the Ultimate Modern Workspace: Hardware, Cloud & Communications

Posted on by Marley Watson

Take a look at your current desk setup. Is it cluttered with cables? Are you using outdated software that slows you down? Or perhaps your office phone system is tethering you to a desk when you need to be mobile?

At Andromeda Solutions, we believe that a clean, efficient, and integrated workspace is the foundation of a productive business. The image above isn’t just a nice stock photo; it represents the exact modern, streamlined IT environment we build for businesses every single day.

From the hardware on your desk to the cloud software powering your workflow, here is a breakdown of what makes the ultimate modern workspace—and how we can help you achieve it.

1. The Foundation: Reliable, High-Performance Hardware

Your business can’t move fast if your computers are moving slow. In our ideal setup, we champion reliable, business-grade hardware—like the sleek Dell laptop and high-resolution Dell monitor pictured above.

  • Dual-Screen Productivity: Pairing a laptop with a secondary monitor instantly boosts productivity, allowing you to view documents, emails, and data dashboards simultaneously.
  • Hybrid Flexibility: A high-spec business laptop gives your team the power they need at the office, with the portability to work flawlessly from home or on the road.

At Andromeda Solutions, we procure, configure, and install industry-leading hardware tailored to your specific business needs, ensuring you get the best return on your investment.

2. The Engine: Microsoft 365

Look closely at the monitor in our setup—it’s displaying the Microsoft 365 welcome screen. M365 is the undisputed engine of the modern business. It is no longer just Word and Excel; it is a comprehensive, cloud-based productivity suite.

  • Work Anywhere: Because your files are stored securely in OneDrive and SharePoint, you can access your work from any device, anywhere in the world.
  • Seamless Collaboration: With Microsoft Teams, your staff can chat, video conference, and co-author documents in real time.
  • Enterprise-Grade Security: M365 includes robust security features to protect your sensitive data against modern cyber threats.

As a trusted IT partner, Andromeda Solutions doesn’t just sell you the licenses. We handle the full migration, setup, and ongoing management of your Microsoft 365 tenant.

3. The Connection: Advanced VoIP Telephony

To the right of the monitor sits a Fanvil IP phone. The days of traditional analogue landlines are over (especially with the upcoming UK PSTN switch-off!). Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the future of business communication.

  • Crystal Clear Audio: High-definition voice quality ensures you never miss a word during important client calls.
  • Ultimate Flexibility: VoIP systems allow calls to be routed to your desk phone, your computer via a softphone app, or straight to your mobile device.
  • Cost-Effective: Drastically reduce your monthly call charges and line rentals compared to traditional telecom setups.

We provide bespoke VoIP solutions that scale with your business, ensuring you stay connected to your customers without the hefty price tag.

4. The Secret Ingredient: Andromeda Solutions

What brings the hardware, the cloud software, and the communication systems together? The expertise behind the scenes.

Notice the Andromeda Solutions mug on the desk? It represents the peace of mind our clients enjoy. When you partner with us for Managed IT Services, you can grab a cup of coffee and focus entirely on running your business, knowing that your IT infrastructure is being monitored, updated, and supported by a team of experts.

We don’t just fix things when they break; we proactively design IT environments that prevent problems from happening in the first place.

Ready to Upgrade Your Workspace?

If your office setup doesn’t look or function as smoothly as the one pictured above, it’s time for an upgrade. Whether you need a complete IT overhaul, a migration to Microsoft 365, or a modern VoIP phone system, we have you covered.

Contact the experts at Andromeda Solutions today to build a workspace that works for you.

👉 Visit us at www.andromedasolutions.co.uk or call our team to book your free IT consultation.

Computers Over the Decades

Posted on by Peter

Imagine landing at work to a desk FULL of files, papers and the all important roladex with not a computer in sight. There certainly wouldn’t have been the need for IT support! If you remember such times; what were they like? Over the years computers have evolved and advanced significantly, meaning today we have every piece of information required at the click of a button.

Let’s take a walk down memory lane;

1930s Calculating Machines

Considered the world’s first ever programmable computer, the calculating machine was created by Berlin born Konrad Zuse. Using his parents’ living room to design a prototype, Zeus used metal plates, pins and old film to create a machine that could easily add and subtract.

The 1940s Mathematical Robot

By the 1940s technology really started ‘hotting up’ with the introduction of the ENIAC created by John Mauchly. Designed to aid the army with ballistics and analytics, this machine had the ability to calculate thousands of problems every second. If you’re imagining a neat little desktop sized box then think again. The ENIAC required a 1,500 square foot room to accommodate its 40 cabinets, 6000 switches and 18,000 vacuum tubes. Imagine the IT Support requirements for this!

Sticking With Matchs in the 1950s

With the 30s and 40s creating computers designed to solve maths related problems, the 1950s focussed heavily on use for scientific and engineering research. In 1954 the JOHNIAC was introduced and operated successfully for 13 years by RAND researchers before its demise.

The 1960s Programma 101

Of course everything changed in the 60s! Alongside peace and music festivals the Italian made Programma 101 was introduced to the market and sold as a desktop computer to the ‘average customer’. Prior to 1965, computers remained reserved for engineers and scientists. The Programma 101 however offered features helpful to everyone. This machine was the size of a typewriter and was equipped with 37 keys and an in-built printer.

1970s Introduced The Mouse

A surge in technological advancements meant the Xerox Alto could not only print documents, it could send emails. This computer included a screen, keyboard and mouse and was designed for use by everyone including children. It’s suggested that the Xerox Alto influenced Apple designs in the 80s.  

The 1980s Apple’s Macintosh Changed the Computer Industry

In 1984, Steve Jobbs introduced the world to his Macintosh computer, a brand that has only strengthened over time. Similarly to the Xerox Alto, the Mcintosh was available to everyone and included a screen (small at 9 inches), keyboard and mouse. What was prevalent about this design was the interface of windows and icons. The Macintosh was extremely light in comparison to previous machines weighing just 22 pounds. If you were lucky enough to afford one, the Apple Macintosh would have set you back £2,092. This is the equivalent to just under £5,000 in today’s money.

Stepping into the 90s with the iMac G3

The iMac G3 was customisable and quirky with its Bondi blue clear casing. Alongside the now standard screen, keyboard and mouse, this machine included USB ports and was designed to be portable. Introduced in 1997, again by Steve Jobbs, it’s suggested that the 800,000 computers sold in the first five months of launch actually saved Apple from going under. Imagine that!

2000s and Laptops

In a bid to make computers as portable as possible, laptops increased in popularity in the early 2000s. Thanks to Steve Jobbs in 2008, the first ever MacBook Air was introduced to the world. Brave enough to remove the CD drive this machine measured 0.76 inches thick and changed the industry forever. 

Benefits of IT Support as a Service

Posted on by Peter

Since the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent lock downs, businesses have forever changed the way they operate. With staff members all over the country forced to carry out duties from home, higher management and company owners have realised the benefits attached. Today we’re investigating the advantages of outsourcing IT Support as a service.

Onsite & Remote IT Support

Remote IT support involves troubleshooting and fixing computer related issues directly from another location. Technicians have the ability to remotely connect to a device when needed. If onsite help is required, a specialist will travel to the required location.

Will my business benefit from remote IT services?

Outsourcing IT support is not a service reserved for larger businesses. Smaller companies will save time and money when opting to outsource. Remote IT services provide a cost effective solution to gaining the same support levels received by corporate giants. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of remote IT support and Help Desk services.

You’ll Experience a Rapid Response

If experiencing issues, your remote specialist can jump on the problem immediately without having to travel to your place of work. This process ensures maximum uptime and uninterrupted workflow.

Operational Costs are Reduced

The savings a company makes when opting to outsource IT support is potentially rather large. Because the cost of a dedicated support contract is significantly lower than hiring a specific individual, companies are able to manage cash flow much more effectively whilst passing these savings onto customers.

Productivity Increases

Because remote IT support means there’s always someone on hand, productivity naturally increases. Updates, changes and fixes can be actioned at any time so employees are free to focus on daily tasks without interruption. With the right support contract in place that’s bespoke to the needs of your business, less time is required managing employee schedules.

Employee Benefits

Giving employees the option to work in the office, from home or using the hybrid method offers trust and respect. Creating an efficient, relaxed environment where people can work where they feel most comfortable means productivity increases alongside loyalty. Giving employees such freedom reduces staff turnover whilst creating a solid work environment.

Knowledge is Shared

With inhouse IT support, employees bring problems directly to the responsible specialist who will make the fix alone before moving on. With remote support services, knowledge is shared between the contractor and employee, helping improve staff’s overall ability to restore or maintain operations.

Early Access to New Technologies

It’s easy to rely on exissting technologies whilst carrying out the same processes over and over again. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it right? Becoming stuck in your ways means you could be missing out on not only utilising some of the newest technologies but creating further time and monetary savings. Specialist IT support companies receive all the necessary training and guidance regarding brand new technology. In turn, applications worth considering for your business are offered quickly and sometimes with discounted access.

Patches, Updates & Maintenance

Outsourced IT support services cover everything required for a safe and smooth user experience including cyber security. The provision of regular maintenance means downtime decreases whilst viruses and cyber threats are closely monitored. In addition, the risk of data breaches is reduced alongside compliance violations and damage to brand value. When researching IT support companies, choose one that provides managed security services. With cyber threats at an all time high, this is the ideal solution for smaller companies without an in house IT team. Specialists have the ability to manage integrations, permissions and more.

Top 5 Reasons to Pick up the Phone

Posted on by Peter

In the modern world each business day is guided by a multiude of emails and text messages as a quick, viable way to communicate. With ease of use and the availability of such technologies, we sometimes forget the benefits of taking time out to pick up the phone. Today we’re investigating the ‘personal touch’ approach and how it’s made easy with the likes of VoIp services (voice over internet protocol) and 3CX.

Number 1: People like the personal touch

Picking up the phone to speak with someone requires taking time out of your day. The question to ask is ‘are your clients worth this time’? They absolutely are of course! Having a verbal conversation shows not only you have the time, but that you’re invested, attentive and able to demonstrate high levels of customer service.

Number 2: Information is relayed faster

Emails and text messages are great. Within 30 seconds, you’ve conveyed your message to the other end. How is your message perceived though? Is it necessarily in the way you meant? By the time you’re on with your next task, a response could be ready and waiting in your inbox evoking further questions. When making a phone call you’re able to relay information, take feedback and get on with the rest of your day. Quite simply, there’s no back and forth.

Number 3: Phone calls offer authority

How do you feel when receiving a letter? This traditional method of relaying information is one of authority and the same can be said for a phone call. Delivering a message with your voice is a definitive and trustworthy way of ensuring your company and clients are on the same page.

Number 4: Video calls can be cumbersome

Over the last couple of years many of us have become used to the likes of Teams and Zoom. A lot of companies continue using these as a viable way of communication where face-to-face meetings aren’t possible. That said, a video call isn’t always necessary, or comfortable! Depending on the context of a conversion, video calls can sometimes be awkward with a phone call proving the better solution.

Number 5: Cost isn’t an issue

Prior to now, landline calls were anything but cheap, especially when calling abroad. That’s no longer the case, especially with the use of VoIP. For minimum fees and minute bundles, making calls no longer has to be an expensive task.

Introducing 3CX

We’ve established the importance of picking up the phone and understand the importance of this in business. Essential to the smooth running, there’s an option we’d like to discuss for smaller companies. Ideal for micro businesses 3CX StartUP covers everything from configuration to choosing the right settings. Calls and messages come through via a web client where you can directly manage set up.

How does 3CX StartUP work?

For companies with 10 or less, the use of advanced features isn’t required.Set up is straightforward and can be completed by yourself or IT provider. Within settings, users can be added easily and begin using the system. Anyone choosing to call you via 3CX will not be charged. Users are assigned a ‘talk link’ that can be placed within an email signature and across social channels. In addition to standard phone calls, you also have the option to create video conferencing. Connecting to mobiles and landlines requires account creation with a SIP trunk provider. This is something you can do yourself or pass across to IT support.

At Andromeda Solutions we can help with 3CX, making your business run smoothly whilst you keep clients happy with telephone conversations!

Andromeda Solutions Wins 2022-23 North England Prestige Award For IT Support!

Posted on by Peter

Andromeda Solutions has triumphed yet again, this time at the North England Prestige Awards, where the company has scooped a prize recognising superb performance in delivering IT Support and relevant services.

What Are The Prestige Awards?

Introduced by Corporate LiveWire, the Prestige Awards have a long and highly impressive global pedigree, having handed out plaudits all around the world. From Australia, Africa and Iceland to the USA and UK, Prestige Awards have spent a number of years dedicating their work to the recognition of the very best businesses making standout achievements in their industry or sector.

The Prestige Awards are designed to highlight that often it’s the smaller to medium-sized enterprises which are making a big impact; a category of businesses all too often overlooked for the big international prizes. As a result, the team behind Prestige Awards hones attention on varying regions and cities, choosing locations where communities of independent SMEs are thriving. Recent awards in the UK have focused around Oxfordshire, Wales, Scotland, Bristol, Central England, and, of course, the North of England, for which Andromeda Solutions was nominated.

Why The Focus On SMEs?


The Prestige Awards focus on recognising the achievements of SMEs (small to medium sized enterprises) as opposed to rewarding bigger names that may have a national or even global presence. This decision to focus on SMEs was born to the belief that independent companies are the real backbone of a nations economy whilst also reflecting unique strengths and other qualities that stem from their local environment.

Nominations for standout small businesses are invited from each region with the aim of finding the enterprise which has represented the best in its particular field over the previous twelve month period. In order for the judges to make the right decision, each nomination must be backed up with evidence of the business’s excellence, including positive testimonials from clients, details of any awards received or accreditation’s earned, as well as demonstrating how the company goes above and beyond their competition.

We are delighted to say that winning this coveted Prestige Award, Andromeda Solutions has proven it has fulfilled all of these requisites, showing yet again we provide the very highest quality of IT services in the North of England.

Andromeda Solution Delivers Standout IT Support

Our many glowing testimonials from delighted customers have proven the quality of our IT services and support, time and again. With praise for “outstanding”, “honest”, and “efficient” services, it’s no wonder we have coveted 5 star ratings on Facebook, Yell, and Google. Indeed, we’ve already been recognised by several other awarding bodies, earning an impressive array of titles from Three Best Rated, the Global Excellence Awards, and the Northern Enterprise Awards, to name but a few.

Working with both domestic customers and SMEs we’re able to help with every aspect of IT. From networking and security systems, VOIP telephony and servers, through to getting you set up with the most advanced Cloud software, Andromeda takes a corporate-style approach to small and medium-sized enterprise solutions, ensuring the most efficient and effective results. We also take care of routine maintenance and repairs at a time that best suits you or your business (many problems can even be dealt with remotely for maximum convenience).

Discover Andromeda Experience For Yourself

Andromeda Solutions is so confident your small to medium-sized business will love our award-winning IT support and services that we are offering a 30 Day Free trial, subject to terms and conditions. Why not get in touch to learn more about our incredible range of services. Your call will be put through to one of our skilled IT consultants straight away, rather than leaving you to deal with any call handlers. With transparent pricing and clear communication every step of the way, isn’t it time you tried our IT services for yourself?

Choosing Cloud Storage As Part Of Your IT Services: How does it work?

Posted on by Peter

In recent years, more and more organisations have expanded IT Support Services, embracing the latest cloud technologies, for very good reason. The cloud delivers incredible data analytics and processing power whilst offering unlimited rapid scalability. This is done at highly cost-effective prices.

Offering superb storage solutions is another of the Cloud’s strengths. Read on to discover more about what cloud storage actually means and how it works.

What Is ‘The Cloud’?

When people talk about “the Cloud”, it’s easy to imagine our data simply being held vaguely in the atmosphere somewhere. Perhaps in the very same elusive ether that provides other modern technologies, such as wireless internet connectivity or 5G. In truth, it’s a little more down-to-earth.

The cloud is a generic name for thousands upon thousands of computers linked to the internet which can be drawn upon to deliver the processing power required by its clients. The largest “clouds” can be made up of computers distributed over a number of data centres (vast premises which store and manage these machines) in a number of different locations. By offering shared computing resources in this way, cloud computing opens up incredible performance to users whilst keeping costs low.

So rather than enduring the expense of purchasing and maintaining relevant hardware to store all company data, using the cloud allows you to simply subscribe to a storage service.

What About Cloud IT Storage?

When you choose to store your business data (which can include user, organisational, or application data) in the cloud, this means that in physical terms, data will be held on servers at a data centre location, where it will be managed securely. The data centre operators are responsible for ensuring company data remains accessible.

Accessing the data can be achieved in a number of ways, too: such as through an API (application programming interface), a CMS (content management system), or a cloud storage gateway. There are three main options when it comes to adopting cloud storage services. There is the public cloud option, the private cloud option, and the hybrid cloud option. Understanding the differences between the three will help you to make the best choice for your organisation.

Public Cloud

Public cloud is the easiest to get started with and makes a good choice for small to medium-sized businesses, or where it is largely unstructured data which will be stored. In this provision, the data is kept on machines owned and operated by the service provider (such as Microsoft Azure, Amazon, or Google). This means your company’s data could be held across a number of different data centres, or even different countries. This is useful, however, as it reduces the chance of substantial data loss should a disaster such as fire or flood affect a single data-holding location. In this type of storage service, you will usually “pay as you use”, making it a very cost-efficient choice, although transaction charges may also feature.

Private Cloud

The private cloud option allows a business or organisation to create their own in-house cloud, keeping data securely behind a firewall. This option is better suited to larger companies, as it requires stringent security and managed IT services, and of course, taking on the expense of both purchasing the necessary machines and maintaining them.

Hybrid Cloud Model

Finally, a hybrid cloud model blends public and private clouds to create a bespoke environment that can deliver high levels of flexibility and data deployment options. However, the task of administering a hybrid cloud can be extremely challenging because it is important to ensure that both public and private platforms and applications work together properly.

Practicalities of Cloud Storage IT Services

Whilst it’s clear that choosing to store your organisation’s data in the cloud can offer some superb benefits, it’s still important to assess whether it’s the right choice for your needs. Assess the costs of cloud storage, including the expense of setting up and running your own machines if you want to create a private or hybrid cloud environment, likely requiring a dedicated IT services team. Be sure to create a cloud safety policy for all staff to follow, in order to ensure that accessing data in this way is managed securely. That being said, for purposes such as backing up files, DR (disaster recovery), or archiving “cold” (infrequently used) data, the cloud is an invaluable tool to have at your disposal.

Our expert team here at Andromeda IT Solutions will be very happy to understand your organisational needs and offer appropriate cloud-based solutions to ensure you achieve a truly cost-effective solution.