Ragsdale Technology, LLC

Blog

  • Survival Of Legacy Systems: Preventing downtime in a factory.

    Survival Of Legacy Systems: Preventing downtime in a factory.

    Overview:

    At Ragsdale Technology, we specialize in bridging the gap between traditional and emerging technologies. One of our recent projects involved helping a wood furniture manufacturer in Western Idaho stabilize and modernize their legacy systems without the cost of replacing critical software or equipment.

    The Challenge:

    The client’s operations relied on:

    • A CNC machine running on Windows 95
    • A draftsman workstation running Windows XP
    • Legacy CAD software is critical for designing and manufacturing furniture

    The aging hardware caused constant crashes, blue screens, and slowdowns. The aging hardware also caused issues with the potential of Backup/Disaster Recovery. Simply finding replacement parts was becoming untenable. Upgrading to modern machines wasn’t an option—their software simply wouldn’t run on new systems. The cost of upgrading to new software was estimated to be over $100,000, a cost that could not be rationalized by the client. On top of that, the environment introduced large amounts of heat, dust, and electrical interference.

    Our Solution:

    We utilized weatherproof boxes to provide both environmental protection along with mechanical protection of the switches and serial converter.

    Ragsdale Technology designed and implemented a creative, cost-effective solution:

    • Virtualization: We migrated the legacy Windows 95 and XP systems to a Proxmox-based virtualized environment on a secure, climate-controlled office server. The server was built out by Ragsdale Technology to allow for reliability and expandability while keeping cost constraints in consideration.
    • Thin Clients: We replaced the old workstations at both the Drafting Desk and the CNC with modern thin clients, giving the client fast, reliable access to their virtual machines. Ragsdale Technology implores Ragsdale Tech VDI to allow for rapid and constant access to the VMs.
    • Fiber Optic Networking: To bridge the long distance to the CNC machine and avoid interference from heavy equipment, we ran fiber optic cable across the plant to provide better connectivity.
    • Centralized & Secure: Keeping the systems in a clean, temperature-controlled space extends equipment life and improves reliability. The centralized solution also allows for the simple execution of a recommended 3-2-1 backup solution.

    We utilized weatherproof boxes to provide both environmental protection and mechanical protection of the switches and serial converter.

    The Results:

    • Zero crashes since deployment
    • Faster, more stable performance for CAD and CNC operations
    • Seamless communication between the virtualized systems and the CNC machine
    • Improved productivity and morale—employees no longer waste time troubleshooting old PCs. The stress of wondering if mission-critical systems would turn on each day is gone.
    The server was placed where the former Drafting computer lived. We also ensured that the server would be protected from grid issues by placing it on a UPS.

    The server was placed where the former Drafting computer used to live. We also ensured that the server would be protected from grid issues by placing it on a UPS.

    Next Steps:

    With their core systems stable and future-proofed, we’re now planning to virtualize and centralize their bookkeeping and sales systems for even greater efficiency and data security.

    At Ragsdale Technology, we thrive on solving “impossible” IT problems—keeping legacy operations alive while preparing our clients for the future. We understand that not every business can or wants to upgrade systems.

    Our approach ensures that organizations can keep doing what they do best, while we do what we do best: IT.

    Ragsdale Technology is ready to become your trusted partner for IT growth and success. We would love to talk with you. Please reach out to us today.

  • What Is a Managed Service Provider (MSP) and Why Your Business Needs One

    What Is a Managed Service Provider (MSP) and Why Your Business Needs One

    Introduction

    In today’s digital world, technology is the backbone of nearly every business operation—from managing communications and data to running specialized software and maintaining cybersecurity. But maintaining an efficient and secure IT environment isn’t easy, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. That’s where a Managed Service Provider (MSP) comes in.

    What Is an MSP?

    A Managed Service Provider is an external partner responsible for managing a company’s IT systems and infrastructure. MSPs offer a range of services including:

    • 24/7 system monitoring and maintenance
    • Helpdesk and user support
    • Cybersecurity management
    • Data backup and disaster recovery
    • Patch management and software updates
    • IT strategy and planning

    Instead of hiring a full in-house IT team, businesses partner with MSPs to gain expert support at a predictable monthly cost.

    Why Your Business Needs One

    1. Cost-Effective IT Management

    Hiring, training, and retaining IT staff can be costly. With an MSP, you get a team of experts for a fraction of the cost—without the overhead. You do not need to worry about scaling your IT force as the MSP is able to dial in what you and your company needs rapidly.

    2. Increased Uptime and Productivity

    Proactive monitoring and maintenance mean we often fix issues before you even know they exist. That means less downtime, fewer disruptions, and more time for your team to focus on what matters. A common theme with MSPs is to prevent issues before they happen. A quality MSP will configure robust monitoring tools so they know when something is not running right well before it causes a major outage.

    3. Enhanced Security

    Cybersecurity threats evolve daily. MSPs provide a multilayered security strategy including managed firewalls, antivirus solutions, and phishing protection to keep your business safe. These may include advanced firewalls, endpoint protection, security and compliance policies, along with constantly evaluating risk points.

    4. Scalability and Flexibility

    As your business grows, so do your IT needs. We scale services as needed—whether you’re adding new users, locations, or services.

    5. Expert Support and Strategy

    We’re not just here to fix things—we help plan for the future. From cloud migrations to compliance needs, we provide long-term strategy alongside daily support.

    Real-Life Example

    One of our clients is a construction company that has many moving parts. Ragsdale Technology has been able to remove the workload of managing IT from the owners allowing them to focus on their growth and completing client projects quickly and effectively.

    By taking the position of IT lead for them, we provide them guidance and planning to constantly make sure they are headed in the correct direction.

    Ready to Modernize Your IT?

    Partnering with an MSP allows your business to offload technical headaches and focus on growth. Whether you’re a team of 5 or 50, we’re here to help you succeed with secure, reliable, and efficient IT services.

    Ragsdale Technology is ready to become your trusted partner for IT growth and success.

    We would love to talk with you. Please reach out to us today.