Blog
Field notes on IT work that has to hold up.
Practical writing from Helix Stax on managed IT services, cybersecurity, automation, AI, and IT strategy for Hampton Roads operators.
Latest posts
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CMMC Compliance Cost: What Small Defense Contractors Should Budget
CMMC compliance cost ranges from minimal internal time at Level 1 to $50,000–$200,000+ at Level 2 depending on your gaps, size, and whether a C3PAO third-party assessment is required. Here is what Hampton Roads contractors should plan for.
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CMMC Level 2 Requirements: What Small Defense Contractors Actually Need
CMMC Level 2 requires 110 security controls from NIST SP 800-171, a System Security Plan, and either an annual self-assessment or triennial C3PAO third-party assessment. Here is what Hampton Roads defense contractors need to know.
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Cyber Insurance Requirements: What IT Controls Insurers Actually Want
Cyber insurers commonly require MFA on email, remote access, and admin accounts; EDR on endpoints; tested offline backups; active patching; security awareness training; and a documented incident response plan. Here is what small businesses need to know before applying or renewing.
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HIPAA IT Compliance: A Practical Guide for Small Healthcare Practices
HIPAA requires administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to protect electronic patient records. Here is what small medical and dental practices in Hampton Roads need to know about the IT side.
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Managed IT Services Pricing: Per-User vs Per-Device (and How to Choose)
Managed IT services pricing follows four main models: per-user ($100–$250/mo), per-device ($50–$150/device), tiered bundles, and flat-rate. Per-user is most common. Here is what each model means and how to pick the right one.
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Small Business Cybersecurity Checklist: 10 Controls That Actually Matter
A small business cybersecurity checklist focused on the controls that block most real attacks: MFA, patching, tested backups, endpoint protection, access removal, and employee training. Each item explained in plain language with cost context.
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What Is CUI? Controlled Unclassified Information Explained for Small Defense Contractors
CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information) is unclassified federal data that still requires protection by law, regulation, or policy. Here is what Hampton Roads defense contractors need to know.
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CMMC Requirements, Explained for Small Hampton Roads Defense Contractors
CMMC requirements explained in plain English for small Hampton Roads defense contractors handling FCI, CUI, NIST 800-171, and CMMC Level 2.
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Cybersecurity for Small Businesses: A Practical Guide (No Fear, Just the Basics)
Cybersecurity for small business starts with MFA, backups, updates, access control, training, and a plain plan. Here is what to prioritize first.
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How Much Do Managed IT Services Cost? A Straight Answer for Hampton Roads Businesses
Managed IT services cost depends on users, scope, support hours, and risk. Here are realistic MSP pricing ranges for Hampton Roads firms.