Switch2asp Exchange FAQ’s
Q: How secure is the service?
A: Switch2asp has been audited for BS 7799 compliance and all your data is stored on a highly resilient system. There are also high levels of physical security at our data centres.
Q: What about viruses?
A: All inbound and outbound e-mail and attachments passing through the Switch2asp service is automatically scanned for viruses.
Q: How is security handled across the Internet?
A: All Web browser connections to Switch2asp Exchange services across the Internet use Secure Socket Layers (SSL) to provide secure access, and all Outlook 2007 client e-mail traffic to / from the server is 128bit encrypted.
Q: Do I need a firewall?
A: Normally we would recommend a firewall for any permanent Internet connection (one that is connected for long periods of time). However this will depend on how sensitive the data is on your Network. Of course, the Switch2asp network is firewalled and virus protected.
Q: Is my data on the same server as other companies'?
A: Our standard service uses a shared server, with strong security to ensure that your data can only be accessed by you.
Q: What stops other companies accessing my data?
A: The 'credentials' for each customer are created discreetly within each Company group. Because all security and access rights are assigned at group levels, we can be sure that each company's data is maintained securely.
Q: How do I connect to the Internet?
A: That is entirely up to you. You can choose dial-up, ISDN, Cable or leased line connectivity, and you can pick any ISP (internet service provider). For some users, a combination of these is the best solution.
Q: What if my ISP connection fails?
A: That depends on which application software you're using. If you use Outlook Web Access, you will have to wait until your connection is re-established, and then you can carry on from where you left off. If you are using Outlook 2007, you will be able to continue working whilst disconnected. When you next connect, the client will automatically resynchronise with the service.
Q: What if Switch2asp's ISP connection fails?
A: That is extremely unlikely as Switch2asp maintains diverse connectivity to all its systems. By using a number of different telecom's carriers and ISPs, we spread the risk, and users will not even notice the failure of one connection. Of course, in the highly unlikely event of all Switch2asp's carriers or ISPs going down, then service would be interrupted.
Q: Can I have a permanent connection to Switch2asp?
A: Certainly - although only larger customers tend to be able to justify it. The cost may be added to the service charge.
Q: Is there any limit to the e-mail traffic I can pass?
A: No. There is no limit to the number of e-mails you can send or receive. However, the size of each mail message including attachments may be limited.
Q: What if my mailbox grows too big?
A: Hosted Exchange Mailbox and Public Folder storage capacity is aggregated across all users for a company, and can be increased if required (please refer to current price list for full details). So that you do not unexpectedly run out of space Switch2asp monitors usage for each company. Users can further expand their mail storage through a supplementary local store on their own PC.
Q: Who will manage adding and deleting users?
A: Each customer nominates authorised administrators who carry out this task using a web interface.
Q: If I remove users do I pay less?
A: You will contract for a number of users for a fixed period of time. You can remove accounts and add new ones within your contracted total.
Q: How long is the contract I have to sign?
A: Normally contracts run for a period of one year.
Q: What if I have a problem?
A: In the first instance you should contact us, we will provide first line support. If necessary, we will follow an escalation procedure that will ensure that your call is dealt with quickly and efficiently.
Q: Can I keep my existing domain email address e.g.
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?
A: Yes, you can keep your existing address - simply have all your e-mail diverted to your Switch2asp Exchange Mail account.
Q: If I get a new domain name for myself, can I use it with Switch2asp Exchange?
A: Of course. Just ask your ISP to update its systems to forward all e-mail to Switch2asp.
Q: What do I need to use the service?
A: Obviously, you need an Internet connection and a computer. As a minimum you also need a browser - Internet Explorer 6 or later is recommended. Ideally, we suggest using the supplied Microsoft Outlook 2007 client in order to access all the features and functions on offer.
Q: What features are available when using a browser?
A: You can use all major features except task lists using just a browser. However, Microsoft Outlook offers some additional 'usability' and customisation features - such as automatic look up of e-mail addresses from personal contact data; although this does not allow you to open other peoples mail folders.
Q: Can I send attachments when I am using a browser?
A: Yes - in the same way you normally do. However, the size of each mail message including attachments may be limited, depending on the Switch2asp service to which you subscribe.
Q: Why shouldn't I just use Hotmail (which is free)?
A: If you are a home user who only needs very simple e-mail services, Hotmail is fine. However, a business user needs something more serious. Switch2asp Exchange combines Hotmail's ease of access (you only need a PC with a browser and Internet connection) with the functionality of Microsoft Exchange. So there is a full calendar with resource and meeting booking facilities that allow you to check the availability of other attendees; and central address and distribution lists. To help promote virtual team working, public folders enable the sharing of important files between user groups.
Q: How long does it take to get up and running with the service?
A: Because Switch2asp Exchange is browser-based, you don't have to install new software on users' computers. So your people can be up and running within a matter of hours.
Q: I have an office with 25 users with a leased line Internet connection of 1Mbps. Will I need to upgrade my bandwidth to support the service?
A: Your current connection would be adequate.
Q: My mobile users only have a slow modem for dial up access. Will it be fast enough?
A: Usually. Modems with data rates as low as 28000 bps still offer acceptable performance.
Q: Do I have to be connected to the Internet all the time that I'm reading my e-mail or using the service?
A: If you are using Outlook Web Access you will need to maintain an Internet connection whenever you use Switch2asp Exchange. However, Outlook 2007 allows you to work off-line and then 'catch up' (resynchronise) when you next connect.
Q: Can I read my mail off-line?
A: Yes - but only when using Outlook 2007.
Q: Can I view my diary off-line?
A: Yes - but only when using Outlook 2007.
Q: Can I schedule meetings and automatically send invitations to others?
A: Yes, these features are then accessible using both Outlook 2007 and Outlook Web Access.
Q: Can I view someone else's calendar?
A: Yes with Outlook 2003 - you can view or even update other people's calendars - but only if they have given you permission to do so first.
Q: Can I protect my calendar so no one else can see it?
A: Yes. In fact, by default your calendar is only visible to you. Others can determine whether you are busy or free through the meeting scheduler, but details of what you are doing are not available to them.
Q: Can I use anyone's PC to use the service?
A: Yes. Using Outlook Web Access, you can access the service from any computer with a browser and Internet access.
Q: If I'm away, can I access ALL aspects of the Switch2asp Exchange service from a cyber café?
A: All core functionality can be accessed from a cyber café, although access to your personal task database is limited and some of the usability features available in Outlook 2007 are not available using Outlook Web Access.
Q: What if I forget my password?
A: Please contact your designated administrator who will have the tools to reset your password
