June 23
Every month, we're committed to providing you with updates and insights on how we relentlessly endeavour to offer you exceptional value for your monthly investment with us. 
Our goal is not just to meet your expectations, but to exceed them consistently. So, remember to check out the highlights in our monthly Super Emails. This month, we're bringing your attention to an essential tip - Keep an eye on your spam folder!
Google Workspace, our preferred platform for most clients, is renowned for its robust spam filtering capabilities. The technology and resources behind Google's platform allow for smooth email delivery, which is integral to efficient business communication. Nonetheless, even the most advanced systems can occasionally misfire - the spam filters might work a bit too efficiently at times, causing a rare genuine email to be mistakenly categorized as spam.
In an era where important information is frequently transmitted via email, whether it be invoices, contract details, or essential notifications like insurance renewals, these misplaced emails can sometimes hold significant value or urgency. I recall one incident where a crucial insurance renewal notification was inadvertently directed to my spam folder - a subtle reminder of the importance of vigilance.
Therefore, we recommend you to periodically review your spam folder, ensuring that you don't miss out on any important correspondence. Clearing out the spam folder also helps maintain your email hygiene and optimizes the overall functioning of your mailbox.
Remember, our commitment to you extends beyond providing an email service - we're here to ensure your experience is as seamless and efficient as possible. Let's navigate the digital landscape together, with you steering your business forward and us safeguarding your communication highway.
June 23
Rediscovering the Power of QR Codes: An Old Tool with New Momentum
QR Codes, those familiar black-and-white squares that once seemed to be fading into the annals of digital history, are making a notable comeback, fueled by the operational changes brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. They have been repurposed and reintroduced into our daily lives, taking on a crucial role in various business applications. 
Previously seen as an innovative, albeit underutilized tool, QR codes are now increasingly appearing on business cards, the sides of vans, storefronts, and even menus. They serve as gateways to a business's digital front, providing quick and effortless access to websites, contact information, promotional offers, and so much more.
The appeal of QR codes lies in their simplicity and convenience. A quick scan with a smartphone camera can seamlessly connect potential customers to your business. Imagine a passerby scanning the code on your van and being instantly directed to your website or an interested network contact quickly accessing your portfolio from your business card. The possibilities are numerous and powerful.
Here at NRG Digital, we have the capability to generate QR codes linking directly to your website. We believe in leveraging every tool available to boost your business's visibility and accessibility. If you're interested in exploring this technology further, please reach out to us. Together, we can modernize your business presence and harness the potential of QR codes.
May 23
Every month, we are here to make sure websites are live and emails are flowing and client requests are actioned. On the whole May has been another stable month with just the odd glitch. But as per usual if you do have a query or update required please get in touch in the usual way.
April 23
You Need A Hero - Claims Hero: Unmasking Mis-sold Business Energy Contracts
Every month, we feature an exceptional client website, and this month, we're proud to present Claims Hero. They specialize in helping businesses who have been mis-sold energy contracts, recovering thousands of pounds on their behalf. In the UK, mis-sold energy contracts are a significant issue for businesses, resulting in financial losses and unnecessary complications. Claims Hero is dedicated to investigating the legitimacy of your energy contract, ensuring that you receive fair treatment, and securing any compensation you may be owed. To learn more about Claims Hero and how they can potentially save your business money, visit their website by clicking here. If you believe your business may have been a victim of a mis-sold energy contract, give this local hero a chance to make things right!
Terms & Conditions: Protecting Your Business and Your Clients
Many businesses overlook the importance of having comprehensive terms and conditions on their websites. These documents serve as the legal foundation for any transactions or interactions that occur on your site. They protect your business and your clients by clearly outlining each party's rights and responsibilities. If you're a Platinum or Enterprise package client, we can draft a basic set of terms and conditions tailored to your business. To take advantage of this service and ensure your website meets legal requirements, click here for more information.
White Van Men (and Women): Empowering Tradespeople with Top-notch Websites
We understand the importance of having a strong online presence, especially for tradespeople in today's digital age. That's why we're dedicated to helping them showcase their skills and services with professional, user-friendly websites. If you know any skilled tradespeople who could benefit from our expertise, please mention our name and encourage them to reach out. By mentioning your name, they'll receive a special deal, and you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you helped a fellow business owner thrive. To learn more about our web design services for tradespeople, click here.
Any Updates? Keeping Your Website Fresh and Engaging
Your website is a living, breathing representation of your business, and it's essential to keep it up-to-date and engaging. Whether you're looking to add new content, update your design, or improve site performance, our team is here to help. We offer face-to-face meetings to discuss your needs and ensure that your website remains a powerful tool for your business. To schedule a meeting or request updates, click here. Together, we'll ensure your website remains a vital asset in your marketing strategy.
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Most of our clients are now on our Google Workspace platform. To learn more about the latest features in our preferred email solution click here.
February 2023
We will be updating our clients each month via our 'Super Email' with excting new developments to give you value for money for what you pay each month. Stay tuned!
January 2023
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If its been a while since you have updated your website please get in touch if you need us to carry out any updates. As per usual the offer is always there to do any updates your package may allow. And if you prefer a 'face to face' please get in touch in the usual way.
Monday January 9th 2023
An outage at our third party hosting companies data centre has thankfully been resolved today. The outage caused a brief interuption to our clients websites and email services. As per usual we are on hand to deal with this and any requests or concerns our clients may have. Click here for further updates on this particular outage.
December 2023
During December once again we are here for our clients 9am to 5pm (and beyond) for support with both website and email updates and requests.
November 2023
During November once again we are here for our clients 9am to 5pm (and beyond) for support with both website and email updates and requests.
October 2022
DDOS Attack on our server this month. Our developer had to intervene to protect our databases from attempts to break through defences. Problem resolved but a reminder of the risk and responsibilties we have on behalf of our clients.
We have since blocked various malicious IP addresses.
These bots were attacking our server trying to find SQL injections to slow down our database.
A new version of the web server has been released that enabled HTTP/3 out of the box by default.
(Previously we manually enabled HTTP/3 - but it was ‘experimental’ as the HTTP/3 specification hadn’t been finalised)
This means faster response times in latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer & Safari.
It’s also fallback support for HTTP/2 & HTTP/1, if you don’t have a HTTP/3 enabled browser.
Along with this, it also includes some security fixes and other speed improvements.
We’ve tested most of the main sites.
August 2022
July 2022
During July once again we are here for our clients 9am to 5pm (and beyond) for support with both website and email updates and requests.
In particular the transition of the majority of our clients emails from Googles GSuite platform to the new (replacement) Google Workspace platform.
Even during our staff annual leave we always have cover to deal with requests from our clients.
This month we have had the usual 'call outs' regarding spam emails and the like.
June 2022
During June once again we are here for our clients 9am to 5pm (and beyond) for support with both website and email updates and requests. Even during our staff annual leave we always have cover to deal with requests from our clients.
May 2022
No matter what package you are on, we are here for you on a retainer again to help with support (and development) requests such as these (below)...
Once again we were here for our clients 9am to 5pm (and beyond) for support with both their website and email.
We have deployed V5.0 of 'StartASite' to our new www.nrgdigitalsystems.co.uk website to beta test its performance before rolling that out to other clients.
April 2022
No matter what package you are on, we are here for you on a retainer again to help with support (and development) requests such as these (below) we have received this month...
Once again we were here for our clients 9am to 5pm (and beyond) for support with both their website and email. All requests by our clients were handled and brought to a successful conclusion.
This month we are rolling out Version 5.0 of our own Content Management System 'StartASite'. One of the main benefits for our clients (on Platinum or above) is the higher Google rankings this will enable.
March 2022
We are here for you on a retainer to help with support requests such as these (below) we have received this month... 
Last year (in the first major change in 10 years) Google introduced what was described as a game changer in that clients could leave both positive or negative review on your Google Business account.
Google Business Account verification. And because we act as 'super admin' on your Google Workspace account we may need to help you create a support ticket and help set up the sending of your postcard from Google to your business address. 
This normally comes through in 4 days and contains a code to authenticate.
However we have had a first this month for a client who actually needed us to help set up a video call in situ in the business premises with Google to authenticate the fact she was actually working from there (which was never in doubt) but could be the start of a trend. She described the experience as 'surreal' and personaly think it could be quite intrusive, however in the post covid era where many of us got used Zoom calls and the like this may in fact become the 'norm'.
Contact us if you would like to know more about how we can help you set up a Google Business Account and the benefits that go with it.
During March once again we were here for our clients 9am to 5pm (and beyond) for support with both website and email updates and requests. All requests by our clients were handled and brought to a successful conclusion.
February 2022
Quite a lot of problems with spam emails this month. It is always an ongoing battle but this month has been particularly bad. Main issue has been whereby genuine enquiries that should go straight into inbox of clients Google Workspace accounts are being flagged as spam and clients are sometimes unaware this has happened.
As such we have been working hard to in the first instance keep an eye on this and then actioning techniques to address the issue.
January 2022
We are constantly working on ways to improve the SEO of our content management system, StartASite.
Here are some to the areas we worked on on our clients behalf during January 2022.
Speed
Improve the loading times by upgrading PHP
Automatically merge the CSS & JS files, which should mean faster loading times
‘Lazy-load’ images - only load the images that you initial see and the load the rest in when you scroll
Structure content
Open Graph protocol - https://ogp.me/
Correct alt & title properties
XML SiteMap
December 2021
We are constantly working on ways to improve the SEO of our content management system, StartASite. Here are some to the areas we worked on on our clients behalf during December 2022.
TinyMCE is an open source CMS solution we have plugged in to StartASite. We had a TinyMCE issue and resolved this by upgrading it to latest version 5.10.1 (previously we were on 4.9.4) —> , so now we can update the images without TinyMCE breaking the HTML.
November 2021
Details to follow...
As well as specific instructions our website clients have given us this month we have also carried out the following important ongoing development and maintenance.
October 13th 2021
As if to emphasise some of the previous months' posts our landlord University of Sunderland was hit by a suspected cyber attack today. This has meant with no access to internet we have had to work from home. Luckily due to Covid 19 we have put in place an infrastructure to be able to do this and support our website clients remotely. Below is form the BBC website click here for more.
Sunderland University has been hit by "extensive IT disruption" which has "all the hallmarks of a cyber-attack".
Telephone, website and IT systems are down but face-to-face teaching would continue as far as possible, it said.
The university is working with police and other agencies to find out what has happened.
"We take the security of our systems extremely seriously and will work to resolve the situation as quickly as possible," a spokesperson said.
October 5th 2021
Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp major worldwide outage last night. Thankfully no outages for us here at NRG Digital. We have moved most of our clients websites to Amazon Web Services and now most of our clients emails use Google Workspace. But this is the type of thing where we will delve into this incident to analyze the technical side to learn from that in a way to protect our clients.
September 2021
More maintenance needed to safeguard the integrity of enquiry forms on several of our clients websites over the weekend. Ongoing battle. Resolved (again).
Issue has just started today after changes by our hosting solution (Amazon Web Services) in that from time to time they tighten up on security filters on their side to guard against files being uploaded containing viruses. Changes made by our dev. Resolved within 2 hours.
Google have decided to change their billing system. Google Cloud and Google Workspace accounts as well as contracts have been migrated this month from Google Ireland Ltd to Google Cloud EMEA Ltd. ("Google Cloud EMEA")*. If you pay by direct debit and are a Google Ads customer, you will receive separate instructions to renew your direct debit mandate. Sorted at our end on behalf our clients. No need to do anything your side.
August 2021
We have become aware of problems with spam 'breaking' enquiry forms and contact us forms this month. It's a constant battle against nefarious attempts (mainly from Russia) to bombard servers in the West with fake enquiries. It's not just us but it's right across the board. So unfortunately until we got on top of this several forms have been coming through 'garbled'. However as part of the regular maintenance we carry out each day / week and month we have hopefully restored the integrity to our clients website forms.
July 2021
Again spending a lot of time again working on email functionality and studying Cyber Security this month. This will be an ongoing project over the coming months. Email stability for a lot of our clients can be as (and sometimes even more) important than their websites.
June 2021
Spending a lot of time working on email functionality and studying Cyber Security this month. This will be an ongoing project over the coming months.
May 2021
Spending a lot of time working on email functionality and studying the different features relating to Google WorkSpace accounts for our clients. In some cases we liaise with thrid party IT Companies to ensure your email services running smoothly.
Working our way through snags caused by the move to Amazon. On the whole things are much better now but we have noticed a few issues that need resolving including.
* Recurrence of spam email coming in through enquiries. Please bare with us we are working to resolve this. We have noticed a significant increase in this lately, we know it's annoying but we will work our way through cutting down on this. Contact us direct if you have a particular problem and need any captcha codes adding to prove your visitors are 'human'.
Saturday 8 May, 15:13
We noticed an issue with StartASite Log ins yesterday.
The logs were full, we have deleted them and reduced the logging level and reduced the retention policy. Problem is resolved now so you should be able to log in again now to update your website.
Wed, 5 May, 21:06 Server maintenance
While we were working the web server went down, it just exited without an error. Looking into the logs it was due to bots scanning for subdomains for one of our clients, their 3rd party who had setup the DNS records and had put a wildcard subdomain record. This meant you can have any subdomain (for example http://www.this.should.not.work.but.it.does.our client.co.uk/). When a new website is loaded the 1st thing the web server does is it requests a SSL certificate from Lets Encrypt, but because there was a bulk request for over 2,000 of these subdomains (www.blog, www.www.blog, www.www.www.blog, etc.) it took down our web server.
We have fixed it so it will only now request a SSL certificate if the domain is known to StartASite (in the DB)
We have updated the web server and the PHP service to automatically restart, just in case this happens again in the future.
April 2021
Thursday 15th April. Amazon Move Complete! This week has seen a big 'virtual' move for us here at NRG Digital. We have now successfully moved most of our clients websites to Amazon Web Services.
Wednesday 14th April Spending all day checking through our websites that have migrated to Amazon.
Tuesday 13th April 1.28 pm All of the websites are across on to Amazon Web Services now. Any problems if you see any missing links or images etc let us know please.
Tuesday 13th April 9.25 am Day 2 of 3 of our Amazon Web Services migration. All going to plan..but if you do spot any bugs let us know.
Monday 12th April 2.30pm. We are not going anywhere its just the websites that are moving! Our clients can look forward to a more stable futureproof service after we have moved to the new host.
Should all be sorted by this Thursday (15th April) morning and we'll pick up on any ongoing work and updates we have on the go for you all!
Monday 12th April 1.40pm. All is going well with our move to Amazon. Just ironing out the odd glitch as we go.
Monday 12th April. This week sees a big move for us here at NRG Digital. We are moving most of our clients websites to Amazon Web Services. If you are one of our clients and would like to monitor the progress either here on this page or follow us on Twitter for regular updates. 
March 2021
Further details to follow... but work carried out includes work on our content management system StartASite. We have tweaked the line spacing issues we have had which will also help with SEO. We have also carried out some work on our Vimeo account, this is the platform where we post bespoke tutorial videos for our clients. Would you like a bespoke videos to explain anything you are unsure about? (Relating to your website or emails) Drop us an email or call us with your request.
February 2021
Further details to follow... but work carried out includes
Changes to Google Analytics. We have updated our protocols to allow clients access to this feature should they require it. Further planning for our move to Amazon Web Services. Checking each of our clients sites to make sure everything is in place for the move in April '21.
Further development of our main 'go to' email client solution we combine with our websites Google Workspace. Google has recently changed this platform from Google GSuite (to Workspace). And as such we have needed to invest time in keeping up with any developments that may affect our clients email services.
January 2021
Further details to follow... but work carried out includes
Forward planning for our move to Amazon Web Services. Why are we doing this? In the longer term we believe 'bigger is better'. Amazon Web Services are one of the largest providers in the world with some of the most reliable infrastructure. (And yes it's the same Amazon as the global delivery giant ran until recently by the worlds richest man Jeff Bezos). Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the cloud platform offered by Amazon.com. AWS is a frontrunner to other cloud computing platforms such as competitor Microsoft Azure. In a world of digitization and rapid changes, cloud services are center of attention everywhere. Amazon has become a leader in Cloud technologies proving that they can meet the demands of any organisations at any level. It is for this reason NRG Digital have chosen AWS to migrate our websites across to.
We intend moving all but a few of our websites to AWS in April 2021. This involves merging databases of our two existing hosting solutions into one. Benefits to the move are many but include a more efficient quicker server that will speed up website loading times and improve SEO rankings for our clients.
As PC Mag editor Wayne Rash said in a review of the best cloud providerts "In short, if you want to commit to a cloud service that's going to be here not just next year but for the next decade, then AWS is your choice."
