On October 20, 2025, Amazon Web Services (AWS) experienced a major outage in its US-East-1 region, disrupting over 1,000 companies worldwide—including banks, airlines, media platforms, and critical infrastructure services like Coinbase, Reddit, and Disney+. For Portland SMBs relying on cloud-hosted applications, this event was a wake-up call: cloud convenience must be matched with cloud resilience. The outage stemmed from a … Read More
AI for Portland Businesses: Smarter Support for Smarter Growth
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a tool for tech giants—it’s a powerful asset for small and mid-sized businesses across the Portland Metro area. From automating routine tasks to enhancing cybersecurity and customer service, AI is helping local organizations work smarter, faster, and more securely. But successful AI adoption requires more than just plugging in a new tool. It … Read More
Protecting Your Business: Smarter Password Security and MFA Practices for Portland Organizations
In today’s digital landscape, password security is no longer just an IT concern—it’s a business imperative. For companies across the Portland Metro area, especially those working under regulatory frameworks or handling sensitive client data, weak password practices can open the door to costly breaches and compliance failures. At Polar Systems, we’ve seen firsthand how simple changes in password hygiene and … Read More
Why Portland Businesses Need Strategic MSPs—Not Just IT Support
In today’s fast-paced digital world, Portland businesses face more than just technical glitches. From cybersecurity threats to compliance requirements and the need for scalable growth, the challenges are complex—and growing. While traditional IT support may help fix a broken printer or reset a password, strategic Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer far more: they align technology with business goals to drive long-term success. … Read More
Cybersecurity Insurance in Oregon: A Must-Have for Portland SMBs
What Is Cybersecurity Insurance and Why Portland Businesses Need It Cybersecurity insurance protects businesses from the financial fallout of cyberattacks, data breaches, and ransomware. For Portland SMBs, especially those in regulated industries like healthcare, legal, and energy, this coverage is no longer optional—it’s a strategic necessity. Key Benefits: The Cost of Cyber Incidents for Oregon SMBs Cyberattacks are expensive. According … Read More