Canada hits U.S. with dollar-for-dollar retaliation for Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs

Talya March 19, 2025

Canada is levelling reciprocal dollar-for-dollar tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum imports, in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 25 per cent tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports that came into effect today.

The federal government’s countermeasures will come into effect at 12:01 a.m. on March 13. The 25 per cent tariffs will hit steel products worth $12.6 billion and aluminum products worth $3 billion.

In addition, Canada is hitting another $14.2 billion worth of imported U.S. goods with fresh tariffs, totalling $29.8 billion in retaliation.

“The U.S. administration is once again inserting disruption and disorder into an incredibly successful trading partnership and raising the costs of everyday goods for Canadians and American households alike,” said Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc.

LeBlanc said the federal government learned on Tuesday that the latest U.S. tariffs would also be imposed on steel and aluminum content in certain derivative products, and officials on this side of the border are assessing this and readying a further tariff response if warranted.

“We will not stand idly by while our iconic steel and aluminum industries are being unfairly targeted,” the minister continued, announcing the package alongside Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly and Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne.

What new goods are being targeted?

These measures come on top of the initial $30 billion worth of U.S. imports that Canada slapped tariffs on earlier this month, in response to Trump’s U.S. International Emergency Economic Powers Act tariffs put in place March 4, based on what Joly called “exaggerated claims about our border.

According to the federal government, the list of additional products affected by counter-tariffs includes tools, computers and servers, display monitors, water heaters, sport equipment, and cast-iron products.

The full list of fresh items slated to face tariffs as of Thursday, was issued late Wednesday afternoon. It includes jewelry, watches, tricycles, video game consoles, smartphones, umbrellas, gongs, golf clubs, fishing poles, and lighters.

“Make no mistake… this is going to be a day-to-day fight,” Joly said. “This is now the second round of unjustified tariffs level against Canada and Canadian goods.”

Joly also called on American citizens to “help us help you,” imploring them to talk to their elected representatives at all levels about the impact Trump’s tariffs are having on jobs and the cost of living south of the border as other countries are increasingly pushing back.

PM-designate meets steelworkers

The deepening trade war comes amid Ottawa’s transition of power from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to prime minister-designate Mark Carney.

Yet to declare when the official hand-over of power is happening, Carney visited a steel plant in Hamilton, Ont., today to speak with workers.

Speaking at the same time as the ministers were taking reporters’ questions in Ottawa, Carney – donning safety gear – called it a “difficult day for Canada,” and pledged that “all the proceeds from our tariffs go back to support workers in the affected industries.

Asked if Carney played a role in deciding the government’s retaliation, given his advocacy during the Liberal leadership race for a dollar-for-dollar response, LeBlanc was unspecific.

“Obviously, we took note of what the prime minister-designate said in the leadership campaign, but it’s also been the position of the Government of Canada to have a strong response to these unjustified measures,” he said. “So, this shouldn’t surprise anyone.”

LeBlanc and Champagne will be travelling to D.C. alongside Ontario Premier Doug Ford for meetings with U.S. administration officials including U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Thursday.

‘It’s going to be a better relationship’

Carney met with Ford for breakfast in Toronto on Wednesday. A social media clip the prime-minister designate posted afterwards shows the two men engaged in a friendly conversation.

Coming out of that meeting, Ford was asked by reporters at Queen’s Park if he thought Carney could smooth things out with Trump, in light of the challenging relationship Trudeau had with his U.S. counterpart.

Ford said he thinks so.

“It’s going to be a better relationship than with prime minister Trudeau, and no disrespect to prime minister Trudeau. I can tell you one thing, Mark Carney’s an extremely astute business mind,” Ford said.

“He understands numbers, and so does President Trump, and Secretary Lutnick. I think they’re going to get along very well. They both come from the same financial sectors.”

Speaking later, Carney said that he respects Trump’s concerns about American workers and fentanyl, and he is “ready to sit down with President Trump at the appropriate time.”

But, in light of Trump’s continued comments about making Canada the 51st U.S. state, Carney said that meeting would need to happen “under a position where there’s respect for Canadian sovereignty, and we’re working for a common approach.”

Story by CTV

Tuor Networks Inc. Awarded Best Managed IT Company

Tuor Networks February 12, 2025

The 2024 Reseller Choice Awards, the 50 Best Managed IT Companies, and Women in Technology (WIT) Awards Gala held on February 6th was a spectacular event that celebrated the best-of-the-best in the Canadian IT industry. Hosted by Technoplanet at the elegant Old Mill Toronto Hotel, the evening was filled with excitement, recognition, and networking opportunities.

The event kicked off at 5:00 PM with a warm welcome from the Technoplanet Event’s Team. Attendees were guided to the Brule Room, where the celebration took place. The venue, known for its impeccable attention to detail, provided a perfect setting for the black-tie affair. Guests arrived in their finest attire, with men in dark business suits and women in evening dresses, ready to enjoy an evening of celebration and recognition.

One of the most anticipated moments of the night was the announcement of Tuor as one of the 50 Best Managed IT Companies in Canada. The Tuor team, known for their hard work, dedication, and innovation, was celebrated for their excellence in the field. This accolade is a testament to their consistent efforts in driving the industry forward.

The gala also honored the winners of the 2024 Reseller Choice Awards and the Women in Technology (WIT) Gala Dinner. These awards recognized the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and companies in the IT industry. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement as the winners were announced and celebrated for their excellence and innovation.

Throughout the evening, attendees had the opportunity to network with industry leaders, share insights, and celebrate their successes. The event also provided a platform for discussing the latest trends and developments in the IT sector, fostering collaboration and growth within the community.

The gala was not just about recognition; it was also about creating lasting memories and building stronger connections within the industry. The event concluded with a heartfelt thank you from the Technoplanet Event’s Team, who expressed their gratitude to all the attendees for making the evening a resounding success.

Overall, the gala was a night to remember, celebrating the achievements and contributions of the best in Canadian IT. It was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovation of the individuals and companies that continue to drive the industry forward. The Tuor team can be incredibly proud of their achievements, and the future looks bright for them.

How New Tariffs Could Affect Your Next Computer Purchase

Tuor Networks February 5, 2025

The tech world is constantly evolving, and so are the factors that influence the prices of the devices we rely on every day. Recently, new tariffs have been introduced that could significantly impact the computer industry, and we want to keep you, our valued customers, informed about what this could mean for your future purchases.

What are Tariffs, and Why Do They Matter?

Tariffs are essentially taxes on imported goods. When tariffs are placed on computer components or finished products, the cost of bringing these items into the country increases. This added cost is often passed down the line, eventually affecting the price you pay at the store.

How Could These Tariffs Affect You?

Here’s a breakdown of the potential impacts of these new tariffs on the computer market:

Higher Prices: The most direct consequence is likely to be an increase in the price of computers, laptops, and other tech devices. Components like processors, memory, and displays are often manufactured overseas, and tariffs on these parts will drive up the overall cost of production.
Potential Delays: Supply chains are complex, and tariffs can create bottlenecks. Companies may need to find new suppliers or adjust their shipping routes, which could lead to delays in getting products to market. This could mean longer wait times for the specific computer you’re looking for.
Impact on Innovation: When costs rise, companies may have less money available for research and development. This could potentially slow down the pace of innovation in the computer industry, meaning fewer groundbreaking new features and technologies in the future.
Shifting Manufacturing: In the long run, tariffs could lead to a shift in where computer components are manufactured. Companies might move production to countries with lower tariffs, which could have both positive and negative impacts on different economies.

What Can You Do?

While we can’t control global trade policies, we can offer some advice to help you navigate these potential changes:

Plan Ahead: If you’re thinking about buying a new computer soon, it might be wise to do so sooner rather than later, as prices could increase in the near future.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on tech news and industry trends. We’ll also do our best to keep you updated on any significant changes in the market.
Talk to Us: We’re here to help! If you have any questions or concerns about how these tariffs might affect your computer purchase, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We can discuss your needs and budget and find the best options for you.

The Bottom Line:

The new tariffs present potential challenges for the computer industry, but we’re committed to providing you with the best possible products and service. We’ll continue to monitor the situation closely and work to mitigate any negative impacts on our customers. We value your business and appreciate your understanding as we navigate these changes together.

About Tuor Networks:

Tuor Networks is a Canada-wide Managed Services & Security Company specializing in IT infrastructure.

We provide implementation, support, security and training services to businesses of all sizes. We provide fully outsourced IT or work with your in-house IT on a project basis.

Our staff consists of highly focused and skilled senior consultants that are ready and able to assist with any of your IT needs.

Consultation services are provided as a no-charge add-value service, and we welcome discussions with our technical team to review your specific needs.

Website: www.tuor.ca

Toll Free Phone: 833-599-8867

What Does a Managed Service Provider Manage?

Tuor Networks September 26, 2024

A managed service provider (MSP) is a company that provides IT services to other businesses. These services can range from basic network management to full-scale IT outsourcing.

Here are some of the key areas that MSPs typically manage:

Network Management

Network infrastructure: MSPs can design, implement, and maintain your network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
Network security: MSPs can help protect your network from cyber threats by implementing security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption.
Network monitoring: MSPs can monitor your network performance and identify potential issues before they become problems.

Server Management

Server infrastructure: MSPs can manage your server infrastructure, including physical servers, virtual machines, and cloud-based servers.
Server configuration: MSPs can configure your servers to meet your specific needs and optimize performance.
Server maintenance: MSPs can perform regular maintenance tasks on your servers, such as software updates, backups, and security patches.

Desktop Support

Help desk services: MSPs can provide help desk support to your employees, resolving issues with hardware, software, and network connectivity.
Desktop deployment: MSPs can deploy new desktops and laptops, configuring them with the necessary software and settings.
Desktop maintenance: MSPs can perform regular maintenance tasks on your desktop computers, such as software updates and antivirus scans.

Cloud Services

Cloud migration: MSPs can help you migrate your IT infrastructure to the cloud, providing access to scalable and flexible resources.
Cloud management: MSPs can manage your cloud-based services, ensuring that they are optimized for performance and security.
Cloud security: MSPs can help protect your cloud-based data from cyber threats.

Data Backup and Recovery

Backup solutions: MSPs can implement backup solutions to protect your data from loss due to hardware failures, natural disasters, or cyberattacks.
Data recovery: In the event of a data loss, MSPs can help you recover your data from backups.

IT Consulting

IT strategy: MSPs can help you develop an IT strategy that aligns with your business goals.
IT audits: MSPs can conduct IT audits to identify potential security vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.
IT compliance: MSPs can help you comply with industry-specific regulations, such as HIPAA or PCI DSS.

By outsourcing these IT functions to an MSP, businesses can focus on their core competencies while ensuring that their IT infrastructure is well-managed and secure.

Time-Saving Keyboard Shortcuts for Productivity

Tuor Networks August 21, 2024

Keyboard shortcuts can significantly boost your efficiency and productivity. By mastering these shortcuts, you can reduce the time you spend navigating your computer and focus on your tasks. Here are some of the most useful keyboard shortcuts for Windows and macOS:

Windows:

General:

Ctrl+C: Copy selected text or files.
Ctrl+V: Paste copied text or files.
Ctrl+X: Cut selected text or files.
Ctrl+Z: Undo the last action.
Ctrl+Y: Redo the last action.
Ctrl+S: Save the current document.
Ctrl+P: Print the current document.

Navigation:

Ctrl+Tab: Switch between open windows.
Alt+Tab: Cycle through open windows.
Win+D: Minimize all open windows to show the desktop.
Win+E: Open File Explorer.
Win+R: Open the Run dialog box.

Windows Explorer:

Ctrl+A: Select all items in a folder.
Ctrl+N: Create a new folder.
Ctrl+Shift+N: Create a new folder with a specified name.
Ctrl+F: Open the search bar.

macOS:

General:

Command+C: Copy selected text or files.
Command+V: Paste copied text or files.
Command+X: Cut selected text or files.
Command+Z: Undo the last action.
Command+Y: Redo the last action.
Command+S: Save the current document.
Command+P: Print the current document.

Navigation:

Command+Tab: Switch between open applications.
Option+Tab: Cycle through open applications.
Command+D: Minimize all open windows to show the desktop.
Command+E: Open Finder.
Command+Space: Open Spotlight Search.

Finder:

Command+A: Select all items in a folder.
Command+N: Create a new folder.
Shift+Command+N: Create a new folder with a specified name.
Command+F: Open the search bar.

Additional Tips:

Learn shortcuts for your specific applications: Many popular applications have their own unique keyboard shortcuts.
Customize shortcuts: If you find certain shortcuts inconvenient, you can often customize them to your preferences.
Practice regularly: The more you use keyboard shortcuts, the more natural they will become.

By incorporating these keyboard shortcuts into your workflow, you can significantly increase your productivity and save time.

The Security Risks of Not Using Two-Factor Authentication

Tuor Networks July 15, 2024

Two-factor authentication (2FA) has become an essential security measure in today’s digital age. By adding an extra layer of protection beyond a simple password, 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts.

Why is 2FA so important?

Password breaches: Even the strongest passwords can be compromised through data breaches or phishing attacks. 2FA adds a second barrier that makes it much harder for hackers to gain access to your accounts.
Phishing attacks: Phishing scams often trick users into revealing their login credentials. 2FA can help protect against these attacks by requiring a second factor of authentication, such as a code sent to your phone.
Unauthorized access: 2FA can prevent unauthorized access to your accounts, even if someone has obtained your password.

What are the risks of not using 2FA?

Identity theft: If your accounts are compromised, hackers can use your personal information to steal your identity and commit fraud.
Financial loss: Hackers may attempt to access your bank accounts or other financial information, leading to significant financial losses.
Data breaches: If your business uses 2FA, it can help protect against data breaches and the associated costs and reputational damage.

How does 2FA work?

2FA typically involves two factors of authentication:

Something you know: This is usually a password or PIN.
Something you have: This could be a security token, a smartphone, or a hardware key.

When you log in to an account that requires 2FA, you will be prompted to provide both factors of authentication. This makes it much more difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain access.

How can you enable 2FA?

Most online services offer 2FA as an option. To enable it, simply go to your account settings and look for the 2FA option. You will typically be prompted to provide a phone number or email address where you can receive verification codes.

In conclusion,

2FA is a simple and effective way to enhance the security of your online accounts. By adding an extra layer of protection, 2FA can help prevent unauthorized access, identity theft, and financial loss. If you’re not already using 2FA, it’s time to start.

Leading Remote Workers to Success: Tips for Effective Management

Tuor Networks June 18, 2024

With the rise of remote work, managing teams from afar has become the norm for many businesses. Effective leadership is crucial in ensuring that remote workers feel connected, motivated, and productive. Here are some tips for leading your remote workers to success:

Build Trust and Communication

Regular check-ins: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings to discuss projects, goals, and any challenges your remote workers may be facing.
Open communication channels: Encourage open communication through various channels, such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and email.
Transparent updates: Keep your team informed about company news, updates, and changes to ensure they feel connected and involved.

Set Clear Expectations

Define roles and responsibilities: Clearly outline each employee’s roles and responsibilities to avoid confusion and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Set measurable goals: Establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your remote team.
Provide regular feedback: Offer constructive feedback and recognition to help your remote workers improve and stay motivated.

Foster a Positive Work Culture

Encourage collaboration: Use tools and platforms that facilitate collaboration and teamwork among remote employees.
Promote work-life balance: Encourage your remote workers to maintain a healthy work-life balance by setting reasonable expectations and avoiding burnout.
Build a sense of community: Organize virtual team-building activities and social events to help remote workers feel connected and engaged.

Provide Necessary Tools and Resources

Equip your team: Ensure that your remote workers have the necessary equipment and technology to perform their jobs effectively.
Offer training and development: Provide opportunities for professional development to help your remote workers grow and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
Address technical issues promptly: Respond quickly to any technical issues that may arise to minimize disruptions and maintain productivity.

Trust and Autonomy

Empower your team: Trust your remote workers to manage their time and workload effectively.
Avoid micromanagement: Micromanaging can lead to decreased morale and productivity.
Offer flexibility: Allow your remote workers to have flexibility in their work schedules, as long as they meet deadlines and expectations.

By following these tips, you can create a positive and productive working environment for your remote team, leading to increased employee satisfaction, engagement, and overall business success.

IT Budgeting: A Guide for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

Tuor Networks May 27, 2024

IT budgeting can be a daunting task for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). With so many factors to consider, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. However, effective IT budgeting is essential for ensuring your business’s success.

Here are some tips and pointers to help you create a budget that works for your SMB:

1. Assess Your Current IT Infrastructure

Inventory: Create a comprehensive inventory of your existing hardware, software, and network equipment.
Performance: Evaluate the performance of your current systems. Are they meeting your business needs?
Cost: Determine the ongoing costs associated with maintaining your current infrastructure.

2. Identify Your Business Goals

Short-term: What are your immediate IT needs? Are you planning to expand, implement new software, or upgrade your hardware?
Long-term: What are your IT goals for the next few years? Consider factors such as scalability, security, and compliance.

3. Prioritize Your Needs

Essential vs. Non-essential: Rank your IT needs based on their importance to your business operations.
Cost-benefit analysis: Evaluate the potential return on investment for each IT project or purchase.

4. Set a Budget

Determine your IT budget: Allocate a specific amount to IT expenses based on your overall business budget.
Consider funding options: Explore financing options, such as leasing or cloud-based services, to help manage costs.

5. Allocate Funds

Hardware: Allocate funds for purchasing or leasing hardware, including computers, servers, and network equipment.
Software: Budget for software licenses, maintenance fees, and upgrades.
IT services: Consider the costs of IT support, consulting, and managed services.
Cloud services: If you plan to use cloud-based solutions, allocate funds for subscription fees and data storage.

6. Monitor and Adjust

Track spending: Keep track of your IT expenses throughout the year.
Review and adjust: If necessary, review your budget and make adjustments to ensure that you stay within your allocated funds.

Additional Tips:

Involve your IT team: Collaborate with your IT department to ensure that your budget aligns with their needs and expertise.
Consider outsourcing: For smaller businesses, outsourcing IT functions can be a cost-effective option.
Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest IT trends and technologies to make informed budgeting decisions.

By following these tips, you can create an effective IT budget that supports your business goals and helps you achieve long-term success.

How Our Help Desk Can Benefit Your Business

Tuor Networks April 20, 2024

Is your IT department overwhelmed with support requests? Are you struggling to provide timely and effective assistance to your employees? Our help desk can help.

Our help desk offers a range of benefits, including:

Improved Efficiency

Centralized support: All IT support requests are routed through a single point of contact, ensuring that they are handled efficiently and effectively.
Knowledge base: Our extensive knowledge base provides answers to common questions and troubleshooting tips, reducing the need for repeated support calls.
Automated ticketing system: Our ticketing system streamlines the support process, allowing us to track and prioritize requests efficiently.

Enhanced Customer Satisfaction

Faster response times: Our help desk team is dedicated to providing prompt and helpful support.
Improved communication: Our ticketing system ensures that all communication is documented and easily accessible, making it easier for us to follow up and provide updates.
Personalized service: We strive to provide personalized support that meets the unique needs of your business.

Reduced Costs

Increased productivity: By providing efficient and effective IT support, we can help your employees be more productive.
Cost savings: Our help desk can help you reduce the costs associated with IT downtime and lost productivity.

Our help desk services include:

Technical support: We can provide assistance with a wide range of IT issues, including hardware and software problems, network connectivity, and security threats.
Remote support: Our technicians can often resolve issues remotely, saving you time and money.
On-site support: If necessary, we can provide on-site support to address complex or urgent issues.

If you’re looking for a way to improve your IT support, our help desk is the solution. Contact us today to learn more about how we can benefit your business.

How Antivirus Software Protects Your Business

Tuor Networks March 21, 2024

Antivirus software is a crucial tool for safeguarding your business’s digital assets from malicious threats. By detecting and preventing malware attacks, antivirus solutions can help protect your sensitive data, maintain business continuity, and avoid costly downtime.

Here’s a breakdown of how antivirus software works:

1. Signature-Based Detection

This is the most traditional method used by antivirus software. It involves comparing files to a large database of known malware signatures. If a file matches a known signature, it is flagged as malicious and quarantined.

2. Heuristic Analysis

Heuristic analysis uses algorithms to identify suspicious patterns in files and code. This method can detect new, unknown threats that haven’t been added to the signature database.

3. Behavior-Based Detection

Behavior-based detection monitors the behavior of running programs and identifies suspicious activities that may indicate a malware infection. This approach can help detect advanced threats that can evade signature-based and heuristic detection.

4. Cloud-Based Scanning

Some antivirus solutions leverage cloud-based scanning to enhance detection capabilities. This involves sending suspicious files to a remote server for analysis, allowing for faster detection and response to emerging threats.

5. Real-Time Protection

Real-time protection continuously monitors your system for potential threats and takes immediate action to prevent infections. This includes scanning new files as they are downloaded or created.

6. Firewall Integration

Many antivirus solutions include a firewall component that helps protect your network from unauthorized access. Firewalls act as a barrier between your internal network and the internet, blocking malicious traffic.

How Antivirus Software Benefits Businesses

Data Protection: Antivirus software helps protect sensitive business data, such as customer information, financial records, and intellectual property, from unauthorized access and theft.
Business Continuity: By preventing malware infections, antivirus software can help maintain business operations and avoid costly downtime.
Compliance: Many industries have strict data security regulations that require businesses to implement measures to protect sensitive information. Antivirus software can help businesses comply with these regulations.
Reputation Protection: A data breach can damage a business’s reputation and lead to loss of customer trust. Antivirus software can help mitigate the risk of data breaches.

While antivirus software is an essential tool for protecting your business, it’s important to remember that it’s not a silver bullet. To ensure maximum security, it’s also recommended to implement additional measures such as employee training, strong passwords, and regular backups.