Top 10 AI Tools for IT Professionals

 

1. GitHub Copilot

• Description: An AI-powered code assistant that provides real-time code suggestions and auto-completions within your IDE.

• Pricing: $10/month (Pro), $39/month (Pro+)

2. 1min.AI

• Description: An all-in-one AI platform integrating GPT-4o, Claude 3, and Gemini for tasks like content creation, image editing, and more.

• Pricing: $29.99 for lifetime access (originally $234)

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3. ClickUp

• Description: A project management tool with AI capabilities to automate IT tasks, manage workflows, and enhance team collaboration.

• Pricing: Starts at $5/month

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4. Darktrace

• Description: An AI-driven cybersecurity platform that detects and responds to threats in real-time, enhancing network security.

• Pricing: Custom pricing based on enterprise needs

5. Rasa

• Description: An open-source AI framework for building custom conversational bots, ideal for automating IT support and service desk operations.

• Pricing: Free for open-source; enterprise pricing available

6. GitHub Copilot

• Description: An AI-powered code assistant that provides real-time code suggestions and auto-completions within your IDE.

• Pricing: $10/month (Pro), $39/month (Pro+)

7. Freshservice

• Description: An IT service management (ITSM) tool that leverages AI to automate workflows, manage incidents, and improve service delivery.

• Pricing: Starts at $19/month

8. Perplexity AI Pro

• Description: An AI-powered search and knowledge assistant that provides real-time web search results with citations, ideal for IT research and documentation.

• Pricing: $20/month

9. Lumio AI

• Description: A multi-model AI workspace that allows users to compare different AI models side-by-side, enhancing decision-making processes.

• Pricing: Starts at $5/month

10. FusionReactor

• Description: A monitoring tool for Java applications that uses AI to provide insights into performance, errors, and bottlenecks.

• Pricing: Starts at $49/month

Deploying CrowdStrike Falcon for Real-Time Threat Detection

Sysadmins, in a world of zero-day exploits and AI-powered attacks, deploying an EDR like CrowdStrike Falcon isn't optional—it's your frontline defense. Falcon's lightweight sensor delivers cloud-native detection, prevention, and response across endpoints, catching threats in real-time without bogging down performance.

The Issue: Manual installs on scattered fleets waste time, leave gaps in coverage, and risk missing stealthy malware. Scaling to hybrid environments? Even tougher without automation.

Quick Fix (Windows Focus—Adapt for macOS/Linux):

1. Prep & Download: Log into the Falcon Console (falcon.crowdstrike.com). Grab your Customer ID (CID) from Support > Resources. Download the MSI installer from Host Setup > Sensor Downloads. Host it on a secure file share accessible to your domain.
2. Automate via GPO: In Group Policy Management, create a new GPO (e.g., "Falcon Deploy"). Add a startup script: msiexec /i "\\share\FalconSensorWindows.msi" CID=YOUR_CID /quiet /norestart. Link to your target OU. Enable "Run with highest privileges."
3. Verify & Activate: Reboot targets. Check the console under Hosts > Sensor Management—status should show "Connected" in 5-10 mins. Run PowerShell: Get-Service CSFalconService to confirm it's running.

Quick Fix (Windows):

1. Prep the Installer: Log into the Falcon Console (falcon.crowdstrike.com). Download the Windows MSI from Host Setup > Sensor Downloads. Place it on a secure file share (e.g., \\server\share\FalconSensorWindows.msi).

2. Create the Startup Script: Save this as deploy_falcon.bat on the share:

   @echo off
   msiexec /i "\\server\share\FalconSensorWindows.msi" CID=YOUR_CID_HERE /quiet /norestart
   

   if %ERRORLEVEL%==0 (echo Install successful > "\\server\logs\falcon_%COMPUTERNAME%.log") else (echo Install failed >> "\\server\logs\falcon_%COMPUTERNAME%.log") else (echo Install failed >> "\\server\logs\falcon_%COMPUTERNAME%.log")

   Replace YOUR_CID_HERE with your Customer ID from the Falcon Console.

3. Set Up GPO: In Group Policy Management, create a GPO (e.g., “Falcon Deploy”). Go to Computer Configuration > Policies > Windows Settings > Scripts > Startup. Add deploy_falcon.bat from the share. Link to your target OU.

4. Verify: Reboot a test machine. Check \\server\logs\ for logs and Falcon Console > Hosts for “Connected” status.

Test on a small OU first to catch issues like share permissions or AV conflicts. Use PowerShell (Get-Service CSFalconService) to confirm the sensor is running.

Automate and chill! 

Securing Your Network Against Ransomware

Ransomware spiked in 2024, with attacks like LockBit 3.0 hitting small and mid-sized businesses hard, costing millions in downtime and recovery. Sysadmins, securing your network is non-negotiable in this threat landscape.

The Issue: Phishing emails and unpatched vulnerabilities (like those in outdated VPNs or Windows Server 2016) let ransomware slip through, encrypting critical data and halting operations.

Quick Fix:

1. Patch Religiously: Use tools like SCCM or Intune to auto-deploy updates for OS and apps. Prioritize CVEs with high severity (e.g., CVE-2024-29847).

2. Segment Networks: Isolate critical systems with VLANs to limit ransomware spread. Use pfSense or Cisco for easy setup.

3. Backup Smart: Follow the 3-2-1 rule (3 copies, 2 local, 1 offsite). Test restores monthly with Veeam or rsync.

 Tip: Deploy an EDR solution like CrowdStrike Falcon for real-time threat detection. It’s a game-changer for catching ransomware early. 

UPDATED: How to Deploy EDR you can read here : https://reydmanit.blogspot.com/2025/01/deploying-crowdstrike-falcon-for-real.html

Ninite.com - download commonly installed programs all at once when setting up a new computer.

 Ninite.com is a free and user-friendly service that simplifies the process of installing and updating commonly used software on Windows computers. It is particularly popular among IT professionals and everyday users because it saves time and eliminates the hassle of downloading and installing applications individually.

Key Features:

1. Batch Installation:

   • Ninite allows you to select multiple applications from its list of supported programs.
   • It then creates a custom installer that installs all the selected applications in one go.

2. Automatic Settings:

   • Ninite installs software with default settings.
   • It automatically declines any offers for toolbars or additional software (often included in installers as "bloatware").

3. No Manual Interaction:

   • Once you start the installation process, it requires no further input. You can leave it running unattended.

4. Automatic Updates:

   • Ninite checks for the latest versions of the selected applications and installs them, ensuring that you always have up-to-date software.

5. No Administrator Privileges Required for Basic Users:

   • Standard users can use Ninite to install or update applications without needing admin rights (if the software allows non-admin installations).

6. Supported Applications:

   • Ninite supports a wide range of popular applications, including web browsers (Chrome, Firefox), messaging apps (Skype, Zoom), media players (VLC), utilities (WinRAR, 7-Zip), developer tools, antivirus programs, and more.

7. Safe and Trusted:

   • Ninite downloads software directly from official sources and verifies digital signatures to ensure safety and authenticity.

8. Pro Version for IT Professionals:

   • Ninite Pro offers advanced features such as remote management, automatic deployment across networks, and integration with IT tools, making it a valuable resource for IT administrators.

How It Works:

1. Visit Ninite.com.
2. Select the applications you want to install or update.
3. Download the custom installer.
4. Run the installer on your computer, and Ninite takes care of the rest.

Advantages:

• Saves time, especially during system setups or when managing multiple machines.
• Eliminates unnecessary add-ons and bloatware.
• Reduces the complexity of keeping software up-to-date.

Limitations:

• Only supports Windows systems.
• The list of available applications is limited to popular software; not all programs are included.
• Advanced features are restricted to Ninite Pro, which requires a subscription.

Ninite is a simple yet powerful tool, particularly useful for IT professionals managing several devices or anyone looking for a hassle-free way to install and update software.

Golden rule 16

 Maintain Clear Change Management

Meaning:
Document, review, and control all changes to systems, configurations, networks, and applications to prevent unexpected issues and ensure smooth operations.

Why it matters:

1. Reduces downtime: Proper planning avoids service interruptions.

2. Minimizes errors: Reviewing changes helps catch mistakes before they affect users.

3. Ensures accountability: Tracks who made changes and why.

4. Supports troubleshooting: Documentation makes it easier to trace problems back to specific changes.

5. Complies with policies: Many organizations and regulations require documented change management.

Best Practices:

• Require approval for critical changes before implementation.

• Maintain a change log with details, dates, and responsible personnel.

• Test significant changes in a staging environment first.

• Communicate planned changes to affected users or teams.

• Review and update change management processes regularly.

📘 Recommended Resources on IT Change Management

1. Atlassian – IT Change Management: ITIL Framework & Best Practices
   This guide provides an overview of IT change management, emphasizing the importance of minimizing disruptions while making changes to critical systems and services. It discusses the ITIL framework and best practices for effective change management.
   👉 Read more here https://www.atlassian.com/itsm/change-management?utm_source=chatgpt.com

2. SolarWinds – Change Management Best Practices for ITSM
   This article explores five ITSM change management best practices that enhance change management in a digital environment, including defining a change management policy and streamlining change review and approval processes.
   👉 Explore the article https://www.solarwinds.com/itsm-best-practices/itsm-change-management?utm_source=chatgpt.com

3. NinjaOne – A Complete Guide to IT Change Management
   This documentation serves as an audit trail, allowing organizations to review the entire change process, identify any deviations, and learn from past experiences to continuously improve risk mitigation strategies.
   👉 Learn more here https://www.ninjaone.com/blog/it-change-management/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

4. Faddom – The Top 11 IT Change Management Best Practices
   This resource provides tips on developing a clear change management policy, using a centralized change request system, deploying smaller releases to reduce risk, and fostering communication and collaboration.
   👉 Dive into the details https://faddom.com/it-change-management-best-practices/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

5. N-able – ITIL Change Management: Processes, Best Practices, and Tools
   This article discusses ITIL change management processes, best practices, and tools to minimize risks and secure IT infrastructure, highlighting the importance of automating workflows to reduce errors and improve efficiency.
   👉 Read the full article https://www.n-able.com/blog/effective-itil-change-management-minimize-risks-and-secure-it-infrastructure?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Golden Rule 15

 Follow the Principle of Least Privilege

Meaning:
Give users, applications, and services only the minimum access rights necessary to perform their tasks. Avoid granting unnecessary permissions.

Why it matters:

1. Improves security: Reduces the risk of accidental or malicious misuse.

2. Limits damage: If an account is compromised, the potential impact is minimized.

3. Enhances compliance: Many regulations require strict access controls.

4. Reduces human error: Users can’t accidentally modify or delete critical systems or data.

Best Practices:

• Review permissions regularly and remove unnecessary access.

• Apply role-based access control (RBAC) where possible.

• Avoid giving admin/root privileges unless absolutely required.

• Use temporary elevated privileges only when needed.

• Audit and log access to sensitive systems for accountability.

  PoLP in the Context of ITIL

  While ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) doesn't explicitly define the Principle of Least Privilege, it emphasizes the importance of security and access control within its processes.

  Relevant ITIL Processes:

  • Change Management: Ensures that changes to IT services are made with minimal risk and disruption. Implementing PoLP can prevent unauthorized changes and reduce potential security vulnerabilities.

  • Access Management: Focuses on granting authorized users the right to use a service while preventing access to unauthorized users. PoLP is integral to this process, ensuring users have only the access necessary for their roles.

  • Information Security Management: Aims to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. Adhering to PoLP helps in safeguarding sensitive data and systems.

  
  
  

GoldeN Rules- 14

 Monitor Systems Continuously

• Meaning:
  Keep a constant eye on servers, networks, applications, and critical systems to detect performance issues, errors, or security threats before they impact users or business operations.

  Why it matters:

  1. Early problem detection: Catch issues before they escalate into outages or data loss.

  2. Improves reliability: Ensures systems run smoothly and efficiently.

  3. Enhances security: Detect suspicious activity or breaches in real time.

  4. Optimizes performance: Helps identify bottlenecks or underused resources.

  5. Supports planning: Provides data for capacity planning and infrastructure improvements.

  Best Practices:

  • Use monitoring tools like Nagios, Zabbix, PRTG, or built-in cloud monitoring.

  • Set up alerts for critical thresholds (CPU, memory, disk usage, network traffic).

  • Track logs and events regularly for anomalies.

  • Analyze historical trends to anticipate future issues.

  • Review and adjust monitoring configurations as systems evolve.

  My personal Recommendations:

  1. Atera

  • Overview: Atera is an all-in-one IT management platform designed for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT departments. It integrates Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), patch management, and help desk functionalities.

  • Key Features: Automation, ticketing system, real-time monitoring, and reporting.

  • Ideal For: Organizations seeking a unified solution for IT operations.

  • Learn More: Wikipedia

  2. Wiz

  • Overview: Wiz is a cloud security platform that provides comprehensive visibility into cloud environments, identifying vulnerabilities and misconfigurations.

  • Key Features: Agentless scanning, risk assessment, and compliance monitoring.

  • Ideal For: Enterprises operating in multi-cloud environments.

  • Learn More: wiz.io

  
  

  • For comprehensive monitoring: PRTG Network Monitor offers an all-in-one solution suitable for various IT infrastructures.

  • For AI-driven insights: Dynatrace provides advanced observability with its AI-powered Davis engine.

  • For open-source flexibility: Zabbix allows extensive customization to meet specific monitoring needs.

  • For cloud-native environments: Datadog excels in monitoring cloud-scale applications and infrastructure.

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

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