MCA Technology Requirements

The following hardware and software are the minimum technical and network requirements to run the Keller Williams accounting and profit share software: Command and AccountEdge, and all your everyday word processor and spreadsheet applications. 

These requirements are addressed in the KWRI Franchise Agreement between your OP and KWRI; contact your OP to obtain a copy of these contract terms and requirements.

Minimum Computer Requirements - MCA Computer:

Other than the requirement that the computer be 64 bit, any computer meeting the minimum specs for Windows 10 Pro will be compatible with Command and AccountEdge.

• 64 bit system
• Dual Monitors
• Browser recommendation for optimal Command performance: Chrome
• Printer should be capable of printing to letter and legal size paper (multi trays recommended)
• PDF Writer recommended 
• Backup UPS "Uninterruptible Power Supply"
• Wired LAN Connection 
  • Trusted Networks Only: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks.
• Operating System: Windows 10 Professional
  • “Home” or “Student” Versions of any Windows Operating Systems are NOT SUPPORTED
• Third-Party Antivirus Solutions
  • See PC Magazine's Top 10 recommended software
  • Windows Defender
    • Windows Defender is a free, built-in antivirus program in Windows 10 and Windows 11 that provides basic protection against common threats.
    • Why Use It: It offers real-time protection and integrates seamlessly with the Windows OS, providing automatic updates.
    • Usage Tip: Ensure Windows Defender is always enabled and regularly updated.
• Regularly Update Antivirus Software
  • Automatic Updates: Ensure that your antivirus software is set to update automatically.
  • Virus Scans: Schedule automatic scans for your device on a regular basis
• Enable Real-Time Protection
  • Most antivirus software, including Windows Defender, comes with real-time protection that scans files as they are accessed or downloaded. Make sure this feature is turned on to block potential threats before they can harm your system.
• Multiple forms of backup (onsite and offsite) 
  • Data Backup: Regularly back up important files either to the cloud (using OneDrive, Google Drive, or a similar service) or an external hard drive.
  • System Image Backup: Create a system image backup using Windows built-in tools to quickly restore your system in case of a ransomware attack or severe infection.

NOTE: these are the minimum hardware and operating system requirements only; consult with your local IT specialist for recommendations regarding speed, efficiency, and other data storage.

Data Storage: 
KWRI recommends 3 Redundant backups methods. These include USB drives, online services, and offsite backup systems. 

Additional, General Security Precautions

While antivirus software is critical, it’s only part of a holistic approach to securing your Windows device. Consider these additional security measures:

• Change default login information on Internet of Things (IOT) devices
• Use Strong, Unique Passwords
  • Password Manager: Use a password manager (like LastPass, 1Password, or the built-in Windows Credential Manager) to store complex, unique passwords for each account.
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA wherever possible, especially for accessing sensitive systems such as financial platforms.

• Keep Your Operating System and Software Updated

  • Windows Updates: Enable automatic Windows updates to ensure your operating system is patched against security vulnerabilities.
  • Software Updates: Regularly update all installed software, particularly browsers, financial software, and any plugins.

• Avoid Phishing and Suspicious Links

  • Be cautious of emails, links, and attachments from unknown sources. Phishing attacks are one of the most common ways malware is delivered.
  • Familiarize yourself with phishing awareness best practices (such as verifying email addresses, URLs, and avoiding clicking unknown links).

Additional Recommendations and best practices:

As our personal and professional world has rapidly moved into an increasingly digital one, in order to participate in KWRI, regional, and local events, training, meetings, and general communication, we strongly recommend that all staff computers - but especially the MCA computer - be equipped with

• working speakers
• working webcam
• working microphone

In addition, as the MCA computer is only local machine specifically addressed in the KWRI Franchise Agreement, it is common-place for the MCA computer to always be the newest and highest functioning computer among the staff.

Talk with your local IT specialist about ways to accomplish this efficiently and economically.