1. Auto Update Software
Hardware failures happen, but they’re pretty uncommon when compared with software glitches and security flaws. Fortunately, many of these can be resolved before they cause issues if your IT service provider makes sure that all software is routinely kept up to date with downloaded updates and patches. Installation should be automatic and all antivirus updates should be given priority.
2. Have a Hardware Maintenance Schedule
Once your hardware is in good order, it’s time to turn your attention to hardware. Have a regular scheduled maintenance day where dust, hair, and other debris is physically removed from the interior of desktops and servers. This will lower the load on the system and keep things running cooler, extending the equipment’s lifespan.
3. Mitigate Human Error
User error is a huge fault line in IT operations, and many departments struggle to balance the necessary access required to keep workers working, and the limitations necessary to keep the system stable and secure. There are, however, ways to influence behavior for the better. Require that all security phrases be strong (NOT mustang or 1234567), formally train employees not to click on links in suspicious email links or social media sites, and have all staff report suspect hoax emails at the first sign of suspicion.
4. Invest in the Right Technology
Technology costs can be staggering for many companies, and it is often wise for IT departments to carefully consider the specifications of any proposed system to see if they can save money with cheaper options. However, buying low quality tech or tech that isn’t up to the load it will face will ALWAYS end up costing more in the long run. Either you will lose productivity because the system will grow unstable, or hardware will fail more often than necessary and need to be replaced.
5. Adblock / Web Filtering
Installing ad blocking software on every machine in tandem with DNS Web Filtering for your network yields several benefits. Computers are more secure (as many internet ads and links hide malware), bandwidth usage drops sharply (because computers are downloading slim webpages without the added weight of advertisements), and filters can weed out inappropriate or time-wasting sites to keep errant employees on-task.
6. Use Automated Backup
Recovering files from damaged hard drives or files that have been deleted by accident is an exhausting and imprecise process. Avoid both routine and catastrophic data loss scenarios by making use of a secure, automatic, cloud-based backup system.
7. Keep Grundig IT on Call
When it comes to fixing employee hardware, IT infrastructure, and protecting company data you need to make sure that you have a standing arrangement with an IT services provider who offers fast response and high quality service. If you’re in or close to Contra Costa County, that provider is Grundig IT. We’ll be on-site fast to take care of your tech problems and are happy to provide routine maintenance and monitoring service to keep your company running smoothly. Call us at 925-528-9081 to learn more.
