Business relies on technology more and more each day. That can be both a good and a bad thing. Technology has enabled us to simplify the process of running a business, but it can also leave that business vulnerable if something doesn’t go right.
It is important to make sure all the tech in your office runs smoothly. If it doesn’t, you can expect employees to spend time twiddling their thumbs while they wait for the systems to get up and running again.
Sometimes, things happen and there isn’t anything you can do about it, but there are definitely some things you can do proactively that will ensure your office runs as smoothly as possible nearly all of the time.
Secure Your Systems
The very first thing you need to do is secure your systems. That means using malware programs to protect your computers, but it means taking a deeper dive into what having a secure system really means.
Any interruption in all internet-based networks will have a huge impact on your business. All systems need to be protected, especially the ones you might not think about. That’s why efficient iP recommends DNS security as a crucial business service.
DNS hijacking is no longer an uncommon occurrence, and with your DNS service acting as the lynchpin to the internet and all of your networks, it is extremely important to ensure it is protected.
Perform Regular Updates
Not only do you need to protect your systems, you also have to make sure they are updated regularly. Software updates protect your systems by:
- Patching possible security holes that have developed after the software was released.
- Protecting your data by ensuring the continued security of your important files and documents.
- Updating issues that may be causing unnecessary system crashes.
- Uploading new features.
Most software programs will provide you with a notification when an update is needed. Program updates so they take place at night when everyone is gone. That way, no one has to take time out of the workday to perform an update, and you aren’t tempted to keep putting an update off either.
Prepare for the Worst Case Scenario
Even if you protect your systems, disaster can still strike. No one can be 100-percent prepared for what might happen. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for the worst case scenario. After all, you have a plan in case of a fire. Shouldn’t you also have a plan if your systems crash!
Outline possible problems that could arise with your IT systems and how each issue should be dealt with. It’s also a good idea to have a plan for employees when the systems are down. With a little preplanning, they can stay and work on something instead of being sent home early for the day.
Hire the Right IT Team
One of the best way to prevent problems from occurring with your software and computer systems is to hire an IT professional to keep tabs on everything. You can hire a traditional employee who comes into the office every day, if you have the workload for a full-time employee. However, you also have the option of hiring a remote employee if you’re looking for someone who is a bit more flexible.
That could mean hiring a dedicated person in the office to perform updates and make sure everything is secure, but it may also mean choosing your systems more carefully. Many providers offer customer service, and they can keep track of your systems for you.
Train Employees
Much of the time, systems are impacted by outside forces. However, some of the time, it’s employees who cause the problem.
Using systems efficiently isn’t always easy or intuitive. It can be especially difficult for employees who are trying to adapt to new technology. One wrong click and the system can be compromised or the wrong permissions granted, and you could find yourself in a tech nightmare.
Proper training is a must. That includes training sessions when employees are learning a new system, but it may also include refresher courses, especially if the technology has been updated, or there are new features you want everyone to use.
Don’t get caught off-guard by a system crash when it’s something that could have been prevented. It’s true that it takes a little time upfront, but it’s well-worth it if it means you don’t have to worry about compromised data or an entire office full of employees who can’t do their jobs because the systems are down.
