Managing and maintaining your company's IT infrastructure can be a daunting task. However, many companies mistakenly assume they can handle all of these responsibilities on their own. In reality, there are certain tasks that are better left to the experts. Let’s take a look at some of them:
1. Freeing up storage space
A computer’s storage system allows you to save files and install applications on the device. Over time, this will fill up and the system will prompt users to delete data to make space.
While freeing up storage space is a fairly simple process, there's always a risk of managing it incorrectly. For instance, you could delete critical system files, which may cause your computer to crash. Or you may delete important company files and disrupt your business’s operations.
To mitigate these risks, make it a habit to check the contents of folders first for any important files before deleting anything. Make sure you understand the purpose of certain programs before uninstalling them. Or better yet, consult your company’s IT expert and have them assist with freeing up your computer’s storage.
2. Updating software
Software updates introduce new features, fix software vulnerabilities, or optimize a computer’s performance. But while updating is as easy as pressing Install, patching all your company's computers consistently can be tough.
For example, an update may install a new program that conflicts with an old one, which can lead to system crashes. Some updates may also delete important files or alter your computer’s settings without your knowledge.
This is why you should leave the updates to your IT team. They have the ability to test the updates’ reliability before deploying them to more devices, which not only saves the company repair costs, but also prevents downtime.
3. Backing up your data
Backing up your data is one of the most important things you can do to protect your business. Unfortunately, many small businesses don’t back up their data or do it incorrectly.
Some organizations may only back up their data once a week, which is not enough if a malware attack occurs. Meanwhile, others may store their backups on the same device or network as their primary data, which makes the backup susceptible to the same risks.
A good backup strategy should involve having IT professionals backing up your data frequently and storing the backups in a different location, such as an offsite facility. This way, even if you lose the primary copies of your data due to a malware attack or a natural disaster, you can still recover your files using a backup.
4. Replacing computer hardware
Hardware components can malfunction over time, and many businesses try to save money by replacing or repairing the hardware themselves. However, this can lead to more problems. If you don’t understand how certain hardware components work, you may not be able to install the new hardware correctly. This could lead to application crashes, data loss, or even a complete system failure.
It’s always better to leave the replacement of PC hardware to the experts. They have the experience and knowledge to get the job done quickly and efficiently, without the risk of data loss or system crashes.
5. Managing cybersecurity risks
Small businesses are a common target for cybercriminals because they often believe that they are not the targets of cyberattacks. In reality, nearly half of small businesses suffered a cyberattack in the last 12 months.
To prevent cyberattacks, you need to have a robust cybersecurity solution in place. Unfortunately, many small businesses don’t have the money to hire a reliable IT team. Some end up relying on free security programs, which are not powerful enough to thwart the latest cyberattacks.
This is why you should leave your company’s cybersecurity to the IT professionals. They have the knowledge and experience to protect your business from cyberattacks. They will also deploy powerful software like antiviruses, intrusion detection systems, and firewalls that will keep cyberthreats at bay.
If you don’t have a proper IT team to handle all of these tasks, consider partnering with a reliable managed IT services provider like Founders Technology Group. We will manage and maintain your entire IT infrastructure and ensure that everything is working properly. What’s more, we charge a flat monthly fee that’s cheaper than paying a full-time IT staff. Talk to us today to learn more!