Here Are 5 of the Most Common IT Issues and How to Prevent Them

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the number of companies shifting to hybrid or work-from-home models requiring people to accommodate to a new way of living. In response to this change, many companies are also seeing an increase in cyber-security threats, ransomware attacks, and other troublesome issues. Considering the recent cyber-attacks impacting businesses across the nation, and the need for companies to transition to work-from-home or hybrid business models, it’s essential that industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners take the time to educate themselves on how to prevent common IT problems.

With over 20 years in the IT industry and running Tarrytech, I’ve found several technology tips and tricks that all businesses should be taking right now. Below are a few of the most common problems I’ve heard from our clients and how to prevent them.

1. Data Sprawls – A data sprawl refers to a large amount of business data that is created and saved in pieces of technology throughout any given day. These pieces of technology can include but aren’t limited to enterprise software, mobile apps, storage systems, and more. If this data isn’t kept somewhere securely, it can cause many problems down the line. To prevent these problems, you should have your company implement a shared drive. Some of the most common I’ve seen used are OneDrive and SharePoint.

2. Slow Computers – One of the most common issues people come to us with is a complaint of a slow computer. We understand the frustration of dealing with slow loading screens and unresponsiveness. The good thing is there are things you can do to prevent this from happening. You can delete unnecessary programs, clear cache files, and upgrade your storage to name a few.

3. Outdated Equipment and Software – Often problems that people are seeing with their technology can be fixed with a simple update. Identifying the hardware you have and making sure it’s up to date can make your computer feel like new again. Sometimes this can even free up more memory. Most computers will alert users when it is time for a software update, once alerted try and update your computer as soon as possible.

4. Lack of Security – One of the most pressing issues we see companies face that requires immediate attention is a data breach. When companies don’t have effective security measures in place all their confidential data is at risk of being manipulated and stolen. An IT team can work with a company to ensure there are effective security measures in place.

5. No IT Strategy – One of the best practices that companies can implement into their organizations is the development of an IT strategy. Many of the issues previously mentioned can be prevented with the establishment of a proactive IT strategy. We’ve worked with clients in the past on creating plans that their team members can follow that have worked great for the prosperity of their business.

When your employees are working from home, it is essential to implement a proactive IT plan, to avoid issues including those outlined above. When everyone in your business is working from different locations, it’s easy to forget all the IT concerns that your organization may face when in the office. If working remotely, check in on your staff regularly to ensure that their computers are up to date. Being prepared is the best way you can keep your company and employees safe, whether you are working in-person or virtually.

Written by James Kudla, General Manager of Tarrytech: A Compass MSP Company, a premier technology partner located in Elmsford, NY that services businesses throughout the NY Metro region. For more information, please visit www.tarrytech.com.