Small and Medium-Size Businesses (SMBs) will often take shortcuts to cut costs when purchasing. To avoid disasters such as a loss of data or work, SMBs are strongly suggested to focus on the ten points below.
Hardware
Considering the rapid change of technology requirements, a pro-active approach for replacing desktops, laptops, servers, and networking hardware is to look five years into the future.
Backup Software
Although built-in backup software and Windows Server backup are adequate, purchasing a third-party backup solution will have the ability to recover from an image.
Internet Connection
Providing your SMB with a consumer-grade DSL line would not be an efficient business plan. Setting up a network that provides your business with more bandwidth than required will prevent a network bottleneck from occuring.
Firewall
Securing your business with only Windows built-in firewall is not ideal. Configuring a Cisco, Fortinet, or Sonicwall is more secure, reliable and flexible in a SMB environment.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage provides scalability, reliability and portability. Cloud storage is divided into three categories: Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). Many companies are transferring to Cloud services for access to data outside the network.
Website
Online presence has become an important key for all businesses. A solid solution is to have a strong website, blogging and effectively using social media.
Redundancy
Redundancy is an appropriate investment towards ensuring that your SMBs network does not go down. Similar to backups, redundancy does not affect everyday business but should an incident arise, you’ll be glad it’s there.
Support
IT Support is a necessity, whether it’s an in-house department, third-party service provider, or support for software.
Mobile Devices
The ability to work from outside the office and accessing data from anywhere is now an important key for businesses. Setting up a virtual private network enables laptops, tablets and smartphones to connect and work from anywhere.
Printers
Supply your SMB with a printer that has the sustainability and features required for business use.