We have been seeing an increasing level of issues caused by some basic faults which could and can be avoided in the future.
Use the following 8 point check list to make sure you have got everything in place when you need it.
1. Backup – Onsite backup of your data, this can be used to restore quickly and easily in the event that it’s needed.
2. Backup it again – Offsite backup of your data using a service such as ours http://www.twisterlivedrive.com this will protect in the case of fire, flood, theft etc.
3. Battery backup power supply – Basically stops all the nasty power spikes which computers don’t like and keeps your equipment on in the case of power loss.
4. Business class router – These usually have more security features than the average router and can feature 3G mobile backup if your phone line has a fault to keep you on-line.
5. Stay Connected – Check you have the best possible connection to the outside world, now with fibre optic business broadband being more available than ever, you could be getting a faster service for around the same around of money.
6. Regular service and maintenance – This is even more important on servers, checking the software and hardware are running as effectively as possible.
7. Make sure you are using current technology – Microsoft have a habit of stopping support for old operating systems and it can leave you with systems eventually that will not work at all. Windows XP and Server 2003 are the next ones due to drop off of Microsoft’s ‘supported’ list.
8. Have a plan – Come up with or make sure someone is planning your IT strategy long-term, letting you see what will need attention in the short-term along with things you can plan to add up to 3 years in the future. This should also include disaster planning.
Just a few things to get you thinking, the scope you can go to is endless, but get these basics in place and everything IT wise will definitely seem a lot clearer.