Hardware support is what keeps your computers running and your systems safe. It is an IT practice that involves the maintenance of key IT systems that are crucial in successfully running your company. Without hardware support, your company is in dire risk of losing substantial data as well as run the risk of a cyber attack that could shut your business down. In order to reduce your risk from cyber intrusions, and at the same time streamline your business activities, it is important to establish a strong hardware support system for your business.
Of course, there are several highly professional IT services companies that offer additional hardware support tailored fit to your company’s needs. However, your company can also contribute a fair share of hardware support as well.
Why is Hardware Support Important?
Hardware support is a kind of IT-based service that provides businesses with the installation and maintenance of computer peripherals. It is a kind of technical support that is essential in decreasing the amount of time needed to fix technical problems.
Here are top hardware support practices that should be implemented by your organization:
Never leave applications running
One of the most common mistakes committed by personnel is not turning off devices used for diagnosing issues and leaving their applications running on an unsecured network. Not only does this wear out the device’s shelf life it also increases your risk of leaking confidential and valuable information. These types of incidents are most likely to happen to network-dependent applications on the device.
Make sure that you staff manage these applications well and that they do not forget to disable them once all the work is done. You might end up losing more than a month’s worth of important data in a matter of seconds.
Shield your device from unwanted malware and viruses
Before deploying a machine or a device to your team, it is imperative to install an anti-malware and an antivirus in its system. Program the software to scan on a regular basis to ensure that the device is safe from unwanted intrusion. An important tip to remember when installing antivirus and anti-malware on your device, is to make sure that one knows how to set it up and configure the settings that meet accordingly to your business’ needs.
A malfunction or security breach in one of these systems can interrupt day to day operations and can cost you both time and money.
Security alerts are a must
Security alerts are a lifesaver for your network. You can use these tools to monitor any suspected activities that are happening on your site. They detect third party intrusions which makes them an indispensable tool to help protect your data storage facility. The system will send an email directly to support informing you of the activity and it is the job of support to respond accordingly. This is also an excellent way for you to be able to track your vendor’s activity with your site.
Never expose hardware to harmful elements
Not all treats to your hardware come in the form of crypto threats. malware, or viruses. Sometimes, it is the employees themselves that can cause the greatest amount of trouble. It is up to the management to implement rules that dictate that no food or drinks shall be taken within the premises of important hardware. Assuming that your employees will be careful enough is just not enough to keep you protected.
Shelf-life matters
Despite the claims of advertisers that their hardware has a longer shelf-life than most brands, it is wise that you don’t wager your business on these numbers. Every computer and device that is used by the company has a typical shelf-life of 3-5 years, and in some cases, up to 10; However, it is vital to have a schedule in place that routinely checks and maintains essential equipment. When a piece of hardware is on its last leg, it is best to replace it, rather than risk a lengthy operations shutdown.