As a small business owner, determining what IT services you really need for your company can be overwhelming. With such a huge amount of available services and technologies, how do you know which IT support for small businesses is essential for you?
Let’s discuss some key IT services every small business should consider to streamline operations and maximize productivity.
First Things First—Assess Your Business
Determining the IT services your business needs is impossible without first assessing your company’s operations and goals. After all, each organization is unique and requires different technologies and support. Consider the following questions as you assess your business:
- How strong is your cybersecurity and data protection?
- Do you need consistent IT support?
- Does your business use software applications or platforms that require specific services?
- How reliable is your network infrastructure?
- What kind of data do you work with?
- Do you have remote employees or need the ability to work remotely?
- How many devices (computers, laptops, tablets, etc.) do you use?
Once you thoroughly assess your business, you can begin to prioritize which IT services are necessary for your company’s success.
6 Essential IT Services for Your Small Business
If your company is just starting or has limited resources, it may be challenging to invest in all the necessary IT support for small businesses at once. But here are six essential IT services that every small business should consider:
1. Network Setup and Maintenance
A reliable and secure network is the backbone of your business’s IT infrastructure. Without proper setup and maintenance, your network will experience downtime, security breaches, and slow performance—all problems that cause major disruptions to your operations. Keep this IT service at the top of your list.
2. Data Backup and Disaster Recovery
All businesses should have a solid data backup and disaster recovery plan, especially with cybercrime on the rise. In 2023, more than 340 million individuals fell prey to cyberattacks, marking a staggering 72% surge in data breaches compared to 2021, the year that previously held the record.
Without a backup plan, you can lose critical data, disrupt your business operations, and damage your reputation.
3. Cybersecurity Solutions
As we mentioned, cyberattacks are on the rise, and small businesses are not immune. Don’t rely solely on your backup plan—invest in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions and IT support for small businesses that include:
- Firewalls
- Antivirus and anti-malware software
- Email security
- Web filtering
- Employee training on cyber threats and best practices
- And more
4. Cloud Computing Services
The cloud has revolutionized the way businesses store, access, and share data. You no longer need those pesky physical servers that take up space and drain your budget. Instead, you can store your data securely in the cloud and access it from anywhere, making it a perfect solution for remote work.
5. Software Applications and Licensing
To run your business efficiently, you may need specific software applications or platforms—and along with these tools come licensing and support fees. Be sure to budget for these costs when determining your IT services needs.
6. Technical Support and Helpdesk Services
Last but certainly not least, every small business needs technical support and helpdesk services. Whether you need assistance with network issues, software troubleshooting, or just have general IT questions, having reliable and prompt IT support for small businesses is crucial for keeping your operations running smoothly.
How to Consider Your Budget When Selecting Services
At the end of the day, your budget will be the deciding factor in which IT services you can invest in. Keep in mind that skimping on crucial services can end up costing you more in the long run, especially if your business falls victim to cyberattacks or network downtime.
To prioritize IT investments, consider your business’s unique needs, future growth, and potential ROI.
- Prioritize services that will protect your data and ensure business continuity.
- Look for cost-effective solutions, such as managed IT services or bundled packages.
- Consider the potential ROI.
- Don’t forget to budget for ongoing maintenance and support fees.
Unity IT Provides Top-Notch IT Support for Small Businesses
At Unity IT, we understand the importance of reliable and efficient IT support for small businesses. That’s why we offer solutions that meet your unique needs and budget. From network setup and maintenance to cloud computing, we have you covered. Contact us today to learn more!