IT Checklist for Small Offices, Shops and Clinics
In a small business, one broken computer or a lost file can stop work for a day. These basics prevent most of the trouble.
Back up automatically
Keep at least two copies of important data, one of them away from the office or in the cloud. Automate backups and test a restore now and then.
Keep everything updated
Turn on automatic updates for Windows, browsers and security software. Many attacks use problems that updates have already fixed.
Use strong passwords and two-step sign-in
Give each person their own account, use strong unique passwords and turn on two-step verification for email and banking.
Protect against power cuts
Put computers, the router, the CCTV recorder and the billing system on a UPS so a power cut doesn't corrupt data or stop work.
Secure the network
- Change the router's default admin password
- Use a separate Wi-Fi network for guests and customers
- Keep a list of devices connected to the network
- Restrict who can install software
Plan maintenance
Keep a simple list of your devices, their age and warranty. Scheduled maintenance, or an annual maintenance contract, catches problems before they stop work.
