In today's digital age, businesses heavily rely on technology to operate efficiently. Whether it's managing your network infrastructure, troubleshooting software issues, or ensuring data security, IT support partners play a critical role in keeping your business running smoothly. However, not all IT support providers have your best interests at heart, and some may even be ripping you off without your knowledge. In this article, we'll explore the key indicators that can help you spot if your IT support partner is taking advantage of your trust and resources.

In the digital age, small businesses are increasingly reliant on Information Technology (IT) to streamline operations, reach customers, and stay competitive. However, with great technology comes great responsibility, and small businesses often find themselves grappling with a range of common IT problems that can hinder productivity and growth. In this article, we'll explore some of these issues and offer practical solutions to help small businesses navigate the world of IT more effectively.

Technology is evolving at a rapid speed so it’s vital that your IT is optimised to boost your business processes to remain competitive. Many small businesses only review their IT partnerships when they suffer poor service, or their costs increase exponentially. The idea of change can be challenging and figuring out where to start. This is where independent audits and benchmarking come in.

Although Microsoft announced that Windows Server 2012 would reach its end of life some time ago, many small businesses are still deliberating their options. If you are still relying on a Windows 2012 Server, can you be sure that your support provider has outlined all the solutions instead of the one that is most convenient for them.

Backing up 365 is inexpensive, but it's surprising how many small businesses decide not to. Typically speaking it's because they are working under the false impression that Microsoft's standard recovery tools are good enough. A robust data backup solution is an essential insurance policy and if you’re relying entirely on Microsoft to provide this, then you’re far from covered.

One of the most significant changes in the history of telecommunications since the introduction of broadband in the 90s is just over the horizon; the big PSTN and ISDN switch off. And now is the time to be thinking about SoGEA. Short for Single Order Generic Ethernet Access, SoGEA is a new broadband connectivity product that enables users to purchase a broadband connection without needing a phone line.

Small businesses use many digital applications on a daily or weekly basis. Each of these apps requires a password, and asking employees to maintain all their own passwords to these applications is not only inefficient; it also presents inherent security risks. For example, it can introduce IT risks when employees fail to change their credentials or they use the same credentials for every application. Single-sign-on (SSO) solutions can solve that problem.

Most small businesses are led by people who either do not have experience in IT governance and as a result, it is overlooked. IT governance should not be underestimated and it plays a key role in the sustainability and growth of an organisation. It provides the structure and processes to ensure that IT and business goals are aligned, IT risks are mitigated, and IT delivers the promised value.

Microsoft 365 Copilot is an exciting new AI solution that can help small businesses to manage and maintain their Microsoft 365 environment more effectively. Copilot uses AI to automate routine tasks, provide personalised recommendations, and help small businesses to stay up to date with the latest 365 features. It will be included with Premium subscriptions.

The use of software to track user productivity is becoming more popular, but it also has negative impacts, especially when it comes to how employees feel. Before deciding whether to use this type of solution, it is best to understand the pros and cons of monitoring your employees.

Cyber Essentials is the UK government-backed cyber security certification scheme that helps organisations protect themselves against common cyber threats. The certification has been widely adopted by small businesses as a benchmark security standard. Over the years systematic Cyber Essentials changes have enabled the accreditation to evolve in line with new risks and stay relevant to the current security climate. On 23rd January this year, the NCSC published an updated set of requirements, version 3.1 for the Cyber Essentials scheme which will come into force on the 24th of April 2023.

Microsoft Teams has become an invaluable tool for small businesses, delivering collaboration and communication among team members. However, meetings can onerous, with tasks like taking notes and assigning follow-up tasks taking up valuable time and resources. This is where ChatGPT comes in.