Managing our use of I.T. Equipment
We all know that computers can be a hassle, but surprisingly we all rely on them to function day in day out. We never want to think about the nightmare equipment failure can cause, especially to a business or student who rely on their computers.
Some practical points to consider when reviewing your IT equipment…
Cheapest is not best! You may have a short term financial gain, but a long term headache! You should always aim for the best level of latest technology you can afford. That way, you are not buying into ‘old technology’, or obtaining a system that will be stretched to keep up with your requirements.
Businesses should invest in an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), and everyone should have some form of surge protection in place, particularly in this region. This equipment isn’t a blanket guarantee that you won’t get ‘spiked’ during a storm, or from other reasons, but it is far better than having no protection!
Back up data! – have a backup plan which protects your valuable data as much as possible – e.g. external hard disk drive, DVD copies stored OFF the premises, ‘memory sticks’, automated backup systems. ‘Crashes’ can – and do occur when least expected, at any time. Back up data!
Breakdowns! If you rely heavily on computer operation, have a redundancy plan. Ensure you have your IT Equipment maintained on a regular basis, this way you can possible avoid or ease the pain of any disruptions. Businesses should have a spare computer set up and capable of taking over in the event of failure of the main system.
Slowed down… Microsoft Windows is a complex operating system, and should be re-loaded every 2 years (max) – more frequently in the case of heavy users. Systems’ operating erratically or slowly is often a sign that the operating system needs ‘refreshing’!
Business and pleasure – If you have a computer that is critical to business operation then it is suggested that it should be used for just that. It’s a dangerous game to allow children / young adults unsupervised access. Their ‘exploring nature’ and need to play games/music could bring other unwanted nasties causing your computer to crash!
Never load file sharing programs (such as Limewire, Bearshare or any other music download program) onto a machine that you rely on for business!
Keep safe your vital operating system disks, and application disks. Make certain they are correctly labelled and stored in one place. When you need them, you will need them ALL in a hurry!
Leave it to the experts! Unless you have the skills, call a professional to sort out problems with your IT equipment. It isn’t fair to expect friends and staff to ‘fix’ problems and you could possible make matters worse.