Follow our '10 top business IT winter ready tips' to protect against IT failures.
Is your IT ready for the cold weather? We often prepare our wardrobes, vehicles, pets and buildings for the cold and wet weather, but it’s easy to assume IT will continue working in any weather.
Unfortunately that is not the case and if anything, IT equipment can be more susceptible to failure, due to the weather, than the elements we have just listed above. Not only that, where IT is involved, it will invariably mean it is powered by electricity that can lead to disastrous hazards and fire if attacked.
With temperatures dropping to below minus °C and employees unable to safely get into the office, we have identified some really important IT factors you may take for granted, that could fail if not considered and protected against.
Get in touch if you recognise any of the following you need support with.
Review our ‘10 top business IT winter ready tips‘ to see if your business is prepared for the winter weather to maximise protection and reduce risk against IT failures.
1. Make sure your IT equipment isn’t too cold or too hot.
Check that servers, routers, and other kit are in a room that’s not freezing, overheated, or blocked by clutter.
2. Check the power backup generators.
These are the units that keep things running during a power cut. Power cuts are often unplanned and out of your control. Make sure power backup boxes are working and not overdue for testing or replacement.
3. Confirm what happens if the power goes out.
Your systems should shut down safely and not suddenly switch off. Make sure correct settings are in place and all staff that need to know, know the process.
4. Double check that backups are actually running.
Look at your backup logs or ask your IT provider to confirm everything is being backed up, and can be restored quickly if needed. Test your latest backup and data recovery is all as expected.
5. Make sure staff can work from home if needed.
Snow, ice, rain and wind can cause disruption to travel plans and prevent employees getting to work. Check everyone has the correct equipment and that they can log in from home and securely access the company network without issues.
6. Look out for cold-related issues.
Check for condensation, damp, roof leaks, any cables that look brittle or damage to equipment. Check and monitor weather forecasts.
7. Confirm you’re getting alerts when something goes wrong.
Make sure any system warnings (like low storage, overheating, or security) go to the right people and are being monitored. If employees are going to be working from home in bad weather or over seasonal holidays, make sure there is a rota to physically check your building security safely, check equipment and rooms that equipment is stored in.
8. Make sure software is up to date.
Winter is the busiest time for cybercriminals, especially around Black Friday, Christmas, and New Year. Check your security software subscriptions and updates are in place to help block against scams and attacks that typically surge during these months.
9. Check your internet backup plan.
If your main internet goes down, make sure you have a backup option, like a second connection or a 4G/5G device.
10. Update your emergency contact list.
Check you’ve got the right details for anyone you might need to reach quickly including internal staff and external support providers.
Can you action all of the above?Â
Don’t wait for IT issues to disrupt your business. Take proactive steps now to ensure your technology is secure, efficient, and as weather proof as possible.
If you are unable to action any our 10 top business IT winter ready tips, or would like IT advice and support, call BlueRockIT on 0333 050 9339 to Book a Free IT Consultation
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