We’ve all been there. You’re at work and your computer is not operating as fast as it normally does. Is it a virus? Did someone in your office click on something that they shouldn’t have?
Considering the fact that 43% of cyber attacks are targeted at small businesses, protecting your infrastructure is critical. While some symptoms could be a sign of something more serious, we’ve put together a short list of the top five reasons for network and internet slow downs.
Knowing when to replace your computer hardware can be challenging. If you wait to long, or neglect periodic software updates, your hardware can become vulnerable to malicious attacks. As a general rule, software should be updated at least once a month, whereas hardware usually has the lifeline to that of a multifunctional device, anywhere between three to five years.
Hopefully this list item will never be an option because you have a solid IT partner who has put great though into the design of your network, but if you don’t, a design mistake in your network infrastructure could be at fault. Before any network design is finalized, all aspects of your business needs and applications should be thoroughly considered. It’s also importable to consider a plan that account for future growth rather than just focusing on your company’s needs today.
Viruses and malware can greatly slow down computer performance. Trojans, spyware, botnets, adware are all different forms of malware. Each kind of malware has its own way of damaging computer systems and each require specific methods of removal. Common signs of a malware infection include unusual error messages, pop-ups, and slow application load times. The best defense against malware is a combination of anti-malware software and keeping your operating systems up to date.
Sometimes it’s the people on your payroll who are knowingly, or in some cases, unknowingly, causing internet speed issues in your office. Depending on your office policy for Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD), if employees are allowed to connect personal devices to the network, you could pushing the limits of your company’s bandwidth. Be sure to set limits and have a solid Internet and BYOD usage policy in place.
When software is installed it usually comes with configuration settings. without the proper fine-tuning, misconfigured software can slow you down. Be sure to check the settings on your computers and most important that the hardware that it is installed on meets the software requirements. Many times a computer’s operating system or hardware on a network may not be compatible with a newer software programs without an update or total hardware upgrade.
Beyond copiers and printers, CDS offers a full suite of technology solutions ranging from Managed Print Services, to Managed IT Services, and Project-Based IT Services, providing our customers a Single Source for all their business technology needs.
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