5 Common IT Mistakes Small Businesses Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Running a small business is no easy task. You’re juggling sales, marketing, finances and operations - so it’s no surprise that IT sometimes takes a backseat. But ignoring technology can lead to costly mistakes that put your business at risk.
Here are five common IT mistakes small businesses make - and how you can avoid them.
1. Ignoring Cybersecurity
Many small business owners think cybercriminals only target big corporations, but that’s not true. Hackers often go after smaller businesses because they tend to have weaker security.
How to avoid it:
Use strong, unique passwords (or better yet, a password manager).
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all important accounts.
Train your team to spot phishing emails.
2. Not Backing Up Data Properly
Imagine losing all your customer records, invoices, or project files due to a cyberattack or accidental deletion. Without proper backups, your business could be in serious trouble.
How to avoid it:
Set up automatic cloud backups.
Regularly test your backups to ensure they work.
3. Using Outdated Software
Running old software might seem harmless, but it can leave your business vulnerable to cyberattacks and slow down productivity.
How to avoid it:
Keep operating systems and software up to date.
Replace old hardware before it starts causing major issues.
Use supported versions of essential software, including Microsoft 365.
4. No IT Support Plan
Many businesses wait until something breaks before thinking about IT support. This reactive approach often results in costly downtime.
How to avoid it:
Work with an IT professional (like us!) for ongoing support.
Set up proactive monitoring to catch issues before they become major problems.
Have a plan in place for handling IT emergencies.
5. Poor Microsoft 365 Setup
Microsoft 365 is a powerful tool, but many businesses set it up incorrectly—leading to security risks, lost productivity, and frustration.
How to avoid it:
Ensure proper access controls are in place (e.g., don’t give everyone admin rights).
Organise SharePoint and OneDrive properly to avoid data sprawl.
Use business-grade email security settings to prevent phishing attacks.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these IT mistakes doesn’t have to be complicated. A little planning and the right support can go a long way in keeping your business secure and running smoothly.
If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help! Get in touch with Rethink Your IT to discuss how we can support your business technology needs.
How Can We Help?
Call us at 01483 346910 or fill out the form below.
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5 Common IT Mistakes Small Businesses Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Running a small business is no easy task. You’re juggling sales, marketing, finances and operations - so it’s no surprise that IT sometimes takes a backseat. But ignoring technology can lead to costly mistakes that put your business at risk.
Here are five common IT mistakes small businesses make - and how you can avoid them.
1. Ignoring Cybersecurity
Many small business owners think cybercriminals only target big corporations, but that’s not true. Hackers often go after smaller businesses because they tend to have weaker security.
How to avoid it:
Use strong, unique passwords (or better yet, a password manager).
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all important accounts.
Train your team to spot phishing emails.
2. Not Backing Up Data Properly
Imagine losing all your customer records, invoices, or project files due to a cyberattack or accidental deletion. Without proper backups, your business could be in serious trouble.
How to avoid it:
Set up automatic cloud backups.
Regularly test your backups to ensure they work.
3. Using Outdated Software
Running old software might seem harmless, but it can leave your business vulnerable to cyberattacks and slow down productivity.
How to avoid it:
Keep operating systems and software up to date.
Replace old hardware before it starts causing major issues.
Use supported versions of essential software, including Microsoft 365.
4. No IT Support Plan
Many businesses wait until something breaks before thinking about IT support. This reactive approach often results in costly downtime.
How to avoid it:
Work with an IT professional (like us!) for ongoing support.
Set up proactive monitoring to catch issues before they become major problems.
Have a plan in place for handling IT emergencies.
5. Poor Microsoft 365 Setup
Microsoft 365 is a powerful tool, but many businesses set it up incorrectly—leading to security risks, lost productivity, and frustration.
How to avoid it:
Ensure proper access controls are in place (e.g., don’t give everyone admin rights).
Organise SharePoint and OneDrive properly to avoid data sprawl.
Use business-grade email security settings to prevent phishing attacks.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these IT mistakes doesn’t have to be complicated. A little planning and the right support can go a long way in keeping your business secure and running smoothly.
If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help! Get in touch with Rethink Your IT to discuss how we can support your business technology needs.
