It is no secret that small and large organizations alike face a myriad of IT issues. For decades, information technology has played a central role in facilitating customer interactions, forging solid business relationships, wealth creation, and securing valuable customer data (just to mention a few).
However, when your systems go offline unexpectedly, possibly due to a malware attack, it sends a crystal clear message that your IT support team must spring into action, quickly diagnose, and fix the issue to avoid the costly repercussions of downtime – or worse.
In this article, we go over the top five IT issues giving business owners sleepless nights and how to get them fixed quickly.
Key Takeaways
- Slow computers can get in the way of a productive operation. Caused by hardware issues, outdated software, or too many running background programs, slow computers can be fixed by replacing faulty hardware, uninstalling unnecessary applications, and regular system updates.
- Constant system crashes descend from much more sinister issues, including corrupt files or failing hardware failure. While there is no one way around the issue, you can always start by checking Event Viewer logs for error messages and warnings.
- Network issues signal a plethora of underlying issues, including faulty applications, network accessories, and a poor internet connection. Fixing network issues can start with something as simple as checking network accessories for visible damage or something more complicated as scanning for DNS leaks.
- Software installation issues can be tackled by checking the software’s compatibility with the operating system, clearing more disk space and memory for the installation, and altering firewall settings to permit the installation of some applications.
1. Slow Computer Performance
Slow computers can take a toll on employee productivity. Usually, computers become slow with age. A computer can become slow when it experiences hardware issues, runs on outdated software, or attempts to run too many programs in the background.
Finding the cause may take some detective work. To troubleshoot and fix the issue:
- Restart your computer. This flushes out constant glitches
- Disable unused startup applications
- Scan your hardware components for any visible damage
- Update your applications to the most recent version
- Delete unnecessary files and uninstall idle, unused applications
An overloaded computer runs slower. By cleaning out your storage, you provide additional memory for faster command execution. Still, a slow computer may be a sign that something much more serious is going on in the background.
If none of your implemented solutions seem to work, consider professional assistance.
2. Resolving Persistent System Crashes
System crashes are no new phenomena. But when business computers crash consistently with no visible explanation, diagnosing and fixing the issue could involve a lot more than simply restarting the computer and updating the software.
To fix the issue:
- First, check Event Viewer logs for error messages and warnings that automatically come up when the system identifies an error
- Get to the root cause of the issue. It could be an application, a corrupt file, or a faulty hardware component
- Run an extensive memory test and ensure that all RAM and ROM modules work as they should
- You may also run a disk defragmenting utility to consolidate important files and data in one disk, so it is not scattered all over the storage device
With any luck, one of these methods will solve the mystery behind your crashing systems. But if none of these solutions work, consider replacing any faulty hardware components or reinstalling your operating system completely.
3. Network Connectivity Issues
Network connectivity issues can be a real headache when your network keeps cutting out when you need it. Thankfully, these issues are not complicated to fix, so long as you know exactly what to look for.
- Disconnect all cables, turn off your router, and turn it back on again. Usually, these fixes arise from loose connections.
- If restarting your router doesn’t work, look for any visible damage on your networking devices. This may take some time but will further ascertain the health of your devices.
- You may also need to reset your router or modem if the connection still won’t stabilize.
While most of the solutions offered above are likely to fix the problem, if it persists, don’t hesitate to call your DC IT support provider for further assistance.
4. Software Installation Failures
New software often comes superior to legacy code. However, it does not serve justice to your current setup if you’re always battling recurrent installation failures.
Here are a few tips for troubleshooting and fixing the issue:
- To begin with, check the compatibility of your operating system. The information is often provided in the software documentation
- Next, assess whether or not you have sufficient disk space to house the new application
- Clear more space for your
Sometimes, altering your firewall settings may prevent it from blocking the installation files. However, when doing this, proceed with caution as the last thing you want is to let malware pass through your altered firewall settings.
In any case, contact your trusted MSP to help you out with the installation of stubborn applications. With these solutions, you should be able to get past any hiccups during the software installation process.
5. Virus and Malware Attacks
Businesses are frequent victims of data breaches and targeting by malicious applications designed to hold vital information hostage against the company’s will. Especially today, cybersecurity threats evolve with every new technological breakthrough with newer, AI-based cyber threats posing more serious risks to more companies than ever.
Fortunately, there are several ways to protect your business from such threats.
- Updating your antivirus software is the first line of defense against most cyber threats. Newer antivirus software versions pack a variety of remedies to malicious threats.
- Employees and management should be encouraged to stay cautious when downloading files or clicking links from emails or unknown sources.
Links and files from unknown sources may contain malicious code that can infect your device, providing backdoor access to a threat actor.
If you suspect an attack could be imminent or has already occurred, get in touch with your trusted managed IT service provider as quickly as possible and fill them in regarding the events leading up to the suspected attack.
Conclusion
The importance of keeping your IT systems in top shape can never be overstated. With the tips highlighted in this article in your back pocket, you should be able to handle IT-related problems that come your way!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Protect My Computer From Future Threats?
Protecting your computer from future threats starts with educating yourself on the many ways threat actors exploit vulnerabilities in the first place. Set strong passwords and use multi-factor authentication for an added layer of security. Next, you want to install high-grade antivirus software that monitors and alerts your IT team to anomalous happenings inside your network.
What Is the Best Antivirus Software?
Some great antivirus software recommendations include Kaspersky and Bitdefender. It should be noted, however, that the best antivirus software also depends on your business’s needs and budget. When choosing the best one, find one that offers the most important features, such as automatic scanning and real-time protection.
How Often Should I Back up My Data?
You should back up your data regularly onto an external drive or cloud storage service at least once a week. This way, you’ll always have a copy of your most important and recent files just in case something goes wrong.
What Is the Best Way to Optimize My Computer’s Performance?
To optimize your computer’s performance, try regularly running anti-virus scans, updating software and drivers, uninstalling any unnecessary programs, clearing temporary files, and limiting background processes.
