Small office computer network care

DO’s

BACKUP YOUR DATA.
In fact, do it twice a day.  Once on site and once again in a format that goes off site on a regular basis.  Do it often.  Daily is highly recommended.

Keep updated.
MAC, Windows and Linux computers require system and security updates.  All anti virus software needs to be updated often. Web browsing software gets updated, and so does e-mail handling software.

Check your server(s).
Make sure the updates have run.  Make sure those backups have run. Test a data restore. Look for run errors and check the health of the disk drives. Look for trouble before it happens.

Service your printers and photocopiers.
High end laser printers and photocopiers need to be cleaned and adjusted on a schedule.  Often a leased device comes with service that can be extended to ones you own yourself.

Keep good records.
Document the network setups, settings and passwords. Keep good track of your licenses and warrantee information. Have a method for keeping track of software disks.

Upgrade when needed. 
There is a point at which keeping old technology is more expensive that buying up to the next level. Have a plan for workstation replacement by attrition knowing when to repair and when to replace. Have a plan and a budget to upgrade your key software and probably server on a 3 to 5 year cycle.

DONT’S

Do not thrash around. 

Some offices allow constant changes of data locations, system settings, server setups, workstation devices, software installs, server software installs, etc. Those offices do not have stable computers.

Do not install anything you do not need for work.

Instant messaging, “free” spam blockers, listening to radios on line, streaming videos, horoscope calculators, Orlando Bloom screen savers, Yahoo toolbars, music downloads, web cams and all that are very fine for home computers.  In the office they eat up your DSL connection, conflict with software setups and often create problems for network settings.

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East Bay Computer Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 20299, Oakland, 94620 (for all mail)

Office Location:
374 40th Street, Oakland, 94609

(510) 645-1800 office@eastbaycomputerservices.com

EIN 20-3961069 Cal Corp. # 2846397
Member Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce