Is It Time to Upgrade Your Company’s Hardware?

By the time most businesses begin to consider whether it is time to upgrade their computers and network hardware, the time for that has usually passed. After all, most businesses will consider a new hardware solution only if they’re already having problems. By then, it is well past time to replace their old, outdated systems.

If, every time you look at your computer hardware, you are reminded of the panels with flashing lights from the original Star Trek TV series, it is time to replace your hardware. If, every time you power up your computer, it groans as loudly as you do before your first cup of morning coffee, it is time to replace your hardware. If you still have PacMan as the only free game which came pre-installed from the factory on your computer, it is time to replace your hardware.

On a more serious note, if you believe you are throwing away money, and time, trying to maintain your old equipment, you most likely need to consider replacing your hardware. If it seems to you that the tech from your IT services company spends more time servicing your equipment than you and your employees spend using it, you definitely need to replace your equipment.

Here are 5 things to consider which will help you decide…

1. You constantly have to troubleshoot and fine-tune your network. This not only cuts into your productivity, but also your free time.
2. Your network’s performance makes you fondly recall the days of dial-up. If you notice things taking much longer than they should, or used to, you might want to consider hardware with more breathing room.
3. You’re losing data. When data starts disappearing from your server or client PCs, the blame might rest with one or more out-of-date hard drives.
4. Your hardware is no longer supported by its manufacturer. Even if that Gateway machine you’ve been running since the Clinton administration exhibits no signs of trouble, it might make you vulnerable to attacks if the manufacturer no longer provides updates to keep you secure.
5. Your equipment is getting noisy. Most hardware needs to move air in order to stay within its optimal operating-temperature range. Over time, components may collect dust or other debris that slowly impedes a fan’s ability to maintain proper airflow. As a result, fans go into overdrive trying to push more air, which increases noise levels, a simple indicator that you need to check your hardware.

Every piece of hardware and equipment we use to help us run our businesses will eventually break down. Nothing lasts forever, and computer terminals, monitors, and servers are no different. Many people believe that electronics should last forever. This is unrealistic. We tend to take these things for granted because they tend to perform so well for us but, by doing so; we set ourselves up for even more trouble in the long run. Keep an eye, and an ear, out for trouble, and replace any hardware that is struggling to perform before it crashes your entire system.

Joe Salland is the President and Owner of CMIT Solutions of South Metro Denver, offering IT Solutions, IT Services, and IT Consulting to small to mid-sized businesses in the southern suburbs of Denver, Colorado.

“We take the worry and frustration out of data technology for your small business. We are passionate about taking the time to learn about your business and your technology needs and then developing solutions that will enable you and your business to succeed.”

For more information about CMIT Solutions of South Metro Denver, or to get in touch with Joe directly, please visit http://www.cmitsolutions.com.